bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reorganization of the Flagellum Scaffolding Induces a Sperm Standstill During Fertilization
Authors: Jabloñski Martina , Luque Guillermina M , Gómez-Elías Matías D , Sanchez-Cardenas Claudia , Xu Xinran , de la Vega-Beltran Jose Luis , Corkidi Gabriel , Linares Alejandro , Abonza Amaro Victor X , Arenas-Hernandez Aquetzalli , Del Pilar Ramos-Godinez María , López-Saavedra Alejandro , Krapf Dario , Krapf Diego , Darszon Alberto , Guerrero Adan , Buffone Mariano G
Published: September 2024

Mammalian sperm delve into the female reproductive tract to fertilize the female gamete. The available information about how sperm regulate their motility during the final journey to the fertilization site is extremely limited. In this work, we investigated the structural and functional changes in the sperm flagellum after AE and during the interaction with the eggs. The evidence demonstrates that the double helix actin network surrounding the mitochondrial sheath of the midpiece undergoes structural changes prior to the motility cessation. This structural modification is accompanied by a decrease in diameter of the midpiece and is driven by intracellular calcium changes that occur concomitant with a reorganization of the actin helicoidal cortex. Midpiece contraction occurs in a subset of cells that undergo AE, live-cell imaging during in vitro fertilization showed that the midpiece contraction is required for motility cessation after fusion is initiated. These findings provide the first evidence of the F-actin network’s role in regulating sperm motility, adapting its function to meet specific cellular requirements during fertilization, and highlighting the broader significance of understanding sperm motility.
The conserved genetic program of male germ cells uncovers ancient regulators of human spermatogenesis
Authors: Correia Rion Brattig , Almeida Joana M , Wyrwoll Margot J , Julca Irene , Sobral Daniel , Misra Chandra Shekhar , Persio Sara Di , Guilgur Leonardo G , Schuppe Hans-Christian , Silva Neide , Prudêncio Pedro , Nóvoa Ana , Leocádio Ana S , Bom Joana , Laurentino Sandra , Mallo Moisés , Kliesch Sabine , Mutwil Marek , Rocha Luis M , Tüttelmann Frank , Becker Jörg D , Navarro-Costa Paulo
Published: September 2024

Male germ cells share a common origin across animal species, therefore they likely retain a conserved genetic program that defines their cellular identity. However, the unique evolutionary dynamics of male germ cells coupled with their widespread leaky transcription pose significant obstacles to the identification of the core spermatogenic program. Through network analysis of the spermatocyte transcriptome of vertebrate and invertebrate species, we describe the conserved evolutionary origin of metazoan male germ cells at the molecular level. We estimate the average functional requirement of a metazoan male germ cell to correspond to the expression of approximately 10,000 protein-coding genes, a third of which defines a genetic scaffold of deeply conserved genes that has been retained throughout evolution. Such scaffold contains a set of 79 functional associations between 104 gene expression regulators that represent a core component of the conserved genetic program of metazoan spermatogenesis. By genetically interfering with the acquisition and maintenance of male germ cell identity, we uncover 161 previously unknown spermatogenesis genes and three new potential genetic causes of human infertility. These findings emphasize the importance of evolutionary history on human reproductive disease and establish a cross-species analytical pipeline that can be repurposed to other cell types and pathologies.
The theory of massively repeated evolution and full identifications of Cancer Driving Nucleotides (CDNs)
Authors: Zhang Lingjie , Deng Tong , Liufu Zhongqi , Liu Xueyu , Chen Bingjie , Hu Zheng , Liu Chenli , Lu Xuemei , Wen Haijun , Wu Chung-I
Published: September 2024

