bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case studies of atmospheric moisture sources in the source region of the Yellow River from a Lagrangian perspective
Authors: Liu Rong , Wen Jun , Wang Xin , Wang Zuoliang , Liu Yu
Published: July 2021

In this study, atmospheric moisture source regions and transport pathways, which substantially affect extreme summer precipitation events in the source region of the Yellow River (SRYR) of China were investigated using the Lagrangian Flexible Particle Dispersion Model (FLEXPART). Based on the 24‐hour cumulative precipitation data from the China Meteorological Data Service Center, 2012 and 2015 were selected to represent wet and dry years during the period 2007–2016, respectively. The results indicate that potential moisture sources include the northern Tibetan Plateau, the Bay of Bengal, the southern edge of the Himalayas, Sichuan Basin, and the SRYR. In the wet year, moisture from the southern branch was transported along two pathways: (a) moisture from the Arabian Sea was carried by the Somalia jet and entered the SRYR through the Indian Peninsula and Bay of Bengal, and (b) moisture from the South China Sea entered the SRYR through the Sichuan Basin. In the dry year, the moisture primary originated from the northern branch. Moisture from the eastern European Plain or northern Africa was carried by the westerly jet and entered the SRYR. It is estimated that the ratios of moisture from the northern and southern branches contributing to the precipitation in the SRYR were 22.1 and 15.9% in the wet year, while they were 52.9 and 8.4% in the dry year, respectively. Internal moisture recycling contributed ~22.0% to precipitation in the wet year and 11.0% in the dry year. In this study, the transport trajectories of moisture contributing to extreme precipitation events in the SRYR are delineated. The results indicate that the northern branch is the primary contributor of moisture in the SRYR.
The relationship between teleconnections, surface temperature, and cold air outbreaks
Authors: Smith Erik T. , Sheridan Scott C.
Published: July 2021

Cold air outbreaks (CAOs) are extreme events that can negatively impact the agricultural industry, human health, and cause widespread power outages from increased energy consumption. Increasing the predictability of CAOs is critical to limiting the adverse impacts on society, but skilful predictions rely on well‐defined mechanisms of causation. To improve the understanding of CAO mechanisms, this study examines the relationship between atmospheric and oceanic teleconnection indices and CAOs in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) during two distinct periods, 1979–1998 and 1999–2018. Changes in the relationship between CAOs and teleconnections during these two periods are calculated and used to determine the teleconnections that currently have the strongest relationship with CAOs across the NH. Several relationships were found to no longer be significant while several other significant relationships have emerged, particularly with the Tropical Northern Hemisphere (TNH) pattern. Furthermore, upstream teleconnections, as opposed to downstream teleconnections, were generally found to have a stronger relationship with CAOs. The East Pacific Oscillation and East Pacific/North Pacific pattern were found to have the strongest relationship with CAOs in the eastern U.S. and Alaska, while the Arctic Oscillation, North Atlantic Oscillation, Greenland Blocking Index, and Scandinavian pattern have the strongest relationship with CAOs in Eurasia.
The spatial and seasonal dependency of daily precipitation extremes on the temperature in China from 1957 to 2017
Authors: Chen Wenhui , Cui Huijuan , Ge Quansheng
Published: July 2021

The frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation in China increase generally with global warming. It is well‐accepted that higher temperature increases water vapour in the atmosphere, leading to more extreme precipitation events. Assuming relative humidity stay constant, the Clausius–Clapeyron (C–C) relationship indicates that global precipitation extremes increase with temperature at a rate of approximately 7%/°C. This study investigated the dependency of daily precipitation extremes on the temperature using daily data of 525 stations in China during 1957–2017. Results showed that the peak structure and sub C–C scaling (0%/°C–5%/°C) were dominant in China, while the scaling rates exhibited a ‘sub C–C, C–C like or super C–C, negative C–C’ trend from southeast to northwest over China. The upper quartile of precipitation (P75) were more sensitive to temperature change than higher intensities. Unlike the scaling patterns in the whole year, the negative relationships were found dominant in most areas in summer, indicating that as summer's lowest temperature reaches the peak of the year, the negative scaling of extreme precipitation at higher temperatures were reinforced.
Projected impacts of 1.5 and 2°C global warming on temperature and precipitation patterns in South America
Authors: Torres Roger Rodrigues , Benassi Rafael Bitencourt , Martins Fabrina Bolzan , Lapola David Montenegro
Published: July 2021

Even if the thresholds set out in the Paris Agreement are reached, several impacts on the climate system are still inevitable, generating new vulnerabilities and amplifying those that already exist. In this sense, the objective of this work was to analyse the impact of a global warming of 1.5 and 2°C in the regional climatological patterns of the near‐surface air temperature and precipitation over South America, locating the most affected regions and briefly discussing the possible impacts to be faced on biodiversity and agriculture. The simulations and projections of 26 General Circulation Models (GCMs) from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 were used, forced in four different Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) scenarios. Projections for 1.5 or 2°C global warming indicate a local increase even higher, of at least +0.5°C, in almost the entire South American continent. Regarding precipitation, a similar pattern was also found between the two thresholds of global warming. GCMs project an increase of about 100 mm year−1 in the southern region of Brazil and in the northern portion of the Brazilian Northeast, in northern Argentina, Uruguay, and parts of Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela; while the areas between the south of Chile and Argentina and the extreme north of South America show reductions of up to 150 mm year−1. In addition, both the temperature and precipitation patterns were practically similar between the four analysed RCPs scenarios. The results presented in this study indicate that even if the Paris Agreement is very successful, South America will still suffer several impacts and will need to take effective adaptation measures in the short term. This may have pervasive implications for the biodiversity and genetic resource base of the subcontinent, as well as may impair agricultural productivity or incur into considerable adaptation costs for the sector.
How do mistreated high‐status service providers compensate?
Authors: Mattar Dorine M.
Published: July 2021

