bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local simvastatin and inflammation during periodontal mini‐flap wound healing: Exploratory results
Authors: Christiansen Devin L. , Killeen Amy C. , Ramer‐Tait Amanda , Hattervig Robin L. , Nawshad Ali , Beede Kristen , Samson Kaeli K. , Reinhardt Richard A.
Published: August 2022

Background

The objective of this exploratory study was to evaluate inflammatory markers in periodontal maintenance patients from a randomized, double‐masked, parallel intervention clinical trial comparing local simvastatin (SIM) to carrier alone following mini‐flap access.

Methods

Fifty patients with a 6–9‐mm inflamed pocket during periodontal maintenance therapy (PMT) were treated with papilla reflection (PR)/root planing and placement of 2.2‐mg simvastatin in methylcellulose (SIM/MCL) or methylcellulose alone (MCL). A small piece of interproximal soft tissue was harvested at baseline and 2 weeks postoperatively, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) obtained at baseline, 2 weeks and 12 months, and bleeding on probing (BOP) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were measured at baseline and 12 months. Pro‐inflammatory interleukin (IL)‐6 and anti‐inflammatory IL‐10 gene activation were determined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (rt‐PCR). GCF IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF‐A) were measured with multiplex technology. Comparisons between groups and over time used logistic regression and general estimating equations. Associations between inflammatory markers and 12‐month outcomes used Wilcoxon rank sum tests or Pearson correlations.

Results

Patients in the SIM group had 4.17 greater odds (p = 0.047) of improved BOP at 12 months. Median IL‐6 and VEGF were significantly increased for all patients after 2 weeks of healing (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.03, respectively), while median IL‐10 gene activation was increased after 2 weeks in SIM/MCL (NS). Overall, elevated GCF IL‐10 at 2 weeks was significantly correlated with improved CAL at 12 months (r = −0.32, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Local SIM/MCL may have anti‐inflammatory effects that potentially are associated with improved long‐term CAL outcomes.
Patagonian ñire (Nothofagus antarctica) combined with green tea ‐ Novel beverage enriched in bioactive phytochemicals as health promoters
Authors: Mattera Maria Gabriela , Langenheim Mariana E. , Reiner Gabriela , Peri Pablo L. , Moreno Diego A.
Published: August 2022

Background

Polyphenol‐enriched tea is an interesting product for food industries under the current consumer demands. This study aimed at evaluating the Nothofagus antarctica (NA) species as a valuable source of bioactive compounds as well as obtaining an optimized organic green tea (OGT)‐NA blend. NA leaves of different developmental stages and several mixture proportions were analyzed. HPLC–DAD–ESI/MSn was used to identify and quantify the polyphenol compounds. Antioxidant capacity and the type of interaction occurring between constituents were assessed.

Results

NA infusions exhibited high polyphenol diversity and some differences in the individual concentration were found between NA leaves. NA polyphenol profile showed great complementarity to the one present in green tea. Besides, NA impacted positively the antioxidant strength in the mixtures. Finally, the 67% OGT‐33% NA blend exhibited an optimized performance in relative and total polyphenol contents and antioxidant properties, and thus, it could be recommended as a novel beverage.

Conclusions

N. antarctica is a valuable source of polyphenol compounds and its combination with green tea, in a blend, could represent an interesting food product. In addition, this new non‐wood product constitutes a novel productive strategy for adding value to the silvopastoral systems with positive socio‐economic impact.
Tuning Self‐Trapped Exciton States via Trivalent‐Metal Alloying in Lead‐Free 2D Double‐Perovskites
Authors: Yang Bin , Bai Tianxin , Chen Junsheng , Wang Xiaochen , Tang Zhe , Yin Hang , Wei Donghui , Yang Songqiu , Han Keli
Published: August 2022

Strong carrier‐phonon coupling‐induced self‐trapped excitons (STEs) limit the application of 2D double‐perovskites in optoelectronic devices because the separation and collection of the highly localized STEs are challenging. In this study, antimony (Sb) is incorporated into (BA)4AgBiBr8 (BA = CH3(CH2)3NH3+) to form (BA)4AgSbxBi1‐xBr8 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) trivalent‐metal alloyed 2D double‐perovskites. It is found that introducing Sb into the (BA)4AgBiBr8 2D double‐perovskite will decrease the carrier‐phonon coupling strength and change STEs from “dark” states to “bright” states at room temperature. Combining detailed spectroscopic analysis with density functional theory calculation, it is concluded that STEs localized at [SbBr6] octahedron in (BA)4AgSbxBi1‐xBr8 give the broadband bright emission. The “bright” STEs with moderate carrier‐phonon coupling opens the possibility to efficiently separate and collect charge‐carriers in (BA)4AgSbBr8 2D double‐perovskites. Photodetectors based on (BA)4AgSbBr8 crystals are further fabricated. The photodetectors exhibit high responsivity up to 1368 A W−1 and an external quantum efficiency of 4.7 × 105. These figures are over three times higher than that in (BA)4AgBiBr8‐based photodetectors. This study provides a unique strategy for developing high‐performance optoelectronic devices based on STEs.
Engineering Bound States in the Continuum at Telecom Wavelengths with Non‐Bravais Lattices
Authors: Murai Shunsuke , Abujetas Diego R. , Liu Libei , Castellanos Gabriel W. , Giannini Vincenzo , Sánchez‐Gil José A. , Tanaka Katsuhisa , Gómez Rivas Jaime
Published: August 2022

