bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Structure of Some Cumulonimbus Clouds which Penetrated the High Tropical Troposphere
Authors: Malkus Joanne Starr , Ronne Claude
Published: January 2012

Some extremely large oceanic trade-wind cumulonimbus clouds extending upwards of 40,000 ft into a region of strong winds and intense vertical shear have been studied by means of time-lapse photography. A simultaneous still picture of the clouds taken a known distance and direction away from the motion pictures permits triangulation upon the clouds and calculation of the vertical and horizontal motions of several of the individual towers. By means of a nearby radiosonde observation, it is established that the air forming the strongest of these towers must have risen from near cloud base with little or no dilution of its buoyancy by mixing with the clear-air surroundings.

The model of Malkus and Scorer (1955) concerning the erosion of cumulus towers is reviewed and tested upon these towers with satisfactory results. A minimum horizontal cloud dimension is apparently required for the production of undiluted towers. The horizontal motion of the clouds relative to the air is also estimated from the model and tested by the observations and the net upward transport of latent heat in water vapor is calculated approximately.
On «Results of forecasting with the barotropic models»
Authors: Grant Alison M. , Bolin Bert
Published: January 2012

Dear Sir, In a recent paper describing results of forecasting by numerical methods (STAFF MEMBERS, UNIVERSITY OF STOCKHOLM, 1954), it was stated that the correlation between observed and computed changes is not a satisfactory measure of the goodness of a forecast. Previously the same group (Staff Members, University of Stockholm, 1952) had raised the objection that a correlation coefficient measures the similarity in behaviour of two variables without any reference to systematic errors such as a difference in scale of the variations.
Report on the second informal conference on atmospheric chemistry, held at the Meteorological Institute, University of Stockholm, May 31—June 4, 1955
Authors: Eriksson Erik
Published: January 2012

Last year in May an informal conference in atmospheric chemistry was held at this Institute, a note on whch was published in the third issue of Tellus for 1954. In this conference a number of scientists took part, representing studies such as meteorology, oceanography, geology and agriculture. The aim of the conference was to focus attention on the role played by the atmosphere in the circulation, transport and redistribution of certain chemical elements and the possible geochemical, meteorological and practical importance of such processes. It is necessary to establish observational networks in order to study these processes.
Rotor Phenomena in the Lee of Mountains
Authors: Queney Paul
Published: January 2012

The rotors are explained as a simple “cat’s eye effect”, or transformation of a stationary wave motion into a system of vortices in the vicinity of a level where the basic wind velocity is vanishing. Some other applications of this same effect to phenomena of smaller or larger scale are also given.
Numerical Weather Map Analysis
Authors: Bergthórsson Páll , Döös Bo R.
Published: January 2012

A method to analyze upper air charts numerically is presented. The analysis is expressed by the height values of the pressure surface in gridpoints. The computed height in a gridpoint is obtained as a weighted mean of height values derived from the surrounding height and wind observations, the forecast height in the point and the corresponding normal height. Nine 500 mb maps are analyzed with the aid of the Swedish computor BESK, six of these consecutive. The size of the grid was 32 × 41 points.

The analyses have been compared with two independent conventional analyses. The mean values of the root mean square of the differences between the numerical and the conventional analyses were 26 m and 24 m respectively and 26 m between the two conventional ones.

The root mean square of the differences between the observed and analyzed heights was 22 m in the mean. This is roughly what should be expected judging from the existing knowledge about observation errors.

Three barotropic forecasts have been computed from the numerical analyses. They are compared with the corresponding numerical forecasts from conventionally analyzed maps.

It was not possible to find any significant difference between the goodness of the forecasts based on the numerical analyses and the conventional analyses.
A Frontal-Jet Stream Cross Section
Authors: Boville B. W. , Creswick W. S. , Gillis J. J.
Published: January 2012

The validity of the thermal wind relationship for determining high level winds in the vicinity of jet streams is discussed.

A cross section wind field was constructed utilizing only the thermal field for levels above 700 mb. This wind field is compared to one obtained from rawin reports.

The results indicate that a reasonable picture of the high level jet winds is obtained when vertical extrapolation is based on the thermal field analysed with respect to three-dimensional fronts.
All-Sky Camera Auroral Research during the Third Geophysical Year 1957—58
Authors: Stoffregen Willy
Published: January 2012

A new type of auroral camera covering the whole sky is developed. Continuously running cameras of this type will be installed in Northern Scandinavia during the Geophysical Year in order to get a complete view of all aurorae occurring over this area. The film material obtained will be analyzed to give height and position of the auroral displays.
Barotropic Waves in Straight Parallel Flow with Curved Velocity Profile
Authors: Garcia R. V.
Published: January 2012

