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Background: This study explores the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for estimating wheat biomass, focusing on the impact of phenotyping and analytical protocols in the context of late-stage variety selection programs. It emphasizes the importance of variable selection, model specificity, and sampling location within the experimental plot in predicting biomass, aiming to refine UAV-based estimation techniques for enhanced selection accuracy and throughput in variety testing programs. Results: The research uncovered that integrating geometric and spectral traits led to an increase in prediction accuracy, whilst a recursive feature elimination (RFE) based variable selection workflowled to slight reductions in accuracy with the benefit of increased interpretability. Models, tailored to specific experiments were more accurate than those modelling all experiments together, while models trained for broad-growth stages did not significantly increase accuracy. The comparison between a permanent and a precise region of interest (ROI) within the plot showed negligible differences in biomass prediction accuracy, indicating the robustness of the approach across different sampling locations within the plot. Significant differences in the within-season repeatability (w2) of biomass predictions across different experiments highlighted the need for further investigation into the optimal timing of measurement for prediction. Conclusions: The study highlights the promising potential of UAV technology in biomass prediction for wheat at a small plot scale. It suggests that the accuracy of biomass predictions can be significantly improved through optimizing analytical and modelling protocols (i.e., variable selection, algorithm selection, stage-specific model development). Future work should focus on exploring the applicability of these findings under a wider variety of conditions and from a more diverse set of genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study explores the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for estimating wheat biomass, focusing on the impact of phenotyping and analytical protocols in the context of late-stage variety selection programs. It emphasizes the importance of variable selection, model specificity, and sampling location within the experimental plot in predicting biomass, aiming to refine UAV-based estimation techniques for enhanced selection accuracy and throughput in variety testing programs. Results The research uncovered that integrating geometric and spectral traits led to an increase in prediction accuracy, whilst a recursive feature elimination (RFE) based variable selection workflowled to slight reductions in accuracy with the benefit of increased interpretability. Models, tailored to specific experiments were more accurate than those modelling all experiments together, while models trained for broad-growth stages did not significantly increase accuracy. The comparison between a permanent and a precise region of interest (ROI) within the plot showed negligible differences in biomass prediction accuracy, indicating the robustness of the approach across different sampling locations within the plot. Significant differences in the within-season repeatability (w2) of biomass predictions across different experiments highlighted the need for further investigation into the optimal timing of measurement for prediction. Conclusions The study highlights the promising potential of UAV technology in biomass prediction for wheat at a small plot scale. It suggests that the accuracy of biomass predictions can be significantly improved through optimizing analytical and modelling protocols (i.e., variable selection, algorithm selection, stage-specific model development). Future work should focus on exploring the applicability of these findings under a wider variety of conditions and from a more diverse set of genotypes.

Abstract Background Different mosquito control strategies have been implemented to mitigate or prevent mosquito-related public health situations. Modern mosquito control largely relies on multiple approaches, including targeted, specific treatments. Given this, it is becoming increasingly important to supplement these activities with rapid and mobile diagnostic capacities for mosquito-borne diseases. We aimed to create and test the applicability of a rapid diagnostic system for West Nile virus that can be used under field conditions. Methods In this pilot study, various types of adult mosquito traps were applied within the regular mosquito monitoring activity framework for mosquito control. Then, the captured specimens were used for the detection of West Nile virus RNA under field conditions with a portable qRT-PCR approach within 3–4 h. Then, positive samples were subjected to confirmatory RT-PCR or NGS sequencing in the laboratory to obtain genome information of the virus. We implemented phylogenetic analysis to characterize circulating strains. Results A total of 356 mosquito individuals representing 7 species were processed in 54 pools, each containing up to 20 individuals. These pools were tested for the presence of West Nile virus, and two pools tested positive, containing specimens from the Culex pipiens and Anopheles atroparvus mosquito species. As a result of subsequent sequencing, we present the complete genome of West Nile virus and Bagaza virus. Conclusions The rapid identification of infected mosquitoes is the most important component of quick response adulticide or larvicide treatments to prevent human cases. The conceptual framework of real-time surveillance can be optimized for other pathogens and situations not only in relation to West Nile virus. We present an early warning system for mosquito-borne diseases and demonstrate its application to aid rapid-response mosquito control actions. Graphical Abstract

