bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformational Leadership As A Catalyst For Enhancing Gender Equality And Women's Representation In Public Administration: Opportunities For Increased Access And Involvement In South Sudan
Authors: Bazugba Dr. Angelina Mattijo
Published: October 2024

The Gender Equality in Public Administration Study was carried at the National Transformational Leadership Institute (NTLI) of the University of Juba in partnership with the Ministry of Gender Child and Social Welfare and UNDP South Sudan. The Study employed UNDP’s global GEPA initiative framework and UNDP-OECD Toolkit for Mainstreaming and Implementing Gender Equality in Public Life. which consists of four pillars, namely,1) Institutional and governance frameworks for gender equality and mainstreaming; 2) Gender-sensitive practices in parliaments; 3) Gender-sensitive public employment systems; 4) Gender-sensitive practices in the judiciary. Based on South Sudan context and the systems alreadyestablished,some key aspects of the UNDP-OECD tool with particular emphasis on Pillars (1) and (3) were adopted. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection that include surveys, face-to-face interviews, consultation workshops and focus group discussions were used to reach out to gender focal persons from all government institutions (ministries, commissions and parastatal organizations), organized forces, Academia and Civic groups that include Faith Based Organizations, Civil Society Organizations and Disability Persons Organisations.The collated information was analysed using SPSS and interpretation provided. The studyfound the existence of considerable gender differentials in terms of genderrights, accessto humanrights and access to justice. Gender inequality and Sexual Gender-Based Violence are widespread and mostly intensified by cultural norms and insecurity caused by interstate and intracommunal conflicts. Gender equality and women’s access, involvement and representation in Public Administration are linked to multiple structural and functional constraints which differ across sectors in South Sudan. Analysis from this study, clearly underlines that participation and access to formal political power structures is impeded by inherent gender imbalance in institutionalstructures, unequal power sharing, socio-economic context, culture, ideological and psychologicalfactors, which remain sticky, normalized and increasingly accepted as part of life. From the foregoing, it is imperative that directed policy initiatives and legal framework be established to address the issues. The Government of the Republic of South Sudan should conduct a review of the legislative and policy framework to integrate the minimum of 35% quotas for womenin all public administration (National Gender Policy; National Strategic Plan Framework; LabourAct, Civil Service Act and Public Service Regulations);
Educação Em Saúde: O Uso De Tecnologias Para A Conscientização De Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (ISTS)
Authors: Farias Sidinei , Júnior Valdir Barbosa Da Silva , Souza Weyber Rodrigues De , Oliveira Jessica Sabrinne Araújo Amaral , Aguiar Cleidiane Pereira Santos
Published: October 2024

A pesquisa teve como objetivo explorar o uso de tecnologias na conscientização sobre Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (ISTs), destacando sua importância para a saúde pública. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica que incluiu levantamento de dados em plataformas como SciELO, Scopus e Google Acadêmico, além de repositórios brasileiros, utilizando técnicas de leitura flutuante para otimizar a coleta de informações. Os resultados mostraram que as tecnologias digitais, como aplicativos, redes sociais e telemedicina, desempenham um papel fundamental na disseminação de informações sobre ISTs, facilitando o acesso a serviços de saúde e engajando especialmente o público jovem. A análise revelou que, apesar dos avanços, ainda existem desafios significativos, como o estigma e a resistência a algumas abordagens. A conclusão aponta que a integração contínua das tecnologias com políticas públicas de educação em saúde é essencial para promover uma cultura de responsabilidade sexual e reduzir a incidência de ISTs, enfatizando a necessidade de um compromisso coletivo para um futuro mais saudável.
" Operationalizing Jitegemea Philosophy As A Model To Sustainable Development To Retirement Plan Among The Pulpit Workers
Authors: Gitonga Samuel G. , Nalugala Dr. Reginald , a Dr. Shem Mwalw’
Published: October 2024

Purpose of the Study: This study aimed to investigate the operationalization of Jitegemea Philosophy as a model for the sustainable development of retirement plans among pulpit workers. Statement of the Problem Despite the importance of retirement planning, these workers face challenges such as low salaries, irregular income, and limited access to pension schemes, leading to financial insecurity in later life. The Jitegemea (self-reliance) philosophy, rooted in principles of self-sufficiency and sustainability, offers a potential model for addressing this gap. However, there is limited research and practical application of Jitegemea as a structured retirement planning model tailored to the specific needs of pulpit workers. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring the financial security and well-being of PCEA pulpit workers in retirement. Therefore, this study explores how operationalizing the Jitegemea philosophy could provide a sustainable solution for enhancing financial security and well-being for clergy during retirement. Methodology: This study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with PCEA pulpit workers to explore their perceptions, experiences, and challenges related to retirement planning. A purposive sampling technique was used to select participants from various PCEA churches in Nairobi. Data were analyzed thematically to identify key themes and patterns related to retirement planning among PCEA pulpit workers. Key Findings: The study revealed that while many clergy face socio-economic barriers, religious beliefs, community support, and proactive planning can foster resilience. Participants expressed mixed emotions about retirement, some feeling apprehensive and others viewing it as a period of spiritual renewal. The study highlights the need for tailored support mechanisms, including financial literacy programs, fair compensation, and expanded pension schemes. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among religious institutions, policymakers, and community organizations to improve retirement planning. Recommendation: Recommendations include financial education, compensation reform, and community support to ensure better retirement preparedness. Further research is suggested to evaluate the long-term effects of these interventions on clergy retirement outcomes.
Impact Of Road Connectivity On Daily Livelihood Sustainability Of Commuters In Sandeshkhali-I CD Block, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India
Authors: Karmakar Pranabpati
Published: October 2024