The paper contains a study of the dynamics of two-dimensional straight parallel flow with a continuously curved profile. The differential equation for the stream-function of a neutral wave disturbance is used as an analytical tool to investigate the properties and the evolution of waves having a certain initial configuration of the flow. The behaviour of the waves is explained by using an extension of the method applied by HOLMBOE (1953) in his study of the Kelvin and Rayleigh waves. In order to do that, the problem has been approached from a point of view which deviates somewhat from the customary treatment. The method is first illustrated by a model with a hyperbolic tangent profile (Th-flow), which is shown to have a very simple analytical solution for the stationary wave Ls. The form of the solution makes it possible to interpret it for other wave lengths (L<>Ls) as a forced stationary wave which is the resultant of a non stationary physical wave and a Rayleigh wave induced by the proper infinite sliding vorticities at the central level. When this foreign field is removed from the solution, the remaining field, which now is a physically possible initial configuration of the flow, will propagate with different speed from level to level. As the tilt develops the wave will begin to amplify if L > Ls, and it will be damped if L < Ls. So the stationary wave represents the transition from short stability waves to long instability waves as had been anticipated by Fjørtoft (1). The method is then extended to more general types of profiles. Some general results on the conditions for the existence of stationary waves, which were proved or anticipated by RAYLEIGH (1880), FJØRTOFT (1950) and HÖILAND (1951), are given a unified treatment. It is finally shown that, if a system has stationary waves, they represent the transition from damped to amplified waves. If the number of stationary waves is even, both the shortest and the longest waves are damped waves, and the intermediate intervals of the spectrum are alternate bands of amplified and damped Iwaves. If the number of stationary waves is odd, the longest waves in the spectrum are amplified.
A Comparison of Magnetic Disturbance at Resolute Bay and Baker Lake, Canada
Authors: Whitham K. , Loomer E. I.
Published: January 2012

In a recent paper, ALFVÉN (1955) has disscussed the possibility of an inner auroral zone with a polar distance of 5-10°, and pointed out the need to check his theoretical predictions against observations of aurora and geomagnetic disturbances.
Techniques for the Chemical Identification of Micron and Submicron particles
Authors: Lodge, Jr. James P. , Tufts Barbara J.
Published: January 2012

Chemical methods are presented for routine identification and size estimation of water- or acid-soluble particles of a number of chemical species, using spot test techniques and light or electron microscopy. Although the work reported here is primarily that of the authors and their co-workers, a brief literature survey of work in other laboratories is included.
A Series Solution for the Barotropic Vorticity Equation and its Application in the Study of Atmospheric Vortices
Authors: Adem Julián
Published: January 2012

A method to obtain a series solution for the barotropic non-divergent, vorticity equation is given and is applied to the case of a vortex. A formula that gives the development of a symmetrical vortex as a function of radius, maximum velocity and latitude is obtained. A numerical example is worked out. The convergence of the series solution for the general case is discussed and shown to depend on the scale of motion to be forecast and conclusions are drawn regarding time-steps used in a forecast and the smoothing of the initial map. The possibility of improving a forecast and reducing the number of time-steps used in it by the application of this series solution, follows as a general conclusion. Finally, a theorem that gives the scaling of the variables in an experimental model of a barotropic flow is obtained.
On Conversions between Potential and Kinetic Energy in the Atmosphere
Authors: White Robert M. , Saltzman Barry
Published: January 2012

From a consideration of the large-scale horizontal variations of individual pressure change and 500 mb temperature in a mid-latitude sector of the Northern Hemisphere, computations are made of the required mean conversion of potential energy into the kinetic energy of the horizontal wind systems. The order of magnitude of the estimate obtained is in agreement with that obtained by Brunt from considerations of the frictional dissipation of kinetic energy. In addition, the role of organized overturnings is investigated. It is indicated that overturnings in east-west vertical planes associated with the large-scale disturbances are of primary importance in effecting the release of potential energy.
On the Wind-Driven Ocean Circulation
Authors: Morgan G. W.
Published: January 2012

Some aspects of existing theories of the wind-driven ocean circulation are examined with particular emphasis on the question of the need for the inclusion of lateral eddy viscosity to provide a mechanism for balancing the applied wind torque. A new model is proposed according to which the ocean is divided into a southern and a northern portion, attention being restricted to the former which is itself subdivided into an interior region and a boundary region adjacent to the western shore. The equations of motion in terms of spherical coordinates are formally integrated over depth for both a homogeneous and a two-layer ocean. Approximate equations analogous to those used in existing theories are proposed for the interior region. Conditions in the boundary region are considered in an effort to determine the relative importance of the various terms in the equations. Based on these considerations approximate equations are derived for the boundary region. These imply the predominance of the pressure terms, the nonlinear inertia terms and the terms arising from the variation of the Coriolis parameter with latitude.