Background Diferent mosquito control strategies have been implemented to mitigate or prevent mosquito-related public health situations. Modern mosquito control largely relies on multiple approaches, including targeted, specifc treatments. Given this, it is becoming increasingly important to supplement these activities with rapid and mobile diagnostic capacities for mosquito-borne diseases. We aimed to create and test the applicability of a rapid diagnostic system for West Nile virus that can be used under feld conditions. Methods In this pilot study, various types of adult mosquito traps were applied within the regular mosquito moni‑ toring activity framework for mosquito control. Then, the captured specimens were used for the detection of West Nile virus RNA under feld conditions with a portable qRT-PCR approach within 3–4 h. Then, positive samples were subjected to confrmatory RT-PCR or NGS sequencing in the laboratory to obtain genome information of the virus. We implemented phylogenetic analysis to characterize circulating strains. Results A total of 356 mosquito individuals representing 7 species were processed in 54 pools, each containing up to 20 individuals. These pools were tested for the presence of West Nile virus, and two pools tested positive, containing specimens from the Culex pipiens and Anopheles atroparvus mosquito species. As a result of subsequent sequencing, we present the complete genome of West Nile virus and Bagaza virus. Conclusions The rapid identifcation of infected mosquitoes is the most important component of quick response adulticide or larvicide treatments to prevent human cases. The conceptual framework of real-time surveillance can be optimized for other pathogens and situations not only in relation to West Nile virus. We present an early warning system for mosquito-borne diseases and demonstrate its application to aid rapid-response mosquito control actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The field of ecology has undergone a molecular revolution, with researchers increasingly relying on DNA‐based methods for organism detection. Unfortunately, these techniques often require expensive equipment, dedicated laboratory spaces and specialized training in molecular and computational techniques; limitations that may exclude field researchers, underfunded programmes and citizen scientists from contributing to cutting‐edge science. It is for these reasons that we have designed a simplified, inexpensive method for field‐based molecular organism detection—FINDeM (Field‐deployable Isothermal Nucleotide‐based Detection Method). In this approach, DNA is extracted using chemical cell lysis and a cellulose filter disc, followed by two body‐heat inducible reactions—recombinase polymerase amplification and a CRISPR‐Cas12a fluorescent reporter assay—to amplify and detect target DNA, respectively. Here, we introduce and validate FINDeM in detecting Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, the causative agent of amphibian chytridiomycosis, and show that this approach can identify single‐digit DNA copies from epidermal swabs in under 1 h using low‐cost supplies and field‐friendly equipment. This research signifies a breakthrough in ecology, as we demonstrate a field‐deployable platform that requires only basic supplies (i.e. micropipettes, plastic consumables and a UV flashlight), inexpensive reagents (~$1.29 USD/sample) and emanated body heat for highly sensitive, DNA‐based organism detection. By presenting FINDeM in an ecological system with pressing, global biodiversity implications, we aim to not only highlight how CRISPR‐based applications promise to revolutionize organism detection but also how the continued development of such techniques will allow for additional, more diversely trained researchers to answer the most pressing questions in ecology.

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The timely administration of antivenom is the most effective method currently available to reduce the burden of snakebite envenoming (SBE), a neglected tropical disease that most often affects rural agricultural global populations. There is increasing interest in the development of adjunctive small molecule and biologic therapeutics that target the most problematic venom components to bridge the time-gap between initial SBE and the administration antivenom. Unique combinations of these therapeutics could provide relief from the toxic effects of regional groupings of medically relevant snake species. The application a PRISMA/PICO literature search methodology demonstrated an increasing interest in the rapid administration of therapies to improve patient symptoms and outcomes after SBE. Advice from expert interviews and considerations regarding the potential routes of therapy administration, anatomical bite location, and species-specific venom delivery have provided a framework to identify ideal metrics and potential hurdles for the development of a field-based medical device that could be used immediately after SBE to deliver adjunctive therapies. The use of subcutaneous (SC) or intramuscular (IM) injection were identified as potential routes of administration of both small molecule and biologic therapies. The development of a field-based medical device for the delivery of adjunctive SBE therapies presents unique challenges that will require a collaborative and transdisciplinary approach to be successful.

Soccer is a fast-growing area of research, demonstrated by a 10-fold increase in the number of PubMed articles derived from the search term 'soccer' between 2001 and 2021. The scope of contemporary soccer-related articles ranges from match-play observations to laboratory evaluations of performance. The activity profile of soccer match-play is variable and techniques to collect data within matches are limited. Soccer-specific simulations have been developed to simulate the evolving demands of match-play. The evolutionary designs of novel simulations provide a reproducible exercise stimulus for varying researcher and practitioner objectives. The applied researcher can utilise simulations to investigate the efficacy of nutritional interventions and environmental stress on performance, while assessing the physiological and biomechanical responses to representations of match-play. Practitioners can adopt simulations for rehabilitation to progressively facilitate return-to-play processes, while implementing extra top-up conditioning sessions for unused and partial-match players. However, there are complexities involved with the selection of varying simulations which are dependent on the research question or practical application. There also remains a paucity of published information to support researchers and practitioners in selecting from differing simulation models. To assist with researcher and practitioner interpretations, we present a commentary of the current simulations to inform decision-making processes for research and training purposes and enhance the application of future research. An objective scoring system was adopted for rating the research and practical applications of each simulation design. Overall scores of 22, 16 and 18 out of 36 were revealed for free-running (n = 7), non-motorised- (n = 4) and motorised-treadmill-based simulations (n = 4), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims in the present study were to assess reliability for two unilateral and two bilateral field-based hamstring assessments and compare magnitude, direction and agreement of inter-limb asymmetry between tests and sessions. Twenty-nine female soccer players (age: 21.1 ± 4.5 years; height: 169.7 ± 5.8 cm; body mass: 66.2 ± 6.4 kg) performed three repetitions per leg of unilateral isometric 30° and 90° knee flexion (KF) tasks, and