Tumorigenesis, like most complex genetic traits, is driven by the joint actions of many mutations. At the nucleotide level, such mutations are Cancer Driving Nucleotides (CDNs). The full sets of CDNs are necessary, and perhaps even sufficient, for the understanding and treatment of each cancer patient. Currently, only a small fraction of CDNs is known as most mutations accrued in tumors are not drivers. We now develop the theory of CDNs on the basis that cancer evolution is massively repeated in millions of individuals. Hence, any advantageous mutation should recur frequently and, conversely, any mutation that does not is either a passenger or deleterious mutation. In the TCGA cancer database (sample size
n
= 300 - 1000), point mutations may recur in
i
out of
n
patients. This study explores a wide range of mutation characteristics to determine the limit of recurrences (
i
*) driven solely by neutral evolution. Since no neutral mutation can reach
i
* = 3, all mutations recurring at
i
≥ 3 are CDNs. The theory shows the feasibility of identifying almost all CDNs if
n
increases to 100,000 for each cancer type. At present, only < 10% of CDNs have been identified. When the full sets of CDNs are identified, the evolutionary mechanism of tumorigenesis in each case can be known and, importantly, gene targeted therapy will be far more effective in treatment and robust against drug resistance.
Optimizing Real-Time Advanced Ultrasound Supervision in a University Setting
Authors: Hanger Nina , Johnsen Lydia , Thomsen Ruth Stoklund , Stalsberg Ragna
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Ultrasound-based diagnosis requires great expertise for reliability and accuracy, thus practical training is vital. Digital training can offer students the possibility of practical training in their local setups. However, there are critical issues that remote educators must address, particularly in advanced ultrasound training. The present study was therefore aiming at developing a suitable technical setup for supervision and education in tele-ultrasound that can be applied to a variety of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic areas.
Methods: Using an action research approach including four cycles of action, we tested four technical setups with different software and hardware components across four ultrasound courses. Based on evaluation forms, written reflections, and two focus group interviews from the four cycles of action, respectively, we modified the setups to improve the technical solution for the next cycle.
Results: The initial set-up was using commercial video call apps via mobile phones. Although no additional equipment or expertise was required, it was precluded by the poor image quality and motion blur resulting from capturing the ultrasound image on the smartphone. Nevertheless, this solution is viable when quick clarifications are needed. Additional stabilization support in the second set-up did not provide satisfactory image quality. The best technical solution was found in the third set-up, using a frame grabber and Reacts, which allows simultaneous live streaming of the ultrasound screen image and two web cameras. However, the cumbersome software interface, the need for an expensive user license, and problems with the internet connection reduced the acceptability of this setup. The optimal setup in cycle four, was a reasonable frame grabber, and Zoom, which is free, has a simple user interface and can stream live audio-visual ultrasound data from the probe and user simultaneously. Its annotation function is also beneficial in supervision.
Conclusion: Through an action research approach including four cycles of action and thorough, subsequent evaluations, we found that a videoconferencing platform, such as Zoom, a computer, and a frame grabber connected to the ultrasound scanner was the optimal solution as this set-up is simple and affordable and is facilitating a good video-transmitted learning situation for students and supervisors. This technical set-up could therefore be suitable for a wide range of remote ultrasound courses.
Sustainable and strength-enhanced concrete using microbial consortia
Authors: Subitha T. , Manju R. , Sasikumar P.
Published: September 2024

The mechanical properties of concrete were examined by using steel fibres and two types of bacteria (Pseudomonas otitidis and Bacillus cereus). These steel fibres and bacteria were incorporated into the concrete mix in proportion to the weight of the cement. To ensure the resilience of microbial consortia incorporated into bio-concrete against the mechanical and chemical stresses encountered during concrete production, these microorganisms should exhibit critical characteristics, including robust alkali resistance and the ability to produce endospores. By employing 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we verified the identity of a group of organisms isolated from fermented lime mortar and curing construction water. Microbiologically induced calcite precipitation (MICP) was confirmed through microstructural analyses using techniques such as scanning electron microscope (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). The concrete was prepared with optimal concentrations of cultured bacteria (ranging from 103, 105 and 107 cells/ml), and steel fibres were added to the concrete at varying percentages (0%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%). The optimal steel fibre content was 1.5%, and its strength properties were compared to conventional concrete. Notably, when Pseudomonas otitidis and Bacillus cereus bacteria were added to the traditional and optimal concrete mix, the compressive strength was significantly enhanced compared to the conventional concrete mix.
Mobile Technology for Farmers: An Overview of Agricultural Apps
Authors: Kambale Parashuram , B M Dharma Raj , Patil Dayanand , N R Ganavi
Published: September 2024

A growing trend in agriculture is the use of mobile applications or apps on smartphones. Through the apps, farmers may obtain all information and answers with a single tap. Information about pests and diseases, scheme-related facts and the specifics of the package of practices are all kept in mobile devices for convenient access. Small-scale farmers make up the bulk of Indian farmers. They frequently lack access to the technological and informational resources that could help them raise the productivity of their crops and products and obtain higher prices. The ubiquitous mobile phone network provided a solution to this issue. The majority of apps are only useful for a certain amount of information, while some have multiple uses. This study examines the mobile applications for agriculture that are accessible in India and are intended for farmers. It is more likely that mobile apps in the agricultural and related industries will become more integrated and dependent. In the present study the Plantix application more effective as it is informative, simple and easy to use app.
The Impact of Internal Migration on HIV/AIDS Transmission in Tanzania
Authors: Kawiche Luther I.
Published: September 2024

This study examines the complex and dynamic relationship acting between the internal migration and the spread of HIV/AIDS in Tanzania. The study uses the Tanzania HIV/AIDS and Malaria indicators Survey (2011-2012) data extracted from the National Bureau of Statistics database. The study applied multivariate and logistic regression to analyze the determinants of HIV/AIDS prevalence in Tanzania. The study found that there are marginal differentials in the HIV/AIDS prevalence between migrants and non-migrants, but considering gender-wise differences the trend is substantially significant. The infection rate is higher to migrants aged thirty and above (17.3% for male and 17.5% for female) and with no education. The study also found that the HIV/AIDS prevalence is higher for non-agricultural occupations dominated by females while males account high percentage for non-working group. This study is important to government and stakeholders for addressing the dynamic interactions, policies and programs established to reduce the migration to the spread of the HIV/AIDS. Also, this study show how the different forms of migration influence the spread of HIV/AIDS. As a suggestion, the pilot program could be crucial and cost-effective for addressing factors contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Effects of Urbanization on Soil Quality in the Rural‒Urban Gradient of Bengaluru, India
Authors: Sathish Karan , Devakumar AS , Kokila A , Vairavan C , D Thrilekha , K B Chethan Kumar , M Shankar , Jeevan Narayanaswamy , Kannihalli Saleemali , A V Moorthy , Kousalya V , G S Shruthi , Saraswat Shweta
Published: September 2024

