bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimizing the choice of test locations for multitrait genotypic evaluation
Authors: Neyhart Jeffrey L. , Gutierrez Lucia , Smith Kevin P. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractPlant breeding programs expend significant resources on multilocation testing to evaluate genotypes for advancement or potential cultivar release. The selection of genotype entries for these trials is typically based on previous phenotypic data or predictions; yet locations, important contributors to nongenetic variation, are often chosen in a less data‐driven manner. Using agronomic and quality trait data from two long‐term regional barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) nurseries, our objectives were (a) to measure the precision, repeatability, and representativeness of test locations based on multitrait data and (b) to optimize the selection of test locations for use in future trials. When considering traits individually, ideal locations could be identified simply, but a combined analysis of 11 traits indicated that very few locations were broadly favorable, and considerable tradeoffs are necessary. We developed a flexible optimization procedure to select the locations based on their precision, repeatability, and representativeness for multiple traits while simultaneously constraining the total number of locations. Optimization led to a 58–75% reduction in the number of locations, and therefore phenotyping costs, with little loss in data utility. Importantly, our approach allowed locations to be selected for phenotyping different sets of traits (e.g., either agronomic or both agronomic and malting quality), mimicking the often nested structure of trait data collection. This approach may be useful for individual plant breeding programs or collaborations wishing to increase the resource efficiency of these important regional evaluation trials.
Measurement of dense plasma temperature of the shock‐compressed silicon
Authors: Nikolaev D.N. , Kulish M.I. , Dudin S.V. , Mintsev V.B. , Lomonosov I.V. , Fortov V.E. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractMeasurements of the brightness temperature and compressibility of a dense silicon plasma formed by powerful shock waves (SWs) passing through a single‐crystal sample have been carried out. Plane SWs were created using an explosive technique: the traditional plane acceleration of a steel driver plate made it possible to obtain pressures in silicon up to 133 GPa, and the use of “Mach” cumulative generators realized the pressures up to 510 GPa. The shock Hugoniot of silicon was determined by the impedance matching with α‐quartz as the reference. The intensity of emitted thermal radiation was measured in the infrared rangeλ ∼ 1.5 μm, where silicon is optically transparent, and in the visible range of the spectrum. A significant (up to five times) understatement of the measured values of the brightness temperature in comparison with the values calculated by the equation of state was found. Taking into account the reflective properties of the SW in silicon does not lead to an agreement with the experiment. The estimates of relaxation processes behind the shock front suggest the presence of a zone of the establishment of ionization equilibrium with a width of ∼10 μm.
Recent progress in cytometric technologies and their applications in ecotoxicology and environmental risk assessment
Authors: Wlodkowic Donald , Czerw Aleksandra , Karakiewicz Beata , Deptała Andrzej 
Published: October 2021

AbstractEnvironmental toxicology focuses on identifying and predicting impact of potentially toxic anthropogenic chemicals on biosphere at various levels of biological organization. Presently there is a significant drive to gain deeper understanding of cellular and sub‐cellular mechanisms of ecotoxicity. Most notable is increased focus on elucidation of cellular‐response networks, interactomes, and greater implementation of cell‐based biotests using high‐throughput procedures, while at the same time decreasing the reliance on standard animal models used in ecotoxicity testing. This is aimed at discovery and interpretation of molecular pathways of ecotoxicity at large scale. In this regard, the applications of cytometry are perhaps one of the most fundamental prospective analytical tools for the next generation and high‐throughput ecotoxicology research. The diversity of this modern technology spans flow, laser‐scanning, imaging, and more recently, Raman as well as mass cytometry. The cornerstone advantages of cytometry include the possibility of multi‐parameter measurements, gating and rapid analysis. Cytometry overcomes, thus, limitations of traditional bulk techniques such as spectrophotometry or gel‐based techniques that average the results from pooled cell populations or small model organisms. Novel technologies such as cell imaging in flow, laser scanning cytometry, as well as mass cytometry provide innovative and tremendously powerful capabilities to analyze cells, tissues as well as to perform in situ analysis of small model organisms. In this review, we outline cytometry as a tremendously diverse field that is still vastly underutilized and often largely unknown in environmental sciences. The main motivation of this work is to highlight the potential and wide‐reaching applications of cytometry in ecotoxicology, guide environmental scientists in the technological aspects as well as popularize its broader adoption in environmental risk assessment.