The approximate equations are transformed to surface coordinates and are applied to the homogeneous ocean and a two-layer ocean subjected to a simple wind distribution, yielding reasonable results. It is shown that the variation of the Coriolis parameter plays a fundamental role in the formation of the stream on the western shore. Simple physical interpretations of the results are presented including an explanation of the facts that no similar stream can be formed on the eastern shore and that the variation of depth in a two-layer ocean, when the Coriolis parameter is assumed constant, cannot give rise to an intense stream. Appropriate curves illustrating the dependence of the solutions on certain dimensionless parameters are given. When applied to the North Atlantic the theory gives reasonable results for the Gulf Stream north to, say, Cape Hatteras.
Theorie zur Errechnung des Wasserstandes und der Strömungen in Randmeeren nebst Anwendungen
Authors: Hansen Walter
Published: January 2012

For the detection of non-stationary movements in the ocean there exists, at present, no theory that could by observation stand a test with regard to its practical applicability. As there is available an abundant material of sea-level- and current observations from the marginal and adjacent seas and as in such areas maximum values of movements occur, the study of which deserves a special practical interest, a method is developed for determining the movements in such areas; morever, the results of a numerical computation of an especially heavy storm surge (Holland-Orkan) and of the tides in an estuary (the Ems river) are discussed. By combining these results with numerical weather prediction it is, in principle, possible to carry out numerical prediction of sea level.
La mesure de l’assombrissement du soleil pendant une eclipse
Authors: Schüepp W.
Published: January 2012

Measurement of solar radiation in 7 monochromatic regions, and measurements of total, diffuse and direct radiation, during the partial eclipse of Feb. 25th 1952 at N'dele (8° 24′ 25″ N 20° 40″ 0″ E) lead to a determination of solar limb darkening, even for the region between 99 and 100% of the sun's radius. The values of Minnaert (1953) and Peyturaux (1952) and (1955) are confirmed, the formula of Houtgast (1952) is shown to be incorrect.

This confirms the idea of Plaskett 1936 that there must be a very strong temperature gradient near the surface of the photosphere. Using the new formula from Warzée 1955 the constants for total radiation are computed and compared with the radiative equilibrium and with the case of a mean wavelength of 548.5 mμ. The difference with respect to the case of 548,5 mμ is due to the fact that the center of sun disc is bluer and the border region is redder than this wavelenght.
An Observation of an Oceanic Front
Authors: Knauss John A.
Published: January 2012

A detailed temperature section across an oceanic front in the Eastern Equatorial Pacific is described. The frontal zone was moving at about one knot from the colder water toward the warmer water. The temperature difference across the front was 5° F. In the temperature section it is possible to see the cold water overrunning the warm water and creating an unstable zone approximately 100 yards wide.
The Magnetic Storm Effects and the Interplanetary Electromagnetic State
Authors: Venkatesan D.
Published: January 2012

The electric field of the beam of rarified ionised gas ejected from the sun has been invoked by Alfvén in connection with geomagnetic storms and aurorae. An attempt is made to study the effects of this electric field on cosmic rays. From a study of the ionization chamber records published by Carnegie Institution for the years 1945 and 1946, it appears that the deceleration in the electric field seems to be the most important among the types of effects expected in cosmic rays.

The study reveals that it is possible to attribute the same mechanism, namely, the beam, to explain both the 27 day variation as well as Forbush decreases. The maximum (or minimum) of cosmic ray intensity preceeds the maximum (or minimum) of Kp by about 4-6 days. The direction of the electric field of the beam is also discussed.
The Chemical Composition of Some Waters from Lowland Lakes in Shropshire, England
Authors: Gorham Eville
Published: January 2012

Analyses are presented for pH, Na, K, Ca, Mg, HCO3, Cl, SO4, NO3, PO4 and SiO2 in surface waters from eight Shropshire meres subject to dense water blooms of blue-green algae. Samples were taken in November 1954 and June 1955. It appears likely that the chemistry of the waters reflects increasing alteration of rain water composition by solution of the products of rock and soil weathering, chiefly calcium bicarbonate. Magnesium was the only major ion observed to vary greatly with season of sampling. Potassium was anomalous in being more abundant in the dilute waters, where it accounted for an unusually high proportion of total salts. An attempt has been made to relate the chemical composition of the various waters to local geological and physiographical variations.
Noctilucent Cloud Observations
Authors: Witt Georg
Published: January 2012

Recent observations of noctilucent clouds from Swedish stations are presented, together with plans for the future observational programme. The results are discussed from the view-point of the rôle of meteoric dust in the formation of these clouds. Preliminary polarisation measurements, carried out in order to obtain an information about the sizes of the cloud particles, are described.
Uncertainty of Initial State as a Factor in the Predictability of Large Scale Atmospheric Flow Patterns
Authors: Thompson Philip Duncan
Published: January 2012

