bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
King David and the Frog
Authors: Ritzarev Marina
Published: January 2015

The interrelations between the liturgical and paraliturgical genres of sacred music in both live practice and in historiography are explored. Parallels are found between eighteenth-century Russian and modern Hebrew religious music. The author's theory of the vernacular in music is applied to explain the stylistic openness in paraliturgical music (as a parallel to onto-vernacular folklore).
The Rosary and the Rose: Clergymen as Creators of Secular Poetry and Music in Early-modern Balkans
Authors: Plemmenos John
Published: January 2015

This paper deals with the involvement of Greek clergy in secular poetry and music in early-modern Balkans. This trend began in late-16th century, and involved the production of large anthologies and treatises on Ottoman music. This paper offers insights into the motives of those clergymen, the reception of their works by laymen and clerics, and the reaction of the official church.
Notas sobre el español de América: entorno y contexto en El héroe discreto de Mario Vargas Llosa
Authors: Hernández Humberto
Published: January 2015

Notas sobre el español de América:entorno y contexto en El héroe discreto deMario Vargas Llosa
Cantaré e cantaría / cantarei e cantaria: usos retos e deslocados
Authors: Müller Pograjc Blažka
Published: January 2015

Cantaré e cantaría / cantarei e cantaria: usos retos edeslocados
El hombre a ambos lados de la pared (fragmento)
Authors: Simčič Zorko , Drobnič Marjeta
Published: January 2015

El hombre a ambos lados de la pared
A semi-automated system for quantifying the oxidative potential of ambient particles in aqueous extracts using the dithiothreitol (DTT) assay: results from the Southeastern Center for Air Pollution and Epidemiology (SCAPE)
Authors: Fang T. , Verma V. , Guo H. , King L. E. , Edgerton E. S. , Weber R. J.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. A variety of methods are used to measure the capability of particulate matter (PM) to catalytically generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vivo, also defined as the aerosol oxidative potential. A widely used measure of aerosol oxidative potential is the dithiothreitol (DTT) assay, which monitors the depletion of DTT (a surrogate for cellular antioxidants) as catalyzed by the redox-active species in PM. However, a major constraint in the routine use of the DTT assay for integrating it with large-scale health studies is its labor-intensive and time-consuming protocol. To specifically address this concern, we have developed a semi-automated system for quantifying the oxidative potential of aerosol liquid extracts using the DTT assay. The system, capable of unattended analysis at one sample per hour, has a high analytical precision (coefficient of variation of 15% for positive control, 4% for ambient samples) and reasonably low limit of detection (0.31 nmol min−1). Comparison of the automated approach with the manual method conducted on ambient samples yielded good agreement (slope = 1.08 ± 0.12, r2 = 0.92, N = 9). The system was utilized for the Southeastern Center for Air Pollution & Epidemiology (SCAPE) to generate an extensive data set on DTT activity of ambient particles collected from contrasting environments (urban, roadside, and rural) in the southeastern US. We find that water-soluble PM2.5 DTT activity on a per-air-volume basis was spatially uniform and often well correlated with PM2.5 mass (r = 0.49 to 0.88), suggesting regional sources contributing to the PM oxidative potential in the southeastern US. The correlation may also suggest a mechanistic explanation (oxidative stress) for observed PM2.5 mass-health associations. The heterogeneity in the intrinsic DTT activity (per-PM-mass basis) across seasons indicates variability in the DTT activity associated with aerosols from sources that vary with season. Although developed for the DTT assay, the instrument can also be used to determine oxidative potential with other acellular assays.
Enforcement Matters: Reframing the Philosophical Debate over Immigration
Authors: Mendoza José Jorge
Published: January 2015

In debating the ethics of immigration, philosophers have focused much of their attention on determining whether a political community ought to have the discretionary right to control immigration. They have not, however, given the same amount of consideration to determining whether there are any ethical limits on how a political community enforces its immigration policy. This article, therefore, offers a different approach to immigration justice. It presents a case against legitimate states having discretionary control over immigration by showing both how ethical limits on enforcement circumscribe the options legitimate states have in determining their immigration policy and how all immigrants (including undocumented immigrants) are entitled to certain protections against a state's enforcement apparatus.
Lessons from America's Public Philosopher
Authors: Weber Eric Thomas
Published: January 2015