Influence of glycaemic control on macular thickness in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Sharma Sadhana , Karki Pratap , Joshi Sagun Narayan , Parajuli Sanket 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIntroductionDiabetic macular oedema (DME) is one of the major cause of decreased visual acuity in patients with diabetic retinopathy. Poor glycaemic control is associated with increased incidence of DME.MethodsA total of 112 eyes of 112 patients were studied in this cross‐sectional study and were classified into three groups based on HbA1c: group 1 included patients with good glycaemic control (HbA1c ≤7%), group 2 included patients with moderate glycaemic control (HbA1c between 7% and 9%) and group 3 included patients with poor glycaemic control (HbA1c ≥9%).ResultsWe included 112 eyes of 112 patients. The mean duration of diabetes mellitus (DM) was 11.37 years. In statistical analysis, CMT (mean 188.80 ± 27.64 μm) positively correlated with mean HbA1c level (7.95 ± 1.29%) (r = 0.238, p < .05). There was a significant difference in CMT values among the three groups of HbA1c (F (2,109) = 19.39, p < .001). Post hoc analysis showed statistical significance between HbA1c≤7% and HbA1c ≥9% group and HbA1c 7%–9% and ≥9% group. However, statistical significance was not found among HbA1c ≤7% group and HbA1c 7%–9% group. Multiple regression analyses showed a significant correlation between CMT and HbA1c after adjusting for age and duration of diabetes.ConclusionSerum HbA1c level has a significant correlation with CMT in diabetic patients.
Rational Design of LDH/Zn2SnO4 Heterostructures for Efficient Mineralization of Toluene Through Boosted Interfacial Charge Separation
Authors: Lei Ben , Cui Wen , Chen Peng , Chen Ruimin , Sun Yanjuan , Kim Ki‐Hyun , Dong Fan 
Published: October 2021

It is crucial to efficiently separate and transport photo‐induced charge carriers for the effective implementation of photocatalysis toward environmental remediation. A rational design strategy is proposed to validate such proposition through the construction of an interfacial structure in the form of LDH/Zn2SnO4 heterostructures in this research. The interfacial charge transfer on LDH/Zn2SnO4 is greatly promoted via the unique charge transfer pathway, as characterized by transient photocurrent responses, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum, and photoluminescence analysis. As such, it contributes to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of reactants for the mineralization of toluene. According to the in situ DRIFTS spectra analysis, the accumulation of benzoic acid takes place possibly through the partial oxidation of the methyl group on toluene at the interface of the LDH/Zn2SnO4 heterostructure. This process can greatly promote the photocatalytic oxidation of toluene with the enhanced ring‐opening efficiency. The LDH/Zn2SnO4 is thus demonstrated as superior photocatalyst against toluene (removal efficiency of 89.5%; mineralization of 83.1%; and quantum efficiency of 4.55 × 10−6 molecules/photon). As such, the performance of this composite far exceeds that of their individual components (e.g., P25, pure Mg‐Al LDH, or Zn2SnO4). This study is expected to offer a new path to the interfacial charge transfer mechanism based on the design of highly efficient photocatalysts for air purification.