This study aims to examine the reactions of high‐status service employees to customer mistreatment. An inductive research design is adopted, relying on the qualitative data collected from semi‐structured interviews conducted with university professors, doctors, and high‐ranking bank employees in Lebanon. High‐status service providers who experience mistreatment by their customers experience strong feelings and may suffer from flashbacks triggered by similar circumstances. The data reveals two forms of compensating reaction: surface acting and the withholding of customer‐oriented organizational citizenship behaviors from the customer who mistreated them. The former creates an open loop spiral which affects downstream customers whereas the latter stops with the customer who mistreated them. The study contributes to the existing literature on customers' mistreatment, which has tended to focus on low‐status employees in traditional service contexts. In addition, as it was conducted in a society with a collectivistic culture it also provides valuable insights into the role played by culture. Finally, it contributes to management practice by helping managers recognize the impact of the mistreatment of high‐status service providers and to channel their subordinates' negative emotions into a more positive outcome.
Assessing salt marsh loss and degradation by combining long‐term LANDSAT imagery and numerical modelling
Authors: Lopes Carina L. , Mendes Renato , Caçador Isabel , Dias João M.
Published: July 2021

The precise evaluation of the conservation status of salt marshes, the understanding of the mechanisms behind loss and degradation and the anticipation of future threats are fundamental to assist management solutions able to reverse the declining trend observed in these environments. Previous methods combining remote sensing and hydrodynamic modelling have been revealed to be effective in assessing degradation in restricted marshes, but unable to characterise dynamics of marshes at the estuarine scale. This study proposes an alternative methodology to identify priority areas for conservation by combining LANDSAT satellite remote sensing and numerical modelling. Using the Ria de Aveiro as case‐study, the main objectives of this work are to: (1) identify vegetation loss and degradation in estuarine marshes; (2) determine the mechanisms behind marsh deterioration; (3) anticipate future threats posed by climate‐induced mean sea level rise and; (4) provide management solutions aiming to protect and recover degraded salt marshes. LANDSAT imagery reveals that the most deteriorated salt marshes are located on the central and upper lagoon regions, and the numerical results support that marsh loss and degradation result from the increased tidal action triggered by the deepening of the lagoon channels. The increase in tidal currents promoted the erosion of marsh shoreline, whereas the changes in the inundation patterns over the intertidal areas triggered interior drowning. Climate‐induced mean sea level rise will likely exacerbate marsh deterioration, increasing the urgency to implement a management plan aiming to protect marshes from erosion and promote sedimentation in submerged marshes, to ensure their sustainability.
Long‐term Outcomes of Pediatric Living Versus Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Shingina Alexandra , Vutien Philip , Uleryk Elizabeth , Shah Prakesh S. , Renner Eberhard , Bhat Mamatha , Tinmouth Jill , Kim Joseph
Published: July 2021

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) emerged in the 1980s as a viable alternative to scarce cadaveric organs for pediatric patients. However, pediatric waitlist mortality remains high. Long‐term outcomes of living and deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT) are inconsistently described in the literature. Our aim was to systematically review the safety and efficacy of LDLT after 1 year of transplantation among pediatric patients with all causes of liver failure. We searched the MEDLINE, Medline‐in‐Process, MEDLINE Epub Ahead of Print, Embase + Embase Classic (OvidSP), and Cochrane (Wiley) from February 1, 1947 to February 26, 2020, without language restrictions. The primary outcomes were patient and graft survival beyond 1 year following transplantation. A meta‐analysis of unadjusted and adjusted odds and hazard ratios was performed using a random‐effects model. A total of 24 studies with 3677 patients who underwent LDLT and 9098 patients who underwent DDLT were included for analysis. In patients with chronic or combined chronic liver failure and acute liver failure (ALF), 1‐year (odds ratio [OR], 0.68; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53‐0.88), 3‐year (OR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.61‐0.89), 5‐year (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.57‐0.89), and 10‐year (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.18‐1.00) patient and 1‐year (OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.35‐0.70), 3‐year (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.37‐0.83), 5‐year (OR, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.32‐0.76), and 10‐year (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.14‐0.49) graft survival were consistently better in LDLT recipients compared with those in DDLT recipients. In patients with ALF, no difference was seen between the 2 groups except for 5‐year patient survival (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.38‐0.95), which favored LDLT. Sensitivity analysis by era showed improved survival in the most recent cohort of patients, consistent with the well‐described learning curve for the LDLT technique. LDLT provides superior patient and graft survival outcomes relative to DDLT in pediatric patients with chronic liver failure and ALF. More resources may be needed to develop infrastructures and health care systems to support living liver donation.
Approximate solutions of vector fields and an application to Denjoy–Carleman regularity of solutions of a nonlinear PDE
Authors: Braun Rodrigues Nicholas , da Silva Antonio Victor
Published: July 2021