Understanding the impact of urbanization on soil quality is crucial for sustainable land management practices. This study was conducted in Bengaluru, India, to estimate the soil quality index (SQI) under different rural‒urban gradient (RUG) zones. Twenty-four sampling sites were identified along the RUG, and soil samples were collected monthly over five months during the October to February of 2020-2021. The soil quality assessment involved selecting the minimum data set (MDS) via principal component analysis (PCA) and correlation, scoring soil indicators, and combining these scores to create the soil quality index (SQI). PCA was used to identify key soil properties, which included microbial biomass carbon (MBC), SOC, N, manganese (Mn), and urease for different RUG zones derived from the MDS. The rural zones had the highest SQI (0.57), followed by the peri-urban (0.47 and 0.48) and urban (0.45 and 0.47) zones. These findings emphasize the importance of sustainable land management practices to preserve and boost soil quality across diverse regions, particularly in the face of rapid urbanization and industrialization.
Effect of Different Seed Priming Treatments on Seed Quality Components of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Dixit Ravi , Maurya C L , Kumar Shravan , Babu Keshav , Shrigovind  , Dixit Vineet , Yadav Anuj Kumar , Babu Sanjay
Published: September 2024

The effects of different seed priming treatments, namely tap water, KNO3 @ 2.5%, Thiourea @ 1000 ppm, CaCl2 @ 2%, NaCl2 @ 2%, ZnSO4 @ 1%, KH2PO4 @ 1% and Salicylic acid @ 100 ppm solutions, on seed quality parameters of Barley cv. K-1055 and K-409 in Factorial Completely Randomized Block Design with four replications were investigated during 2022-23 and 2023-24 at the laboratory of Department of Seed Science and Technology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur. Analysis of variance revealed that the all recorded seed quality parameters were significantly affected by various seed priming treatments. Priming with KNO3 @ 2.5 % showed maximum 1000 seed weight, standard germination %, seedling length, seedling root length, seedling shoot length, seedling dry weight, seed vigour index-I and seed vigour index-II.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on Soil Physico-chemical Properties in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Intercrop under Beul (Grewia optiva Drummond.) Based Agroforestry System and Open Condition
Authors: Prakash  , Pant K. S. , Prakash Prem , Bhatia A. K. , Saakshi  , Dhaka Ravindra Kumar
Published: September 2024

The raising human health hazards due to excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in India leads cancer patients. To overcome such problems there is need of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) in our major crop wheat and further to improve soil fertility under agroforestry system. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to study the impact of INM on the physical and chemical properties of soil when wheat intercropped under Beul (Grewia optiva) based agroforestry system in the mid-hill region of Himachal Pradesh at Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, HP (India). INM practices were applied to evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing soil fertility, crop yield, and overall soil health. The experimental setup included various treatment combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers viz., T1: RDF, T2: FYM, T3: Vermicompost, T4: Goat manure, T5: 50% RDF+50% FYM, T6: 50% RDF+50% VC, T7: 50% RDF+50% GM, and T8: Control to determine their synergistic effects on the soil and cereal crop. These treatments were randomly assigned to plots under two planting conditions: S1 (under Beul based agroforestry system) and S2 (open condition), with three replications each, following in a factorial randomized block design (RBD). The key physical parameters such as bulk density (g/cm3), particle density (g/cm3), porosity (%), and soil moisture (%) were measured along with chemical properties of soil including soil pH, EC (dS/m1), organic carbon content (%), and nutrient availability of N, P and K in kg per hectare. The soil data of two consecutive years and pooled data were analyzed in R Statistical Software. The results demonstrated that INM significantly improved both the physical and chemical soil properties in agroforestry system as compared to control treatment i.e. open condition. The use of 100 % FYM found to be best treatment during the course of study among various treatments of INM for soil porosity, soil moisture, soil pH, available N, P and K. The soil structure and nutrient availability were increased in second year as compared to first year which will lead to improve the growth and yield of wheat crop. The study underscores the importance of adopting INM practices in agroforestry system to achieve sustainable agriculture as well as chemical free agriculture in hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh which will be helpful for human health. Thus, the use 100% FYM fertilizer is recommended for farmers in hilly area of Himachal Pradesh for sustainable agriculture and natural farming. The findings provide valuable insights for farmers and policymakers aiming to optimize crop production and maintain soil health in similar agro-ecological zones.
Contribution of airborne microbes to bacterial production and N2 fixation in seawater upon aerosol deposition
Authors: Rahav Eyal , Ovadia Galit , Paytan Adina , Herut Barak
Published: December 2015