Various optical phenomena can be induced in periodic arrays of nanoparticles by the radiative coupling of the local dipoles in each particle. Probably the most impressive example is bound states in the continuum (BICs), which are electromagnetic modes with a dispersion inside the light cone but infinite lifetime, that is, modes that cannot leak to the continuum. Symmetry‐protected BICs appear at highly symmetric points in the dispersion of periodic systems. Although the addition of nonequivalent lattice points in a unit cell is an easy and straightforward way of tuning the symmetry, BICs in such particle lattice, that is, non‐Bravais lattice, are less explored among periodic systems. Starting from a periodic square lattice of Si nanodisks, three non‐Bravais lattices are prepared by detuning size and position of the second disk in the unit cell. Diffraction‐induced coupling excites magnetic/electric dipoles in each nanodisk, producing two surface lattice resonances at the Γ point with a band gap in between. The high/low energy branch becomes a BIC for the size/position‐detuned array, respectively, while both branches are bright (or leaky) when both size and position are detuned simultaneously. The unexplored role of the interplay between magnetic and electric dipoles in dielectric nanoparticles in connection with the change of BIC to bright character in the detuned arrays is discussed with the aid of a coupled electric and magnetic dipole model. This study gives a simple way of tuning BICs at telecom wavelengths in non‐Bravais lattices, including both plasmonic and dielectric systems, thus scalable to a wide range of frequencies.
Observation of SQUID‐Like Behavior in Fiber Laser with Intra‐Cavity Epsilon‐Near‐Zero Effect
Authors: Wu Jiaye , Liu Xuanyi , Malomed Boris A. , Chang Kuan‐Chang , Zhao Minghe , Qi Kang , Sha Yanhua , Xie Ze Tao , Clementi Marco , Brès Camille‐Sophie , Zhang Shengdong , Fu Hongyan , Li Qian
Published: August 2022

Establishing relations between fundamental effects in far‐flung areas of physics is a subject of great interest in the current research. Realization of a novel photonic system akin to the radio‐frequency superconducting quantum interference device (RF‐SQUID), in a fiber laser cavity with epsilon‐near‐zero (ENZ) nanolayers as intra‐cavity components is reported here. Emulating the RF‐SQUID scheme, the photonic counterpart of the supercurrent, represented by the optical wave, circulates in the cavity, passing through effective optical potential barriers. Different ENZ wavelengths translate into distinct spectral outputs through the variation of cavity resonances, emulating the situation with a frequency‐varying tank circuit in the RF‐SQUID. Due to the presence of the ENZ element, the optical potential barrier is far lower for selected frequency components, granting them advantage in the gain‐resource competition. The findings reported in this work provide a deeper insight into the ultrafast ENZ photonics, revealing a new path toward the design of nanophotonic on‐chip devices with various operational functions, and offer a new approach to study superconducting and quantum‐mechanical systems.
Distinctive Colorimetric Response of Benzaldehyde Substituted Polydiacetylene Vesicle to Temperature, pH, and Organic Amines
Authors: Xu Yangyang , Zhu Haibin , Ding Zhaofu , Zhao Xianjun , Yin Jiansong , Graff Bernadette , Gao Jiangang , Lalevée Jacques
Published: August 2022

Here, a benzaldehyde substituted diacetylene vesicle formed through a self‐assembly strategy in water is reported. Under UV irradiation, conjugated polydiacetylene (PDA) could be generated in the blue phase by 1,4‐addition topopolymerization. Furthermore, this newly developed PDA vesicle displays distinctive colorimetric response to triple stimuli, including temperature, pH, and organic amines. Specifically, a clear blue‐to‐purple‐to‐red chromatic transition is observed for the PDA vesicle upon a gradient heating procedure from 25 to 75 °C. Although no obvious colorimetric changes happen when the PDA vesicle is exposed to acidic environments, it gradually turns into red color in alkaline aqueous solution or atmosphere with increasing pH values. More interestingly, this PDA vesicle can serve as an excellent sensor to distinguish some typical aliphatic/aromatic amines based on its different colorimetric and morphologic transformation behaviors. It is suggested that the incorporated benzaldehyde head group in PDA plays an essential role for the resulting responsiveness to the various environmental stimuli. As the preparation method is simple and straightforward, the novel PDA vesicle introduced here holds great potential as a promising sensor with the naked eye.
Missouri sees uptick in 988 calls one month following launch
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2022

One month following the launch of 988, the three‐digit lifeline connecting Missourians to crisis counselors, the state has seen a 30% increase in crisis calls. Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) officials said that 988 is opening the door to a robust crisis system that can de‐escalate mental health crises and connect individuals to the most appropriate care.
Domain‐adaptive denoising network for low‐dose CT via noise estimation and transfer learning
Authors: Wang Jiping , Tang Yufei , Wu Zhongyi , Tsui Benjamin M. W. , Chen Wei , Yang Xiaodong , Zheng Jian , Li Ming
Published: August 2022

Background

In recent years, low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT) has played an important role in the diagnosis CT to reduce the potential adverse effects of X‐ray radiation on patients, while maintaining the same diagnostic image quality.

Purpose

Deep learning (DL)‐based methods have played an increasingly important role in the field of LDCT imaging. However, its performance is highly dependent on the consistency of feature distributions between training data and test data. Due to patient's breathing movements during data acquisition, the paired LDCT and normal dose CT images are difficult to obtain from realistic imaging scenarios. Moreover, LDCT images from simulation or clinical CT examination often have different feature distributions due to the pollution by different amounts and types of image noises. If a network model trained with a simulated dataset is used to directly test clinical patients’ LDCT data, its denoising performance may be degraded. Based on this, we propose a novel domain‐adaptive denoising network (DADN) via noise estimation and transfer learning to resolve the out‐of‐distribution problem in LDCT imaging.