three repetitions total for a bilateral 90° isometric KF and Nordic hamstring exercise. Absolute reliability of most methods were acceptable (<10%). Relative reliability within-session was fair to excellent (ICC≥0.784; lower bound 95%CI ≥0.623). Greater variability in between-session relative reliability was observed during the unilateral tests, demonstrating poor to good (ICC = 0.698–0.798; lower bound 95%CI = 0.274–0.638). Bilateral assessments demonstrated similar ranges of poor to excellent (ICC = 0.679–0.963; lower bound 95%CI = 0.231–0.790). Agreement between-session for inter-limb asymmetry identification was slight and fair in the unilateral tests, with moderate to substantial agreement demonstrated in the bilateral. Being the most reliable within- and between-sessions, demonstrating substantial agreement in asymmetry between-sessions, the NHE would be most appropriate to identify inter-limb asymmetry and assess chronic changes in hamstring strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The FCE (field-based chemistry experiment) model was developed to cultivate pre-service science teachers' ability to teach chemistry experiments in secondary classrooms. We describe the process of developing the FCE model and student activities via feedback from experts and analysis of the implemented program. This study evaluated the effectiveness of implementing the FCE model with 58 pre-service science teachers to examine how this model impacts on the role of the instructor and students. Implementation impact was examined by analyzing qualitative data from surveys and observations of student activities. The FCE model minimized the role of the instructor by using flipped learning and cooperative learning, which enabled learners to construct class contents by themselves with topics aligned to the secondary science curriculum. Findings suggest the FCE model supports pre-service science teachers to acquire both knowledge and practical skills related to conducting and teaching experiments. Implications for pre-service science teacher preparation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to translate laboratory-based research on beverage-based supplements to a naturalistic, field setting in adolescent athletes. To this end, we tested the effects of two commercially-available drinks on strength in a field-based setting with both male and female high school athletes completing a summer training program. Methods: One hundred and three high school athletes completed the study (M age = 15.3, SD = 1.2; 70.9% male; 37.9% Afr. Amer.). Measures included a composite strength score (bench press + squat). Participants completed 1 week of pre- and post-testing, and 4 days per week of strength and conditioning training for 5 weeks. Participants were randomly-assigned to receive either CM or CHO immediately post-exercise. Results: A 2 (group) × 2 (time) repeated measures ANOVA showed there was a significant main effect on time for increase in the composite strength score (p =.002, ŋp2 =.18). There was a significant interaction of composite strength score between groups, (p =.04, ŋp2 =.08). The CM group (12.3% increase) had significantly greater improvements in composite strength from pre- to post-test than CHO (2.7% increase). There were no differences in these results based on demographic variables. Conclusion: This is the first study comparing the impact of CM and CHO on athletic outcomes in an adolescent population in a field-based environment. CM had a more positive effect on strength development and should be considered an appropriate post-exercise recovery supplement for adolescents. Future research will benefit from longer study durations with larger numbers of participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) is an important regulator enzyme in the mammalian NAD+ synthesis pathway that catalyzes the condensation of nicotinamide (NAM) with 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP) to produce nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). Considering NAD+ is involved in many cellular processes like cytokine production, metabolism, and aging, resulting in NAMPT has been regarded as a therapeutically important target for various diseases, particularly cancer. Hence, numerous NAMPT inhibitors have been reported to date. However, the side effect profile of these inhibitors have sparked interest in discovering new molecules. Herein, statistically validated field-based 3D-QSAR models were constructed using chemically diverse amide- and urea-containing NAMPT inhibitors. The contour maps resulting from the best model (R2 = 0.8412, Q2 = 0.8464, Pearson-r = 0.9270) were exploited to get insight into structural properties related to NAMPT inhibition and the outcomes of field-based 3D-QSAR analysis appear that the steric interactions contributed to the activity more than electrostatic, hydrophobic, hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA), hydrogen bond donor (HBD), and aromatic ring fields. • Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) is an important controller of intracellular NAD+ concentrations as it is the bottleneck enzyme of the NAD+ salvage pathway in mammals. • The statistically validated field-based 3D-QSAR models were constructed using chemically diverse amide- and urea-containing NAMPT inhibitors. • The contour maps resulting from the best model (R2 = 0.8412, Q2 = 0.8464, Pearson-r = 0.9270) were exploited to get insight into structural properties related to NAMPT inhibition and the outcomes of field-based 3D-QSAR analysis appear that the steric interactions contributed to the activity more than electrostatic, hydrophobic, HBA, HBD, and aromatic ring fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate agricultural land use (LU) map is essential for many agro-environmental applications. With advances in technology, object-based image classification and non-parametric machine learning algorithms evolved. Still, no particular method has universal applicability. This paper compares robust non-parametric machine learning algorithms, random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM), and a common parametric algorithm maximum likelihood (MLC) based on multiple Landsat 8 images. We have also assessed the classifier performance relative to the choice either pixel-based (PB) or field-based (FB) approach. The study area, a semi-desert irrigated region, lies in Khorezm province and Republic of Karakalpakstan in Uzbekistan. Accuracy assessment showed higher overall accuracy (OA) and kappa index (KI) of the nonparametric machine learning FB-RF and FB-SVM algorithms over the PB-RF, PB-SVM and PB-MLC algorithms. The lowest OA and KI occurred with the parametric FB-MLC. Based on the results, the FB machine learning non-parametric algorithms are recommended for mapping irrigated croplands.