Aerosol deposition may supply a high diversity of airborne microbes, which can affect surface microbial composition and biological production. This study reports a diverse microbial community associated with dust and other aerosol particles, which differed significantly according to their geographical air mass origin. Microcosm bioassay experiments, in which aerosols were added to sterile (0.2 µm filtered and autoclaved) SE Mediterranean Sea (SEMS) water, were performed to assess the potential impact of airborne bacteria on bacterial abundance, production, and N2 fixation. Significant increase was observed in all parameters within a few hours, and calculations suggest that airborne microbes can account for one third in bacterial abundance and 50–100% in bacterial production and N2‐fixation rates following dust/aerosol amendments in the surface SEMS. We show that dust/aerosol deposition can be a potential source of a wide array of microorganisms, which may impact microbial composition and food web dynamics in oligotrophic marine systems such as the SEMS.
Quantifying the effect of vegetation change on the regional water balance within the Budyko framework
Authors: Zhang Shulei , Yang Hanbo , Yang Dawen , Jayawardena A. W.
Published: December 2015

The Budyko framework is widely used to investigate the impacts of climate and landscape changes on regional hydrology, but quantifying the effect of vegetation change is still a challenge due to the lack of an explicit expression of vegetation in Budyko equations. This study establishes a relationship between the change in the landscape parameter in a Budyko equation and vegetation change (represented by fPAR, the fraction of Photosynthetically Active Radiation absorbed by vegetation) for catchments in China, where, due to large‐scale soil and water conservation projects implemented by the Chinese government, vegetation and regional hydrology have changed substantially over the past 30 years. The ratio of landscape parameter change to the change in fPAR has a strong relationship with the aridity index, and thus, vegetation change can be converted into a change in the landscape parameter. Then, the fPAR elasticity of runoff is introduced and formulated under the Budyko framework. It provides a useful tool for the quantitative evaluation of the regional hydrological response to vegetation change, but the proposed relationship still needs to be evaluated in other catchments around the globe where large‐scale afforestation or vegetation recovery has occurred.
Moored observation of abyssal flow and temperature near a hydrothermal vent on the Southwest Indian Ridge
Authors: Liao Guanghong , Zhou Beifeng , Liang Chujin , Zhou Huaiyang , Ding Tao , Wang Yuan , Dong Changming
Published: December 2015

Four moorings were deployed near “Dragon Flag,” an active hydrothermal vent in the valley of the Southwest Indian Ridge. The goal was to examine the variability of currents and temperature, which will guide the trajectory of spreading plumes. The mean current was cross‐isobath, and the circulation was characterized by a submesoscale circulation. Observed currents also showed fluctuations with periods of 1–15 days. The inferred phase speed and wavelength for the wave with a period of 4.4 day are 10.4 km d−1 and 45.8km, respectively, which are consistent with the topographic Rossby wave theory. The persistent warming tendency with corresponding variation of salinity based on background θ‐S properties may be caused by background circulation and divergence of the water column. The warming or cooling episodes were most likely as signatures of isopycnal surface depression or uplifting induced by the moving of mesoscale eddies. Well‐resolved rotary spectra exhibited important nonlinear interactions between inertial and semidiurnal tide in the velocity and temperature records. Amplification of near‐inertial currents in the near bottom is also exposed. These discoveries provided new evidence for the nonlinear interaction and trapped near‐inertial waves by the ridge, which occurred in the deep ocean of the Southern Hemisphere. Such nonlinear interaction may represent a significant energy loss pathway for the internal waves, and part of the decay of such motion would likely result in increased mixing to maintain the abyssal stratification. Enhanced near‐inertial motions can play a major role for the local advection of hydrothermal plumes.
Sea surface height and dynamic topography of the ice‐covered oceans from CryoSat‐2: 2011–2014
Authors: Kwok Ron , Morison James
Published: December 2015