This article argues for a definition of public philosophy inspired by John Dewey's understanding of the “supreme intellectual obligation.” The first section examines five strong reasons why more public philosophy is needed and why the growing movement in public philosophy should be encouraged. The second section begins with a review of common understandings of public philosophy as well as some initial challenges that call for widening our conception of the practice. Then, it applies Dewey's argument in “The Supreme Intellectual Obligation” to public philosophy, which must not be seen simply as a one-way street from intellectuals to the masses but, rather, as the task of fostering the scientific attitude and intellectual habits of mind in all citizens.
Bundled payments for care improvement initiative – insights from the test pilots of payment reform
Authors: Sutherland Jason M , Borden William B.
Published: January 2015

Background: The Medicare Bundled Payments for Care Improvement (BPCI) pilot program aims to reward high-value providers by setting a global payment target for particular episodes of care. The representativeness of BPCI participants will influence the ability of this pilot to inform policy decisions.Methods: We linked the Medicare lists of participants in the risk-bearing portion of BPCI Model 2, encompassing acute and post-acute care, to the American Hospital Association resource file and the 2013 Hospital Value-Based Purchasing quality performance data. We classified episode-initiating hospitals by the number of bundles in which they were participating into “narrow”, “medium” and “comprehensive”. The analysis described the characteristics of hospitals in each of these categories.Results: The 105 hospitals with linkable data were predominantly large, urban, non-profit, teaching hospitals. These hospitals were quite similar to the general population in terms of disproportionate share, Medicare, and Medicaid percentages. Most participants selected a narrow number of bundles, with the majority selecting a single bundle around joint replacement. There were only minor differences in quality between Model 2 participants and non-participants.Conclusions: Informing the decision about whether to scale the BPCI program nationally will require evaluation of the pilot’s performance by participants’ characteristics to understand in what conditions and for which providers the program is most effective.
Editorial – Revista Educação Especial
Authors: Freitas Soraia Napoleão
Published: January 2015

Editorial - Revista Educação Espeical
Educação de surdos e deficientes auditivos: uma análise dos indicadores sociais
Authors: Quiles Raquel Elizabeth Saes
Published: January 2015

Este trabalho apresenta de forma diagnóstica um panorama da educação de surdos e deficientes auditivos no Brasil, região Centro-Oeste e estado de Mato Grosso do Sul no período de 2007 a 2010. Seu objetivo principal se centrou no mapeamento das matrículas e modalidades de atendimento em que estão inseridos esses alunos. Para tanto, a fonte de dados do estudo foram os microdados do Instituto Nacional de Estudos Pedagógicos Anísio Teixeira (INEP), divulgados nos censos escolares. Buscou-se analisar os dados considerando as propostas educacionais evidenciadas nas políticas públicas em Educação Especial em discussão no período do estudo, aprofundando, portanto, questionamentos relacionados à educação inclusiva. Os resultados encontrados demonstram que houve um crescimento no número de matrículas tanto de surdos quanto de deficientes auditivos nas três esferas – nacional, regional e estadual – e que a grande maioria desses alunos encontram-se matriculados no ensino regular, evidenciando um enfraquecimento da modalidade de educação especial durante os últimos anos. Conclui-se que o aumento de matrículas no ensino regular provavelmente responde à imposição das políticas educacionais brasileiras no período do estudo, que orientam à inserção de todos os alunos nessa modalidade de ensino. Porém, questiona-se as condições de inclusão dos alunos surdos e deficientes auditivos e, ainda, se esta seria a melhor opção de ensino especialmente para os surdos, que têm lutado por uma escola bilíngue, que respeite suas singularidades linguísticas, o que não necessariamente significa a escola inclusiva pensada nos moldes do atual governo brasileiro.
Inclusão escolar: possíveis contribuições da fisioterapia sob a óptica de professoras
Authors: Santos Marcelli Evans Telles dos , Lara Simone , Folmer Vanderlei
Published: January 2015