Aeolian sand transport thresholds in excavated foredune notches
Authors: Nguyen Duc , Hilton Michael , Wakes Sarah 
Published: October 2021

AbstractExcavation of ‘notches’ in foredunes aims to facilitate sand transport through the foredune zone to enhance biodiversity and increase foredune resilience. Recent research has examined notch morphodynamics, however, the underlying aeolian processes in relation to sand transport have not been examined. This study determines: (i) the critical incident wind conditions resulting in sand transport inside the notch; and (ii) the pattern of wind flow and sand deposition/erosion inside the notch.Secondary winds are recorded using 12 ultrasonic anemometers deployed at cross‐notch stations and compared with incident winds measured on a mast 6.5 m above foredune crest. Instantaneous sand transport is recorded using 12 laser particle counters located on four masts across the notch. Sand deposition is measured using erosion pins and digital surface models derived from remotely piloted aerial system. Field data are used to validate Computational Fluid Dynamic wind flow simulations to provide three‐dimensional wind direction and speed contours in the notch. The study area is St Kilda Beach, Dunedin, New Zealand.Sand transport occurs inside the notch when incident wind speed and approach angle are 15 ms−1, 17 ms−1 and 23 ms−1 and 40°, 48° and 55°, respectively, to the notch orientation. When the incident wind speed and direction is 15 ms−1 and 40°, respectively, wind speed inside the notch at the western side (upwind) (6.2 ms−1) is lower than at the eastern side (8 ms−1), resulting in deposition on the western side and erosion on the eastern side. The near‐surface wind directions are at an angle (14°) to notch orientation toward the northwest and result in deposition on the western side of the depositional lobe downwind of the notch. These results assist dune managers to determine the appropriate notch angle to the prevailing wind direction, to maximise sand transport through the notch in a wide range of conditions.
Experimental insights into the effect of event sequencing and sediment input texture on step‐pool channel evolution
Authors: Wang Jiamei , Hassan Marwan A. , Saletti Matteo , Chen Xingyu , Fu Xudong , Zhou Hongwei , Yang Xingguo 
Published: October 2021

AbstractWe conducted flume experiments in a step‐pool channel with different sediment supply regimes to explore how the sequencing and the grain‐size of sediment pulses affect channel evolution. Our results show that the sequencing of events is not a primary control as the trends in flow characteristics, bedload transport, sediment storage, step evolution, and step frequency were similar in feed phases with different sequencing of sediment pulses. Channel adjustment and step stability in a short timescale (i.e., in a 4‐h run) were mostly controlled by the magnitude and frequency of sediment pulses. A coarser sediment feed mixture led to a coarser bed surface which increased both sediment storage in the channel and step stability. Our experiments show that channel evolution in a step‐pool channel is primarily controlled by the magnitude and frequency of sediment pulses and the grain size of sediment supply rather than the event sequencing of sediment pulses.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG as dietary supplement improved survival from lipopolysaccharides‐induced sepsis in mice
Authors: Tsui Ko‐Chung , Yen Ting‐Lin , Huang Chi‐Jung , Hong Kun‐Jing 
Published: October 2021

AbstractSepsis is a state of host immune response triggered by virus or bacterial infection, in which the extent of regional and systemic inflammation and companion counter‐inflammatory reactions determines disease outcomes. Probiotics are known for the immunomodulatory effect on allergic disorders, but it is not clear whether the beneficiary effect extends to sepsis and increases survival. In this mouse model, we injected intraperitoneally lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to induce sepsis, and investigated whether the pretreatment of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) contributed to host survival and examined the alteration of the gut microbiota and blood cytokines/chemokines profile before sepsis induction. Four‐week‐old male BALB/c mice were divided into two groups: one group were fed daily with LGG as a dietary supplement for fourteen days, whereas the other group with sterile water. Before sepsis induction, some mice from each group were killed to collect stool in the intestine and blood for microbial metagenomic and cytokine/chemokine analyses, respectively, and the rest were monitored afterward for mortality. The relative abundance of several families in the gut microbiota after LGG treatment was altered as well as the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes. In addition, several pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as G‐CSF, IL7, IL15, and MCP1 were lower in the LGG group than in the control group. The survival rate following LPS‐induced sepsis improved with LGG treatment. Our results indicated that dietary supplement of probiotic LGG improved survival from LPS‐induced sepsis, most likely through pre‐septic changes in the gut microbial constituents by LGG with reciprocal alteration of host immune system to a less reactive state to incoming pathogens.