In this paper we study microlocal regularity of a ‐solution u of the equation
where is ultradifferentiable in the variables and holomorphic in the variables . We proved that if is a regular Denjoy–Carleman class (including the quasianalytic case) then:
where is the Denjoy–Carleman wave‐front set of u and is the characteristic set of the linearized operator :
The utility of free abdominal flap without Zone 4 procedure for unilateral breast reconstruction
Authors: Tokumoto Hideki , Akita Shinsuke , Kubota Yoshitaka , Mitsukawa Nobuyuki
Published: July 2021

Background

The perfusion concept of free abdominal flap for breast reconstruction shares the common perception. We believed that free abdominal flap without Zone 4 could be performed. The purpose of this study is to introduce the “without Zone 4 procedure” and compare with the conventional technique (without 4 vs. conventional groups).

Methods

The “without 4 group” included 61 patients, while the conventional group 55 patients. The inclusion criterion for the “without Zone 4 procedure” was defined as the thickest part of flap was more than half of the contralateral breast projection. The centerline of the skin island was adjusted to the position with the most medial side of the perforator. We compared basic characteristics (age, BMI, operation time, blood loss, contralateral breast size, smoking status, and history of laparotomy), the flaps' horizontal and vertical widths, thickness of the thickest part of the flap, elevated flap weight, and operative procedure.

Results

The mean length of the flaps' horizontal width was significantly shorter (19.2 cm vs. 26.3 cm; p < .001) and the mean flap thickness was significantly greater in the without 4 group. The mean contralateral breast height and projection length were significantly longer in the conventional group. No significant differences were found with respect to the other characteristics.

Conclusions

Patients with a lower breast projection compared with the abdominal fat thickness could undergo reconstruction with a shorter flap horizontal width. Because of the esthetic outcome of the donor site, this procedure is more appropriate for low‐BMI patients.
Unbiased signal equation for quantitative magnetization transfer mapping in balanced steady‐state free precession MRI
Authors: Bayer Fritz M. , Bock Michael , Jezzard Peter , Smith Alex K.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Quantitative magnetization transfer (qMT) imaging can be used to quantify the proportion of protons in a voxel attached to macromolecules. Here, we show that the original qMT balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) model is biased due to over‐simplistic assumptions made in its derivation.

Theory and Methods

We present an improved model for qMT bSSFP, which incorporates finite radiofrequency (RF) pulse effects as well as simultaneous exchange and relaxation. Furthermore, a correction relating to finite RF pulse effects for sinc‐shaped excitations is derived. The new model is compared to the original one in numerical simulations of the Bloch‐McConnell equations and in previously acquired in vivo data.

Results

Our numerical simulations show that the original signal equation is significantly biased in typical brain tissue structures (by 7%‐20%), whereas the new signal equation outperforms the original one with minimal bias (<1%). It is further shown that the bias of the original model strongly affects the acquired qMT parameters in human brain structures, with differences in the clinically relevant parameter of pool‐size‐ratio of up to 31%. Particularly high biases of the original signal equation are expected in an MS lesion within diseased brain tissue (due to a low T2/T1‐ratio), demanding a more accurate model for clinical applications.

Conclusion

The improved model for qMT bSSFP is recommended for accurate qMT parameter mapping in healthy and diseased brain tissue structures.
Evaluation of students' perceived clinical competence and learning needs following an online virtual simulation education programme with debriefing during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Fung John Tai Chun , Zhang Wen , Yeung Man Nga , Pang Michelle Tsz Ha , Lam Veronica Suk Fun , Chan Bobo Kai Yin , Wong Janet Yuen‐Ha
Published: July 2021

Aims and objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a virtual simulation education programme with debriefing in undergraduate nursing students. Perceived clinical competence and learning needs of students in a simulation environment were also measured.

Background

Evidence showed virtual simulation education programmes provided better knowledge acquisition. However, these studies to date did not incorporate virtual simulation in the combination of a debriefing model in nursing students.

Design

A one‐group pre‐test and post‐test design.

Methods

188 final year undergraduate nursing students participated in the study. Linear mixed model analysis was conducted to evaluate the effect of the programme.

Results

Students have perceived a significant improvement in clinical competence and nursing process. Self‐efficacy has also boosted. Communication and critical thinking were applied better in the traditional clinical environment.

Conclusion

Perceived clinical competence of Chinese nursing students has significant improvements by using virtual simulation combining a debriefing model during the COVID‐19 period. Virtual simulation met students' learning needs. Future studies should include a control group for comparison and long‐term measurement.