Background: The study area has different infrastructural deficiencies with compare to other regions. The natural constraints for communication, Poverty, Infrastructural deficiency, Rurality, and Transportation barriers are the main problems in this region. This study has tried to determine the different road connectivity and their impacts on daily sustainable livelihoods among the commuters of Sandeshkhali-I CD block in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India. Materials and Methods: The study has used the Primary and Secondary data to fulfill the objectives. To execute the objectives, road networks are differentiated to measure the road connectivity indices (Alpha, Beta and Gamma Index) from different Gram Panchayats (GPs) to find out the road network condition in this rural deltaic region of the Indian Sundarban. Using the Random sampling to collect the primary data through questionnaire from commuters at different busiest places in the study area. Based on different selected livelihood components, the daily livelihood sustainability index has been evaluated. To find out the relationship the road connectivity Indices (R.C.I.) and daily livelihood sustainability index (D.L.S.I.) are correlated with the help of Karl Person ‘r’ value. Results: The highest values of Alpha, Beta and Gamma Indices are 0.34, 1.89 and 0.65 with respect to Metalled and Unmetalled roads. The daily livelihood sustainability index value has been found 54.33 and 17.54 as the highest and lowest respectively. The positive and negative values are present in the correlation between R.C.I. and D.L.S.I. Conclusion: From the outcome, most of the GPs are under the low and very low livelihood sustainability category whereas, the rest of the GPs have medium to high livelihood sustainability status as per selected class. The study concluded that the development needs to be accounted for because of intra-regional imbalance among the road connectivity as well as daily livelihood sustainability that has already existed in this area
Implementação da Inteligência Artificial em Metodologias Ativas de Ensino: Benefícios, Desafios e Dilemas Éticos
Authors: Duque Rita de Cássia Soares , Monteiro Eduardo Lemes , Jesus José Welington de , Silva Elaine Cristina Alves da , Nascimento Josefa Florencio do
Published: October 2024

Este estudo investiga a integração da Inteligência Artificial (IA) em metodologias ativas de ensino, com ênfase nos benefícios, desafios e dilemas éticos que emergem dessa interseção. A partir de uma revisão sistemática da literatura, foram analisados diversos estudos que aplicam IA em diferentes contextos educacionais, como sala de aula invertida, gamificação e Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas (PBL). Os resultados revelam que a IA oferece significativas oportunidades para personalizar o aprendizado, aumentar o engajamento dos alunos e fornecer feedback em tempo real, ajustando-se às necessidades individuais dos estudantes. Contudo, a implementação dessas tecnologias apresenta desafios consideráveis, incluindo preocupações com a privacidade dos dados, o potencial viés algorítmico e a desigualdade no acesso às tecnologias, especialmente em ambientes de baixa infraestrutura. Além disso, surgem dilemas éticos que requerem uma governança robusta e políticas públicas eficazes para garantir que a IA seja utilizada de forma justa e equitativa no ambiente educacional. Este estudo também discute a necessidade de abordagens interdisciplinares que integrem perspectivas éticas e sociais ao desenvolvimento e aplicação da IA na educação. Finalmente, são propostas direções para futuras pesquisas, incluindo a importância de avaliações de longo prazo, a adaptação cultural das tecnologias de IA e a incorporação dessas ferramentas nos currículos de formação de professores, visando criar uma educação mais inclusiva, adaptativa e reflexiva
Legislação, Regulação E Educação Ambiental No Contexto Do Plano Nacional De Adaptação Às Mudanças Climáticas
Authors: Junior João Mouzart De Oliveira , Oliveira Alessandro Silva De , Jacomini Rafael Gomes , Feres Sophia Pontes , Lima Lucas Alves De Oliveira
Published: October 2024

O estudo teve como objetivo analisar a interação entre legislação, regulação e educação ambiental no âmbito do Plano Nacional de Adaptação às Mudanças Climáticas (PNMC) no Brasil. Utilizando uma abordagem de revisão integrativa, o estudo revisou artigos acadêmicos publicados entre 2020 e 2023 para investigar as políticas climáticas municipais e nacionais. Os resultados destacaram a legislação ambiental brasileira, a regulação eficaz e a educação ambiental como fundamentais para implementar políticas climáticas coerentes e abrangentes. legislação ambiental brasileira, baseada na Constituição Federal de 1988 e em normativas subsequentes, proporciona um arcabouço sólido para a proteção ambiental e o uso sustentável dos recursos naturais. Complementando isso, a regulação eficaz visa normatizar e fiscalizar atividades econômicas e sociais, reduzindo impactos adversos ao meio ambiente. Essas diretrizes são fundamentais para garantir a implementação coerente das políticas climáticas em nível municipal e nacional. A pesquisa revelou que a educação ambiental desempenha um papel crucial ao sensibilizar a população sobre a importância da conservação ambiental e ao engajar comunidades em práticas sustentáveis. Esse engajamento é essencial para fortalecer a participação da sociedade
O Papel Das Políticas Públicas E Da Conscientização Ambiental Para O Alcance Dos Objetivos De Desenvolvimento Sustentáveis (ODS)
Authors: Rego Silvana Grijo Gurgel Costa , Nascimento Maria Gabriela Do , Oliveira Jefferson Antônio De , Costa Neomar Cássia Da , Santos Adelcio Machado Dos
Published: October 2024

