bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One metric or many? Refining the analytical framework of landscape resistance estimation in individual‐based landscape genetic analyses
Authors: Peterman William E.
Published: October 2023

One of the allures of landscape genetics is the ability to leverage pairwise genetic distance metrics to infer how landscape features promote or constrain gene flow (i.e. landscape resistance surfaces). Critically, properly parameterized landscape resistance surfaces are foundational to applied conservation and management decisions. As such, there has been considerable effort expended assessing methods and metrics to estimate landscape resistance from genetic data (Balkenhol et al., Ecography, 32, 2009, 818; Peterman et al., Landsc. Ecol., 34, 2019, 2197; Shirk et al., Mol. Ecol. Resour., 17, 2017, 1308; Shirk et al., Mol. Ecol. Resour., 18, 2018, 55). Nonetheless, a primary challenge to assessing the effects of landscapes on gene flow is in the estimation of landscape resistance values, and this problem becomes increasingly challenging as more landscape features or land cover classes are considered. It quickly becomes infeasible to adequately assess the potential parameter space through manual or systematic assignment of resistance values. The development of ResistanceGA (Peterman, Methods Ecol. Evol., 9, 2018, 1638) provided a framework for using genetic algorithms to optimize landscape resistance values and identify the best statistical relationship between pairwise effective distances and genetic distances. ResistanceGA has seen extensive use in both population‐ and individual‐based landscape genetic analyses. However, there has been relatively limited assessment of ResistanceGA's ability to identify the landscape features affecting gene flow (but see Peterman et al., Landsc. Ecol., 34, 2019, 2197; Winiarski et al., Mol. Ecol. Resour., 20, 2020, 1583) or the sensitivity of ResistanceGA results to the choice of genetic distance metric used. In the current issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, Beninde et al. (2023) aim to address these knowledge gaps by examining the impact of individual‐based genetic distance measures on landscape genetic inference.
A dynamic web resource for robust and reproducible genomics in nonmodel species: marineomics.io
Authors: Bogan Samuel N. , Johns Jason , Griffiths Joanna S. , Davenport Danielle , Smith Sara J. , Schaal Sara M. , Downey‐Wall Alan , Lou Runyang Nicolas , Lotterhos Katie , Guidry Megan E. , Rivera Hanny E. , McGirr Joseph A. , Puritz Jonathan B. , Roberts Steven B. , Silliman Katherine
Published: October 2023

Genomic methods are becoming increasingly valuable and established in ecological research, particularly in nonmodel species. Supporting their progress and adoption requires investment in resources that promote (i) reproducibility of genomic analyses, (ii) accessibility of learning tools and (iii) keeping pace with rapidly developing methods and principles.

We introduce marineomics.io, an open‐source, living document to disseminate tutorials, reproducibility tools and best principles for ecological genomic research in marine and nonmodel systems.

The website's existing content spans population and functional genomics, including current recommendations for whole‐genome sequencing, RAD‐seq, Pool‐seq and RNA‐seq. With the goal to facilitate the development of new, similar resources, we describe our process for aggregating and synthesizing methodological principles from the ecological genomics community to inform website content. We also detail steps for authorship and submission of new website content, as well as protocols for providing feedback and topic requests from the community.

These web resources were constructed with guidance for doing rigorous, reproducible science. Collaboration and contributions to the website are encouraged from scientists of all skill sets and levels of expertise.
Romanian nurses’ beliefs on nursing diagnosis. A survey study based on the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Gligor Laura Elena , Romero‐Sánchez José Manuel , Rusu Horațiu , Paloma‐Castro Olga , Domnariu Carmen Daniela
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To identify clusters of beliefs about nursing diagnosis (ND) among Romanian hospital nurses and to ascertain variations in attitudes, intention to use, behavior associated with the use of ND, and sociodemographic characteristics.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey study was conducted on a convenience sample of 498 hospital nurses in Romania. The questionnaire comprises six scales measuring normative, behavioral, and control beliefs, intention to use, attitudes, and behavior toward ND. Results were reported through cluster analysis.

Findings

Three clusters were identified: highly positive, average, and highly negative beliefs about ND. Romanian nurses have more homogeneous beliefs regarding ND than nurses from other countries. Comparisons among clusters showed significant differences in intention [H(2) = 111.59, p < 0.001], attitudes [H(2) = 145.27, p < 0.001], and reported behavior [H(2) = 43.84, p < 0.001]. The stronger the attitude toward ND, the intention to use it, and the behavior of using ND, the more favorable the beliefs and vice versa. Significant disparities among clusters were discovered regarding education in ND, whereas differences were not observed regarding years of experience, age, and gender.

Conclusion

Nurses exhibited different belief patterns about ND. Those with more positive beliefs demonstrated a more favorable attitude, a higher intention, and a more frequent behavior in using ND. Training in ND facilitates positive beliefs about it.