This article deals with the predictability of the atmosphere or, more exactly, with the gradual growth of “inherent” errors of prediction, due to errors in an initial state that is reconstructed from measurements at a finite number of points. By investigating the initial time-derivatives of the error arising from random analysis error, it is found that the increase of the RMS (root-meansquare) wind error in predictions over periods of a few days depends on: the period of the forecast the initial RMS vector wind error the difference between the characteristic scale of the initial error field and the scale of fluctuations in the true initial flow pattern the area average of the vertical wind shear between 250 and 750 mb the RMS vector deviation of the wind at about 500 mb from its area average and the average static stability of the atmosphere. The joint effect of these various factors is given explicitly by a single equation, relating the increase of inherent error to the statistical properties of the initial error field and true initial flow pattern. In many winter situations, and for initial error fields whose scale is typical of the present observational network, the inherent RMS vector wind error may double its initial value after two days, and rise to the error of sheer guessing in about a week. Doubling the overall density of regular reporting stations would virtually eliminate the increase of inherent error in forecasts over a few days. It is also found that zonally-averaged wind fields are inherently more predictable than unaveraged wind fields, at least in cases of predominantly barotropic flow. The results outlined above are interpreted in the terms of a variety of practical and administrative problems, in each of which a dominant factor is the predictability of the atmosphere. Examples are the problems of estimating limits of confidence in forecasts, deciding on the most economical density and distribution of regular reporting stations, fixing the maximum range beyond which detailed “forecasts” have lost essentially all predictive and economic value and, finally, that of establishing the point of rapidly diminishing returns in the development of more complicated and costly methods of prediction.
The Chemical Composition of Hawaiian Rainfall
Authors: Eriksson Erik
Published: January 2012

Measurements of the chemical constitution of rain in the Project Shower area showed that the ammonia and nitrate content is very low, and that the total salt content decreases inland to extremely low values on the upper slopes of the volcanoes.
Challenges in Making a Business Case for Effective Pain Management in Nursing Homes
Authors: Bakerjian Debra , Prevost Suzanne S. , Herr Keela , Swafford Kristen , Ersek Mary
Published: January 2012

The lack of a systematic and comprehensive pain management program is a common quality problem in nursing homes. The purpose of this article is to address the business case for effective pain management in this setting, including the conceptual domains and processes that should be considered in improving quality and reducing costs. Unfortunately, the literature contains very little to inform those working to implement effective and efficient pain management programs in nursing homes. This article suggests several strategies for establishing an internal business case to support the implementation of a comprehensive pain management program in a nursing home setting.
Thymomas in Rabbits: Clinical Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Künzel Frank , Hittmair Katharina M. , Hassan Jasmin , Dupré Gilles , Russold Elena , Guija de Arespachochaga Abigail , Fuchs-Baumgartinger Andrea , Bilek Andrea
Published: January 2012

Thymomas are rarely recorded in rabbits, and the literature includes comparatively few cases. Medical records were reviewed to identify all pet rabbits in which a mediastinal mass was diagnosed between Feb 2007 and Jan 2010. Signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic work-up (including laboratory data, diagnostic imaging, and ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration of the mediastinal mass), treatment modalities, survival time, and histologic findings were evaluated. Cytologic and/or histopathologic examinations revealed thymomas in all rabbits with mediastinal masses (n=13). Rabbits with thymomas showed clinical signs of dyspnea (76.9%), exercise intolerance (53.9%), and bilateral exophthalmos (46.2%). In seven rabbits the thymoma was removed surgically. Two rabbits were treated conservatively, and four rabbits were euthanized because of their poor clinical condition. The two rabbits that underwent surgery were euthanized 6 mo and 34 mo later. Mediastinal masses in rabbits appear to be more common than previously believed and consist primarily of thymomas rather than thymic lymphomas. Cytology of samples collected by ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration is an accurate diagnostic tool for the identification of thymomas in rabbits. Due to a high rate of perioperative mortality, intensive perioperative care and the provision of a low-stress environment are recommended for a successful thoracotomy.
Oxidative protein folding in the intermembrane space of human mitochondria
Authors: Zarges Christine , Riemer Jan
Published: June 2024

The mitochondrial intermembrane space hosts a machinery for oxidative protein folding, the mitochondrial disulfide relay. This machinery imports a large number of soluble proteins into the compartment, where they are retained through oxidative folding. Additionally, the disulfide relay enhances the stability of many proteins by forming disulfide bonds. In this review, we describe the mitochondrial disulfide relay in human cells, its components, and their coordinated collaboration in mechanistic detail. We also discuss the human pathologies associated with defects in this machinery and its protein substrates, providing a comprehensive overview of its biological importance and implications for health.
Recent Advances in Molecular Engineering for Viologen‐Based Electrochromic Materials: A Mini‐Review
Authors: Ambrose Bebin , Krishnan Murugan , Ramamurthy Kalaivanan , Kathiresan Murugavel
Published: June 2024