With the rapid rising of global population, the demand for improving breeding techniques to greatly increase the worldwide crop production has become more and more urgent. Most researchers believe that the key to new breeding techniques lies in genetic improvement of crops, which leads to a large quantity of phenotyping spots. Unfortunately, current phenotyping solutions are not powerful enough to handle so many spots with satisfying speed and accuracy. As a result, high-throughput phenotyping is drawing more and more attention. In this paper, we propose a new field-based sensing solution to high-throughput phenotyping. We mount a LiDAR (Velodyne HDL64-S3) on a mobile robot, making the robot a “phenomobile.” We develop software for data collection and analysis under Robotic Operating System using open source components and algorithm libraries. Different from conducting phenotyping observations with an in-row and one-by-one manner, our new solution allows the robot to move around the parcel to collect data. Thus, the 3D and 360° view laser scanner can collect phenotyping data for a large plant group at the same time, instead of one by one. Furthermore, no touching interference from the robot would be imposed onto the crops. We conduct experiments for maize plant on two parcels. We implement point cloud merging with landmarks and Iterative Closest Points to cut down the time consumption. We then recognize and compute the morphological phenotyping parameters (row spacing and plant height) of maize plant using depth-band histograms and horizontal point density. We analyze the cloud registration and merging performances, the row spacing detection accuracy, and the single plant height computation accuracy. Experimental results verify the feasibility of the proposed solution.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to translate laboratory-based research on beverage-based supplements to a naturalistic, field setting in adolescent athletes. To this end, we tested the effects of two commercially-available drinks on strength in a field-based setting with both male and female high school athletes completing a summer training program. Methods One hundred and three high school athletes completed the study (M age = 15.3, SD = 1.2; 70.9% male; 37.9% Afr. Amer.). Measures included a composite strength score (bench press + squat). Participants completed 1 week of pre- and post-testing, and 4 days per week of strength and conditioning training for 5 weeks. Participants were randomly-assigned to receive either CM or CHO immediately post-exercise. Results A 2 (group) × 2 (time) repeated measures ANOVA showed there was a significant main effect on time for increase in the composite strength score (p = .002, ŋp2 = .18). There was a significant interaction of composite strength score between groups, (p = .04, ŋp2 = .08). The CM group (12.3% increase) had significantly greater improvements in composite strength from pre- to post-test than CHO (2.7% increase). There were no differences in these results based on demographic variables. Conclusion This is the first study comparing the impact of CM and CHO on athletic outcomes in an adolescent population in a field-based environment. CM had a more positive effect on strength development and should be considered an appropriate post-exercise recovery supplement for adolescents. Future research will benefit from longer study durations with larger numbers of participants.

With the rapid rising of global population, the demand for improving breeding techniques to greatly increase the worldwide crop production has become more and more urgent. Most researchers believe that the key to new breeding techniques lies in genetic improvement of crops, which leads to a large quantity of phenotyping spots. Unfortunately, current phenotyping solutions are not powerful enough to handle so many spots with satisfying speed and accuracy. As a result, high-throughput phenotyping is drawing more and more attention. In this paper, we propose a new field-based sensing solution to high-throughput phenotyping. We mount a LiDAR (Velodyne HDL64-S3) on a mobile robot, making the robot a "phenomobile." We develop software for data collection and analysis under Robotic Operating System using open source components and algorithm libraries. Different from conducting phenotyping observations with an in-row and one-by-one manner, our new solution allows the robot to move around the parcel to collect data. Thus, the 3D and 360° view laser scanner can collect phenotyping data for a large plant group at the same time, instead of one by one. Furthermore, no touching interference from the robot would be imposed onto the crops. We conduct experiments for maize plant on two parcels. We implement point cloud merging with landmarks and Iterative Closest Points to cut down the time consumption. We then recognize and compute the morphological phenotyping parameters (row spacing and plant height) of maize plant using depth-band histograms and horizontal point density. We analyze the cloud registration and merging performances, the row spacing detection accuracy, and the single plant height computation accuracy. Experimental results verify the feasibility of the proposed solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents research findings in relation to the multiple identities of students undertaking early childhood field-based initial teacher education (FBITE). The research draws on the understanding that social actors hold multiple identities based on membership across a myriad of social groups, or communities. Data was gathered using qualitative surveys from first year and final year students from across four early childhood field-based initial teacher education programmes within Aotearoa New Zealand. Additional data was also gathered using focus groups with teacher educators on these programmes. Analysis of the data shows that the academic identity of students is influenced by multiple identities relating to the interrelationship between membership of academic, professional and personal communities in relation to social, role and personal identities. The research findings provide an account of the academic identities of students in field-based study and aspects of consideration for ongoing programme design and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The timely administration of antivenom is the most effective method currently available to reduce the burden of snakebite envenoming (SBE), a neglected tropical disease that most often affects rural agricultural global populations. There is increasing interest in the development of adjunctive small molecule and biologic therapeutics that target the most problematic venom components to bridge the time-gap between initial SBE and the administration antivenom. Unique combinations of these therapeutics could provide relief from the toxic effects of regional groupings of medically relevant snake species. The application a PRISMA/PICO literature search methodology demonstrated an increasing interest in the rapid administration of therapies to improve patient symptoms and outcomes after SBE. Advice from expert interviews and considerations regarding the potential routes of therapy administration, anatomical bite location, and species-specific venom delivery have provided a framework to identify ideal metrics and potential hurdles for the development of a field-based medical device that could be used immediately after SBE to deliver adjunctive therapies. The use of subcutaneous (SC) or intramuscular (IM) injection were identified as potential routes of administration of both small molecule and biologic therapies . The development of a field-based medical device for the delivery of adjunctive SBE therapies presents unique challenges that will require a collaborative and transdisciplinary approach to be successful., Competing Interests: The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests:R. Marshall Werner reports financial support and equipment, drugs, or supplies were provided by 10.13039/100004948Michigan Economic Development Corporation. RMW is associated with intellectual property (patent-pending) related to the commercial development of a medical device for the field-based administration of adjunctive snakebite envenoming therapies., (© 2023 The Authors.)