Implications for nursing practice

When designing interventions to promote ND in clinical practice, policymakers, administrators, and educators should consider addressing and potentially changing these beliefs. Modifying nurses’ attitudes could positively impact patient care quality during their hospital stay and post‐discharge.
Israel: Political Developments and Data in 2022
Authors: GANEL YOSI
Published: October 2023

The year 2022 marked the year of yet another parliamentary election, the fifth in three years, resulting, after just one and a half years, in the return of Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister and the formation of a right‐wing government. All along 2022, the centre‐left coalition government was struggling to hold its narrow majority in the Knesset, and in June, it had lost its majority completely, having only 59 members. This forced the Prime Minister, Bennet, together with Lapid, the alternate Prime Minister, to call for a new election, which was held on 1 November. The results of the election were decisive and an all‐right‐wing coalition was formed with a majority of 64 seats in the Knesset. The coalition members included the leading party, Likud, along with the orthodox religious parties and the ultra‐right‐wing religious parties. On the left wing, two of the parties, Meretz and Balad, did not pass the electoral threshold.
Model‐based dose optimization framework for bedaquiline, pretomanid and linezolid for the treatment of drug‐resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Mehta Krina , Guo Tingjie , van der Graaf Piet H. , van Hasselt J. G. Coen
Published: October 2023

Aims

Bedaquiline, pretomanid and linezolid (BPaL) combination treatment against Mycobacterium tuberculosis is promising, yet safety and adherence concerns exist that motivate exploration of alternative dosing regimens. We developed a mechanistic modelling framework to compare the efficacy of the current and alternative BPaL treatment strategies.

Methods

Pharmacodynamic models for each drug in the BPaL combination treatment were developed using in vitro time‐kill data. These models were combined with pharmacokinetic models, incorporating body weight, lesion volume, site‐of‐action distribution, bacterial susceptibility and pharmacodynamic interactions to assemble the framework. The model was qualified by comparing the simulations against the observed clinical data. Simulations were performed evaluating bedaquiline and linezolid approved (bedaquiline 400 mg once daily [QD] for 14 days followed by 200 mg three times a week, linezolid 1200 mg QD) and alternative dosing regimens (bedaquiline 200 mg QD, linezolid 600 mg QD).

Results

The framework adequately described the observed antibacterial activity data in patients following monotherapy for each drug and approved BPaL dosing. The simulations suggested a minor difference in median time to colony forming unit (CFU)‐clearance state with the bedaquiline alternative compared to the approved dosing and the linezolid alternative compared to the approved dosing. Median time to non‐replicating‐clearance state was predicted to be 15 days from the CFU‐clearance state.

Conclusions

The model‐based simulations suggested that comparable efficacy can be achieved using alternative bedaquiline and linezolid dosing, which may improve safety and adherence in drug‐resistant tuberculosis patients. The framework can be utilized to evaluate treatment optimization approaches, including dosing regimen and duration of treatment predictions to eradicate both replicating‐ and non‐replicating bacteria from lung and lesions.
Making it happen: Development of an interprofessional deprescribing education programme
Authors: Kennie‐Kaulbach Natalie , Ramsay Emma , Gormley Hannah , Isenor Jennifer E.
Published: October 2023

Deprescribing is the planned and supervised reduction or discontinuation of medications that may be causing harm or are no longer benefiting a patient. The need for deprescribing to be a routine part of patient care is essential with an aging population and the rising prevalence of polypharmacy, which has been associated with increased adverse outcomes such as falls, hospitalizations and mortality. Deprescribing is a complex intervention that requires collaboration between the patient, caregivers and healthcare providers to adequately support all involved, as well as to ensure medications are not restarted in error. The objective of this article is to describe the stepwise approach to planning and ongoing development of an online, interprofessional deprescribing education programme for healthcare providers and students with the goal of enhancing deprescribing practice. There were four main planning and development components: (1) a needs assessment to provide guidance on programme design, development and delivery; (2) a consultative programme planning process with an advisory group of stakeholders and patient partners to inform programme learning outcomes and content; (3) a core development team for the creation of programme content; and (4) planning for programme evaluation. Based on the stepwise and consultative process, programme outcomes were identified, and five modules were developed.
Real world evidence supports waking salivary cortisone as a screening test for adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Debono Miguel , Caunt Sharon , Elder Charlotte , Fearnside Jane , Lewis Jen , Keevil Brian , Dixon Simon , Ross Richard
Published: October 2023

Objective

Worldwide, adults and children are at risk of adrenal insufficiency largely due to infectious diseases and adrenal suppression from use of anti‐inflammatory glucocorticoids. Home waking salivary cortisone is an accurate screening test for adrenal insufficiency, it has potential to reduce costs, and patients prefer it to the adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) (synacthen) stimulation test. We carried out a service evaluation of home waking salivary cortisone in clinical care to identify implementation barriers.

Design, Patients and Measurements

Service evaluation in a centre where 212 patients referred for adrenal insufficiency had a waking salivary cortisone. Problems encountered during testing were recorded and patient feedback, via focus groups, collected.

Results

From all patients providing a waking salivary cortisone 55% had a normal test, 23% adrenal suppression, and 22% an equivocal result requiring a clinical centre ACTH stimulation test. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) for the time of the saliva sample was 07:40 (07:00–08:40). The median (IQR) days between collection and (i) delivery to local laboratory was 1 (0.25–2) day; (ii) reporting by local laboratory was 13 (11–18) days. Patients considered the test is “easy to do” and preferred it to the inpatient ACTH stimulation test. The principal challenge to clinical implementation was results reporting to clinicians due to delays at the local laboratory.