We examine 4 years (2011–2014) of sea surface heights (SSH) from CryoSat‐2 (CS‐2) over the ice‐covered Arctic and Southern Oceans. Results are from a procedure that identifies and determines the heights of sea surface returns. Along 25 km segments of satellite ground tracks, variability in the retrieved SSHs is between ∼2 and 3 cm (standard deviation) in the Arctic and is slightly higher (∼3 cm) in the summer and the Southern Ocean. Average sea surface tilts (along these 25 km segments) are 0.01 ± 3.8 cm/10 km in the Arctic, and slightly lower (0.01 ± 2.0 cm/10 km) in the Southern Ocean. Intra‐seasonal variability of CS‐2 dynamic ocean topography (DOT) in the ice‐covered Arctic is nearly twice as high as that of the Southern Ocean. In the Arctic, we find a correlation of 0.92 between 3 years of DOT and dynamic heights (DH) from hydrographic stations. Further, correlation of 4 years of area‐averaged CS‐2 DOT near the North Pole with time‐variable ocean‐bottom pressure from a pressure gauge and from GRACE, yields coefficients of 0.83 and 0.77, with corresponding differences of <3 cm (RMS). These comparisons contrast the length scale of baroclinic and barotropic features and reveal the smaller amplitude barotropic signals in the Arctic Ocean. Broadly, the mean DOT from CS‐2 for both poles compares well with those from the ICESat campaigns and the DOT2008A and DTU13MDT fields. Short length scale topographic variations, due to oceanographic signals and geoid residuals, are especially prominent in the Arctic Basin but less so in the Southern Ocean.
Interannual and seasonal variabilities in air‐sea CO2 fluxes along the U.S. eastern continental shelf and their sensitivity to increasing air temperatures and variable winds
Authors: Cahill Bronwyn , Wilkin John , Fennel Katja , Vandemark Doug , Friedrichs Marjorie A. M.
Published: December 2015

Uncertainty in continental shelf air‐sea CO2 fluxes motivated us to investigate the impact of interannual and seasonal variabilities in atmospheric forcing on the capacity of three shelf regions along the U.S. eastern continental shelf to act as a sink or source of atmospheric CO2. Our study uses a coupled biogeochemical‐circulation model to simulate scenarios of “present‐day” and “future‐perturbed” mesoscale forcing variability. Overall, the U.S. eastern continental shelf acts as a sink for atmospheric CO2. There is a clear gradient in air‐sea CO2 flux along the shelf region, with estimates ranging from −0.6 Mt C yr−1 in the South Atlantic Bight (SAB) to −1.0 Mt C yr−1 in the Mid‐Atlantic Bight (MAB) and −2.5 Mt C yr−1 in the Gulf of Maine (GOM). These fluxes are associated with considerable interannual variability, with the largest interannual signal exhibited in the Gulf of Maine. Seasonal variability in the fluxes is also evident, with autumn and winter being the strongest CO2 sink periods and summer months exhibiting some outgassing. In our future‐perturbed scenario spatial differences tend to cancel each other out when the fluxes are integrated over the MAB and GOM, resulting in only minor differences between future‐perturbed and present‐day air‐sea CO2 fluxes. This is not the case in the SAB where the position of the along‐shelf gradient shifts northward and the SAB becomes a source of CO2 to the atmosphere (0.7 Mt C yr−1) primarily in response to surface warming. Our results highlight the importance of temperature in regulating air‐sea CO2 flux variability.
Using GNSS signals as a proxy for SAR signals: Correcting ionospheric defocusing
Authors: Mannix Christopher R. , Belcher David P. , Cannon Paul S. , Angling Matthew J.
Published: December 2015

Ultrahigh frequency space‐based synthetic aperture radar (SAR) can suffer from the degrading effects of a scintillating ionosphere which modulates both the phase and the amplitude of the radar signal. In this paper, we use Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals to synthesize an L‐band SAR point spread function (PSF). The process of transforming the GNSS signal to the equivalent SAR PSF is described. The synthesized PSF is used to explore the possibility of using a phase correction determined from a point target in a SAR image to correct the ionospheric degradation. GNSS data recorded on equatorial Ascension Island during scintillation events are used to test the feasibility of this approach by applying a phase correction to one GNSS receiver from another located along a magnetic east‐west baseline. The peak‐to‐sidelobe ratios of the synthesized L‐band SAR point spread functions before and after the correction are compared, and it is shown that this approach improves the L‐band PSF over distances of ~3000 m in the ionosphere, corresponding to 6000 m on the ground.
ABayesian hierarchical approach to model seasonal algal variability along an upstream to downstream river gradient
Authors: Cha YoonKyung , Soon Park Seok , Won Lee Hye , Stow Craig A.
Published: December 2015

Modeling to accurately predict river phytoplankton distribution and abundance is important in water quality and resource management. Nevertheless, the complex nature of eutrophication processes in highly connected river systems makes the task challenging. To model dynamics of river phytoplankton, represented by chlorophylla(Chla) concentration, we propose a Bayesian hierarchical model that explicitly accommodates seasonality and upstream‐downstream spatial gradient in the structure. The utility of our model is demonstrated with an application to the Nakdong River (South Korea), which is a eutrophic, intensively regulated river, but functions as an irreplaceable water source for more than 13 million people. Chlais modeled with two manageable factors, river flow, and total phosphorus (TP) concentration. Our model results highlight the importance of taking seasonal and spatial context into account when describing flow regimes and phosphorus delivery in rivers. A contrasting positive Chla‐flow relationship across stations versus negative Chla‐flow slopes that arose when Chlawas modeled on a station‐month basis is an illustration of Simpson's paradox, which necessitates modeling Chla‐flow relationships decomposed into seasonal and spatial components. Similar Chla‐TP slopes among stations and months suggest that, with the flow effect removed, positive TP effects on Chlaare uniform regardless of the season and station in the river. Our model prediction successfully captured the shift in the spatial and monthly patterns of Chla.
Percolating length scales from topological persistence analysis of micro‐CT images of porous materials
Authors: Robins Vanessa , Saadatfar Mohammad , Delgado‐Friedrichs Olaf , Sheppard Adrian P.
Published: December 2015