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar a importância da educação ambiental e das políticas públicas para o alcance dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS). Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica mediante o levantamento de artigos no SciELO, Google Acadêmico e Web Of Science. Os resultados mostraram que a educação ambiental desempenha um papel fundamental na formação de cidadãos conscientes e preparados para enfrentar desafios ambientais, enquanto as políticas públicas fornecem o suporte necessário para implementar e escalar iniciativas sustentáveis. A pesquisa evidenciou que a eficácia na promoção dos ODS depende da integração entre estratégias educacionais e políticas governamentais. Essa integração facilita a conscientização, a mobilização social e a aplicação prática dos princípios sustentáveis, demonstrando a necessidade de uma abordagem coordenada que envolva educação, legislação e participação
Educação Indígena Em Roraima: Algumas Discussões
Authors: Araújo Marcos Vieira , Junior Fernando Santana Talhaferro , Silva Filipe Antônio Da , Silva Mara Cristina Maia , Conceição Maria Salomé Carvalho Da
Published: October 2024

A educação indígena no Brasil, e especificamente em Roraima, tem sido objeto de muitas discussões e estudos acadêmicos. Este trabalho pretende contribuir para este debate, ao analisar a preparação dos professores para lecionar nas comunidades indígenas. O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar se os professores têm se preparado adequadamente para lecionar aulas do cotidiano nas escolas indígenas de Roraima. A pergunta que norteia esta pesquisa é: "O que fazer para que os alunos indígenas tenham uma educação de qualidade?". A escolha deste tema justifica-se pela necessidade de compreender e valorizar a diversidade cultural dos povos indígenas, bem como garantir o respeito aos seus direitos à educação, conforme previsto na Constituição Federal Brasileira de 1988 (Art. 210, §2º), na Declaração das Nações Unidas sobre os Direitos dos Povos Indígenas (2007) e na Convenção 169 da Organização Internacional do Trabalho – OIT (1989). A metodologia que será usada para este trabalho é uma mistura de abordagens qualitativas e quantitativas. Os achados deste trabalho são de fundamental importância para entender os desafios da educação indígena em Roraima e apontam para a necessidade de valorização e respeito às culturas indígenas no espaço escolar. É necessário que o currículo seja construído considerando as particularidades das comunidades, valorizando suas histórias, tradições e saberes. A formação dos professores também precisa ser revista, com um foco maior na preparação para lidar com a diversidade cultural presente nas escolas indígenas
Effective Strategies For Small Startups To Attract Venture Capital
Authors: Kothari Taksh
Published: October 2024

In essence, for small startups, securing VC is a major breakthrough for growing and scaling up their business. The paper now zeroes in on the tactics that small startups can employ to capture, to a larger extent, the potential attention of VCs. The most critical strategies in order to engage VCs will be what this discussion will be based on as we turn into a collection of previous literature, case studies, and expert insights. Forge a Convincing Business Model: One solid business model is what lies at the core of how to attract VC investment. How a startup can sketch out its value proposition, revenue streams, and path to scaling. This business model does not only bring out the potential for high returns that the startup might have; it also aligns with the risk appetite of these venture capitalists. Network Building: Networking forms one of the core functions of the entire venture capital business. This paper looks into just how a network of one's own can be built and leveraged via industrial connections, along with mentors and advisors. Proper networking will result in more visibility and credibility, thus increasing the opportunity for start-ups to reach out to potential investors. Demonstrating Market Potential: For venture capitalists, the ability to demonstrate a clear market potential is very much desirable from startups. We will see how startups can present information on market size, customer segments, and competitive landscape to secure an investment interest. Making a Strong Pitch: Preparing a convincing pitch is a sure way of attracting the interest of VCs. We will look at the main components of the pitch: elevator pitch, articulating the problem and solution, definition of the market opportunity, articulation of the solution itself, business model, traction, team, and financial projections. Preparing a sound pitch can dramatically increase the chance of receiving venture capital. Apart from these, the paper also makes the target to address the critical pitfalls which startup companies often face in the form of indistinct ideas, over-promise on market size, and unrealistic projections for financials. It must help the startups, through practical recommendations and insights, reach an optimization of approaches toward venture capital and hence secure the necessary funding portions of growth and success
Personalização Do Ensino Através De Algoritmos: O Papel Da Análise De Dados Educacionais Na Construção De Experiências De Aprendizagem Adaptativas
Authors: Santos Adelcio Machado Dos , Gonçalves Adriana Lin , Paulino Pedro Kauã Albuquerque , Viroli Sérgio Luis Melo , Lima Agnaldo Braga
Published: October 2024