Relevance to clinical practice

The study provided an innovative clinical learning pedagogy to serve as a potential alternative with traditional clinical practicum during the COVID‐19 period as this is substantially limited.
Constrained nonlinear model predictive control of pH value in wet flue gas desulfurization process
Authors: Li Xiaoli , Dong Jiawei , Wang Kang
Published: July 2021

In wet flue gas desulfurization (WFGD) process, the pH value of the absorption tower slurry is a crucial factor to the efficiency of desulfurization system. Aiming at the nonlinearity and large lag of the pH change in WFGD process, a predictive control strategy based on Hammerstein–Wiener inverse model compensation is proposed. During the calculation of optimal control, an anti‐model of Wiener nonlinearity unit is adopted to transform the output setting values and sampling values. Similarly in the control process, the controller output is applied to the actual controlled object after inverse transformation of the static nonlinear Hammerstein model. Through the above two inverse transformations, the controller output is identical with the input of linear link in the closed‐loop system. In this article, the inverse model compensation method is utilized to transform nonlinear process control into linear system control, avoiding the large computation of nonlinear model optimization. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme are verified by simulation.
Preparation of shape memory polyurethane/modified cellulose nanocrystals composites with balanced comprehensive performances
Authors: Du Weining , Zhang Zejiang , Yin Chaolu , Ge Xinguo , Shi Liangjie
Published: July 2021

In this work, we first synthesized modified cellulose nanocrystals (MCNC) with 2,4‐toluene diisocyanate and 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide via a two‐step in‐situ polymerization method, and then incorporated it with shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) to fabricate composite. It was found that the urethane chains and phosphorus‐containing flame retardant were covalently grafted onto the cellulose nanocrystals surface, and the MCNC exhibited good dispersion level in the SMPU matrix. Due to the crystallization‐induced and flame retardant effects of the prepared MCNC, it could be acted as a multifunctional reinforcer in SMPU composites. Noticeably, the most balanced improvements in crystallization, shape memory, mechanical, thermal stability, and flame retardancy properties of composites were observed with the incorporation of 3 wt% MCNC. Shape memory experiment demonstrated that the SMPU‐MCNC3 composite exhibited admirable thermal induced shape memory behavior, and its shape fixity and shape recovery ratios were maintained above 90% after five cycles. More importantly, the SMPU‐MCNC3 composite showed well balanced mechanical (σb = 13.1 MPa, εb = 189.3%), limiting oxygen index (23.8%), and UL‐94 rating (V‐2) among the prepared polyurethane films. In addition, the representative SMPU‐MCNC3 showed obviously reductions in heat and smoke production during combustion as compared to the neat SMPU. The present work offers a promising route to fabricate shape memory polyurethane composites with versatile functions.
Clinical ApoA‐IV amyloid is associated with fibrillogenic signal sequence
Authors: Canetti Diana , Nocerino Paola , Rendell Nigel B , Botcher Nicola , Gilbertson Janet A , Blanco Angel , Rowczenio Dorota , Morelli Alessandra , Mangione P Patrizia , Corazza Alessandra , Verona Guglielmo , Giorgetti Sofia , Marchese Loredana , Westermark Per , Hawkins Philip N , Gillmore Julian D , Bellotti Vittorio , Taylor Graham W
Published: July 2021

Apolipoprotein A‐IV amyloidosis is an uncommon form of the disease normally resulting in renal and cardiac dysfunction. ApoA‐IV amyloidosis was identified in 16 patients attending the National Amyloidosis Centre and in eight clinical samples received for histology review. Unexpectedly, proteomics identified the presence of ApoA‐IV signal sequence residues (p.18‐43 to p.20‐43) in 16/24 trypsin‐digested amyloid deposits but in only 1/266 non‐ApoA‐IV amyloid samples examined. These additional signal residues were also detected in the cardiac sample from the Swedish patient in which ApoA‐IV amyloid was first described, and in plasma from a single cardiac ApoA‐IV amyloidosis patient. The most common signal‐containing peptide observed in ApoA‐IV amyloid, p.20‐43, and to a far lesser extent the N‐terminal peptide, p.21‐43, were fibrillogenic in vitro at physiological pH, generating Congo red‐positive fibrils. The addition of a single signal‐derived alanine residue to the N‐terminus has resulted in markedly increased fibrillogenesis. If this effect translates to the mature circulating protein in vivo, then the presence of signal may result in preferential deposition as amyloid, perhaps acting as seed for the main circulating native form of the protein; it may also influence other ApoA‐IV‐associated pathologies. © 2021 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Prevalence of metachronous contralateral mature ovarian teratoma: A systematic review
Authors: Kiely David , Lewis Carianne , Gray Juliet , Hall Nigel
Published: July 2021

There is increasing recognition that contralateral metachronous tumor may occur following treatment of unilateral mature ovarian teratoma. We aimed to define this risk to guide appropriate surveillance strategies. We undertook a systematic review of three large medical databases (Ovid Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register) to April 2020 using a defined search strategy. From 1831 articles retrieved, 23 were included, reporting 1101 girls with unilateral mature ovarian teratomas. The intensity and duration of follow‐up varied between studies, with only five reporting close surveillance. Overall prevalence of metachronous contralateral mature teratoma was 2.1%, with a prevalence per study of 0%–23% (median 0%). Prevalence was higher (7%) among studies with more robust surveillance. These data suggest a small but real risk of metachronous contralateral tumors. Surveillance ultrasonography is proportionate and indicated alongside further prospective data collection to record the natural history and impact of surveillance in greater detail.
Reducing sedated lumbar punctures in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Waters Torin W. , Dickens David S.
Published: July 2021

Background

Sedation for lumbar punctures (LPs) in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients has been the standard for decades to reduce pain and anxiety. Recent studies on the potential long‐term neurocognitive effects of cumulative propofol exposure have raised concerns about this practice. The recent pandemic introduced additional burdens to patients, with the requirement of a negative COVID‐19 test prior to each sedated procedure.