A inclusão escolar tem causado debates entre profissionais da área de educação e da saúde. Neste contexto, a participação da fisioterapia pode contribuir para que o aluno desenvolva suas potencialidades no ambiente escolar. Entretanto, esta área é pouco explorada e ainda são restritos os trabalhos em relação à atuação do fisioterapeuta como membro integrante de um grupo de apoio à escola que realiza a inclusão de alunos com necessidades educacionais especiais. Sendo assim, este estudo teve como objetivos verificar as percepções de profissionais, que atuam nas salas de recursos, em relação às possíveis contribuições da fisioterapia na inclusão escolar e conhecer as principais dificuldades encontradas por esses profissionais. Fizeram parte do estudo oito professoras de três escolas estaduais de Uruguaiana-RS. O instrumento utilizado foi uma entrevista semiestruturada que foi realizada individualmente, gravada e posteriormente transcrita para a análise. Os dados coletados foram analisados de acordo com a análise de conteúdo de Bardin (2004). Os resultados mostram que as entrevistadas possuem uma concepção positiva em relação à fisioterapia na inclusão de escolares, pois reconhecem a sua importância e também possuem conhecimento sobre as possíveis formas de contribuição. Diante dos relatos foi possível concluir que existem possibilidades da fisioterapia poder contribuir na inclusão escolar e também há a necessidade do profissional fisioterapeuta disseminar conhecimento sobre a sua atuação para a comunidade universitária e escolar.
Rescue of an In Vitro Neuron Phenotype Identified in Niemann-Pick Disease, Type C1 Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neurons by Modulating the WNT Pathway and Calcium Signaling
Authors: Efthymiou Anastasia G. , Steiner Joe , Pavan William J. , Wincovitch Stephen , Larson Denise M. , Porter Forbes D. , Rao Mahendra S. , Malik Nasir
Published: January 2015

Niemann-Pick disease, type C1 (NPC1) is a familial disorder that has devastating consequences on postnatal development with multisystem effects, including neurodegeneration. There is no Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment option for NPC1; however, several potentially therapeutic compounds have been identified in assays using yeast, rodent models, and NPC1 human fibroblasts. Although these discoveries were made in fibroblasts from NPC1 subjects and were in some instances validated in animal models of the disease, testing these drugs on a cell type more relevant for NPC1 neurological disease would greatly facilitate both study of the disease and identification of more relevant therapeutic compounds. Toward this goal, we have generated an induced pluripotent stem cell line from a subject homozygous for the most frequent NPC1 mutation (p.I1061T) and subsequently created a stable line of neural stem cells (NSCs). These NSCs were then used to create neurons as an appropriate disease model. NPC1 neurons display a premature cell death phenotype, and gene expression analysis of these cells suggests dysfunction of important signaling pathways, including calcium and WNT. The clear readout from these cells makes them ideal candidates for high-throughput screening and will be a valuable tool to better understand the development of NPC1 in neural cells, as well as to develop better therapeutic options for NPC1.
Implementação de certificação ambiental Better Sugarcane Initiative - Bonsucro: estudo de caso no setor sucroenergético
Authors: Oliveira Edenis César de , Pereira Raquel da Silva , Gaspar Marcos Antonio
Published: January 2015

O setor sucroenergético desempenha papel cada vez mais importante no contexto econômico brasileiro. A eficiência das empresas atuantes nesse setor passa obrigatoriamente por questões ligadas à sustentabilidade das ações desenvolvidas em seu processo produtivo, o que pode ser alavancado a partir de certificações ambientais alcançadas pelas empresas. Assim, esta pesquisa teve como objetivo verificar a aplicação de alguns dos principais princípios, critérios e indicadores para o atendimento do padrão BSI-Bonsucro de certificação. Para tanto, este estudo descritivo de natureza qualitativa foi executado por meio de estudo de caso único na empresa ALPHA, selecionada em função de sua expressiva relevância no setor sucroenergético brasileiro. A pesquisa documental teve como principal foco o Relatório de Sustentabilidade da empresa analisada, elaborado a partir do padrão Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). Como resultados observou-se que, dos seis critérios compreendidos em três dos cinco princípios selecionados para estudo, somente o critério referente ao nível máximo de dióxido de carbono emitido por tonelada de cana-de-açúcar, ainda carece de ações de melhoria para o efetivo cumprimento do que versa a certificação BSI-Bonsucro. Assim, o presente estudo demonstrou ser viável que empresas que atuam no setor analisado passem a pautar suas ações operacionais a partir da observância dos princípios, critérios e indicadores presentes na certificação BSI-Bonsucro. A adoção de tal posicionamento pode possibilitar às empresas atingirem melhores resultados a partir de estratégias voltadas ao atendimento das demandas relacionadas à sustentabilidade do negócio.
Gerenciamento de resíduos hospitalares: um estudo multicasos no nordeste do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Severo Eliana Andréa , Olea Pelayo Munhoz , Guimarães Julio Cesar Ferro , Dorion Eric Charles Henri
Published: January 2015