A personalização do ensino através de algoritmos vem se consolidando como uma das principais inovações tecnológicas no campo educacional. Ao utilizar grandes quantidades de dados educacionais, algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina são capazes de criar experiências de aprendizagem adaptativas, ajustadas às necessidades individuais dos alunos. Essas tecnologias, muitas vezes chamadas de sistemas de ensino adaptativo, proporcionam aos alunos oportunidades de aprendizado mais eficazes, personalizadas de acordo com seu ritmo, nível de conhecimento e estilo de aprendizagem (Silva, 2022). O uso de algoritmos na educação oferece benefícios importantes, como a possibilidade de identificar deficiências no aprendizado em tempo real e fornecer feedback imediato. Isso permite que os alunos avancem de forma personalizada, ao mesmo tempo em que os professores obtêm insights detalhados sobre o progresso de cada estudante (Amaral, 2021). Além disso, o uso de dados educacionais para ajustar o conteúdo do curso possibilita uma abordagem mais inclusiva, garantindo que nenhum aluno seja abandonado devido a dificuldades individuais (Santos, 2023). Entretanto, a implementação de algoritmos na educação também enfrenta desafios, como a necessidade de infraestrutura tecnológica
Corporate Mistakes In Product Promotional Strategy
Authors: A Dr Mohamed Jaffar
Published: October 2024

The Global Village concept made the world population easily accessible to corporates. A company has to be very careful in designing its sales promotion techniques. It has to consider the variations in the cultures, sentiments and wants. Different options and values of other markets are focused on promoting the products and services. The sales promotion mix components must be proportionally used for optimal results. A company has to decide which product promotional strategy is ideal for its product: push, pull, or a combination of both. This article elaborated on the wrong promotional strategy adopted by many corporates to market their products. Ultimately, the products failed in the market due to the consumers' rejection, leading to enormous losses for the companies. Some products of reputed companies fail due to the wrong product promotion strategy. Analysing these failed models will enrich the corporate's knowledge of applying marketing strategies. The sales promotion strategy should match the product's quality and express the product's natural features, as discussed in this article; different sales promotion strategies and styles are available before the manufacturers. They choose the right strategy and promotion method to match the product and market. If the product and promotion strategy are perfectly matched, then the company can take the synergic value of profits
Teleworking As A Form Of Incremental Innovation In The PublicService
Authors: Nunes André , Rezende Andreia Henrique Lustosa Vieira , Maranhão Gizelma De Souza , Ribeiro Rodrigo Ascenso Reis
Published: October 2024

The widespread use of teleworking in the public sector has been mandatory during the COVID-19 pandemic, althoughthere were successful experiences in the public sector in the pre-pandemic period. This theoretical article, of a reflective and interpretive nature, aims to show that teleworking can be seen as an innovation to an existing product or service. In this way, it was possible to infer that teleworking, being a form of incremental innovation, can provide a viable alternative to face-to-face work and contribute to the sustainable development of organizations, as well as improving their processes through the use of technological tools. The research suggests that more studies be carriedout on the subject, focusing on analyzing the results of its implementation. A bibliographical review was used to carryout the research.
Insulin‐like growth factor 2 expression in prostate cancer is regulated by promoter‐specific methylation
Authors: Küffer Stefan , Gutting Tobias , Belharazem Djeda , Sauer Christian , Michel Maurice S. , Marx Alexander , Trojan Lutz , Ströbel Philipp
Published: December 2017

Deregulation of the insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) axis and dysbalance of components of the IGF system as potential therapeutic targets have been described in different tumor types. IGF2 is a major embryonic growth factor and an important activator of IGF signaling. It is regulated by imprinting in a development‐ and tissue‐dependent manner and has been implicated in a broad range of malignancies including prostate cancer (PCa). Loss of imprinting (LOI) usually results in bi‐allelic gene expression and increased levels of IGF2. However, the regulatory mechanisms and the pathophysiological impact of altered IGF2 expression in PCa remain elusive. Here, we show that in contrast to many other tumors, IGF2 mRNA and protein levels were decreased in 80% of PCa in comparison with non‐neoplastic adjacent prostate and were independent of LOI status. Instead, IGF2 expression in both tumors and adjacent prostate depended on preferential usage of the IGF2 promoters P3 and P4. Decreased IGF2 expression in tumors was strongly related to hypermethylation of these two promoters. Methylation of the A region in promoter P4 correlated specifically with IGF2 expression in the 20% of PCa where IGF2 was higher in tumors than in adjacent prostate. We conclude that IGF2 is downregulated in most PCa and may be particularly relevant during early stages of tumor development or during chemotherapy and androgen deprivation. PCa differs from other tumors in that IGF2 expression is mainly regulated through methylation of promoter‐specific and not by imprinting. Targeting of promoter‐specific regions may have relevance for the adjuvant treatment of PCa.
The Influence of a Sandy Substrate, Seagrass, or Highly Turbid Water on Albedo and Surface Heat Flux
Authors: Fogarty M. C. , Fewings M. R. , Paget A. C. , Dierssen H. M.
Published: December 2017