Viologens, with their unique redox‐active properties, have garnered increasing attention in the development of electrochromic devices. This review focuses on key strategies in molecular design, synthesis methodologies, and tailored functionalities that have propelled the field forward from 2019 to the present. The convergence of these approaches has led to the construction of viologen‐based electrochromic materials with enhanced performance, stability, and responsiveness. The review not only examines the current state of the field but also explores promising outlooks and opportunities, including tailored applications, environmental sustainability, and integration with emerging technologies. The synergy between molecular engineering and viologen‐based electrochromic materials holds significant promise, shaping the future of dynamic, responsive materials in diverse technological domains. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, offering insights into recent breakthroughs and inspiring further advancements in this rapidly evolving field.
Grain yield and quality responses to nitrogen application rate and timing in dry direct broadcast seeded rice under different weather conditions
Authors: Tanaka Ryo , Nakano Hiroshi
Published: June 2024

In rice (Oryza sativa L.) production, dry direct seeding is one of the most essential technologies to reduce labor input and to increase net income. Field experiments were conducted in southwestern Japan in 2019 and 2020 to determine the effects of nitrogen (N) application rate and timing on grain yield, lodging, grain appearance, and protein content in dry direct broadcast seeded rice under different weather conditions. In 2019, plants had larger source ability using the normal solar radiation at the tillering stage, regardless of N application timings. Plants with applied N at the reproductive stage produced the highest grain yield and the highest percentage of undamaged grains under high air temperature condition during the early ripening stage. In 2020, plants did not have larger source ability due to the lower solar radiation at the tillering stage. Plants with applied N at the reproductive stage produced the highest grain yield but produced the highest percentage of green immature grains. These results mean that solar radiation at the tillering stage may be important for increasing grain yield and quality in dry direct broadcast seeded rice. Therefore, since plants grown under normal solar radiation condition at the tillering stage may have large source ability, more N application at the reproductive stage may be recommended to increase grain yield. In contrast, since plants grown under low solar radiation condition at the tillering stage may have small source ability, less N application at the reproductive stage may be recommended to decrease the occurrence of green immature grains.
Rise and Fall of the Ferromagnetism in CrSBr Flakes by Non‐Magnetic Ion Irradiation
Authors: Long Fangchao , Li Yi , Cheng Yu , Mosina Kseniia , Kentsch Ulrich , Sofer Zdenek , Prucnal Slawomir , Helm Manfred , Zhou Shengqiang
Published: June 2024

The magnetic phase transition is explored in CrSBr flakes through non‐magnetic ion irradiation, revealing a novel method for magnetic control in two‐dimensional (2D) materials. The rise and fall of the ferromagnetic phase is observed in antiferromagnetic CrSBr with increasing the irradiation fluence. The irradiated CrSBr shows ferromagnetic critical temperature ranging from 110 to 84 K, well above liquid N2 temperature. Raman spectroscopy reveals phonon softening, suggesting the formation of defects. These findings not only highlight CrSBr's potential in spintronics, but also present ion irradiation as an effective tool for tuning magnetic properties in 2D materials, opening new avenues for the development of spintronic devices based on air‐stable van der Waals semiconductors.
Child and adolescent victims of sexual homicide in Chile between 1998 and 2021: A review of 27 cases and their autopsy reports
Authors: Acosta‐Fuentes Alejandra , González Sebastián , Álvarez‐Lister María Soledad , Pavez‐Carrillo Carolina
Published: June 2024

Rape followed by murder against children and adolescents is one of the most serious existing crimes. The autopsies of victims of violent crimes can provide fundamental findings for the investigative process and the pursuit of justice. This research conducts a descriptive analysis of the most important findings from the autopsies of 27 cases of children and adolescents who died in Chile between 1998 and 2021 as a result of rape followed by homicide (n = 27), as well as from the judiciary rulings of these cases to gather information related to the perpetrators. It was found that the victims of this crime are mostly girls with an average age of 10, while the perpetrators are primarily single men aged 29 on average, most of whom have not finished high school. A significant relationship was found between the location of the crime and the cause of death and signs of sexual contact, the marital status of the perpetrator and the cause of death, the age of the perpetrator and signs of sexual contact, and the relationship between victim and perpetrator and signs of sexual contact.
Program explores sport in Latino communities
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: June 2024

The sport studies program at Manhattanville College received a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities in January to execute its proposal, “Sport Studies in the 21st Century: Amplifying the Latinx Experience in Curricula, Conversation, and Community.” It aims to explore the multifaceted social, political, historical, and cultural aspects of sport within Latino communities.
Phytochemical Analysis, and Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activities of Chamaerops humilis L. Leaves; A Focus on Xanthine Oxidase
Authors: Ahmed Shimaa A. , Kamel Emadeldin M. , Mahmoud Ayman M. , Nasr Hamdi M. D. , Hassan Hossam M. , Alanazi Mohammed M. , Rateb Mostafa E. , Hozayen Walaa G. , Ahmed Sayed A.
Published: June 2024