Procedure

These factors prompted a quality improvement intervention at our institution where we aimed to reduce postinduction sedated LPs by 50%. Our intervention included patient and family education, followed by a simulation of the procedure for selected patients. Those converted to unsedated LPs were queried for their preference. Comparative cost, clinical time, and LP success rates were collected for sedated and unsedated LPs.

Results

Following the intervention, the percentage of LPs performed with sedation dropped from 100% to 48%. All LPs were successful using both techniques. Most patients who experienced the unsedated LP technique, and their guardians, strongly preferred this approach. Unsedated LPs significantly reduced clinical time (169 vs. 83 minutes) for families, decreased expenditures ($5736 reduction per procedure), and improved institutional opportunity cost due to a decrease in last‐minute cancelations.

Conclusion

We have shown that it is feasible to significantly reduce the use of sedation for LPs in patients with ALL, which has the potential to improve health and patient experience at a lower cost.
Tensile modulus of clay‐reinforced system supposing the interphase effectiveness for load transferring
Authors: Zare Yasser , Rhee Kyong Yop
Published: July 2021

In this work, we focus on the minimum interfacial shear modulus (Sc) and interfacial shear modulus (Si) controlling the efficiency of interphase zone in polymer clay nanocomposites, since the stress transferring through interphase section handles the stress bearing of samples. The roles of “Sc” and “Si” in the effective thickness and concentration of interphase zone are clarified. Moreover, a model based on Kolarik system is developed for modulus of clay‐reinforced nanocomposites, which reflects the efficiency of interphase zone. The experimental data of tensile modulus for many samples display good matching with the predictions of the advanced model. Also, all model parameters properly manipulate the nanocomposite's modulus. Thick clay (t > 4 nm) cannot generate the interphase zone in the samples. A poor “Sc,” high “Si,” and thin clay improve the modulus of nanocomposites, but very high “Sc,” extremely poor “Si,” or thick clay cause a poor nanocomposite. A high value of Sc = 0.21 GPa deteriorates the reinforcing efficiency of clay in nanocomposites. Furthermore, low Si < 35 GPa produces a poorer nanocomposite than the polymer matrix. Additionally, complete exfoliation of thin clay (t = 1 nm) causes 900% improvement in the nanocomposite's modulus.
Registration of Clearfield ‘CLM04’ southern medium grain rice
Authors: Esguerra Manuel Q. , Sha Xueyan , Hardke Jarrod T. , Scott Robert C. , Wamishe Yeshi , Bateman Nick , Counce Paul A. , Roberts Trenton L. , Beaty Bryan A. , Bulloch Jill M.
Published: July 2021

‘CLM04’ (Reg. no. CV‐155, PI 692953) is a high‐yielding, early‐maturing, and short‐stature Clearfield (BASF Corporation) medium‐grain rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivar developed by the University of Arkansas Rice Research and Extension Center (RREC) in Stuttgart, AR, and approved for release by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Experimental Station in January 2019. It was derived from the cross ‘RU1202168'/‘Jupiter’ made at RREC in spring 2013 and advanced as F4 bulk of a single progeny row 14P54617 at the RREC in summer 2014. From 2015 to 2019, CLM04 was evaluated in 51 statewide and regional replicated trials. The Clearfield medium‐grain cultivar ‘CL272’ as well as conventional medium‐grain cultivars ‘Jupiter’ and ‘Titan’ served as checks. Grain yield of CLM04 was 9.58 Mg ha−1 compared with 9.17 Mg ha−1 for CL272, 9.97 Mg ha−1 for Jupiter, and 10.15 Mg ha−1 for Titan. CLM04 has an average height of 107 cm which is 10, 9, and 5 cm taller than Jupiter, Titan, and CL272, respectively. CLM04 reached 50% heading 5 d later than Titan at 87 d from emergence, which is similar to CL272 and Jupiter, which mature at 85 and 87 d, respectively. CLM04 is moderately resistant to leaf blast and susceptible to sheath blight, bacterial panicle blight, kernel smut, and false smut.
Synthesis and properties of 3,4‐dioxythiophene and 1,4‐dialkoxybenzene based copolymers via direct CH arylation: Dopant‐free hole transport material for perovskite solar cells
Authors: Mishra Anamika , Gupta Sonal , Patra Asit
Published: July 2021