Sea‐surface albedo is a combination of surface‐reflected and water‐leaving irradiance, but water‐leaving irradiance typically contributes less than 15% of the total albedo in open‐ocean conditions. In coastal systems, however, the bottom substrate or suspended particulate matter can increase the amount of backscattered light, thereby increasing albedo and decreasing net shortwave surface heat flux. Here a sensitivity analysis using observations and models predicts the effect of light scattering on albedo and the net shortwave heat flux for three test cases: a bright sand bottom, a seagrass canopy, and turbid water. After scaling to the full solar shortwave spectrum, daytime average albedo for the test cases is up to 0.20 and exceeds the value of 0.05 predicted using a commonly applied parameterization. Daytime net shortwave heat flux into the water is significantly reduced, particularly for waters with bright sediments, dense horizontal seagrass canopies < 0.25 m from the sea surface, or highly turbid waters with suspended particulate matter concentration
50 g m−3. Observations of a more vertical seagrass canopy within 0.2 and 1 m of the surface indicate the increase in albedo compared to the common parameterization is negligible. Therefore, we suggest that the commonly applied albedo lookup table can be used in coastal heat flux estimates in water as shallow as 1 m unless the bottom substrate is highly reflective or the water is highly turbid. Our model results provide guidance to researchers who need to determine albedo in highly reflective or highly turbid conditions but have no direct observations.
Performance of Optimally Merged Multisatellite Precipitation Products Using the Dynamic Bayesian Model Averaging Scheme Over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Ma Yingzhao , Hong Yang , Chen Yang , Yang Yuan , Tang Guoqiang , Yao Yunjun , Long Di , Li Changmin , Han Zhongying , Liu Ronghua
Published: December 2017

Accurate estimation of precipitation from satellites at high spatiotemporal scales over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) remains a challenge. In this study, we proposed a general framework for blending multiple satellite precipitation data using the dynamic Bayesian model averaging (BMA) algorithm. The blended experiment was performed at a daily 0.25° grid scale for 2007–2012 among Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) 3B42RT and 3B42V7, Climate Prediction Center MORPHing technique (CMORPH), and Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks‐Climate Data Record (PERSIANN‐CDR). First, the BMA weights were optimized using the expectation‐maximization (EM) method for each member on each day at 200 calibrated sites and then interpolated to the entire plateau using the ordinary kriging (OK) approach. Thus, the merging data were produced by weighted sums of the individuals over the plateau. The dynamic BMA approach showed better performance with a smaller root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) of 6.77 mm/day, higher correlation coefficient of 0.592, and closer Euclid value of 0.833, compared to the individuals at 15 validated sites. Moreover, BMA has proven to be more robust in terms of seasonality, topography, and other parameters than traditional ensemble methods including simple model averaging (SMA) and one‐outlier removed (OOR). Error analysis between BMA and the state‐of‐the‐art IMERG in the summer of 2014 further proved that the performance of BMA was superior with respect to multisatellite precipitation data merging. This study demonstrates that BMA provides a new solution for blending multiple satellite data in regions with limited gauges.
Global Analysis of Ecosystem Evapotranspiration Response to Precipitation Deficits
Authors: He Bin , Wang Haiyan , Guo Lanlan , Liu Junjie
Published: December 2017

Changes in ecosystem evapotranspiration (ET) due to precipitation deficits (PD) can relieve or aggravate soil moisture shortages, thus impacting drought severity. Previous findings have conflicted with regard to response of ET to PD. The present study relies on a global land ET synthesis data set (ETsyn) and observations from eddy‐covariance towers (ETobs) to thoroughly examine the sensitivity of ET to PD, which is represented by the standardized precipitation index. There was a contrast in the response to PD between arid and humid ecosystems. ETsyn of arid ecosystems was typically reduced promptly in response to a reduction of precipitation, while ETsyn in humid ecosystems experienced a two‐staged change: First, there was an enhancement, and then a reduction associated with persisting PD. Compared with ETsyn, ETobs suggests the occurrence of a more significant ET transition in response to PD. In arid ecosystems, ET typically negatively correlated with low PD, but this was limited by a large PD. Findings from this study are crucial for understanding the role of ET in drought evolution.
Two nonsense somatic mutations in MEN1 identified in sporadic insulinomas
Authors: Qi Cheng , Duan Jiayue , Shi Qingfeng , Wang Mingguang , Yan Changqing
Published: December 2017

Insulinomas are functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors that cause hypoglycemia and severe morbidity. The aim of our study was to identify gene mutations responsible for tumorigenesis of sporadic insulinoma. Whole exome sequencing analysis was performed on tumors and paired peripheral blood from three patients with insulinomas. After initial analysis, somatic mutations were obtained and a deleterious protein product was further predicted by various bioinformatic programs. Whole exome sequencing identified 55 rare somatic mutations among three insulinoma patients, including MEN1 gene nonsense mutations (c. 681C>G; p.Tyr227* in exon 4 of MEN1 and c. 346G>T; p.Glu116* in exon 2 of MEN1) in two different tumor samples. The mutations resulted in a significant truncation of the protein and a non‐functional gene product, which was involved in defective binding of menin to proteins implicated in genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Our results extend the growing list of pathogenic MEN1 mutations in sporadic cases of insulinoma.
Optical Filters
Authors: Piegari Angela
Published: December 2017

This article is an update of the original article
filters, optical
in which the theory of optical filters, the basic physical phenomena, and several types of filters were described.