Conclusions

This service evaluation provides real‐world evidence that home waking salivary cortisone is an effective, practical screening test for adrenal insufficiency. It identified key barriers to testing implementation that need to be addressed when introducing the test to a health service.
Collusion or governance? Common ownership and corporate risk‐taking
Authors: Yao Shouyu , Guo Xinyu , Sensoy Ahmet , Goodell John W. , Cheng Feiyang
Published: October 2023

Research Question

Disputes over the corporate governance impacts of common ownership continue. Differentiating from existing studies, we focus on the Chinese stock market, exploiting the Top 10 Shareholding File, which includes various investors besides institutional investors, to study the impact of common ownership built through blockholders on corporate risk‐taking behavior.

Research Findings

We find that firms with higher common ownership are less likely to engage in corporate risk‐taking, with concomitant decreases in future growth rates. Mechanism analysis shows that blockholders' common ownership exerts its influence through increasing market concentration, with concomitant lessening of market competition. Interestingly, further analyses indicate that, in contrast to blockholders, ownership connectedness built by mutual fund families significantly raises corporate risk‐taking along with growth. However, individual investors' common ownership does not show the significant statistical relationship with corporate risk‐taking.

Theoretical Implications

We add to the debate on common ownership on corporate governance. Consistent with the anti‐competition stream of literature, the risk‐taking‐reduction role we identify for blockholder common ownership supports the theory of anti‐competition. Our results highlight the need to consider the heterogeneity of common ownership.

Policy Implications

While blockholder common ownership is evidenced to have a negative effect on corporate risk‐taking, with, by extension, a negative impact on economic development, our results also suggest that efficient monitoring mitigates these effects. We also document an interesting heterogeneity in investor types. Mutual fund common ownership, in contrast to blockholder common ownership, is associated with higher risk‐taking and more robust firm growth. This suggests the positive role of institutions in corporate governance and the necessity of considering the heterogeneity of common ownership.
Plurigenealogies: Marriage and address to women in Foucault's Confessions of the Flesh
Authors: Deutscher Penelope
Published: October 2023

How does the publication of Confessions of the Flesh impact feminist critique of Foucault's History of Sexuality project? The paper addresses this question in two ways: by asking how reflection on continuities and ruptures has, and can, be productive for feminist critique; and by revisiting the role of women in all four volumes. The terms of their inclusion have been considered an omission, particularly because the project omits same‐sex eros between women. Where women appear, they are framed as spouses, or as subordinated to some form of authority. And yet, insofar as the project contains more than one genealogical dimension, Foucault's “marriages” also belong to proximate plurigenealogies. In Confession's focus on the conditions for a juridical and divided self's subjectivation by will and desire, even the limited parameters within which women appear in the project incite the following question. What are the implications of Confessions of the Flesh's juridical self for genealogies of female subjectivation?
High‐resolution patterning on LTCC by transfer of photolithography‐based metallic microstructures
Authors: Supreeti Shraddha , Fischer Michael , Fritz Mathias , Müller Jens
Published: October 2023

The growing applications and constant miniaturization of electronic devices and of low‐temperature co‐fired ceramics (LTCC) in various fields, such as aviation, telecommunications, automotive, satellite communications, and military, have led to an increase in the demand for LTCC. Such prospects arise due to the continuous scaling down of components and high‐density interconnection in electronics packaging. This paper reports a technique for the transfer of high‐resolution microstructures from silicon substrates to LTCC. In this method, gold and copper patterns were formed by photolithography, electrodeposition, and residual layer stripping on silicon substrate. Lithography provides the opportunity to create and transfer complex patterns for use in several different applications and electroplating enables the use of pure metal for excellent electrical properties. The developed structures were transferred onto a top layer of LTCC tape using hot embossing. Then, the subsequent layers were stacked, laminated, and sintered. A resolution of 1.5 μm after free sintering and 4.5 μm after pressure‐assisted sintering was achieved. This distinctive method can be useful for several applications requiring high‐resolution and superior electrical properties.
Fabrication of Er3+:YAlO3 fibers by electrospinning method for upconversion luminescence applications
Authors: Gan Xinzhu , Tian Bin , Wang Zhigang , Xu Yong , Li Ling , Wang Lin , Xu Chonghe
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to prepare YAlO3 fibers doped with 2 mol% Er3+ using electrospinning and a carbon‐free sol system as the precursor. X‐ray diffraction, thermal gravimetry and differential thermal analysis, and Fourier transform infrared were employed to characterize the thermal behavior and crystallization process of the precursor fibers. Scanning electron microscope analysis showed that the Er3+:YAlO3 fibers had a uniform diameter of 1 μm, a dense and crack‐free surface, and a non‐porous cross‐section. Upon excitation at 450 and 488 nm, upconverted luminescence spectra were obtained from the Er3+:YAlO3 fibers. This observation indicates their potential as upconversion luminescent agents capable of converting visible light into ultraviolet light. These properties make the Er3+:YAlO3 fibers promising candidates for various upconversion luminescence applications.
Preparation and ablation resistance of carbon fiber with yttrium silicate coating
Authors: Wang Shuang , Huang Haiming , Yao Jun , Zhou Changling , Jiang Kai
Published: October 2023