Direct CH arylation coupling reaction has gained significant importance in synthesis of conjugated polymers for organic electronic applications. We report here a facile and straightforward method called “direct CH arylation” reaction to synthesize conjugated 3,4‐dioxythiophene and 1,4‐dialkoxybenzene based copolymers as hole transport material (HTM) for perovskite solar cells. Two electron‐rich conjugated polymers P1‐2 were synthesized, in which 1,4‐dibromo‐2,5‐bis(dodecyloxy)benzene and 3,4‐dialkoxy‐thiophene units were used for polymerization. The resulting polymers were characterized and exhibited high solubility in organic solvents. Electrochemical and optical characterizations were carried out by cyclic voltammetry and UV–Vis–NIR absorption spectroscopy and found that these polymers show higher‐lying HOMO energy levels with wide band gap. Density functional theory calculation was performed on these polymers (P1‐2) and correlated with our experimental results. Finally, perovskite solar cells were fabricated by solution‐processable deposition of P1‐2 as dopant‐free HTM with device geometry ITO/SnO2/Perovskite/HTM(P1/P2)/Ag and achieved a maximum power conversion efficiency of 5.28%. This study provides information on designing and simple preparation by direct CH arylation reaction of higher‐lying HOMO energy level polymer as HTM for perovskite solar cells.
GroEL protein from the potential biocontrol agent Rhodopseudomonas palustris enhances resistance to rice blast disease
Authors: Wu Xiyang , Chen Yue , Li Chenggang , Zhang Xin , Tan Xinqiu , Lv Liang , Liu Yong , Zhang Deyong
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

GroEL, which is a chaperone, plays a key role in maintaining protein homeostasis and, among other functions, serves to prevent protein misfolding and aggregation. In addition, the GroEL protein also has a significant effect on enhancing plant resistance and inhibiting plant diseases. However, the function of the GroEL protein in the inhibition of rice blast remains unknown.

RESULTS

Field experiment results show that photosynthetic bacteria PSB‐06 have a good control effect on Magnaporthe oryzae. PSB‐06 also can promote rice growth and enhance stress resistance. A GroEL protein which was separated and purified from photosynthetic bacteria had a significant antagonistic effect on appressorial formation and pathogenicity of Magnaporthe oryzae, meanwhile transcriptional analysis demonstrated that the GroEL protein could improve the expression of defense gene of rice.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that the photosynthetic bacteria Rhodopseudomonas palustris significantly controls rice blast disease. Its action involves an extracellular GroEL protein, which inhibits appressoria formation, antagonizes the pathogenicity of Magnaporthe oryzae and promotes a host defense response. The research results provide evidence of the potential of this photosynthetic bacterium as a biocontrol agent at least for rice blast control. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Application of quantitative systems pharmacology to guide the optimal dosing of COVID‐19 vaccines
Authors: Giorgi Mario , Desikan Rajat , van der Graaf Piet H. , Kierzek Andrzej M.
Published: July 2021

Optimal use and distribution of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines involves adjustments of dosing. Due to the rapidly evolving pandemic, such adjustments often need to be introduced before full efficacy data are available. As demonstrated in other areas of drug development, quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) is well placed to guide such extrapolation in a rational and timely manner. Here, we propose for the first time how QSP can be applied in the context of COVID‐19 vaccine development.
Plasma Etching‐Assisted Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropy
Authors: Bai Hua , Hao Yugan , Zhou Xiaofeng , Zhu Wenxuan , Pan Feng , Song Cheng
Published: July 2021

Ferromagnetism with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) receives continuous attention. But, the PMA is always limited by materials system, the assistance from suitable buffer layers such as Pt and Ta is essential. A general method for the generation of PMA on various systems is pursued. Herein, it is shown that preparatory plasma etching of oxide substrate produces robust PMA in subsequent grown ferromagnetic multilayers, out‐of‐plane hysteresis loop is rectangular with remanence close to 100%. In contrast, without the preparatory plasma etching, out‐of‐plane hysteresis loop of subsequent grown ferromagnetic multilayers is very oblique, the calculated uniaxial anisotropic constant is one order of magnitude smaller than the former one. The enhancements of PMA are observed in distinct oxide substrates including Si/SiO2, Al2O3, LaAlO3, and MgO, indicating the interfacial plasma etching technique can be used for various oxide substrates to obtain PMA. The promotion of Co–O hybridization is proposed to be the dominant reason for the enhancement of PMA, which is supported by the control experiment. This finding provides opportunity for the formation of interfacial PMA on crystalline oxide substrates, and expands the material selection for achieving PMA.
Theoretical Design of Effective Multilayer Optical Coatings Using Oxyhydride Thin Films
Authors: Strugovshchikov Evgenii , Pishtshev Aleksandr , Karazhanov Smagul
Published: July 2021

Rare‐earth metal oxyhydride compositions are currently attracting increasing attention to develop materials with unusual optical responses. Herein, using computer simulations of the electronic and optical properties, the optical responses of two stable yttrium oxyhydride compounds, and YHO, are studied for the visible light range. The emphasis is on modeling macroscopic optical characteristics, which are numerically derived within a conventional scheme using refractive indices, and absorption, transmittance, and reflection spectra. The main goal is twofold: first, to simulate spectral behavior of different single‐phase and two‐phase oxyhydride compositions and second, to conduct a comparative analysis that could explain the features of the transmission spectra measured for different samples. Based on the obtained results, models of new optical coatings are proposed in which yttrium oxyhydrides play the key role. In the context of nonlinear optics, the frequency profile of the second‐order susceptibility for the noncentrosymmetric cubic structure of is evaluated and it is shown that this system could exhibit large optical nonlinearity.
Multilevel approach to the initial guess for self‐consistent field calculations
Authors: Hégely Bence , Kállay Mihály
Published: July 2021