Topological persistence is a powerful and general technique for characterizing the geometry and topology of data. Its theoretical foundations are over 15 years old and efficient computational algorithms are now available for the analysis of large digital images. We explain here how quantities derived from topological persistence relate to other measurements on porous materials such as grain and pore‐size distributions, connectivity numbers, and the critical radius of a percolating sphere. The connections between percolation and topological persistence are explored in detail using data obtained from micro‐CT images of spherical bead packings, unconsolidated sand packing, a variety of sandstones, and a limestone. We demonstrate how persistence information can be used to estimate the percolating sphere radius and to characterize the connectivity of the percolating cluster.
Distributed hydrological modeling with channel network flow of a forestry drained peatland site
Authors: Haahti Kersti , Warsta Lassi , Kokkonen Teemu , Younis Bassam A. , Koivusalo Harri
Published: December 2015

Peatland drainage has been an important component of forestry management in the boreal zone and the resulting ditch networks are maintained regularly to sustain forest productivity. In Finland, this is recognized as the most detrimental forestry practice increasing diffuse loads of suspended solids. Alongside forestry management on peatlands, interest in peatland restoration has grown lately. Distributed hydrological modeling has the potential to address these matters by recognizing relevant physical mechanisms and identifying most suitable strategies for mitigating undesired outcomes. This study investigates the utility of such a modeling approach in a drained peatland forest environment. To provide a suitable tool for this purpose, we coupled channel network flow to the three‐dimensional distributed hydrological model FLUSH. The resulting model was applied to a 5.2 ha drained peatland forest catchment in Eastern Finland. The model was calibrated and validated using field measurements obtained over frost‐free periods of five months. The application showed that distributed modeling can disentangle the importance of spatial factors on local soil moisture conditions, which is significant as peatland drainage aims to control these conditions. In our application, we limited the spatial aspect to the topography and the drainage network, and found that the drainage configuration had a clear effect on the spatial soil moisture patterns but that the effect was less pronounced during the wetter summer. Future applications of distributed modeling in this field comprises investigating the impacts of other spatial factors, modeling channel erosion and solid transport to address strategies for their mitigation, and evaluating restoration schemes.
The impact of mucilage on root water uptake—A numerical study
Authors: Schwartz N. , Carminati A. , Javaux M.
Published: December 2015

The flow of water between soil and plants follows the gradient in water potential and depends on the hydraulic properties of the soil and the root. In models for root water uptake (RWU), it is usually assumed that the hydraulic properties near the plant root (i.e., in the rhizosphere) and in the bulk soil are identical. Yet a growing body of evidence has shown that the hydraulic properties of the rhizosphere are affected by root exudates (specifically, mucilage) and markedly differ from those of the bulk soil. In this work, we couple a 3‐D detailed description of RWU with a model that accounts for the rhizosphere‐specific properties (i.e., rhizosphere hydraulic properties and a nonequilibrium relation between water content and matric head). We show that as the soil dries out (due to water uptake), the higher water holding capacity of the rhizosphere results in a delay of the stress onset. During rewetting, nonequilibrium results in a slower increase of the rhizosphere water content. Furthermore, the inverse relation between water content and relaxation time implies that the drier is the rhizosphere the longer it takes to rewet. Another outcome of nonequilibrium is the small fluctuation of the rhizosphere water content compared to the bulk soil. Overall, our numerical results are in agreement with recent experimental data and provide a tool to further examine the impact of various rhizosphere processes on RWU and water dynamics.
Crime and Punishment in
B
osnia and
H
erzegovina
Authors: Andreescu Viviana
Published: December 2015

The historical and social contexts that shape crime and punishment in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), a country that is still recovering from a devastating territorial and ethnic war (1992–1995), are discussed. Some details regarding the effects of a fragmented administrative structure on the justice sector reform are included. Though limited, the statistical data presented offer some current information on conventional crime trends and prison population. The additional challenges posed to the administration of justice in BiH by the need to put an end to impunity with respect to war crimes are also discussed.
Juvenile Waivers
Authors: Jordan Kareem L.
Published: December 2015

Juvenile waiver to adult court has been in existence since the creation of the juvenile court system, although the practice expanded in the 1990s. It generally focuses on transferring the most violent and serious juvenile offenders to the adult criminal justice system. Multiple factors influence the waiver decision, including legal and extralegal. In addition, juvenile waiver has an impact on multiple court outcomes, as well as recidivism.
Mental Health Courts
Authors: Peters Roger H. , Hunt Elizabeth
Published: December 2015