Methods

To overcome the previous adaptation issue, a novel network model consisting of a reconstruction network and a noise estimation network was designed. The noise estimation network based on a double branch structure is used for image noise extraction and adaptation. Meanwhile, the U‐Net‐based reconstruction network uses several spatially adaptive normalization modules to fuse multi‐scale noise input. Moreover, to facilitate the adaptation of the proposed DADN network to new imaging scenarios, we set a two‐stage network training plan. In the first stage, the public simulated dataset is used for training. In the second transfer training stage, we will continue to fine‐tune the network model with a torso phantom dataset, while some parameters are frozen. The main reason using the two‐stage training scheme is based on the fact that the feature distribution of image content from the public dataset is complex and diverse, whereas the feature distribution of noise pattern from the torso phantom dataset is closer to realistic imaging scenarios.

Results

In an evaluation study, the trained DADN model is applied to both the public and clinical patient LDCT datasets. Through the comparison of visual inspection and quantitative results, it is shown that the proposed DADN network model can perform well in terms of noise and artifact suppression, while effectively preserving image contrast and details.

Conclusions

In this paper, we have proposed a new DL network to overcome the domain adaptation problem in LDCT image denoising. Moreover, the results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the application of our proposed DADN network model as a new DL‐based LDCT image denoising method.
Improved particle swarm optimizer for problems with variable evaluation time: Application to asymptotic homogenization
Authors: Argilaga Albert , Guo Ning
Published: August 2022

This work presents a new particle swarm optimizer (PSO)‐based metaheuristic algorithm designed to reduce overall computational cost without compromising optimization's precision in functions with variable evaluation time. The algorithm exploits the evaluation time gradient in addition to the convergence gradient attempting to reach the same convergence precision following a more economical path. The particle's newly incorporated time information is usually in contradiction to the past memories of best function evaluations thus degrading convergence. A technique is proposed in order to modulate the new cognitive input that consists of progressive reducing of its weight in order to confer the algorithm the appropriate time‐convergence balance. Results show that the proposed algorithm not only provides computational economy, but also unexpectedly improves convergence per se due to a better exploration in the initial stages of optimization. Its application in asymptotic homogenization of a cracked poroelastic medium confirms its superior performance compared to a series of alternative optimization algorithms. The proposed algorithm improvement allows to extend the applicability of PSO and PSO‐based algorithms to problems that were previously thought to be too computationally expensive for population‐based approaches.
Fabrication and characterization of graphene oxide and glass fiber‐based hybrid epoxy composites
Authors: Maqsood Muhammad Faheem , Zubair Muhammad Awais Ali , Raza Mohsin Ali , Mehdi Syed Muhammad Zain , Lee Naesung , Rehman Zaeem Ur , Park Kyeongsoon , Bhatti Muhammad Usman , Latif Umar , Tawakkal Allah
Published: August 2022

This work aims to develop and characterize graphene oxide (GO) and glass fiber (GF)‐based hybrid epoxy composites. Graphite oxide was synthesized by improved Hummers' method, and it was uniformly dispersed in ethanol by ultra‐sonication to form GO suspension. Later, GO and GF‐based hybrid epoxy composites were prepared by hand layup method followed by curing under compression to develop composite sheets accordingly to the ASTM standards (D3039 & D6110‐18). Fourier transform infrared spectra of the neat and the GF‐based hybrid epoxy composites confirmed the formation of improved interface between GO/epoxy and silane coating present on GF surface, which is well validated with the given reaction schematic. Scanning electron microscope and elemental mapping results corroborate our point that the GO filled the voids and empty spaces and lessened the water absorption properties of the composite which is much needed for the application of composites at high altitudes and marine environment. Effect of GO content on mechanical properties of prepared composites was studied by varying the GO content from 0.1 to 1.2 wt%. Mechanical characterization of GO and GF‐based hybrid epoxy composites were carried out by tensile and impact testing. Ultimate tensile strength, impact strength and elongation were increased by ~20%, ~41%, and ~19%, respectively, at 0.4 wt% addition of composition. The avg. delamination factor for this composition (0.4 wt% of GO) reduced as compared to neat epoxy and other wt% compositions for 6‐, 5‐, 4‐, & 3‐mm drill bit sizes.
Low‐velocity impact damage and compression after impact behavior of CF/PEEK thermoplastic composite laminates
Authors: Liu Ankang , Chen Yunlong , Hu Jiqiang , Wang Bing , Ma Li
Published: August 2022