A sociedade contemporânea prima pela constante busca de soluções eficientes para o destino dos Resíduos de Serviço de Saúde (RSS), pois se trata de uma ameaça ao meio ambiente e ao bem estar social. Neste cenário, os hospitais contam com as práticas de gestão ambiental e legislação vigente, que atuam no intuito de minimizar a geração de resíduos, bem como ocasionar uma disposição final adequada. Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar o gerenciamento de resíduos nos sete hospitais do Sistema de Saúde de Caxias do Sul (SSCX), bem como realizar a comparação das práticas de gestão ambiental versus a legislação vigente, preconizada pela Resolução ANVISA 306/2004. Para tanto, se caracteriza como uma pesquisa qualitativa, por meio de estudo de casos múltiplos. Com base na análise dos dados, observou-se que os sete hospitais analisados, empregam a prática de segregação de resíduos, primando para o descarte adequado, em relação a sua periculosidade e toxicidade. No entanto, no que diz respeito aos efluentes hospitalares, cinco hospitais do SSCX não estão de acordo com a legislação vigente, pois não tratam os efluentes hospitalares. Consoante isso, os corpos de água da região serrana e central do estado do Rio Grande do Sul estão sendo contaminados, causando impacto negativo no meio ambiente. O setor hospitalar do SSCX pode, ainda, contribuir muito para o desenvolvimento sustentável, no afã não só de se adequar à legislação vigente, mas também aderir a políticas de sustentabilidade.
Communication entre intervenants oeuvrant auprès de l’enfant d’âge préscolaire et les familles immigrantes : étude de la portée
Authors: Tétreault Sylvie , Desmarais Chantal , Marier-Deschênes Pascale , St-Germain Daphney , Rachédi Lilyane , McLaughlin Dayna , Rogers Élisabeth , Piérart Geneviève , Gulfi Alida , St-Pierre Marie-Catherine
Published: January 2015

La communication entre les intervenants oeuvrant auprès des enfants d’âge préscolaire et les familles immigrantes ayant un enfant avec un trouble de développement pose des défis particuliers. Afin de favoriser le déploiement du plein potentiel de l’enfant, une compréhension mutuelle s’impose. Cette étude de la portée aborde les facilitateurs et les contraintes communicationnelles vécues dans un contexte interculturel et interlinguistique, ainsi que les outils, stratégies ou approches utilisés pour faciliter les échanges. Six bases de données ont été consultées et au terme d’une démarche de sélection interjuges, trente-cinq articles scientifiques ont été retenus. Les principaux obstacles et facilitateurs influençant la communication ont été dégagés. Toutefois, peu de stratégies concrètes, destinées aux intervenants et permettant de soutenir les échanges, ont pu être recensées.
Bittersweet Prognostication
Authors: Rissman Lauren
Published: August 2024

In this narrative medicine essay, a pediatric critical care physician explores the right moment to speak with parents about their child’s life or death outcome, relying on the various elements involved in predicting an iffy endeavor.
Continued Homelessness and Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults
Authors: Dobbins Sarah K. , Garcia Cheyenne M. , Evans Jennifer L. , Valle Karen , Guzman David , Kushel Margot B.
Published: August 2024

Importance

Depression is common in adults experiencing homelessness. It is unclear whether continued homelessness is associated with more depressive symptoms.

Objective

To examine the association between residential status and depressive symptoms in adults aged 50 years or older experiencing homelessness at study entry.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study analyzed results from the Health Outcomes of People Experiencing Homelessness in Older Middle Age (HOPE HOME) project, which in 2013 began enrolling adults aged 50 years or older experiencing homelessness in Oakland, California, and conducted structured interviews every 6 months for a mean duration of 5.5 years through 2023 (for this cohort study). Eligible participants included those aged 50 years or older, able to speak English, and experiencing homelessness at enrollment. We analyzed data collected from 2013 to 2023.