Comparison of myeloid neoplasms with nonclassic 3q26.2/MECOM versus classic inv(3)/t(3;3) rearrangements reveals diverse clinicopathologic features, genetic profiles, and molecular mechanisms of MECOM activation
Authors: Gao Juehua , Gurbuxani Sandeep , Zak Taylor , Kocherginsky Masha , Ji Peng , Wehbe Firas , Chen Qing , Chen Yi‐Hua , Lu Xinyan , Jennings Lawrence , Frankfurt Olga , Altman Jessica , Sukhanova Madina 
Published: October 2021

AbstractMECOM rearrangements are recurrent in myeloid neoplasms and associated with poor prognosis. However, only inv(3)(q21q26.2) and t(3;3)(q21;q26.2), the classic MECOM rearrangements resulting in RPN1‐MECOM rearrangement with Mecom overexpression and GATA2 haploinsufficiency, define the distinct subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and serve as presumptive evidence for myelodysplastic syndrome based on the current World Health Organization classification. Myeloid neoplasms with nonclassic 3q26.2/MECOM rearrangements have been found to be clinically aggressive, but comparative analysis of clinicopathologic and genomic features is limited. We retrospectively studied cohorts of myeloid neoplasms with classic and nonclassic MECOM rearrangements. Cases with classic rearrangements consisted predominantly of AML, often with inv(3) or t(3;3) as the sole chromosome abnormality, whereas the group of nonclassic rearrangements included a variety of myeloid neoplasms, often with complex karyotype without TP53 mutations and similarly dismal overall survival. Immunohistochemistry revealed Mecom protein overexpression in both groups, but overexpression in cases with nonclassic rearrangements was mediated through a mechanism other than GATA2 distal enhancer involvement typical for classic rearrangement. Our results demonstrated that myeloid neoplasms with nonclassic 3q26.2/MECOM rearrangements encompass a diverse group of diseases with poor clinical outcome, overexpression of Mecom protein as a result of the nonclassic mechanism of MECOM activation.
Violence and newborn health: Estimates for Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez Laura 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThis paper examines the relationship between maternal exposure to violence during pregnancy and newborn birthweight. The identification strategy exploits variation in the timing of exposure and in the geographic location of expectant mothers across Colombian municipalities. Exposure to violence in early pregnancy had a large negative impact on birthweight, primarily for boys, and the effect was mitigated by their mothers' education. Girls' birthweight was affected mainly by shocks in later stages of gestation. Furthermore, their mothers were more likely to engage in potentially harmful behaviors during the pregnancy. This evidence exposes the importance of parental responses in shaping the effect of exposure to violence on newborn health.
Systematic review of productivity loss among healthcare workers due to Covid‐19
Authors: Yaghoubi Maryam , Salimi Mohammad , Meskarpour‐Amiri Mohammad 
Published: October 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo assess existing evidence on the effects of COVID‐19 on healthcare workers (HCWs) using the health‐related productivity loss approach.MethodsA systematic search of online databases including PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, Web of Science, and EMBASE was conducted up to 25 August 2020. Following two screening stages, studies related to the effects of COVID‐19 on healthcare workers were included in the study.Results82 studies were included in the analysis. The COVID‐19 related death rate among HCWs ranged from 0.00‐0.7%, while the positive test incidence varied between 0.00 and 24.4%. 39 evidences assessed psychological disorders. A wide range of psychological disorders observed among HCWs: 5.2 to 71.2% in anxiety, 1.00 to 88.3% in stress, 8.27 to 61.67% in insomnia, and 4.5 to 50.4% in depression.ConclusionsThe early evidence suggests that healthcare workers are one of the most vulnerable groups when it comes to positive COVID‐19 infection, mortality, and mental illness.