Chamaerops humilis L. is clumping palm of the family Arecaceae with promising health‐promoting effects. Parts of this species are utilized as food and employed in folk medicine to treat several disorders. This study investigated the phytochemical constituents of C. humilis leaves and their antioxidant and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activities in vitro and in vivo in acetaminophen (APAP)‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The chemical structure of the isolated phytochemicals was determined using data obtained from UV, MS, IR, and 1H‐, 13C‐NMR spectroscopic tools as well as comparison with authentic markers. Eleven compounds, including tricin 7‐O‐β‐rutinoside, vicenin, tricin, astragalin, borassoside D, pregnane‐3,5,6,16‐tetrol, oleanolic acid, β‐sitosterol and campesterol were isolated from C. humilis ethanolic extract (CHEE). CHEE and the butanol, n‐hexane, and dichloromethane fractions exhibited in vitro radical scavenging and XO inhibitory efficacies. The computational findings revealed the tendency of the isolated compounds towards the active site of XO. In vivo, CHEE ameliorated liver function markers and prevented tissue injury induced by APAP in rats. CHEE suppressed hepatic XO, decreased serum uric acid and liver malondialdehyde (MDA), and enhanced reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase in APAP‐treated rats. CHEE ameliorated serum tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin (IL)‐1β in APAP‐treated rats. Thus, C. humilis is rich in beneficial phytochemicals that possess binding affinity towards XO. C. humilis exhibited potent in vitro antioxidant and XO inhibitory activities, and prevented APAP hepatotoxicity by attenuating tissue injury, oxidative stress and inflammation.
Detection of moisture content of edamame based on the fusion of reflectance and transmittance spectra of hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Li Bin , Su Cheng‐tao , Yin Hai , Zou Ji‐ping , Liu Yan‐de
Published: June 2024

Edamame is a nutritious and economically valuable soybean. The moisture content is an important indicator of the quality of the edamame. The traditional methods in the detection of moisture content of edamame have the disadvantage of large detection errors. In this research, the fusion of transmittance and reflectance spectra of hyperspectral imaging combined with chemometrics was proposed to predict the moisture content of edamame. Also, the effect of different preprocessing of the spectra on the predictive performance was analyzed. Single spectra, primary fusion spectra, and intermediate fusion spectra were established as the prediction models for partial least squares regression (PLSR) and partial least squares support vector regression (LSSVR), respectively. The results of the prediction models showed that the spectral transform absorption (STA) combined with PLSR has the best prediction performance for a single spectrum with predictive correlation (RP) of 0.7749 and ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD) of 1.7. Standard normal variate (SNV) combined with LSSVR has the best prediction performance for primary fusion spectra with RP of 0.8821 and RPD of 1.9. SNV combined with LSSVR has the best prediction performance for intermediate fusion spectra with RP of 0.9149 and RPD of 2.4. The Rp and RPD of prediction models of the moisture content of edamame based on fusion spectra were significantly improved compared with single spectra. Compared with primary fusion, intermediate fusion is a more suitable fusion strategy. This research provides experimental basis for the prediction of moisture content of edamame using spectral fusion combined with chemometrics.
Cost‐of‐care discussions for individuals with advanced non–small cell lung cancer and melanoma: Findings from a large, population‐based pilot study
Authors: Yabroff K. Robin , Mittu Karen , Halpern Michael T.
Published: June 2024

Background

Costs of cancer care can result in patient financial hardship; many professional organizations recommend provider discussions about treatment costs as part of high‐quality care. In this pilot study, the authors examined patient–provider cost discussions documented in the medical records of individuals who were diagnosed with advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and melanoma—cancers with recently approved, high‐cost treatment options.

Methods

Individuals who were newly diagnosed in 2017–2018 with stage III/IV NSCLC (n = 1767) and in 2018 with stage III/IV melanoma (n = 689) from 12 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results regions were randomly selected for the National Cancer Institute Patterns of Care Study. Documentation of cost discussions was abstracted from the medical record. The authors examined patient, treatment, and hospital factors associated with cost discussions in multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results

Cost discussions were documented in the medical records of 20.3% of patients with NSCLC and in 24.0% of those with melanoma. In adjusted analyses, privately insured (vs. publicly insured) patients were less likely to have documented cost discussions (odds ratio [OR], 0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37–0.80). Patients who did not receive systemic therapy or did not receive any cancer‐directed treatment were less likely to have documented cost discussions than those who did receive systemic therapy (OR, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.19–0.81] and 0.46 [95% CI, 0.30–0.70], respectively), as were patients who were treated at hospitals without residency programs (OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.42–0.98).