Impact resistance and damage tolerance are of great significance in the design of composite structures. This study researched the damage and failure mechanism of carbon fiber reinforced poly‐ether‐ether‐ketone (CF/PEEK) composite laminates under the low‐velocity impact (LVI) and compression after impact (CAI) loading conditions. The test included four impact energy levels (15, 30, 45, and 60 J) and compared the effect of two different stacking sequences ([0°/90°]8S and [0°/45°/90°/−45°]4S) on performance. The results shown that the peak impact force of the two different stacking sequences increased from 7.8 kN/8.3 kN–11.4 kN/13.7 kN, and the CAI strength decreased from 370.5 MPa/419.3 MPa to 212.8 MPa/232.5 MPa, respectively. Nondestructive testing of low‐velocity impact specimens by ultrasonic C‐Scan was employed to investigate structural damage. Digital image correlation (DIC) was employed to perform full‐field displacement measurements for the CAI experiment. The cross‐section of typical specimen was observed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to determine the failure mode of the specimen. In addition, a 3D damage model based on continuum damage mechanics was established, with the consideration of the interlaminar delamination damage and intralaminar damage. Compared with the experimental results, the errors of the numerical simulation of the peak impact force, impact energy absorption, and CAI strength are 3.8%–14.8%, 3.7%–6.9%, and 2.2%–6.7%, respectively, which verifies the validity and rationality of the model. Furthermore, the numerical model and interpolation function were used to predict the ultimate residual strength.
Whole‐genome DNA methylation patterns of Oryza sativa (L.) and Oryza glumaepatula (Steud) genotypes associated with aluminum response
Authors: Gallo‐Franco Jenny Johana , Ghneim‐Herrera Thaura , Tobar‐Tosse Fabian , Romero Miguel , Chaura Juliana , Quimbaya Mauricio
Published: August 2022

Epigenetic mechanisms in crops have emerged as a fundamental factor in plant adaptation and acclimation to biotic and abiotic stresses. Among described epigenetic mechanisms, DNA methylation has been defined as the most studied epigenetic modification involved in several developmental processes. It has been shown that contrasting methylation marks are associated with gene expression variations between cultivated and wild crop species. In this study, we analyzed single‐base resolution methylome maps for Oryza sativa (a cultivated species) and Oryza glumaepatula (a wild species) genotypes grown under control conditions. Our results showed that overall, genome‐wide methylation profiles are mainly conserved between both species, nevertheless, there are several differentially methylated regions with species‐specific methylation patterns. In addition, we analyzed the association of identified DNA methylation marks in relation with Aluminum‐tolerance levels of studied genotypes. We found several differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and DMR‐associated genes (DAGs) that are linked with Al tolerance. Some of these DAGs have been previously reported as differentially expressed under Al exposure in O. sativa. Complementarily a Transposable Elements (TE) analysis revealed that specific aluminum related genes have associated‐TEs potentially regulated by DNA methylation. Interestingly, the DMRs and DAGs between Al‐tolerant and susceptible genotypes were different between O. sativa and O. glumaepatula, suggesting that methylation patterns related to Al responses are unique for each rice species. Our findings provide novel insights into DNA methylation patterns in wild and cultivated rice genotypes and their possible role in the regulation of plant stress responses.
Registration of ‘Cameo’ soft white winter club wheat
Authors: Garland‐Campbell Kimberly , Bellinger Brian S. , Carter Arron H. , Chen Xianming , DeMacon Patricia , Engle Doug , Hagerty Christina H. , Kiszonas Alecia , Klarquist Emily , Murray Timothy , Morris Craig , Neely Clark , Odubiyi Steven , Rashad Arash , See Deven , Steber Camille , Wen Nuan
Published: August 2022

Soft white club winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L. ssp. compactum) is an important component of soft white wheat production in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Most of the current club wheat production is in the <350 mm annual precipitation zone in central Washington, but there is interest in club wheat in the Palouse region of the United States (the counties of Whitman and Garfield in Washington and in Latah County in Idaho). Growers are continuing to grow the older club wheat cultivars ‘Cara’ and ‘Coda’, and there is a need for a new winter club wheat targeted to this region. ‘Cameo’ club wheat (Reg. no. CV‐1192, PI 699960), tested as ARS09X492‐6CBW, with awned spikes and soft white kernels, was developed using the bulk‐pedigree breeding method from the cross ARSC96059‐2/IL01‐11934//ARSC96059‐2‐0‐16. Cameo has better agronomic performance than other club wheat cultivars in trials on the Palouse, better stripe rust resistance than the club wheat ‘ARS Crescent’, tolerance to several major biotic and abiotic stressors, consistent good grain volume weight, mid‐season maturity and moderate height, excellent club wheat quality, and tolerance to low falling numbers. Cameo is not as competitive for grain yield in the traditional club wheat growing area in central Washington but is well suited to increasing the acreage of club wheat in the Palouse region of Idaho and Washington.
Understanding factors influencing demoralization among cancer patients based on the bio‐psycho‐social model: A systematic review
Authors: Hong Yu Ting , Lin Yu‐an , Pan Yu Xin , Lin Jia Ling , Lin Xiu Jing , Zhang Juan , Huang Fei Fei
Published: August 2022

Objective

Demoralization is a prevalent psychological problem among cancer patients and reflects a sense of subjective incompetence. This systematic review aims to identify factors influencing demoralization among cancer patients.

Methods

Eleven databases were systematically searched from database inception to 31 December 2020. Google Scholar and relevant reference lists were supplementarily searched. Studies reporting demoralization measured by Demoralization Scale and its influencing factors among cancer patients were included. A qualitative synthesis was conducted owing to the heterogeneity of the study outcome.

Results

A total of 49 studies involving 10,712 participants were included in this review. The results showed substantial effect size variation, but the psychological factors showed the strongest magnitude of association. Among the biological factors, the number of physical symptoms (mean r values [rs]: 0.331) was associated with increased demoralization. Among the psychological factors, negative psychological factors include hopelessness (mean rs: 0.633), desire for death (mean rs: 0.620), dignity‐related distress (mean rs: 0.595), depression (mean rs: 0.593), anxiety (mean rs: 0.589), psychological distress (mean rs: 0.465), and suicidal ideation (mean rs: 0.460) were related to increased demoralization; whereas positive psychological factors including hope (mean rs: −0.565), attachment security (mean rs: −0.530), and sense of coherence (mean rs: −0.453) were related to decreased demoralization. Among the social factors, social support (mean rs: −0.330) was negatively related to demoralization, and the demographic factors were still controversial. Quality of life was considered to be at the intersection of biopsychosocial factors and negatively associated with demoralization (mean rs: −0.599).