Electrical Properties of LaS‐TaS2 Misfit Layered Compound Nanotubes
Authors: Stolovas Dalit , Popovitz‐Biro Ronit , Sinha Sudarson S. , Bitton Ora , Shahar Dan , Tenne Reshef , Joselevich Ernesto 
Published: October 2021

AbstractSeveral nanotubular structures from chalcogenide‐based misfit layer compounds (MLC) were reported in recent years. MLCs consist of a stacking of two alternating and dissimilar (2D) atomic layers, e. g. one with rocksalt structure (MX) and the other‐ TX2 – with hexagonal layer structure. The layers are held together by weak van der Waals forces, i. e. they can be exfoliated with scotch‐tape. Furthermore, in analogy to intercalation compounds, partial charge transfer between the layers with dissimilar work function results also in polar forces between the MX and TX2 layers. The mismatch between the alternating (asymmetric) layers and the seaming of the dangling bonds at the edges drives them to form tubular (and also scroll‐like) structures. New structural characterization whereby the nanotubes were bisected into lamella via focused ion beam and examined by TEM, are reported.
Indirect impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic on pregnancy and childbirth outcomes: A nine‐month long experience from a university center in Lombardy
Authors: Ornaghi Sara , Fumagalli Simona , Guinea Montalvo Chiara K. , Beretta Greta , Invernizzi Francesca , Nespoli Antonella , Vergani Patrizia 
Published: October 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the impact on perinatal health of changes in social policies and obstetric care implemented to curb SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission. However, robust data on the topic are lacking since most of the studies has examined only the first few months of the outbreak.MethodsA retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on uninfected and asymptomatically infected women giving birth between March and November 2020 and in the same time frame of 2019 at our tertiary care center in Lombardy, northern Italy. Perinatal outcomes were compared according to the year (2019 versus 2020) and to the trimester (March–May, June–August, September–November) of childbirth, corresponding to the three phases of the pandemic (first wave, deceleration, second wave) and covering a 9‐month period.ResultsWe identified increased rates of gestational diabetes mellitus, spontaneous preterm birth, and neuraxial analgesia in 2020 versus 2019, with different temporal distributions: gestational diabetes mellitus and spontaneous preterm birth were more prevalent during the deceleration and the second wave phase, whereas epidural analgesia was more prevalent during the first wave.ConclusionBy assessing a prolonged time frame of the pandemic, we show that pandemic‐related control measures, as applied in Lombardy, impacted relevant perinatal outcomes of women giving birth at our center.
Nitrogen mineralization from organic fertilizers and composts: Literature survey and model fitting
Authors: Geisseler Daniel , Smith Richard , Cahn Mike , Muramoto Joji 
Published: October 2021

AbstractOrganic fertilizers and composts are valuable sources of nutrients. However, their nutrient availability is often not known and can be variable. The objective of the present study was to collect net nitrogen (N) turnover data from peer‐reviewed articles and fit a model that simulates gross N mineralization and gross N immobilization to determine pool sizes and their rate constants of different common organic amendments. A total of 113 datasets were included in the study. The model predicted that 61 and 72.5% of total N in feather meal and guano, respectively, would be in the mineral form after 100 d under optimal conditions. Nitrogen availability from poultry manure and poultry manure compost was lower. On average, 16–17% of total N was present as mineral N in the materials, whereas at the end of the 100‐d simulation, 39.6 and 32.7% of total N from an average poultry manure and its compost, respectively, were in the mineral form. Yard waste compost and vermicompost are stable materials, with <10% of the total N in an average material being in the mineral form at the end of the 100‐d simulation. Model simulations revealed that changes in the assumed temperature sensitivity of N mineralization have a strong effect on N availability of readily available organic amendments during the first weeks after incorporation. The model performed well for guano and feather meal but was unsatisfactory for the other amendment groups. Model performance may have been hampered by different incubation protocols used in the studies included and variability in amendment properties not considered by the model. The results of this study allow estimating the release of N from a variety of organic fertilizers and composts and can be a valuable tool to improve N management of organic amendments in crop production.