Conclusions

Cost discussions were infrequently documented in the medical records of patients who were diagnosed with advanced NSCLC and melanoma, which may hinder identifying patient needs and tracking outcomes of associated referrals. Efforts to increase cost‐of‐care discussions and relevant referrals, as well as their documentation, are warranted.
A comprehensive review of time skew background calibration and mitigation techniques in high‐speed time‐interleaved analog‐to‐digital converters
Authors: Navidi Seyedeh Masoumeh , Navidi Mir Mohammad
Published: June 2024

A significant challenge in designing high‐speed time‐interleaved ADCs (TI‐ADCs) is the presence of time skew mismatch, resulting from uneven sampling across different channels and constituting a significant source of error. This error can be mitigated either by employing samplers unaffected by time skew or by employing foreground/background time skew calibration methods. Considering that the complexity of time skew calibration can complicate analog‐to‐digital converter (ADC) design, simpler techniques are essential, particularly with the development of higher‐speed ADCs using smaller technology nodes. This paper offers a comprehensive examination of various techniques applied in TI‐ADCs to address time skew‐related issues. We will explore skew‐tolerant sampling techniques to alleviate time skew errors, followed by an exploration of background time skew calibration methods. The primary focus of this paper centers on background time skew calibration techniques, which have become integral to improving the dynamic performance of high‐speed TI‐ADCs. The main background time skew calibration techniques to be reviewed include error injection techniques, reference ADC‐based techniques, input slope estimation, autocorrelation‐based techniques, and variance‐based techniques.
Meal or mate: Exploring the evidence of sexual cannibalism among amphibians
Authors: Gould John , Beranek Chad T.
Published: June 2024

Active forms of cannibalism that involve predation of live conspecifics occur widely among amphibians, most notably by tadpoles that feed on each other and adults that feed on juveniles. In contrast, cannibalism among amphibian adults (adult–adult cannibalism) is less often reported and there have been no investigations on the occurrence of sexual cannibalism in this group to date. In this study, we present an observation of potential sexual cannibalism involving an adult female green and golden bell frog, Litoria aurea, preying on a conspecific adult male during the species' breeding season. By comparing our observation to the available literature, we show that adult–adult cannibalism among amphibians is rare but tends to be committed by females against their male counterparts. We thus suggest that the occurrence of sexual cannibalism should be extended to include this group, where sexual size dimorphism occurs widely among adults that congregate spatially during breeding periods, both predictors of intra‐specific predation. We hypothesise that amphibian females may be able to exploit male advertisement calls to differentiate suitable partners from potential prey and that male individuals are vulnerable to sexual cannibalism as they must risk attracting and physically exposing themselves to females in order to reproduce. Our findings reveal the complex dynamics that exist within adult amphibian populations, suggesting that females may have a choice when deciding how to interact with and utilise their male counterparts. As our findings are preliminary, based on a small sample size of records, including several from captive individuals, we encourage authors to publish their observations of cannibalism in the field, including unsuccessful attempts, to confirm the presence of sexual cannibalism in this group.
Different facets of alpha and beta diversity of benthic diatoms along stream watercourse in a large near‐natural catchment
Authors: Wu Naicheng , Liu Guohao , Qi Xinxin , Lin Zongwei , Wang Yixia , Wang Yaochun , Li Yuying , Oduro Collins , Khan Sangar , Zhou Shuchan , Chu Tianjiang
Published: June 2024

Understanding the processes and mechanisms that shape the distribution patterns and variations of biodiversity along spatial gradients continues to be a priority for ecological research. We focused on the biodiversity of benthic diatom communities within a large near‐natural watershed. The objectives are: (1) to explore the overall spatial patterns of benthic diatom biodiversity; (2) to investigate the effects associated with watercourse position and environmental variables, as well as both common and rare species on two facets (i.e., taxonomic and functional) of alpha and beta diversity; and (3) to unveil the mechanisms underlying their spatial variations. Alpha diversity indices along the stream watercourse showed a clear increasing trend from upstream to downstream sites. Results of random forest regression identified conductivity as the primary factor influencing functional alpha diversity, while elevation emerged as the predominant factor for taxonomic alpha diversity. Beta diversity partitioning revealed that taxonomic beta diversity generally exceeded functional beta diversity. These diversity measures exhibited different patterns along the watercourse position: taxonomic beta diversity remained relatively consistent along the watercourse, whereas functional total beta diversity and its two components of middle stream sites were lower than those of upstream and downstream sites. Functional beta diversity was sustained by dominant and common species, while rare species made significant contributions to taxonomic beta diversity. Both taxonomic and functional beta diversity and its components displayed a stronger influence from spatial factors than from local environmental, geo‐climatic, and nutrient variables. Collectively, taxonomic and functional alpha and beta diversity demonstrated distinct responses to the main environmental gradients and spatial factors within our catchment, highlighting their different insights into diatom diversity. Furthermore, research is required to assess the generalizability of our findings to similar ecosystems. In addition, this study presents opportunities for expansion to include other taxa (e.g., macroinvertebrates and fish) to gain a comprehensive understanding of the driving mechanisms behind stream biodiversity.
Large language models debunk fake and sensational wildlife news
Authors: Santangeli Andrea , Mammola Stefano , Nanni Veronica , Lambertucci Sergio A.
Published: June 2024