In order to solve the shortcoming of fiber oxidation in a high‐temperature environment and improve the antiablative performance, yttrium silicate is coated on the carbon fibers’ surface by the sol‐gel process. In the present work, investigations of the ablation resistance of carbon fiber composites with yttrium silicate coatings (YS‐CFs) prepared by different sol contents and sintering temperatures are reported. The results show that YS‐CFs exhibit excellent ablation resistance in the oxyacetylene test with a heat flow of 1.5 MW/m2. The surface coating of carbon fiber is composed of a mixture of cristobalite, yttrium monosilicate, and yttrium disilicate. The best ceramic coating could be obtained by dipping 20% silica sol and 14% yttrium sol in turn and sintering at 1300°C. In this case, the linear and mass ablation rates reach the minimum values of .667 μm/s and 2.975 mg/s, respectively. YS‐CFs could be used as reinforcements for thermal protection materials in high‐temperature environments.
Comparative analysis of three immunochromatographic test strips for rapid detection of cadmium ion in Asparagus
Authors: Zhu Zhanwang , Jia Jingze , Xu Naifeng , Zhu Jiangxiong , Wang Jue , Wang Yuanfeng
Published: October 2023

Currently, there is increasing concern regarding the presence of cadmium ion (Cd2+) residues in Asparagus, necessitating the development of a rapid, sensitive and effective detection method. Immunochromatographic detection techniques offer a swift and efficient primary screening approach, significantly reducing labour and material resources compared to traditional detection methods. In this study, we aimed to construct and optimise an immunochromatographic test strip method for precise determination of Cd2+ content in Asparagus. To achieve this, monoclonal cadmium antibody (4A9) was prepared and conjugated with colloidal gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), latex microspheres (LM) and polydopamine (PDA) to create immunoprobes for test strip construction. We optimised key factors, such as probe parameters, strip assembly conditions and sample pretreatment methods. The sensitivity and detection capabilities of the three test strips were evaluated using actual Asparagus samples. The results demonstrated that all three immunochromatographic test strips exhibited high sensitivity, efficiency and rapidity in detecting Cd2+ levels in Asparagus. Notably, the LM‐based and PDA‐based test strips showed outstanding performance, with a visual limit of detection (vLOD) of 0.1 ng mL−1 and an elimination value of 2.0 ng mL−1. These findings underscore the promising potential of these test strips for practical cadmium detection in Asparagus samples.
Why don't dental teams routinely discuss dentine hypersensitivity during consultations? A qualitative study informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Asimakopoulou Koula , West Nicola , Davies Maria , Gupta Anisha , Parkinson Charlie , Scambler Sasha
Published: October 2023

Aim

Although dentine hypersensitivity is widespread, can cause substantial pain and impact quality of life, it is not routinely discussed during dental consultations. This qualitative study aimed to develop an understanding of the barriers and facilitators to these discussions.

Materials and Methods

Using the Theoretical Domains Framework to shape the topic guide, N = 7 online focus groups were organized with a total N = 40 participants comprising experienced dentists, dental foundation trainees and dental care professionals. Inductive and deductive thematic analyses of the anonymized, transcribed focus group conversations were undertaken.

Results

An attitude–behaviour gap was observed in dental teams' accounts. Although they saw it as part of their professional role to routinely discuss sensitivity, and believed that such conversations were ‘an easy win’, in practice they experienced several behavioural barriers that hindered these conversations from taking place. These included competing priorities, a perceived lack of seriousness and assessment of dentine hypersensitivity and practical issues such as time.

Conclusions

Systemic (e.g., lack of time and training, professional culture) and behavioural (e.g., dental teams' belief that conversations should take place only with patients likely to be adherent) barriers to dentine hypersensitivity conversations explain why these conversations do not routinely take place.
The inclusion of adults with intellectual disabilities in health research – challenges, barriers and opportunities: a mixed‐method study among stakeholders in England
Authors: Bishop R. , Laugharne R. , Shaw N. , Russell A. M. , Goodley D. , Banerjee S. , Clack E. ,   SpeakUp,   CHAMPS, Shankar R.
Published: October 2023

Background

The study aims to understand system barriers to research participation for people with intellectual disabilities.

Methods

A mixed‐methods approach examined the inclusivity of people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) in a random sample of National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) studies conducted in 2019–2020. An online questionnaire (stage 1) was sent to the selected studies lead investigators. An expert by experience panel of 25 people with intellectual disabilities (IDs, stage 2), discussed the stage 1 feedback. Descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data was conducted.