Several different types of treatment‐based court programs have been developed in the United States, including drug courts and mental health courts. These programs provide opportunities for diversion from jail or prison and involvement in a coordinated set of treatment and supervision services that focus on the unique needs of justice‐involved persons who have behavioral health disorders. Approximately 400 adult and juvenile mental health courts have been implemented in 46 states. Key program elements include targeting persons with severe mental illness, rapid engagement in comprehensive mental health, substance abuse, and other community services; protection of confidentiality, and use of a multidisciplinary team to deliver services and to monitor participant progress and program success. Mental health court evaluations indicate reductions in criminal recidivism and enhanced engagement in intensive mental behavioral health services among program participants, in contrast to similar groups of individuals who do not receive these services.
Social Justice
Authors: Abdul‐Ra'Uf Bakhitah , Nathan Clarence
Published: December 2015

Social justice
, in the United States, is a concept that has, at its core, the equalization of many relationships in American society that are the manifestations of American cultural patterns. Equalization signifies the creation of parity. Parity reflects sameness in value and worth, and equalization indicates an acknowledgment of that sameness in all areas of social participation in a social setting governed by socially accepted norms. Equality is the name of that creation. It is a concept central to relations between all people throughout the history of the world. Concepts like equality are held, promoted, and exercised by humans and therefore are subject to the subjectivity all humans display despite protestations to the contrary.
Organized Crime
Authors: Dolliver Diana S.
Published: December 2015

This entry examines various aspects of “organized crime” by detailing characteristics common to larger and smaller criminal organizations, as well as inspecting inconsistencies in legal definitions between nations and international governing bodies regarding this elusive concept. A historic review of social and legal atmospheres surrounding organized crime in the United States is presented, in addition to detailed descriptions of various forms of organized crime presently operating in the United States and abroad. An overview of legal approaches to organized crime from an international perspective is then given, followed by a brief review of the most common activities in which organized crime groups are involved worldwide. Finally, related international geographical significances in patterns of organized crime activity are considered.
Driving under the Influence of Alcohol
Authors: Hackett Colleen
Published: December 2015

Driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), legally defined as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 g/dL or greater, has been a national concern for many decades, with a strong focus on the impact of alcohol‐related crash fatalities. The current entry documents the extent and the nature of the issue, as well as the emergence of alcohol‐impaired driving as a social problem. Legal consequences to alcohol‐impaired driving are thought to be a primary factor in the reduction of drinking and driving incidents. Repeat alcohol‐impaired driving trends and potential treatment options are explored. Experts recommend evidence‐based prevention efforts like mass media campaigns, sobriety checkpoints, alcohol interlock system, and designated driver programs to supplement sanctions imposed by the legal system.
Immigration and Crime
Authors: Alvarez‐Rivera Lorna
Published: December 2015

The relationship between immigration and crime is primarily driven by political ideals and public opinion. This entry is an examination of the recent consensus regarding immigration and crime research. Special attention is given to theoretical constructs that have incorporated immigration into their explanation of crime through the years. In addition, theories of immigrant processes that impact the relationship between immigration and crime are also discussed.
Cross‐Sectional Research
Authors: Ray James V.
Published: December 2015

Cross‐sectional research examines data collected from participants at one point in time to make inferences about a population of interest. Such data are useful for addressing questions about associations rather than causality and for assessing prevalence rather than incidence. In cross‐sectional designs data are typically collected through the use of surveys administered directly to individual participants; however, other sources such as archival/secondary data (e.g., arrest reports) and direct observation are often used in criminology. Compared to longitudinal research, cross‐sectional research has several advantages (e.g., it is inexpensive and immediate and has no concern for attrition) and limitations (e.g., it allows for limited causal inferences and cohort effects). Cross‐sectional data can be properly analyzed by using a variety of procedures such as correlations, regression, and odds ratios. Although cross‐sectional research is common in criminology, this approach is seen as inferior to longitudinal research for testing theories and making causal inferences.
Public Perceptions of Crime
Authors: Lu Ruibin
Published: December 2015

Public perceptions of crime are valuable to policy makers because how the public perceives issues such as the seriousness of crime, fear of crime, the severity of penalties, and specific crime issues can shape the actions of legislators, who strive to respond to their constituents' concerns. However, public opinion is often impacted by the media, and this may lead to a misperception of crime. During the past few decades, the United States has experienced significant changes in public perceptions of crime. For instance, public attitudes toward capital punishment, white‐collar crime, and the legalization of marijuana have shifted dramatically.
Crime and Punishment in
R
omania
Authors: Andreescu Viviana
Published: December 2015

The current entry includes information about crime and punishment in contemporary Romania, one of the 28 member states of the European Union. The presentation provides some recent data on conventional and nonconventional crime trends and incarceration levels in Romania from a comparative perspective. The Romanian criminal justice system is briefly described as well. Aspects related to the judicial and to police reforms are also discussed.
Privatization of Police
Authors: Harrison Watts J.
Published: December 2015