A new multilevel approach is presented to the initial guess for self‐consistent field (SCF) calculations, which combines the superposition of atomic densities (SAD) procedure and the density matrix of a semi‐empirical quantum mechanics (SQM) calculation through projection. The proposed initial guess method produces a polarized, spin‐specific initial density, while its computational costs are a few orders of magnitude lower than the expenses of a scheme that projects the density matrix of a standard quantum chemical calculation utilizing a minimal AO basis set (pMIN). The projected SQM density‐based (pSQM) technique is thoroughly tested using the GFN2‐xTB approach, and its efficiency and reliability are compared with those of the standard SAD and density matrix projection techniques. The results indicate that the calculations using the pSQM scheme require somewhat fewer SCF iteration steps compared with the SAD method, however, the SAD, the pSQM, and the pMIN techniques have similar performance.
Stability of time‐varying systems with delayed impulsive effects
Authors: Zhang Wenbing , Tang Yang , Zheng Weixing , Liu Yurong
Published: July 2021

In this article, we investigate the global uniform exponential stability problem of linear time‐varying systems with delayed impulsive effects. Two cases are considered: in the first case, the impulse‐free system is uniformly asymptotically stable and in the second case, the impulse‐free system may not be uniformly asymptotically stable. When the impulse‐free system is uniformly asymptotically stable, by the virtue of a uniformly asymptotically stable function, Lyapunov‐based sufficient conditions are derived to ensure the uniform exponential stability of linear time‐varying systems, where destabilizing and stabilizing impulses are considered, respectively. Different from existing results, the Lyapunov function is not assumed to decrease all the time and it is shown that under some conditions, the delayed impulsive effects are stabilizing. For the case that the impulse‐free system is not uniformly asymptotically stable, a time‐varying function is used to characterize the upper bound on the derivative of the Lyapunov function, and it is illustrated that the linear time‐varying systems can be stabilized by the delayed impulsive effects. Moreover, it is also shown that the impulsive input delay‐dependent criteria are less conservative than the delay‐independent ones when the impulsive input delay is small. Some examples are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of our theoretical results.
Soil development and mineral transformations along a one‐million‐year chronosequence on the Galápagos Islands
Authors: Candra I Nyoman , Gerzabek Martin H. , Ottner Franz , Wriessnig Karin , Tintner Johannes , Schmidt Greta , Rechberger Maria V. , Rampazzo Nicola , Zehetner Franz
Published: July 2021

The Galápagos archipelago is a well‐suited model ecosystem for investigating soil evolution. Here, we study mineral transformations and pedogenesis of the volcanic soils of Galápagos in response to weathering duration (1,500–1,070,000 yr) and climate (humid vs. dry). Our results show that soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic C content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and water retention decreased whereas clay content and bulk density increased with soil age under humid climate. Andic properties were expressed in soils ≤4,300 yr old, but disappeared relatively early in pedogenesis and were absent in soils ≥26,000 yr old. The clay fraction of the young andic soils (≤4,300 yr old) was dominated by allophane and ferrihydrite. After 26,000 yr of pedogenesis, illitic–vermiculitic phases were predominant, and in the older soils (≥166,000 yr old), kaolinite, hematite, and gibbsite prevailed. The sequence of soil orders from the youngest to the second oldest site was Histosol–Andisol–Alfisol (vermiculitic)–Alfisol (parasesquic)–Ultisol. The oldest soil of the humid chronosequence (1,070,000 yr old) met all diagnostic criteria for an Oxisol except for the required low CEC. The soils at two dry comparison sites were less developed with low clay contents and vitric materials at 26,000 yr of age (Entisol), and dominantly smectitic clay mineralogy and pronounced shrink–swell features at 813,000 yr of age (Vertisol). Our results highlight a rapid transition through the Andisol stage during early pedogenesis as well as strongly divergent pedogenic development in humid vs. dry zones of the Galápagos Islands, both of which have important bearings on soil functioning and ecosystem evolution on this unique archipelago.
Conversion‐Alloying Anode Materials for Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Fang Libin , Bahlawane Naoufal , Sun Wenping , Pan Hongge , Xu Ben Bin , Yan Mi , Jiang Yinzhu
Published: July 2021

The past decade has witnessed a rapidly growing interest toward sodium ion battery (SIB) for large‐scale energy storage in view of the abundance and easy accessibility of sodium resources. Key to addressing the remaining challenges and setbacks and to translate lab science into commercializable products is the development of high‐performance anode materials. Anode materials featuring combined conversion and alloying mechanisms are one of the most attractive candidates, due to their high theoretical capacities and relatively low working voltages. The current understanding of sodium‐storage mechanisms in conversion‐alloying anode materials is presented here. The challenges faced by these materials in SIBs, and the corresponding improvement strategies, are comprehensively discussed in correlation with the resulting electrochemical behavior. Finally, with the guidance and perspectives, a roadmap toward the development of advanced conversion‐alloying materials for commercializable SIBs is created.
Realization of Large Scale, 2D van der Waals Heterojunction of SnS2/SnS by Reversible Sulfurization
Authors: Li Shuhui , Wang Yu , Cheng Peng , Feng Baojie , Chen Lan , Wu Kehui
Published: July 2021