A middle school program at a midsize Mid-Atlantic university has been teaching the first of two required reading courses in the middle school classroom. This field-based course is innovative, in that it was created by a literacy professor and a reading teacher to involve pre-service teachers and middle school students in the middle school reading classroom. It requires pre-service teachers to actively take part in the classroom, supporting, teaching, and applying theory, literacy strategies, and content knowledge two semesters before their full-time student teaching begins. This approach, not often seen in Professional Development Schools (PDS), purposefully allows preservice teachers to gain critical experience by teaching lessons created by themselves and the reading teacher, and by working one-on-one with middle school students earlier than their educational curriculum requires. The reading classroom is often shunned by many middle school students, as it denotes being behind in school and not being able to be in a specials (e.g., Spanish, music, art) classroom. But with the help and support of pre-service middle school teachers, it has become a, lab-like environment where one-on-one instruction and new literacy strategies are taught and supported. This early classroom PDS experience is not based on tutoring. Instead, it is rooted in the practical application of literacy theory and strategies that pre-service middle school teachers learn in and outside of the classroom and have the opportunity to adapt to real-world middle school content area classrooms. By starting their teaching earlier, in this particular environment, these students are better equipped to support their future middle school students. This model adds to the conversation of what it means to be mutually beneficial in a PDS, expanding the concept, and providing a new model for other programs to consider implementing in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field based forensic tests commonly provide information on the presence and identity of biological stains and can also support the identification of species. Such information can support downstream processing of forensic samples and generate rapid intelligence. These approaches have traditionally used chemical and immunological techniques to elicit the result but some are known to suffer from a lack of specificity and sensitivity. The last 10 years has seen the development of field-based genetic profiling systems, with specific focus on moving the mainstay of forensic genetic analysis, namely STR profiling, out of the laboratory and into the hands of the non-laboratory user. In doing so it is now possible for enforcement officers to generate a crime scene DNA profile which can then be matched to a reference or database profile. The introduction of these novel genetic platforms also allows for further development of new molecular assays aimed at answering the more traditional questions relating to body fluid identity and species detection. The current drive for field-based molecular tools is in response to the needs of the criminal justice system and enforcement agencies, and promises a step-change in how forensic evidence is processed. However, the adoption of such systems by the law enforcement community does not represent a new strategy in the way forensic science has integrated previous novel approaches. Nor do they automatically represent a threat to the quality control and assurance practices that are central to the field. This review examines the historical need and subsequent research and developmental breakthroughs in field-based forensic analysis over the past two decades with particular focus on genetic methods Emerging technologies from a range of scientific fields that have potential applications in forensic analysis at the crime scene are identified and associated issues that arise from the shift from laboratory into operational field use are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advancements in portable scientific instruments provide promising avenues to expedite field work in order to understand the diverse array of organisms that inhabit our planet. Here, we tested the feasibility for in situ molecular analyses of endemic fauna using a portable laboratory fitting within a single backpack in one of the world's most imperiled biodiversity hotspots, the Ecuadorian Choc'o rainforest. We used portable equipment, including the MinION nanopore sequencer (Oxford Nanopore Technologies) and the miniPCR (miniPCR), to perform DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction amplification, and real-time DNA barcoding of reptile specimens in the field. Findings: We demonstrate that nanopore sequencing can be implemented in a remote tropical forest to quickly and accurately identify species using DNA barcoding, as we generated consensus sequences for species resolution with an accuracy of >99% in less than 24 hours after collecting specimens. The flexibility of our mobile laboratory further allowed us to generate sequence information at the Universidad Tecnol 'ogica Indoam' erica in Quito for rare, endangered, and undescribed species. This includes the recently rediscovered Jambato toad, which was thought to be extinct for 28 years. Sequences generated on the MinION required as few as 30 reads to achieve high accuracy relative to Sanger sequencing, and with further multiplexing of samples, nanopore sequencing can become a cost-effective approach for rapid and portable DNA barcoding. Conclusions: Overall, we establish how mobile laboratories and nanopore sequencing can help to accelerate species identification in remote areas to aid in conservation efforts and be applied to research facilities in developing countries. This opens up possibilities for biodiversity studies by promoting local research capacity building, teaching nonspecialists and students about the environment, tackling wildlife crime, and promoting conservation via research-focused ecotourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant breeders and agronomists are increasingly interested in repeated plant height measurements over large experimental fields to study critical aspects of plant physiology, genetics and environmental conditions during plant growth. However, collecting such measurements using commonly used manual field measurements is inefficient. 