Conclusions

Demoralization is a consequence of the interaction of physical, psychological, and social factors among cancer patients. Factors with a significant effect should not be overlooked when designing an intervention to reduce demoralization. It is necessary to distinguish demoralization from other negative psychological states and further explore positive psychological factors influencing demoralization among cancer patients.
Molecular architecture of nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase sub‐complexes by integrative structure determination
Authors: Arvindekar Shreyas , Jackman Matthew J. , Low Jason K. K. , Landsberg Michael J. , Mackay Joel P. , Viswanath Shruthi
Published: August 2022

The nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex is a chromatin‐modifying assembly that regulates gene expression and DNA damage repair. Despite its importance, limited structural information describing the complete NuRD complex is available and a detailed understanding of its mechanism is therefore lacking. Drawing on information from SEC‐MALLS, DIA‐MS, XLMS, negative‐stain EM, X‐ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, secondary structure predictions, and homology models, we applied Bayesian integrative structure determination to investigate the molecular architecture of three NuRD sub‐complexes: MTA1‐HDAC1‐RBBP4, MTA1N‐HDAC1‐MBD3GATAD2CC, and MTA1‐HDAC1‐RBBP4‐MBD3‐GATAD2A [nucleosome deacetylase (NuDe)]. The integrative structures were corroborated by examining independent crosslinks, cryo‐EM maps, biochemical assays, known cancer‐associated mutations, and structure predictions from AlphaFold. The robustness of the models was assessed by jack‐knifing. Localization of the full‐length MBD3, which connects the deacetylase and chromatin remodeling modules in NuRD, has not previously been possible; our models indicate two different locations for MBD3, suggesting a mechanism by which MBD3 in the presence of GATAD2A asymmetrically bridges the two modules in NuRD. Further, our models uncovered three previously unrecognized subunit interfaces in NuDe: HDAC1C‐MTA1BAH, MTA1BAH‐MBD3MBD, and HDAC160–100‐MBD3MBD. Our approach also allowed us to localize regions of unknown structure, such as HDAC1C and MBD3IDR, thereby resulting in the most complete and robustly cross‐validated structural characterization of these NuRD sub‐complexes so far.
Transforming the evaluation of agrochemicals
Authors: Wolf Douglas C , Bhuller Yadvinder , Cope Rhian , Corvaro Marco , Currie Richard A , Doe John , Doi Adriana , Hilton Gina , Mehta Jyotigna , Saltmiras David , Sewell Fiona , Trainer Maria , Déglin Sandrine E
Published: August 2022

The present agrochemical safety evaluation paradigm is long‐standing and anchored in well‐established testing and evaluation procedures. However, it does not meet the present‐day challenges of rapidly growing populations, food insecurity, and pressures from climate change. To transform the current framework and apply modern evaluation strategies that better support sustainable agriculture, the Health and Environmental Sciences Institute (HESI) assembled a technical committee to reframe the safety evaluation of crop‐protection products. The committee is composed of international experts from regulatory agencies, academia, industry and nongovernmental organizations. Their mission is to establish a framework that supports the development of fit‐for‐purpose agrochemical safety evaluation that is applicable to changing global, as well as local needs and regulatory decisions, and incorporates relevant evolving science. This will be accomplished through the integration of state‐of‐the‐art scientific methods, technologies and data sources, to inform safety and risk decisions, and adapt them to evolving local and global needs. The project team will use a systems‐thinking approach to develop the tools that will implement a problem formulation and exposure driven approach to create sustainable, safe and effective crop protection products, and reduce, replace and refine animal studies with fit‐for‐purpose assays. A new approach necessarily will integrate the most modern tools and latest advances in chemical testing methods to guarantee the robust human and environmental safety and risk assessment of agrochemicals. This article summarizes the challenges associated with the modernization of agrochemical safety evaluation, proposes a potential roadmap, and seeks input and engagement from the broader community to advance this effort. © 2022 Health and Environmental Sciences Institute (HESI). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Tunable Optoelectronic Properties of Bilayer MoS2 via Interlayer Twist and Uniaxial Strain
Authors: Zhang Weibin , Cheng Fanghua , Huang Junwei , Wang Quan
Published: August 2022

2D twisted layered materials provide a new platform to study strongly correlated quantum phenomena. In homo‐ or heterostructures, the interlayer coupling is sensitive to the twist angles (θ), which serves as a key order parameter to controllably adjust exotic properties therein. The widely studied atomically thin molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) shows strong photoluminescence (PL) and is considered a promising optoelectronic material. Herein, by applying a uniaxial strain up to 5%, the evolution of the Raman and PL spectra of bilayer MoS2 with four different twist angles is investigated. The redshift per unit strain of the PL energy in twisted bilayer MoS2 (tBLM) reaches its extreme when θ is 30°. Further, two kinds of phototransistors based on tBLM structures with twist angles of 0° and 30° are constructed. The photoresponsivity (R) and the specific photodetectivity (D*) of the 30°‐twisted‐tBLM‐based phototransistor are successfully improved by ≈20 and ≈100 times than those values of the 0°‐twisted one, respectively. These findings provide a beneficial understanding of the effects of twist angle and strain on the optical and electrical applications based on tBLM and are applicable to other 2D materials.
Topographic gradients of soil physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties in central Kentucky sinkholes
Authors: McGraw Anne , Ramsey Rebecca C. , Obura Pamela , Matocha Christopher , Shepard Christopher
Published: August 2022