In the current era of rapid online information growth, distinguishing facts from sensationalized or fake content is a major challenge. Here, we explore the potential of large language models as a tool to fact‐check fake news and sensationalized content about animals. We queried the most popular large language models (ChatGPT 3.5 and 4, and Microsoft Bing), asking them to quantify the likelihood of 14 wildlife groups, often portrayed as dangerous or sensationalized, killing humans or livestock. We then compared these scores with the “real” risk obtained from relevant literature and/or expert opinion. We found a positive relationship between the likelihood risk score obtained from large language models and the “real” risk. This indicates the promising potential of large language models in fact‐checking information about commonly misrepresented and widely feared animals, including jellyfish, wasps, spiders, vultures, and various large carnivores. Our analysis underscores the crucial role of large language models in dispelling wildlife myths, helping to mitigate human–wildlife conflicts, shaping a more just and harmonious coexistence, and ultimately aiding biological conservation.
Investigation of flower‐shaped microstrip antenna using conformal mapping technique
Authors: Bhattacharya Jayanta , Maity Sudipta
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the flower‐shaped microstrip antenna (FSMA) is investigated theoretically and experimentally for the first time. A theoretical model is proposed to investigate the radiation characteristic of an FSMA using conformal mapping technique. The flower shape is mapped to a circular shape with the help of an appropriate mapping relation. The wave equation is solved in the transformed domain using Galerkin technique to obtain the approximate solution of eigenfunction and eigenvalue. Resonant frequency, internal field patterns, input impedance, and far‐field radiation patterns of the FSMA are investigated. Three antenna prototypes are fabricated for experimental verification. The acceptable agreement is found among the calculated, simulated, and measured data. Our theory shows an error of less than 1.45% in predicting the resonance frequency. Quality factor and bandwidth are also described. This theoretical approach not only quickly evaluates the performance of an FSMA but also provides the instruction to design an FSMA.
Long‐Term Functional Outcomes in Pediatric Head and Neck Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Arya Priya , Bouldin Emerson , Kuhn Natalia , Prickett Kara K.
Published: June 2024

Objective

The multimodal treatments for pediatric head and neck (H&N) malignancies can have significant long‐term functional consequences for growing patients. This systematic review aims to analyze the current knowledge of functional outcomes for pediatric H&N cancer survivors.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science.

Review Methods

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guidelines were followed, and 1356 papers were reviewed by 3 team members with conflict resolution by a senior member.

Results

Fourteen studies were included. Nine of 14 (64%) papers reported issues with swallowing, characterized as either dysphagia, odynophagia, oropharyngeal fibrosis, esophageal stenosis, xerostomia, trismus, or general issues with the throat and mouth. Six of 14 papers noted nutritional and feeding deficiencies, and 5 of 14 additionally noted issues with speech and voice changes. Four of 14 (29%) reported hearing impairments and/or loss. A majority of papers (9/14) reported long‐term functional characteristics as a secondary outcome. Three of 14 (21%) reported a quality of life (QoL) measure. Heterogeneity in methodology and reporting precluded analysis of any relationship between treatment type and functional outcomes. Recommendations include integration of objective measures of feeding support and swallowing, as well as regular measurements of function and QoL parameters during treatment to better understand the evolution of QoL and function throughout care.

Conclusion

Relatively few studies focus on functional outcomes following the treatment of pediatric H&N cancer. Swallowing difficulty is the most frequently reported deficit, but objective data is rarely reported. Standardization of functional outcome assessment could improve the quality of evidence for pediatric patients treated for H&N cancer.
Fully actuated system approach to robust control of uncertain multi‐order sub‐fully actuated systems
Authors: Zhang Shiyu , Duan Guangren
Published: June 2024

Motivated by the fully actuated system (FAS) approach, this paper proposes a direct robust control method for a type of uncertain multi‐order sub‐fully actuated systems (MOSFASs). Unlike numerous previous results, this paper broadens to a more general multi‐order model and the more challenging sub‐fully actuated case with the presence of singular problems. Firstly, a general uncertain MOSFAS model is presented, where the uncertainty merely needs to satisfy a common assumption. Secondly, a direct robust control method is proposed, giving a robust controller which only needs to satisfy very loose and basic requirements to ensure that the states ultimately converge into an arbitrarily small region. Simultaneously, by constraining the initial values of the states, it is perfectly guaranteed that the states always remain in a “safe” zone free of singular points, thus preserving the realizability of the controller. Finally, under certain conditions, a less conservative robust control scheme is introduced, which can relax the constraint of initial values easily. A simulation for a coarse‐fine angle system demonstrates the validity and value of the proposed robust control method.