3D point clouds generated from unmanned aerial systems (UAS) images using Structure from Motion (SfM) techniques offer a new option for efficiently deriving in-field crop height data. This study evaluated UAS/SfM for multitemporal 3D crop modelling and developed and assessed a methodology for estimating plant height data from point clouds generated using SfM. High-resolution images in visible spectrum were collected weekly across 12 dates from April (planting) to July (harvest) 2016 over 288 maize ( Zea mays L.) and 460 sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor L.) plots using a DJI Phantom 3 Professional UAS. The study compared SfM point clouds with terrestrial lidar (TLS) at two dates to evaluate the ability of SfM point clouds to accurately capture ground surfaces and crop canopies, both of which are critical for plant height estimation. Extended plant height comparisons were carried out between SfM plant height (the 90th, 95th, 99th percentiles and maximum height) per plot and field plant height measurements at six dates throughout the growing season to test the repeatability and consistency of SfM estimates. High correlations were observed between SfM and TLS data (R 2 = 0.88–0.97, RMSE = 0.01–0.02 m and R 2 = 0.60–0.77 RMSE = 0.12–0.16 m for the ground surface and canopy comparison, respectively). Extended height comparisons also showed strong correlations (R 2 = 0.42–0.91, RMSE = 0.11–0.19 m for maize and R 2 = 0.61–0.85, RMSE = 0.12–0.24 m for sorghum). In general, the 90th, 95th and 99th percentile height metrics had higher correlations to field measurements than the maximum metric though differences among them were not statistically significant. The accuracy of SfM plant height estimates fluctuated over the growing period, likely impacted by the changing reflectance regime due to plant development. Overall, these results show a potential path to reducing laborious manual height measurement and enhancing plant research programs through UAS and SfM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate agricultural land use (LU) map is essential for many agro-environmental applications. With advances in technology, object-based image classification and non-parametric machine learning algorithms evolved. Still, no particular method has universal applicability. This paper compares robust non-parametric machine learning algorithms, random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM), and a common parametric algorithm maximum likelihood (MLC) based on multiple Landsat 8 images. We have also assessed the classifier performance relative to the choice either pixel-based (PB) or field-based (FB) approach. The study area, a semi-desert irrigated region, lies in Khorezm province and Republic of Karakalpakstan in Uzbekistan. Accuracy assessment showed higher overall accuracy (OA) and kappa index (KI) of the nonparametric machine learning FB-RF and FB-SVM algorithms over the PB-RF, PB-SVM and PB-MLC algorithms. The lowest OA and KI occurred with the parametric FB-MLC. Based on the results, the FB machine learning non-parametric algorithms are recommended for mapping irrigated croplands. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Demand remains for new inhibitors of HIV-1 replication and the inhibition of HIV-1 entry is an extremely attractive therapeutic approach. Using field-based bioisosteric replacements, we have further extended the chemotypes available for development in the HIV-1 entry inhibitor class. Moreover, using field-based disparity analysis of the compounds, 3D structure–activity relationships were derived that will be useful in the further development of these inhibitors towards clinical utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: New diagnostic tools to detect reliably and rapidly asymptomatic and low-density malaria infections are needed as their treatment could interrupt transmission. Isothermal amplification techniques are being explored for field diagnosis of malaria. In this study, a novel molecular tool (loop-mediated isothermal amplification-LAMP) targeting the apicoplast genome of Plasmodium falciparum was evaluated for the detection of asymptomatic malariainfected individuals in a rural setting in The Gambia. Methods: A blood was collected from 341 subjects (median age 9 years, range 1-68 years) screened for malaria. On site, a rapid diagnostic test (RDT, SD Bioline Malaria Antigen P.f ) was performed, thick blood films (TBF) slides for microscopy were prepared and dry blood spots (DBS) were collected on Whatman® 903 Specimen collection paper. The TBF and DBS were transported to the field laboratory where microscopy and LAMP testing were performed. The latter was done on DNA extracted from the DBS using a crude (methanol/heating) extraction method. A laboratorybased PCR amplification was done on all the samples using DNA extracted with the Qiagen kit and its results were taken as reference for all the other tests. Results: Plasmodium falciparum malaria prevalence was 37 % (127/341) as detected by LAMP, 30 % (104/341) by microscopy and 37 % (126/341) by RDT. Compared to the reference PCR method, sensitivity was 92 % for LAMP, 78 % for microscopy, and 76 % for RDT; specificity was 97 % for LAMP, 99 % for microscopy, and 88 % for RDT. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve in comparison with the reference standard was 0.94 for LAMP, 0.88 for microscopy and 0.81 for RDT. Turn-around time for the entire LAMP assay was approximately 3 h and 30 min for an average of 27 ± 9.5 samples collected per day, compared to a minimum of 10 samples an hour per operator by RDT and over 8 h by microscopy. Conclusion: The LAMP assay could produce reliable results the same day of the screening. It could detect a higher proportion of low density malaria infections than the other methods tested and may be used for large campaigns of systematic screening and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Abstract: This study presents an approach for the automatic extraction of dynamic sub-boundaries within existing agricultural fields from remote sensing imagery using perceptual grouping. We define sub-boundaries as boundaries, where a change in crop type takes a place within the fixed geometry of an agricultural field. To perform field-based processing and analysis operations, the field boundary data and satellite imagery are integrated. The edge pixels are detected using the Canny edge detector. The edge pixels are then analyzed to find the connected edge chains and from these chains the line segments are detected using the graph-based vectorization method. The spurious line segments are