Due to budgetary constraints being placed on police agencies, the utilization of privatization of police services has emerged as a solution to cut budgets while maintaining an acceptable level of service that is expected by the general public. As technology increases we will see more and more privatization, as businesses tied to certain technologies will be able to provide services through technology more efficiently than the police once did.
Crime and Punishment in
N
igeria
Authors: Ejiogu Kingsley , Nwokeji Ekwuniru
Published: December 2015

Autocratic legitimacy extended to powerful individuals and groups in the society subverts criminal laws in Nigeria. The Nigerian penal system derives its fundamental ideas from the British legal system, customary laws, and Islamic sharia laws. Like in many other societies, crime and punishment in Nigeria can be more objectively explored when viewed against the role of socioeconomic power and political influence on arrests and confinement. This entry points out that uneven notions of crime and punishment in Nigeria limit the accurate application of penal sanctions.
Urban Crime
Authors: Stewart Kevin , Cantora Andrea
Published: December 2015

High crime rates are a major issue in the United States. However, while all communities are adversely affected by crime, residents in urban neighborhoods are affected at rates that are vastly higher than residents in suburban or rural communities. Empirical research indicates that social and structural conditions in urban areas create an environment that is conducive to crime and deviance. While urban settings experience all types of crime problems they often see crimes related to gang activity, drug markets, and violence. Understanding urban crime requires examining the historical context of urban cities, the problems that have developed and are highly concentrated in these areas, theoretical explanations, and urban crime responses.
Prison Structure
Authors: Orrick Erin A.
Published: December 2015

Throughout correctional history in the United States, various prison structures have had to adapt as the correctional goals and ideals changed in response to shifts in political and social issues and interests. Prison structures have also had to respond to the rapid prison population growth in the recent era of mass incarceration, largely due to changes in sentencing practices and the abolition of discretionary release in many states. The current entry discusses both formal and informal prison structures and how they have been impacted and changed over time.
Mental Health Law and Policy and Crime
Authors: Davidson Megan L.
Published: December 2015

Throughout history, the US legal system has enacted specific policies designed to address the special needs of persons with a mental illness who come into contact with the system. The system has long recognized the impact of serious mental illness on criminal intent and culpability. For this reason, safeguards are in place to protect from criminal punishment anyone whose impaired mental state at the time of the crime prevented him/her from understanding the wrongfulness of his/her actions, or whose state of mind at the trial impedes the ability to participate in his/her own defense. In addition, therapeutic alternatives to the traditional court‐processing model have been developed to serve as a mechanism by which the criminal justice system can be utilized as an avenue for the treatment of individuals with debilitating mental illness.
Guns and Crime
Authors: Madden Angela D.
Published: December 2015

This entry is an overview of firearms and their use in crime in the United States. Although most people who own guns never commit crime or violence, many crimes and many acts of violence are committed with guns. As debate continues over policies and legislation related to gun purchasing, transfer, ownership, possession, and sales, gun crime and other types of gun violence continue to climb. Given that each state has some autonomy to develop its own policies related to guns, this entry primarily summarizes legislation at the federal level.
Integrated Performance Monitoring of Three‐Way Catalytic Converters by Self‐Regenerative and Adaptive High‐Temperature Catalyst and Sensors
Authors: Saruhan Bilge , Mondragón Rodríguez Guillermo Cesar , Haidry Azhar Ali , Yüce Ayhan , Heikens Sascha , Grünert Wolfgang
Published: December 2015

This study reports the performance of a self‐regenerating perovskite, LaFeCoPdO3 as a three‐way catalyst (TWC) and its use for self‐diagnostic by means of integrated Al‐doped TiO2 and LaFeCoPdO3 sensor arrays, consisted of semiconducting oxides as sensing layers and LaFeCoPdO3 as catalytic filter. Although perovskite catalyst yields a reasonable NO conversion performance at lower temperatures, it cannot fully compete with a commercial TWC under the TWC relevant temperatures and conditions. On the other hand, as‐coated duplex layer exhibits reasonable sensor property toward NO2 at 600 °C but sensor response deteriorates in NO2 + CO mixed gas environment. Ageing tests in the harsh exhaust peripherals however yield that perovskite improves the duplex layer's response through crack network and by protecting semiconducting oxide.
Designed Assembly and Integration of Colloidal Nanocrystals for Device Applications
Authors: Yang Jiwoong , Choi Moon Kee , Kim Dae‐Hyeong , Hyeon Taeghwan
Published: December 2015

Colloidal nanocrystals have been intensively studied over the past three decades due to their unique properties that originate, in large part, from their nanometer‐scale sizes. For applications in electronic and optoelectronic devices, colloidal nanoparticles are generally employed as assembled nanocrystal solids, rather than as individual particles. Consequently, tailoring 2D patterns as well as 3D architectures of assembled nanocrystals is critical for their various applications to micro‐ and nanoscale devices. Here, recent advances in the designed assembly, film fabrication, and printing/integration methods for colloidal nanocrystals are presented. The advantages and drawbacks of these methods are compared, and various device applications of assembled/integrated colloidal nanocrystal solids are discussed.