Results

Of 180 studies reviewed, 131 studies (78%) excluded people with IDs. Of these, 45 (34.3%) study researchers provided feedback. Seven (20%) of the 34 studies which included people with IDs gave feedback. Of all respondents over half felt their study had some relevance to people with IDs. A minority (7.6%) stated their study had no relevance. For a quarter of respondents (23.5%), resource issues were a challenge. Qualitative analysis of both stages produced four overarching themes of Research design and delivery, Informed consent, Resource allocation, and Knowledge and skills.

Conclusion

Health research continues to exclude people with IDs. Researchers and experts by experience identified non‐accessible research design, lack of confidence with capacity and consent processes, limited resources such as time and a need for training as barriers. Ethics committees appear reluctant to include people with cognitive deficits to ‘protect’ them. People with IDs want to be included in research, not only as participants but also through coproduction.
Effect of age and sex on hematological and biochemical parameters in Chinese rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) anesthetized with ketamine
Authors: Zhu Gaohong , Liu Xuedan , Feng Jiaojiao , Deng Yun , Li Yijiang , Ma Qionglin , Chen Lilin , Su Yulin , Ping An , Xie Fei , Wang Tinghua , Lv Longbao
Published: October 2023

Objective

Rhesus monkeys are increasingly used in biomedical research, which makes their hematological and biochemical parameters increasingly important in preclinical research. Since age and sex can influence blood parameters, establishing reference intervals for such parameters based on age and sex becomes along with identifying the effect of age and sex on those parameters.

Methods

A total of 1385 healthy Chinese rhesus monkeys (548 males and 837 females) anesthetized with ketamine were selected and segregated by age (six groups) and sex. A total of 21 hematological and 26 biochemical parameters were measured, and the effects of age and sex were analyzed.

Results

We established baseline indices for hematological and biochemical parameters based on age and sex, separately, and observed significant impacts of age, sex, and age‐sex interactions on blood parameters. Among different age groups, significant differences were found in WBC, NEUT%, LYM%, EO%, LYM#, EO#, MCV, RDW‐CV, PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT, TP, Alb, GLB, A/G, ALT, AST, ALP, TBIL, GGT, BUN, Cre, GLU, CK, TRIG, LDL, HCY, IL‐6 FOL, Vit B12, VIT D‐T, PTH, and AMH. Additionally, significant differences were observed in RBC, HGB, HCT, MPV, Alb, BUN, Cre, GLU, CHOL, TRIG, HDL, LDL, HCY, and VIT D‐T between the two sexes. An age‐sex interaction exerted a significant effect on WBC, NEUT#, MCV, MCHC, PDW, GLB, ALP, Cre, CHOL, TRIG, HDL, LDL, HCY, IL‐6, Vit B12, VIT D‐T. However, neither age, sex, and age‐sex interactions exerted significant effects on MO%, MOMO#, MCH, RDW‐SD, CRP, and CT.

Conclusion

Our study investigated the blood parameters of rhesus monkeys to provide a reference basis for rhesus monkey‐related scientific experimental research.
Enhancing subsidiary innovation capability through customer involvement in new product development: A contingent knowledge source perspective
Authors: Zhang Tracy Junfeng , Wang Danny T. , Tse Caleb H. , Tse Sin Yan
Published: October 2023

In recent decades, multinational enterprises (MNEs) have increasingly harnessed local knowledge through various customer involvement practices implemented by their foreign subsidiaries. Our study, using a multi‐informant survey of 230 MNE subsidiaries in China, explores how these subsidiaries manage customer involvement in new product development (NPD). We specifically focus on two practices: using customers as an information source (CIS) or as a co‐developer (CIC). We posit that the two types of customer involvement have distinct effects on a subsidiary's innovation capability, which in turn impacts two critical NPD outcomes: innovativeness and speed to market. Moreover, we suggest that the roles that customers play in CIS and CIC, as well as their contribution to the subsidiary's innovation capability, depend on whether the specific knowledge is derived from the parent headquarters or local partners. Our findings reveal that technological knowledge transfer from the parent headquarters enhances CIS's effect on innovation capability, yet diminishes that of CIC. In contrast, knowledge sharing from local partners exerts the opposite effects. By elucidating the underlying mechanisms and contingencies, our study fosters a deeper understanding of customer involvement in NPD and provides insightful guidance for MNEs seeking to leverage local knowledge for successful innovations in foreign markets.
An analytical complete model of root pressure generation: Theoretical bases for studying hydraulics of bamboo
Authors: Yang Dongmei , Zhou Wei , Wang Xiaolin , Zhao Mei , Zhang Yong‐Jiang , Tyree Melvin T. , Peng Guoquan
Published: October 2023