eliminated through a line simplification process. The perceptual grouping of the line segments is employed for detecting sub-boundaries and constructing sub-fields within the fixed geometry of agricultural fields. Our strategy for perceptual grouping involves the Gestalt laws of proximity, continuation, symmetry and closure. The processing and analysis operations are carried out on field-by-field basis. For each field, the geometries of sub-boundaries are determined through analyzing the line segments that fall within the field and the extracted sub-boundaries are integrated with the fixed geometry of the field. The experimental validation of the approach was carried out on the SPOT4 multispectral (XS) and SPOT5 XS images that cover an agricultural area located in the north-west section of Turkey. The overall matching percentages between the reference data and the automatically extracted sub-boundaries were computed to be 82.6% and 76.2% for the SPOT5 and SPOT4 images respectively. The higher matching percentage of the SPOT5 image is due to the fact that some of the boundaries present in the SPOT5 image were not detected in the coarser resolution SPOT4 image. For the SPOT5 image, of the total 292 fields processed, 177 showed a total agreement between the detected segments and the reference data. For the SPOT4 image, 154 fields showed a total agreement between the detected segments and the reference data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Meandering channels is a vast research field, spanning a broad variety of time and space scales, environmental domains, and conceptual and methodological approaches. This paper serves as an introduction to this special issue of Geomorphology “Meandering Channels”, which addresses the need for sustained scientific dialogue on the dynamics of meandering channels. In an effort to place this issue in the broad context of this rapidly changing and advancing research field, we begin by discussing the motivation behind this issue. Then, we continue by summarizing the main novel research contributions of each paper. Finally, we conclude by proposing five major research directions that directly develop from the ensemble of the scientific contributions to this special issue. These research directions emphasize the critical importance of the coupling of near-bank geomorphic and flow processes; the characterization of co-evolution of meandering rivers and their floodplains; the need to improve linkages between meandering rivers research and river management and restoration; the potential of expanding laboratory-based research; and the integration of holistic and reductionist approaches. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study aims to evaluate the field-based approach for the classification of landcover using high-resolution SAR data. TerraSAR-X (TSX) strip mode imagery, coupled with digital ortho-photos (DOPs) with 20cm spatial resolution was used for landcover classification and parcel mapping respectively. Different filtering and analysis techniques were applied to extract textural information from the TSX image in order to assess the enhancement of the classification accuracy. Several attributes of parcels were derived from the available TSX images in order to define the most suitable parameters discriminating between different landcover types. Then, these attributes were further statistically analysed in order to define separability and thresholds between different landcover types. The results showed that textural analysis resulted in high classification accuracy. Hence, this paper confirms that integrated landcover classification using the textural information of TerraSAR-X has a high potential for landcover mapping. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Medical liaisons were initially established in the pharmaceutical industry in the late 1960s. Since this time, their role has been evolving in such a way that today medical liaisons are helping to improve outcomes for patients in a variety of venues. They accomplish this through the timely, responsive dissemination of medical information, by exploring mutual clinical and scientific interests with health care providers, and through understanding the dynamics and unmet needs within therapeutic areas. In an effort to assess medical liaison trends across the pharmaceutical industry, three surveys of medical liaison practices were previously administered and published. The intent of these surveys was to identify overall approaches used by pharmaceutical companies in defining and managing the medical liaison role. We conducted this fourth survey to focus on areas identified by participants as major challenges and opportunities. The current survey focused on three areas: tools used by medical liaisons, career strategies, and medical liaison clinical trial involvement. The survey results indicated the following: medical liaisons are given the tools needed to be successful in their role, almost half of the medical liaisons surveyed have been in their current role for more than 3 years, and more than half plan on staying in a medical liaison role for at least 3 more years, and the majority of medical liaisons desire more involvement in clinical trial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an effort to assess medical liaison trends across the pharmaceutical industry, two surveys of medical liaison managers were previously administered and published. The intent of these surveys was to identify overall approaches used by pharmaceutical companies in defining and managing the medical liaison role. We conducted this third survey to focus on areas identified by the initial survey participants as major challenges. In addition, we aimed to broaden our survey to include responses from both medical liaison managers and field-based medical liaisons. The current survey focused on four areas: the role of medical liaisons in competitive intelligence, health outcomes, compliance, and nontraditional medical liaison staffing options. The survey results indicated the following: a majority of companies have defined competitive intelligence plans that include the medical liaison organization; the health outcomes role is less prevalent than the traditional medical liaison role; compliance standards vary across the industry; and the contract medical liaison field will potentially grow in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The beginning of medical liaison programs can be traced back to a small group of