Starting from these concepts, a number of examples of filter applications are reported, showing the variety of wavelength ranges and filter dimensions that could be required.

Application fields such as automobiles and buildings, lighting and displays, laser facilities, and space and security are considered, as representative of different conditions of use. Traditional and more recent types of filters are described, taking into account the development of less conventional materials and structures.
On the Existence of Excitonic Signatures in the Optical Response of Metal–Organic Frameworks: Comment on “van der Waals Metal–Organic Framework as an Excitonic Material for Advanced Photonics”
Authors: Polozkov R. G. , Senkevich N. Y. , Vrubel I. I. , Shelykh I. A.
Published: December 2017

In a recent experimental paper, it was claimed that pronounced excitonic signatures are observed in optical response of Zn‐based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) at room temperature. Performing ab initio modelling, it is demonstrated that an alternative interpretation based on single‐electron optical transitions between narrow π‐bands in the system of aromatic rings of the ligand is far more plausible. Although these results do not rule the possibility of exciton formation in MOFs out completely, they show that extreme caution should be taken in attributing the features in photoabsorption spectra alone to excitons, and additional proof, such as data on long‐distance energy transfer, is necessary.
Market power and bargaining in agrifood markets: A review of emerging topics and tools
Authors: Bonanno Alessandro , Russo Carlo , Menapace Luisa
Published: December 2017

Recent developments in modern agri‐food markets have called into question the predictive capability of the traditional models and tools used by agricultural economists to assess and measure market power. As a result, agricultural economists are on a quest for novel methods and approaches that surpass the traditional market power construct. In this article, we present an essential overview of the evolution of the literature concerning power relationships in agrifood value chains. The goal of this review is to emphasize recent conceptual and empirical approaches, as well as highlight topics of interest that are likely to shape the direction of future analyses of market power and bargaining in the agrifood sector. [EconLit citations: L1, L2, L3, Q13, Q18].
Bacteriophage effectively kills multidrug resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates from chronic rhinosinusitis patients
Authors: Zhang Guimin , Zhao Yin , Paramasivan Sathish , Richter Katharina , Morales Sandra , Wormald Peter‐John , Vreugde Sarah
Published: December 2017

Background

Bacteriophage (phage) therapy has been proposed as an alternative to antibiotics. Phages have been shown to kill antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains; however, it is unknown whether stress‐induced antibiotic tolerance affects S. aureus susceptibility to phages. Our objective was to determine the effectiveness of 2 phages currently in clinical development, against antibiotic‐resistant and induced antibiotic‐tolerant clinical S. aureus isolates.

Methods

Antibiotic tolerant S. aureus strains were induced by incubation with increasing concentrations of gentamicin, mupirocin, and ciprofloxacin over time and their susceptibility to 2 clinically relevant phages (Sa83 and Sa87) was assessed. In addition, phage susceptibility was tested in relation to the antibiotic sensitivity of 65 clinical S. aureus isolates, harvested from the sinonasal cavities of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients. Phage sensitivity was assessed using a plaque spot assay and by measuring optical density values to observe planktonic S. aureus growth in the presence of the phage. Alamar Blue assays were used to assess biofilm viability after phage treatment.

Results

Frequency of antibiotic resistance amongst clinical S. aureus isolates was 90.7% (59/65) with 13 of 65 (20.0%) identified as multidrug‐resistant. Tolerance to gentamicin, mupirocin, and ciprofloxacin was rapidly induced by incubation with increasing concentrations of respective antibiotics. There was no significant difference in phage sensitivity between antibiotic‐sensitive and resistant/tolerant S. aureus clinical isolates in planktonic and biofilm form.

Conclusion

Clinical S. aureus isolates from CRS patients have a high (20%) incidence of multidrug resistance. Antibiotic resistance or tolerance did not affect phage susceptibility of those isolates.
Bis(perchlorocatecholato)silan – eine neutrale Silicium‐Lewis‐Supersäure
Authors: Maskey Rezisha , Schädler Marcel , Legler Claudia , Greb Lutz
Published: December 2017

Bisher sind noch keine neutralen Silicium‐Lewis‐Supersäuren bekannt. Wir berichten hier über die Synthese des Bis(perchlorocatecholato)silans und bestätigen dessen Lewis‐Superazidität durch Berechnungen (DLPNO‐CCSD(T)) und Experimente (Fluoridabstraktion von SbF6−). Die herausragende Affinität gegenüber Donoren wurde ferner durch die Charakterisierung eines bisher unbekannten SiO4F2‐Dianions demonstriert und in der ersten Hydrodefluorierungsreaktion katalysiert durch eine neutrale Silicium‐Lewis‐Säure angewendet. Angesichts der Stärke und dem leichten Zugang zu dieser neuen Lewis‐Säure sind vielfältige Anwendungen vorhersehbar.
Synthesis of α‐Chiral Ketones and Chiral Alkanes Using Radical Polar Crossover Reactions of Vinyl Boron Ate Complexes
Authors: Gerleve Carolin , Kischkewitz Marvin , Studer Armido
Published: December 2017