To better understand the dynamics and functional roles of root pressure, we represent a novel and the first complete analytical model for root pressure, which can be applied to complex roots/shoots. The osmotic volume of a single root is equal to that of the vessel lumen in fine roots and adjacent apoplastic spaces. Water uptake occurs via passive osmosis and active solute uptake (, osmol s−1), resulting in the osmolyte concentration Cr (mol·kg−1 of water) at a fixed osmotic volume. Solute loss occurs via two passive processes: radial diffusion of solute Km (Cr− Csoil) from fine roots to soil, where Km is the diffusional constant and Csoil is the soil–solute concentration, and the mass flow of solute and water into the plant from the fine roots. The proposed model predicts the quadratic function of root pressure (Pr), , where b and c are the functions of plant hydraulic resistance, soil water potential, solute flux and gravitational potential. The model demonstrates the root pressure‐mediated distribution of water through the hydraulic architecture of a 6.8‐m‐tall bamboo shoot. This model provides a theoretical basis to test the functional roles of root pressure in shaping the hydraulic architecture and refilling potential xylem embolisms.
Unprecedented oviposition tactics avoid plant defences and reduce attack by parasitic wasps
Authors: Shi Jin‐Hua , Sun Ze , Pickett John A. , Hu Xin‐Jun , Wang Chao , Liu Le , Jin Huanan , Abdelnabby Hazem , Foba Caroline Ngichop , Yang Xue‐Qing , Chang Xiang‐Qian , Wang Man‐Qun
Published: October 2023

Female insects oviposit in sites suitable for the development of their offspring. The Oriental armyworm, Mythimna separata is a serious pest of various crops including wheat and prefers to oviposit on withered leaves rather than on fresh plant material, which is surprisingly different from other insects. Studies here showed that this oviposition tactic enables avoidance of wheat defence against eggs and emerged larvae. Intact plants responded to M. separata egg deposition by releasing oviposition‐induced plant volatiles including acetophenone, tetradecene and pentadecane after 24 h. Acetophenone was identified as quantitatively accounting for the attraction of the egg parasitoid wasp (Trichogramma chilonis). Leaf jasmonic acid levels significantly increased after M. separata laid eggs, and primed the plant against emerging larvae. In addition, newly emerged M. separata larvae adopted a fast crawling behaviour and starvation tolerance compared with other noctuid larvae, which enhanced the survival of larvae on the withered leaves. The elucidation of this complex and surprising plant‐insect interaction provides the first explanation for a herbivore laying eggs on withered leaves to avoid natural enemies and live‐plant defence against emerging larvae.
Next‐generation of melanoma researchers: Trainee perspectives from around the world
Authors: Webster Marie R. , Brathwaite Roderick , Narula Jeremy A. Bravo , Elad Vissy M. , Ma Yanni , Ng Mei Fong , de Moraes Junior Manoel Oliveira , Shabangu Majahonkhe , Tsiavou Christina , Villanueva Jessie , Rebecca Vito W.
Published: October 2023

The Society for Melanoma Research (SMR) was created 20 years ago and has unequivocally contributed to the vast progress of the field, particularly for the treatment of melanoma patients with metastatic disease by facilitating synergistic collaborations between clinicians, researchers at the bench, and industry. In commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the first SMR International Congress (held in 2003 in Philadelphia), we look to the future by highlighting the perspectives of the next generation of rising stars, medical, and graduate students across six continents.
Multiple rhabdomyomatous mesenchymal hamartomas in a patient with mosaic Barber–Say syndrome
Authors: Giacaman Aniza , Corral‐Magaña Oriol , Saus Sarrias Carlos , González‐López Guillermo , Asensio Landa Víctor José , Martín‐Santiago Ana
Published: October 2023

Barber–Say syndrome (BSS) is a rare congenital ectodermal dysplasia with few cases reported in the literature. We describe a 9‐year‐old boy with congenital generalized hypertrichosis and multiple rhabdomyomatous mesenchymal hamartomas (RMHs) on his nose and periocular region. Next‐generation sequencing, performed in DNA from a blood sample, and RMH tissue, revealed a pathogenic variant in the TWIST2 gene, which was not detected in a salivary sample of the patient, nor in his parents. Therefore, we consider this variant as de novo mosaicism. To our knowledge, this is the first case of multiple RMHs associated with BSS.
Do socioeconomic factors impact atopic dermatitis outcome? A single‐center study
Authors: Reimer‐Taschenbrecker Antonia , Daniel Moriel , Rangel Stephanie M. , Paller Amy S.
Published: October 2023

Background

Race and socioeconomic status are thought to influence the severity of atopic dermatitis (AD), but findings differ between countries and measures used. The role of social determinants of health versus biologic factors in causing these differences is poorly understood.

Objective

We hypothesized that spatially‐derived factors correlate with AD severity and patient‐reported outcome (PRO) in a pediatric cohort from Chicago, USA.

Methods

Children with AD and caregivers were enrolled from February 2018 to April 2019 in this single‐site cross‐sectional study. Severity was self‐ and physician‐assessed using validated measures. Patient addresses were geocoded and linked to census tract IDs. Deprivation index (DI) was calculated using variables of the 2018 American Community Survey.

Results

Among 216 children aged 5–17 years old, 111 (51.4%) lived in urban, 104 (48.1%) suburban, and one (0.5%) in rural areas. Race was self‐classified as White in 31.0%, Black 24.5%, other or mixed 25.0%, and Asian 19.4%; 24.5% were Hispanic. Median DI was 0.32 (range 0.03–0.72), with higher scores indicating more deprivation. DI correlated with insurance type, family income, ethnicity, race, and parental education, and weakly with selected PRO T‐scores. However, no correlations between any AD severity score and DI, race, ethnicity, income, education, or insurance type were found.