2D van der Waals heterojunction provides an attractive opportunity for realizing novel electronic or optoelectronic devices. It remains challenging to realize high‐quality heterostructures through scalable methods such as molecular epitaxy growth (MBE). Here, growth of few‐layer SnS thin films is reported on mica and Nb‐doped SrTiO3(100) substrates by MBE. Then the top layer of SnS film is uniformly sulfurized to monolayer SnS2 in a sulfur atmosphere, resulting in a high‐quality SnS2/SnS 2D heterojunction. Furthermore, the SnS2 layer can be recovered to SnS by annealing SnS2/SnS without sulfur supply, indicating the heterojunction formation is reversible. The scanning tunneling spectroscopy measurements on SnS2/SnS heterostructure indicate the type‐II band alignment in SnS2/SnS. The work provides a promising approach to construct artificial 2D heterojunctions with desired properties, which could be extended to other sulfide and selenide systems.
Unprecedented Self‐Healing Effect of Li6PS5Cl‐Based All‐Solid‐State Lithium Battery
Authors: Zheng Chao , Zhang Jun , Xia Yang , Huang Hui , Gan Yongping , Liang Chu , He Xinping , Tao Xinyong , Zhang Wenkui
Published: July 2021

Argyrodite Li6PS5Cl with high Li+ conductivity is a promising material for solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) in all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs). However, the narrow electrochemical window of Li6PS5Cl limits its applications in ASSLBs with high energy densities, and those that consist of high‐voltage cathode materials and metallic lithium anodes. Unstable lithium deposition and stripping at interfaces is also a factor that restricts its industrialization. Herein, the authors investigated the electrochemical stability of Li6PS5Cl using it as both the cathode and electrolyte. The Li6PS5Cl‐C/Li6PS5Cl/Li cell and symmetric Li/Li6PS5Cl/Li cells failed after a certain number of cycles, and subsequently healed electrochemically. This failure/healing phenomenon recurred during the cycling process. The self‐healing behavior is closely related to the electrochemical window, which suggests that it can be controlled by the charge–discharge voltage range. In‐depth X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, in situ Raman spectroscopy, and in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed the reversible Li6PS5Cl decomposition and metallic lithium growth inside the electrolyte during the cycling process. This self‐healing behavior is mainly attributed to the reciprocating lithium growth and reversible redox reaction of the Li6PS5Cl decomposition. The proposed self‐healing mechanism is a key aspect for sulfide‐based SSEs, guiding the interface modification, and material design of ASSLBs.
Integrated Design of Interlayer/Current‐Collector: Heteronanowires Decorated Carbon Microtube Fabric for High‐Loading and Lean‐Electrolyte Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Li Narui , Yu Lihong , Xi Jingyu
Published: July 2021

Low sulfur loading, high electrolyte/sulfur (E/S) ratio, and sluggish sulfur redox reaction are the main challenges that severely impede the practical application of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs). To address these problems, a self‐standing hollow carbonized cotton cloth (CCC) decorated with TiO2‐TiN heteronanowires (CCC@TiO2‐TiN) is proposed to replace the traditional cathode. Concretely, one side of CCC@TiO2‐TiN serves as a current‐collector to load sulfur (CCC@TiO2‐TiN/S), while the other side facing the separator acts as interlayer to inhibit shuttle effect. This advanced intergrated interlayer/current‐collector cathode is endowed with excellent 3D electron/ion transportation, a strong confinement barrier, and vast sulfur loading sites. Moreover, the as‐developed TiO2‐TiN heteronanowires work as in situ capture and catalysis sites for the reversible and accelerated sulfur redox reaction. Therefore, the intergrated cathode of CCC@TiO2‐TiN/S achieves an ultrahigh sulfur loading of 13 mg cm−2 and delivers a superb areal capacity of 9.09 mAh cm−2 under the ultralow E/S ratio of 4.6 µL mg−1. This work provides a new model material to achieve high sulfur loading and lean‐electrolyte toward the practical LSBs with high specific energy density.
Revisiting Reading Buddies to Support Multilingual Learners and Their Peers
Authors: Silverman Rebecca D. , Martin‐Beltrán Melinda , Peercy Megan M. , Taylor Karen S.
Published: July 2021

In this article, we report on a cross‐age peer learning program, the Martha's True Stories Reading Buddies program, focused on supporting the vocabulary and comprehension of multilingual learners and their peers in elementary school. We describe the principles of the program and provide information about our evaluation of the program. Then, we share a few recommendations for teachers who may consider implementing such a program in their contexts.
Examining the effects of the Medicaid expansion on health outcomes
Authors: Kim Andrew , Zhao Liang
Published: July 2021

The study looks at the effects of the Medicaid expansion on health outcomes, healthcare utilization and access to healthcare through the Center of Disease Control's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. In particular, we looked into whether Medicaid Expansion has caused an increase in healthcare access, healthcare utilization, and positive health outcomes among newly insured Medicaid patients. We applied the difference‐in difference models to cholesterol check, health plan, and medical cost. Our results indicated evidence a positive effect associated with state Medicaid expansions for adults and the utilization of preventive care increased in expansion states after the Medicaid expansion as more Medicaid recipients received blood pressure checks and regular primary care checkups relative to the nonexpansion states.