Vinyl boron ate complexes of enantioenriched secondary alkyl pinacolboronic esters undergo stereospecific radical‐induced 1,2‐migration in radical polar crossover reactions. In this three‐component process various commercially available alkyl iodides act as radical precursors and light is used for chain initiation. Subsequent oxidation and protodeborylation leads to valuable α‐chiral ketones and chiral alkanes, respectively, with excellent enantiopurity.
Ionic liquid mediated surface micropatterning of polymer blends
Authors: Lasseuguette Elsa , McClements Jake , Koutsos Vasileios , Schäfer Thomas , Ferrari Maria‐Chiara
Published: December 2017

A polymer of intrinsic porosity (i.e., PIM‐1) has been blended with different ionic liquids (ILs) in order to evaluate the effect of the ILs on the microstructure of the polymer blend. [C8MIM][Cl], [BMIM][DCa], [BMPyr][DCa], and [BMIM][Tf2N] have been selected and were mixed with PIM‐1. Polymer blends containing up to 80 wt % of ILs were prepared by a casting method with chloroform as solvent. SEM images show that during the film formation a structuring of the surface appears depending on the nature and the concentration of ILs, with appearance of well‐defined microstructure in the case of [BMIM][Tf2N] and [BMIM][DCa]. In the case of [BMIM][Tf2N]/PIM‐1 film, the lower IL concentration induces the denser film with small micropatterns onto the surface. AFM analysis indicates that the ILs are well dispersed on the surface. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and water contact angle measurements show that a gradient of IL concentration is observed across the film thickness. It is demonstrated that ILs are versatile co‐solvents for inducing controlled micropatterns in polymer membrane surfaces. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46109.
Planning for dynamic process: An assemblage‐level surrogate strategy for species seasonal movement pathways
Authors: Welch Heather , McHenry Jennifer
Published: December 2017

Seasonally mobile species are globally prevalent and often provide vital ecosystem functions and services along their seasonal movement pathways. However, owing to the challenges of planning for features that are spatially and temporally variable, mobile species are rarely accounted for in conservation planning. To protect this dynamic process, planners need a temporally explicit surrogate for species seasonal movement pathways. Because reserve networks typically aim to represent the full spectrum of biodiversity, these surrogates also need to capture the assemblage‐level organization of species in order to preserve the full range of seasonal movement pathways that occur within a given planning region.

To this end, this study introduces a new assemblage‐level surrogate strategy for species seasonal movements that preserves variation in biodiversity across the 12 months. Two monthly, assemblage‐level attributes were integrated: discrete species assemblages and continuous assemblage suitability, thereby allowing planners to select complementary combinations of sites that achieve comprehensive assemblage coverage in each month.

As a marine case‐study, this strategy was applied to the US Mid‐Atlantic, and a gap analysis was used to evaluate the ability of the Mid‐Atlantic's current spatial management scheme to accommodate species' seasonal movements.

The results indicate that current protected areas in the Mid‐Atlantic will be unable to meet even modest quantitative objectives for protecting seasonal movements, and priority conservation areas are identified for designing a reserve network that offers year‐round protection.

Planning for processes remains a significant gap in conservation planning, and this study seeks to address this gap by proposing a surrogate strategy that will aid the incorporation of a widespread dynamic process into reserve design. This strategy uses public, predominantly global datasets that have terrestrial and marine counterparts, making it applicable to planning for species seasonal movements both on land and at sea.
Riparian restoration offsets predicted population consequences of climate warming in a threatened headwater fish
Authors: Turschwell Mischa P. , Stewart‐Koster Ben , Leigh Catherine , Peterson Erin E. , Sheldon Fran , Balcombe Stephen R.
Published: December 2017

Freshwater ecosystems and their associated biota are under increasing threats from multiple stressors including climate and land‐use change. The conservation of these ecosystems must be based on an integration of data including species physiological tolerances, the biotic and abiotic drivers of the distribution of populations, and demographic processes, to provide the comprehensive ecological information necessary for management.

This study used a Bayesian belief network (BBN) to synthesize research on northern river blackfish, a threatened species in the upper Condamine River, Australia, into a probabilistic framework capable of predicting the complex relationships that exist between environmental conditions and population success. This study tested how predicted air temperature scenarios for the years 2050 and 2080, and catchment restoration scenarios, would be expected to affect three indices of population success: adult abundance, juvenile abundance, and juvenile recruitment.

Compared with current climatic conditions, climate warming scenarios reduced the probability of future population success by between 0.4% and 1.6%. These shifts were almost completely offset, and even improved, when riparian zones were restored at the catchment scale, where changes ranged from an overall decrease of 0.2% to an increase of 1%. To achieve the highest probability of population success, the impacts of warming stream temperatures and the degradation of riparian zones must be mitigated. However, the model showed that there is still a possibility of complete population failure under a wide range of conditions, even when conditions appear to be suitable.