Conclusion

The impact of socioeconomic factors on AD severity in our study population was less pronounced than expected. This could be because of regional differences, including access to high‐quality care. The role of access as a deciding factor in the impact of socioeconomic status on AD outcome deserves further investigation.
An integrated approach for rapid exploration of carbonatites and related mineral resources
Authors: Khan Asad , Ali Muhammad , Khan Saad , Ullah Zaheen , Faisal Shah , Ahmad Laeiq
Published: October 2023

Carbonatites are proven significant repositories of several critical and strategic elements such as rare earth elements, niobium, thorium, and uranium. Owing to their economic significance, mapping of carbonatites and associated mineral deposits has occupied prominent place in mineral resource exploration programs. In this study an integrated approach was developed to map carbonatite and related mineral deposits in the Loe‐Shilman, Northwest Himalaya of Pakistan, using remotely sensed advance space‐borne thermal emission and reflection radiometer (ASTER) multispectral data and visible near infrared and short‐wave infrared (VNIR‐SWIR) spectral characteristics of minerals in these deposits. Several image enhancement techniques, including band ratio (i.e., B4/B3), principal component and minimum noise fraction transformation (PC6 and MNF5, respectively) helped in highlighting the targeted rocks. The results demonstrate the suitability of ASTER data for discriminating carbonatite related mineral deposits from other surrounding lithologies. Results obtained from these methods were validated through field observations in the area and further confirmed through petrographic and chemical analyses of collected specimens. Field data have also served as training data to perform a supervised classification, allowing further improvement of the mapping results. Moreover, the obtained results from the techniques used for exploring carbonatites and related mineral deposits were stacked together for comparison with each other, to check their sensitivities, and assess their efficiency and accuracy. Generally, all these methods successfully highlighted carbonatites and related mineral deposits; however, when used integratively they exhibit higher degree of accuracy, and has proven to be relatively rapid and cost‐effective.
Computation of Isolated Periodic Solutions for Forced Response Blade-Tip/Casing Contact Problems
Authors: Vadcard Thibaut , Thouverez Fabrice , Batailly Alain
Published: October 2023

This article introduces a numerical procedure dedicated to the identification of isolated branches of solutions for nonlinear mechanical systems. Here, it is applied to a fan blade subject to rubbing interactions and harmonic forcing. Both contact, which is initiated by means of the harmonic forcing, and dry friction are accounted for. The presented procedure relies on the computation of the system's nonlinear normal modes (NNM) and their analysis through the application of an energy principle derived from the Melnikov function. The dynamic Lagrangian frequency-time strategy associated with the harmonic balance method (DLFT-HBM) is used to predict the blade's dynamics response as well as to compute the autonomous nonlinear normal modes. The open industrial fan blade NASA rotor 67 is employed in order to avoid confidentiality issues and to promote the reproducibility of the presented results. Previous publications have underlined the complexity of NASA rotor 67's dynamics response as it undergoes structural contacts, thus making it an ideal benchmark blade when searching for isolated solutions. The application of the presented procedure considering a varying amplitude of the harmonic forcing allows to predict isolated branches of solutions featuring nonlinear resonances. With the use of the Melnikov energy principle, nonlinear modal interactions are shown to be responsible for the separation of branches of solutions from the main response curve. In the end, the application of the presented procedure on an industrial blade model with contact interactions demonstrates that it is both industry-ready and applicable to highly nonlinear mechanical systems.
Applicability of Numerical Simulation to the Classification of Fluid Dynamic Loss in Aeroengine Transmission Gears
Authors: Arisawa Hidenori , Tanaka Mitsuaki , Hashimoto Hironori , Goi Tatsuhiko , Banno Takahiko , Imai Hideyuki
Published: October 2023

In high-speed gear systems for aeroengines, reducing the fluid dynamic loss, which accounts for the majority of power loss, can significantly improve fuel economy. However, few practical numerical examples are available regarding high-speed gas–liquid two-phase flows involving gear meshing and gear shrouds (gear enclosures, which are effective for loss reduction). Therefore, in this study, the porosity method for object boundaries including the gear meshing, the volume of fluid method, and the surface compression method for the gas–liquid interface was used as fast and numerically stable calculation methods. In addition, a gap was provided at the contact surface of the gear tooth surface to improve the calculation stability, and the oil properties were set considering the difference between the flow resistance in a two-phase flow and that in a single-phase flow (due to the separation of oil particles) to improve the calculation accuracy. To validate the numerical simulation method, a two-axis helical gearbox with a maximum peripheral speed of 100 m/s with specifications equivalent to aeroengine gears was used, and the air flow, oil flow, and fluid dynamic losses were validated. Once the practical accuracy was confirmed, the numerical simulation was used to understand the relationship between air and oil flows, torque, and the effect of the shroud. Consequently, the fluid dynamic loss could be classified phenomenologically.
Experiments on Tuned UHBR Open-Test-Case Fan ECL5/CATANA: Stability Limit
Authors: Brandstetter Christoph , Fiquet Anne-Lise , Schneider Alexandra P. , Paoletti Benoit , Ottavy Xavier
Published: October 2023