An estimated 20% of the world's land surface is underlain by lithologies favorable for karst formation. Karst features (e.g., sinkholes) and soils coevolve, likely influencing local pedogenesis, soil carbon storage, and hydrologic patterns. While karst is widespread, our understanding of the influence of karst geomorphology on pedogenesis remains limited. To better estimate the impact of karst geomorphology on pedogenesis, we characterized nine pedons as a function of landscape position (i.e., toposequence) in two subsidence sinkholes located in the Inner Bluegrass physiographic region of central Kentucky; we characterized a suite of soil physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties. The Inner Bluegrass is underlain by a phosphatic limestone and is susceptible to karst formation. Expectedly, total carbon was greater in lowland positions relative to upland landscape positions. However, inverse relationships between elevation and clay content, selective iron, aluminum, and silicon extracts contradicted previous toposequence trends. Clay mineralogy differences between toeslope and summit positions suggested sediment transport from summit to toeslope positions. Karst geomorphology may limit pedogenesis and facilitate more rapid material export through karst conduits compared to other lithologies. Given the extent of karst terrains and lithologies susceptible to karst formation, future work is needed to understand the magnitude of the impact of karst on pedogenesis and other earth system processes.
The future of the web? The coordination and early‐stage growth of decentralized platforms
Authors: Hsieh Ying‐Ying , Vergne Jean‐Philippe
Published: August 2022

Research Summary

This abductive study investigates how management occurs without managerial authority as part of a previously unseen organizational form—the decentralized platform with an independent market value. Our mixed‐methods study of the cryptocurrency industry draws on fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analyses (QCA) to analyze archival and interview data and offer new theory on how decentralized platforms coordinate activities to grow in an early‐stage, before network effects kick in. We find that, in the absence of a central authority, platforms coordinate activities with three mechanisms, namely decentralized (a) algorithmic coordination, (b) social coordination, and (c) goal coordination. Our QCA treat these mechanisms as explanatory conditions and, using a representative sample of 20 cryptocurrency platforms, reveal which configurations of decentralized coordination mechanisms nurture, or hinder, early‐stage platform growth.

Managerial Summary

Firms operate around a managerial hierarchy that distributes tasks, resources, information, and rewards to organizational members who pursue common goals as contract‐bound employees. From 2009, a new organizational form, called the “decentralized platform,” emerged and diffused without relying on hierarchy nor managerial authority—and without having to employ anyone. The most prominent decentralized platform, Bitcoin, has millions of users, thousands of contributors, and a market valuation never achieved before by an organization without a CEO nor shareholders. This study explicates how this unprecedented level of organizational decentralization functions in practice. We foreshadow implications for the digital economy, wherein “Web3” innovations, such as non‐fungible tokens and DAOs, have already shifted the orchestrating role played by platforms in capitalist societies.
Phosphorus‐Based Materials for High‐Performance Alkaline Metal Ion Batteries: Progress and Prospect
Authors: Zeng Linchao , Huang Licong , Zhu Jianhui , Li Peipei , Chu Paul K. , Wang Jiahong , Yu Xue‐Feng
Published: August 2022

Alkaline metal‐ion batteries (AIBs) such as lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs), and potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs) are potential energy storage systems. Currently, although LIBs are widely used in consumer electronics and electric vehicles, the electrochemical performance, safety, and cost of current AIBs are still unable to meet the needs for many future applications, such as large‐scale energy storage, due to the low theoretical capacity of cathode/anode materials, flammability of electrolytes and limited Li resources. It is thus imperative to develop new materials to improve the properties of AIBs. Several promising cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes have been developed and among the new battery materials, phosphorus‐based (P‐based) materials have shown great promise. For example, P and metal phosphide anodes have high theoretical capacity, resource abundance, and environmental friendliness boding well for future high‐energy‐density AIBs. Besides, phosphate cathode materials have the advantages of low cost, high safety, high voltage, and robust stability, and P‐based materials like LiPF6 and lithium phosphorus oxynitride are widely used electrolytes. In this paper, the latest development of P‐based materials in AIBs, challenges, effective solutions, and new directions are discussed.
Metal‐Cyclic Dinucleotide Nanomodulator‐Stimulated STING Signaling for Strengthened Radioimmunotherapy of Large Tumor
Authors: Wang Duo , Nie Tianqi , Huang Cuiqing , Chen Zerong , Ma Xiaocong , Fang Weiming , Huang Yanyu , Luo Liangping , Xiao Zeyu
Published: August 2022