To maximize the future population success of river blackfish we recommend targeting the restoration of hydrologically active catchment areas where grazing strongly influences stream biota. The use of a BBN allowed the combination of multiple sources of information to solve complex ecological problems, including how multiple stressors may affect threatened freshwater species.
Silicon‐containing analogs of camptothecin as anticancer agents
Authors: Lazareva Nataliya F. , Baryshok Viktor P. , Lazarev Igor M.
Published: December 2017

The plant pentacyclic alkaloid camptothecin and its structural analogs were extensively studied. These compounds are interesting due to the antitumor activity associated with their ability to inhibit topoisomerase I in tumor cells. During the last decades of the 20th century, a large number of the silicon‐containing camptothecins (silatecans) were synthesized. 7‐tert‐Butyldimethylsilyl‐10‐hydroxy‐camptothecin (DB‐67 or AR‐67) has enhanced lipophilicity and demonstrates a antitumor activity superior to its carbon analog. To date, certain silatecans are under clinical trials and their ultimate role in cancer therapy appears promising. In this review, we present chemical methodologies for the synthesis of silicon‐containing camptothecins, their chemical properties, biological activity, and results of clinical trials.
Highlights on the Road towards Highly Emitting Solid‐State Luminophores: Two Classes of Thiazole‐Based Organoboron Fluorophores with the AIEE/AIE Effect
Authors: Lugovik Kseniya I. , Eltyshev Alexander K. , Suntsova Polina O. , Slepukhin Pavel A. , Benassi Enrico , Belskaya Nataliya P.
Published: December 2017

Developing a novel, small‐sized molecular building block that may be capable of emitting light in the solid state is a challenging task and has rarely been reported in the literature. BF2‐containing dyes seem to be promising candidates towards this aim. Two series of new N^NBF2complexes showing aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) and aggregation‐induced emission enhancement (AIEE) were designed and synthesized by means of a new protocol, which improved on the traditional method by employing microwave irradiation. The optical and photophysical properties of the BF2complexes were investigated in depth. The synthesized complexes showed fluorescence in both solution and the solid state and, in a mixture of tetrahydrofuran/water, may aggregate into fluorescent nanoparticles. The experimental investigation was supported by quantum mechanical calculations. Their availability, stability, large Stokes shifts, and aggregation capabilities, along with their solid‐state emission capability, render this new class of BF2complexes promising AIEE/AIE fluorophores for further applications in the fields of fluorescence imaging and materials science.
Fabrication and evaluation of 3D printed BCP scaffolds reinforced with ZrO2 for bone tissue applications
Authors: Sa Min‐Woo , Nguyen Bao‐Ngoc B. , Moriarty Rebecca A. , Kamalitdinov Timur , Fisher John P. , Kim Jong Young
Published: December 2017

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is a promising 3D printing and manufacturing step to create well interconnected porous scaffold designs from the computer‐aided design (CAD) models for the next generation of bone scaffolds. The purpose of this study was to fabricate and evaluate a new biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffold reinforced with zirconia (ZrO2) by a FDM system for bone tissue engineering. The 3D slurry foams with blending agents were successfully fabricated by a FDM system. Blending materials were then removed after the sintering process at high temperature to obtain a targeted BCP/ZrO2 scaffold with the desired pore characteristics, porosity, and dimension. Morphology of the sintered scaffold was investigated with SEM/EDS mapping. A cell proliferation test was carried out and evaluated with osteosarcoma MG‐63 cells. Mechanical testing and cell proliferation evaluation demonstrated that 90% BCP and 10% ZrO2 scaffold had a significant effect on the mechanical properties maintaining a structure compared that of only 100% BCP with no ZrO2. Additionally, differentiation studies of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) on BCP/ZrO2 scaffolds in static and dynamic culture conditions showed increased expression of bone morphogenic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) when cultured on BCP/ZrO2 scaffolds under dynamic conditions compared to on BCP control scaffolds. The manufacturing of BCP/ZrO2 scaffolds through this innovative technique of a FDM may provide applications for various types of tissue regeneration, including bone and cartilage.
The issue of HPLC determination of endogenous lipoic acid in human plasma
Authors: Sechovcová Soňa , Královcová Pavla , Kanďár Roman , Ventura Karel
Published: December 2017

Lipoic acid (LA) is used extensively as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of various diseases. Many methods have been reported for the determination of LA plasma levels and its metabolites after its supplementation, but available information concerning endogenous plasma levels is still scarce. Studies which directly focused on determining the endogenous plasma levels provided highly controversial results, <4.9 nmol/L or 143.7–197.0 nmol/L. The main aim of this study was to verify the levels of free LA in the plasma of 40 individuals (17 women, 23 men). This group was nonsupplemented with LA and met the conditions for incorporation into the blood donors register. We measured the levels of LA using an HPLC method with very sensitive coulometric detection after previous sample preparation including deproteination and solid‐phase extraction with a Phenyl cartridge. Our limit of detection was 1.85 nmol/L and was better than the values reported in studies that directly focused on determining the endogenous plasma levels of LA: 2.4 and 4.9 nmol/L respectively. However, the levels of free LA in the plasma of nonsupplemented voluntary blood donors were not detectable in all cases. The presented results of our study show that endogenous concentrations of LA are <1.85 nmol/L.