Research of the past decades has shown that the operating range of modern fans and compressors is often limited by aeroelastic phenomena before the onset of pure aerodynamic instability. Prediction of these mechanisms is challenging for state-of-the-art numerical methods, particularly for configurations with flexible wide-chord blades. To provide a benchmark configuration for the community, the composite-material fan stage ECL5, representative of near future ultra-high-bypass ratio architectures has been designed at Ecole Centrale de-Lyon and recently shared as an open-test-case. In research program CATANA, different configurations with variable tuning and intake geometries are investigated experimentally, and here we present a comprehensive aeroelastic study of the tuned reference configuration. The study encompasses the investigation of the whole subsonic and transonic operating range using multiphysical instrumentation. A characterization of structural properties under running conditions is analyzed in comparison to individual blade measurements and FEM-predictions. The stability limit is investigated at different speedlines. At transonic conditions, rotating stall occurred without aeroelastic precursors. Severe nonsynchronous-vibrations were observed at subsonic speeds and limited the operating range before the onset of rotating stall. Through a detailed analysis of the aeroelastic coupling mechanism, a full characterization of interacting modes is presented. The challenging prediction of this coupled phenomenon and the discrepancy to aeroelastic simulations are discussed. The results are a promising benchmark for future method development, particularly involving high-fidelity methods.
The Structure and Stability of Premixed CH4, H2, and NH3/H2 Flames in an Axially Staged Can Combustor
Authors: Ånestad Aksel , Sampath Ramgopal , Moeck Jonas , Gruber Andrea , Worth Nicholas A.
Published: October 2023

An experimental investigation of flame structure, stability, and emissions performance was conducted in a two-stage lab-scale generic combustor design operated with CH4, H2, and NH3/H2 fuel blends. The main flame zone features a premixed bluff body stabilized flame, with a secondary flame zone initiated downstream by injecting premixed air and fuel using two opposing radial jets. The total power and air flowrate are kept constant between the different fueling cases, while the air split between stages and equivalence ratios are varied to explore conditions relevant to gas turbine operation. Given the relative novelty of the configuration, special emphasis is given to analyzing the structure of the opposing jet flames in the secondary stage. In contrast to previous literature on reacting jets in cross flow, these interact significantly due to their proximity, leading to a merged flame zone at the impingement location in the center of the combustion chamber, and some flame propagation upstream of the jet location. As the jet-to-crossflow momentum ratio increases, the merged flame zone changes shape, reaching close to the walls for the methane cases but remaining very compact when operating with almost pure hydrogen. For the hydrogen flames, diverting more air to the second stage allows higher total thermal power conditions to be reached, while avoiding flashback, and eliminates thermoacoustic instabilities. For ammonia-hydrogen flames, air is diverted to the second stage, while a constant fuel flow is sent to the primary stage, resulting in some locally rich conditions in the primary flame. A local minima in terms of NOX occurs when the primary flame is operated at an equivalence ratio of 1.15. Analysis of the flame structure suggests that this state corresponds to almost complete combustion or pyrolysis of NH3 in the main flame, with the remaining hydrogen burned in an inverse diffusion flame in the secondary zone.
Impact of Preheating on Flame Stabilization and NOx Emissions From a Dual Swirl Hydrogen Injector
Authors: Magnes Hervé , Marragou Sylvain , Aniello Andrea , Selle Laurent , Poinsot Thierry , Schuller Thierry
Published: October 2023

Flame stabilization, flame structure, and pollutant emissions are investigated experimentally on a swirled injection system operating with globally lean air/hydrogen mixtures at atmospheric conditions and moderate Reynolds numbers. This injector consists of two coaxial ducts with separate injection of hydrogen into a central channel and of air into an annular channel. Both streams are swirled. The resulting flames exhibit two stabilization modes. In one case, the flame takes an M-shape and is anchored to the hydrogen injector lips. In the second case, the flame is aerodynamically stabilized above the injector and takes a V-shape. Regions of existence of each stabilization mode are determined according to the operating conditions. For low air flow rates, the flame can be either anchored or lifted above the hydrogen injector lips depending on the path followed to reach the operating condition. At high air flow rates, the flame is always lifted regardless of the trajectory followed. The impact of air inlet temperature on these stabilization regimes is then evaluated from T= 300 K up to 770 K. Flame re-attachment is shown to be controlled by edge flame propagation and the impact of preheating is well reproduced by the model. Unburnt hydrogen and NOx emissions are finally evaluated. Unburnt hydrogen is only observed for global equivalence ratios below 0.4 and at ambient inlet temperature. NOx emissions decrease when the global equivalence ratio is reduced. Furthermore, at fixed global equivalence ratio, NOx emissions decrease as the thermal power increases, regardless of air preheating and the flame stabilization regime. At high power, NOx emissions reach an asymptotic value that is independent of the thermal power. The impact of flame shape, air preheating, and combustion chamber wall heat losses on NOx production is also evaluated. NOx emissions are shown to scale with the adiabatic flame temperature Tad at the global equivalence ratio and the residence time inside the combustor.