Combined treatment of immunotherapy and radiotherapy shows promising therapeutic effects for the regression of a variety of cancers. However, even multi‐modality therapies often fail to antagonize the regression of large tumors due to the extremely immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, a radioimmunotherapeutic paradigm based on stimulator of interferon genes (STING)‐dependent signaling is applied to preclude large tumor progression by utilizing the metal‐cyclic dinucleotide (CDN) nanoplatform, which integrates STING agonist c‐di‐AMP and immunomodulating microelement manganese (II) within the tannic acid nanostructure (TMA‐NPs). As observed by magnetic resonance imaging, the localized administration of TMA‐NPs effectively relieves hypoxia within TME and causes radical oxygen species overproduction and apoptosis in cancer cells after exposure to X‐ray irradiation. The DNA fragments released from the apoptotic cells after the combined treatment augment the production of endogenous CDNs in cancer cells, hence significantly activating the STING‐mediated pathway for stronger anti‐tumor immunity. The localized therapy of TMA‐NPs + X‐ray not only inhibits the primary large tumor progression but also retards distant tumor growth by promoting dendritic cell maturation and activating cytotoxic immune cells whil suppressing immunosuppressive cells. Therefore, this work represents the combinatorial potency of TMA‐NPs and X‐rays on large tumor regression through strengthened STING‐mediated radioimmunotherapeutics.
Cellulose‐Acetate Coating by Integrating Ester Group with Zinc Salt for Dendrite‐Free Zn Metal Anodes
Authors: Liu Xu , Han Qigang , Ma Qingxin , Wang Yuanhao , Liu Chunguo
Published: August 2022

Zinc (Zn) metal is considered a potential anode owing to its high theoretical capacity, safety, and low cost. However, the dendrites and corresponding side reactions in aqueous electrolytes hinder their further development in environmentally‐friendly energy storage. Herein, ion‐affiliative cellulose acetate (CA) coating with Zn(CF3SO3)2 is constructed on Zn anode (CAZ@Zn). Owing to the complexation effect between the polar ester group (CO) and Zn salt (Zn2+), the CAZ polymer coating enhances the hydrophilicity of the Zn anode and reduces the interfacial resistance, allowing the rapid Zn2+ diffusion and homogenizing the Zn deposition in an aqueous electrolyte to suppress zinc dendrite formation and growth. Therefore, the symmetric CAZ@Zn//CAZ@Zn battery achieves reversible plating/stripping over 2800 h at 1 mA cm−2 with 1 mAh cm−2, about sevenfold higher than bare Zn. The full cell fabricated with an optimized Zn anode and the NH4V4O10 cathode achieves substantially stable performance, superior to that of bare Zn. This work provides a straightforward, effective, and scalable method to suppress the zinc dendrites and corresponding side reactions for aqueous Zn‐ions batteries.
From Materials to Devices: Graphene toward Practical Applications
Authors: Yang Yi , Wei Yuhong , Guo Zhanfeng , Hou Weiwei , Liu Yingjie , Tian He , Ren Tian‐Ling
Published: August 2022

Graphene, as an emerging 2D material, has been playing an important role in flexible electronics since its discovery in 2004. The representative fabrication methods of graphene include mechanical exfoliation, liquid‐phase exfoliation, chemical vapor deposition, redox reaction, etc. Based on its excellent mechanical, electrical, thermo‐acoustical, optical, and other properties, graphene has made a great progress in the development of mechanical sensors, microphone, sound source, electrophysiological detection, solar cells, synaptic transistors, light‐emitting devices, and so on. In different application fields, large‐scale, low‐cost, high‐quality, and excellent performance are important factors that limit the industrialization development of graphene. Therefore, laser scribing technology, roll‐to‐roll technology is used to reduce the cost. High‐quality graphene can be obtained through chemical vapor deposition processes. The performance can be improved through the design of structure of the devices, and the homogeneity and stability of devices can be achieved by mechanized machining means. In total, graphene devices show promising prospect for the practical fields of sports monitoring, health detection, voice recognition, energy, etc. There is a hot issue for industry to create and maintain the market competitiveness of graphene products through increasing its versatility and killer application fields.
Organic‐walled microfossils from the Kistedalen Formation, Norway: acritarch chronostratigraphy of the Baltic Miaolingian and evolutionary trends of placoid acritarchs
Authors: Palacios Teodoro , Högström Anette E. S. , Jensen Sören , Ebbestad Jan Ove R. , Agić Heda , Høyberget Magne , Meinhold Guido , Taylor Wendy L.
Published: August 2022

New acritarch data from the Kistedalen Formation based on two sections with continuous exposure enable us to establish the most detailed Miaolingian acritarch biozonation in Baltica to date. Six interval zones previously established in Gondwana, theEliasum llaniscum,Cristallinium cambriense,Adara alea,Timofeevia lancarae,Cristallinium dubiumandVulcanisphaera turbatazones, are identified, and their correlations within the Acado‐Baltic Province examined. The diagnoses ofRetisphaeridium,Cristallinium,Retisphaeridium dichamerum,Retisphaeridium lechistanium,Cristallinium dubiumandCristallinium cambrienseare emended and the new speciesRetisphaeridium rugulatumsp. nov. andRetisphaeridium minimumsp. nov. are described. The diagnosis ofRetisphaeridium ovillense(Cramer & Díez) Vanguestaine is emended and the species assigned toDictyotidium ovillensecomb. nov. The main evolutionary changes of the placoid acritarchs during the Miaolingian are analysed. Comparison with previous acritarch data from the Kistedalen Formation suggests that different extraction methodologies may result in significant bias in the recovered fossil record.
Trilobites of trinucleid, raphiophorid and cyclopygid associations from the Ordovician (Darriwilian – early Katian) of the west Balkhash region and Betpak‐Dala, Central Kazakhstan
Authors: Ghobadi Pour Mansoureh
Published: August 2022