technically oriented sales representatives at the Upjohn Company in 1967. Today, medical liaison programs exist in many pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. These medical liaisons are involved in helping to improve outcomes for patients in a variety of therapeutic areas. Previously, limited benchmarking data on medical liaison groups across the pharmaceutical industry existed in the published literature. To fill this information gap, an initial survey was conducted by this group in 2005 with the intent of identifying the overall approaches used by pharmaceutical companies in defining and managing the medical liaison role. This survey was followed by subsequent annual surveys to gain additional insights into medical liaison practices across the pharmaceutical industry. The surveys have collected information on a wide variety of topics related to the medical liaison role including team characteristics, specific roles and responsibilities, performance review, training, value demonstration, competitive intelligence, health outcomes, regulatory compliance, nontraditional staffing options, virtual offices, clinical trial activities, and career strategies. This article serves as a review of the first four surveys completed 2005 through 2008. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sediment loadings and leaf accumulation of the heavy metals copper (Cu), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) with accompanying changes in leaf chlorophylls'' (a+b), carotenoids and the antioxidant enzyme peroxidase were examined in the grey mangrove Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh, in order to determine the applicability of these parameters as biomarkers of heavy metal stress under field conditions. Copper was found to show limited accumulation to leaf tissue, following a linear relationship at lower sediment concentrations, with saturation at higher sediment Cu concentrations. Copper accumulation relationships to leaf tissue were maintained temporally, and increases in sediment Cu, salinity, and decreases in sediment pH and Zn contributed to the accumulation of Cu to leaf tissue. Lead showed a significant relationship between sediment and leaf Pb levels, but accumulation was minimal. Accumulation relationships for Pb were not maintained temporally, and high sediment Pb, low pH and organic content increased bioavailability and accumulation of Pb. Zinc was the most mobile of all metals and was accumulated to the greatest quantities in leaf tissue in a dose-dependant relationship. Some temporal variation in Zn accumulation occurred, and higher sediment pH, organic content Zn and Pb promoted leaf Zn accumulation. Leaf Cu and Zn showed the strongest relationship with peroxidase activity and to a lesser degree Pb. Zinc was the only accumulated metal to show relationship maintenance with peroxidase activity over time. It was found that peroxidase activity best reflects the total phytotoxic effect from the combined metal stress of all three accumulated leaf metals. The only significant photopigment relationship evidenced was that of leaf Zn with the chlorophyll a/b ratio, but was not maintained temporally. Peroxidase activity may be an appropriate biomarker for Zn or total metal accumulation in leaf tissue, and the chlorophyll a/b ratio a suitable biomarker of Zn accumulation though requires temporal monitoring under field conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Retirement from elite sport participation is associated with decreased physical activity, depression, obesity, and ischemic heart disease. Although engagement in physical activity through sport is recognized as cardioprotective, an estimated one-quarter of deaths in American football players are associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), predominately in players classified as obese., Purpose: To systematically investigate the cardiovascular health profile of retired field-based athletes., Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4., Methods: This review was conducted and reported in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and preregistered with PROSPERO. Four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science) were systematically searched from inception to October 2018 using MeSH terms and keywords. Inclusion criteria were retired field-based athletes, age >18 years, and at least 1 CVD risk factor according to the European Society of Cardiology and the American Heart Association. Review articles were not included. Control groups were not required for inclusion, but when available, an analysis was included. Eligible articles were extracted using Covidence. Methodological quality was assessed independently by 2 reviewers using the AXIS tool. The accuracy of individual study estimates was analyzed using a random-effects meta-analysis., Results: This review yielded 13 studies. A total of 4350 male retired field-based athletes from 2 sports (football and soccer; age range, 42.2-66 years) were included. Eight studies compared retired athletes with control groups. Retired athletes had elevated systolic blood pressure in 4 of 6 studies; approximately 50% of studies found greater high-density lipoprotein, approximately 80% found lower triglyceride levels, and all studies found greater low-density lipoprotein for retired athletes compared with controls. The prevalence and severity of coronary artery calcium and carotid artery plaque were similar to controls. Retired linemen had double the prevalence of cardiometabolic syndrome compared with nonlinemen., Conclusion: The overall findings were mixed. Inconsistencies in the reporting of CVD risk factors and methodological biases reduced the study quality. Retired athletes had a comparable CVD risk profile with the general population. Retired athletes with an elevated body mass index had an increased prevalence and severity of risk factors. Significant gaps remain in understanding the long-term cardiovascular effects of elite athleticism., Competing Interests: One or more of the authors has declared the following potential conflict of interest or source of funding: This study is part of a wider PhD research by the primary investigator (C.M.). Funding for this research was provided through a research studentship at Trinity College Dublin. AOSSM checks author disclosures against the Open Payments Database (OPD). AOSSM has not conducted an independent investigation on the OPD and disclaims any liability or responsibility relating thereto.