Middle to Late Ordovician (late Darriwilian –early Katian) trilobites from trinucleid, raphiophorid and cyclopygid biofacies are for the first time documented from the West Balkhash and North Betpak‐Dala regions in south‐central Kazakhstan. Twenty taxa are described; six of them, that is,Miaopopsis sokyrensissp. nov.,Pricyclopyge keralensissp. nov.,Kongqiaoheia sarytumensissp. nov.,Shumardia karasaiensissp. nov.,Triarthrus akkermensissp. nov. andMynaralaspis perforatagen. et sp. nov. are new to science. Six taxa are reported in open nomenclature and two are not identified on a genus level. A new trinucleid Subfamily Nanshanaspinae is designated. Newly discovered faunas show strong links to contemporaneous faunas of Tarim and, to a lesser degree, to those of South China and the Australian sector of Gondwana. Based on results of cluster analysis (Dice similarity), trilobite associations of raphiophorid biofacies from the Chu‐Ili and Stepnyak terranes form a single first‐order cluster with little similarity to the trilobite associations characteristic of the nielid and illenid–cheirurid biofacies from the Stepnyak and Tarbagatai regions. Also, there is no distinct interaction between the pelagicDegamella–Pricyclopygeassociation and other trilobite faunas. The geographical distribution of raphiophorid and trinucleid trilobites described in this paper, including species of generaMalongullia?,Miaopopsis,NanshanaspisandKongqiaoheia, supports Ordovician palaeogeographical reconstructions showing the Kazakh terranes as part of a huge archipelago situated on both sides of the equator in proximity to the west coast of Gondwana and positioned a considerable distance from the Siberia continent and its associated terranes.
Bromoacetic acid causes oxidative stress and uric acid metabolism dysfunction via disturbing mitochondrial function and Nrf2 pathway in chicken kidney
Authors: Wu Yuting , Liu Jiwen , Liu Shuhui , Fan Wentao , Ding Chenchen , Gao Zhangshan , Tang Zhihui , Luo Yan , Shi Xizhi , Tan Lei , Song Suquan
Published: August 2022

Since the outbreak of COVID‐19, widespread utilization of disinfectants has led to a tremendous increase in the generation of disinfection byproducts worldwide. Bromoacetic acid (BAA), one of the common disinfection byproducts in the environment, has triggered public concern because of its adverse effects on urinary system in mammals. Nevertheless, the BAA‐induced nephrotoxicity and potential mechanism in birds still remains obscure. According to the detected content in the Taihu Lake Basin, the model of BAA exposure in chicken was established at doses of 0, 3, 300, 3000 μg/L for 4 weeks. Our results indicated that BAA exposure caused kidney swelling and structural disarrangement. BAA led to disorder in renal function (CRE, BUN, UA) and increased apoptosis (Bax, Bcl‐2, caspase3). BAA suppressed the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis genes (PGC‐1α, Nrf1, TFAM) and OXPHOS complex I genes (ND1, ND2, ND3, ND4, ND4L, ND5, ND6). Subsequently, BAA destroyed the expression of Nrf2 antioxidant reaction genes (Nrf2, Keap1, HO‐1, NQO1, GCLM, GCLC). Furthermore, renal oxidative damage led to disorder in uric acid metabolism genes (Mrp2, Mrp4, Bcrp, OAT1, OAT2, OAT3) and exacerbated destruction in renal function. Overall, our study provided insights into the potential mechanism of BAA‐induced nephrotoxicity, which were important for the clinical monitoring and prevention of BAA.
Statistical Statements in Probabilistic Logic Programming
Authors: Azzolini Damiano , Bellodi Elena , Riguzzi Fabrizio
Published: August 2022

Probabilistic Logic Programs under the distribution semantics (PLPDS) do not allow statistical probabilistic statements of the form “90% of birds fly”, which were defined “Type 1” statements by Halpern. In this paper, we add this kind of statements to PLPDS and introduce the PASTA (“Probabilistic Answer set programming for STAtistical probabilities”) language. We translate programs in our new formalism into probabilistic answer set programs under the credal semantics. This approach differs from previous proposals, such as the one based on “probabilistic conditionals” as, instead of choosing a single model by making the maximum entropy assumption, we take into consideration all models and we assign probability intervals to queries. In this way we refrain from making assumptions and we obtain a more neutral framework. We also propose an inference algorithm and compare it with an existing solver for probabilistic answer set programs on a number of programs of increasing size, showing that our solution is faster and can deal with larger instances.
Grundlagen
Authors: Röper Johann W. A.
Published: August 2022

Das Ziel dieses Grundlagenkapitels ist es, bereits verfügbare Informationen über Kosten, Innovationen und Gestaltungsansätze in Luftrettungssystemen zusammen zu führen. Somit soll ein grundlegendes Verständnis geschaffen werden, aus dem sich die Methodik zur Modellierung von Kosten und Handlungsempfehlungen entwickeln lassen. Dafür wird das System der deutschen Luftrettung anhand von medizinischen, sozio-politischen und betriebswirtschaftlichen Dimensionen beschrieben und erfasst.
Methodik
Authors: Röper Johann W. A.
Published: August 2022

Die vorhergehenden Recherchen zeigen, dass es keine umfassenden Ansätze der ökonomischen Forschung gibt, in denen die dynamischen und komplexen Kostenvariablen des Luftrettungsbetriebes in ihren funktionalen Zusammenhängen modelliert werden. Damit ergibt sich die Notwendigkeit eines Beitrags zur systematischen Bewertung sowie ökonomischen Analyse der luftgestützten Notfallversorgung. Die Modellierung der Kosten des Luftrettungsbetriebes geschieht anhand der Entwicklung einer Gesamtkostenfunktion und der Berechnung von durchschnittlichen Einsatzkosten.