Exposures

The exposure of interest was residential status. At follow-up visits, residential status was categorized as (1) homelessness (meeting the HEARTH [Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing] Act definition) or (2) housed (living in a noninstitutional environment and not meeting the HEARTH Act definition).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was moderate to severe depressive symptoms (with Center for Epidemiologic Studies–Depression [CES-D] scale score ≥22). The augmented inverse probability of treatment weighting (AIPTW) approach was used to examine the association between continued homelessness and depressive symptoms. The AIPTW adjusted for the following variables: number of chronic health conditions, age, sex, visiting a health care practitioner, receiving outpatient mental health treatment, receiving mental health medication, exposure to abuse, substance use disorder, and binge drinking.

Results

The cohort was composed of 450 participants, of whom 343 (76.2%) were males, and the mean (SD) age was 58.5 (5.2) years. Participants completed a median (IQR) of 8.9 (8-11) follow-up visits. With 1640 person-years of observation time, participants continued homelessness for 880 person-years (57.1%) and experienced being housed for 715 person-years (44.3%). Many participants (304 [78.0%]) were housed during at least 1 follow-up visit. The odds of a CES-D scale score of 22 or higher was significantly higher among participants who continued experiencing homelessness than among housed participants (marginal causal odds ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04-1.11; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that continued homelessness was associated independently with increased odds of depressive symptoms. Obtaining housing may have a favorable role in depression and overall well-being of older adults experiencing homelessness and may be considered as a mental health intervention.
Suicide Attempt and Suicide Death Among Spouses of Patients With Cancer
Authors: Liu Qianwei , Yang Fen , László Krisztina D. , Hu Kejia , Feychting Maria , Wei Dang , Fall Katja , Valdimarsdóttir Unnur , Li Jiong , Fang Fang
Published: August 2024

Importance

Little is known about the risk of suicidal behavior in relation to having a spouse with a cancer diagnosis.

Objective

To estimate the risk of suicide attempt and suicide death among spouses of patients with cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This nationwide cohort study in Denmark collected registry-based data from 1986 through 2016. Analyses were performed from August 8, 2022, to October 30, 2023. Individuals who had a spouse with a cancer diagnosed during 1986 to 2015 were compared with individuals whose spouse did not have a cancer diagnosis during the same period, randomly selected from the general population and matched by birth year and sex.

Exposure

Having a spouse with a cancer diagnosis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Suicide attempt was identified through the Danish National Patient Register and the Danish Psychiatric Central Research Register, whereas suicide death was identified through the Danish Causes of Death Register, through 2016. Flexible parametric and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for suicide attempt and suicide death among spouses of patients with a cancer diagnosis.

Results

The study included 409 338 exposed individuals and 2 046 682 unexposed individuals (median [IQR] age at cohort entry for both groups, 63 [54-70] years; 55.4% women). During the follow-up, 2714 incident cases of suicide attempt among exposed individuals (incidence rate [IR], 62.6 per 100 000 person-years) and 9994 among unexposed individuals (IR, 50.5 per 100 000 person-years) were identified, as well as 711 cases of suicide death among the exposed individuals (IR, 16.3 per 100 000 person-years) and 2270 among the unexposed individuals (IR, 11.4 per 100 000 person-years). An increased risk of suicide attempt (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.23-1.34) and suicide death (HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.35-1.60) was observed among spouses of patients with cancer throughout the follow-up. The increased risk was particularly notable during the first year after the cancer diagnosis, with an HR of 1.45 (95% CI, 1.27-1.66) for suicide attempt and 2.56 (95% CI, 2.03-3.22) for suicide death. There was a greater risk increase for both suicide attempt and suicide death when the cancer was diagnosed at an advanced stage or when the spouse died after the cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest a need for clinical and societal awareness to prevent suicidal behaviors among spouses of patients with cancer, particularly during the first year following the cancer diagnosis.
Vitreoretinopathy in Asymptomatic Children With CTNNB1 Syndrome
Authors: Bedoukian Emma C. , Forbes Grace , Scoles Drew
Published: August 2024

Importance

Previous studies have identified familial exudative vitreoretinonpathy (FEVR) in patients with CTNNB1 syndrome based on severe congenital ocular phenotypes. However, ophthalmoscopy may not be sufficient to detect vision-threatening vitreoretinopathy in all patients.

Objective

To report a consecutive retrospective case series of 11 patients with CTNNB1 variants who had previously unremarkable ophthalmoscopic examination results and to describe their detailed ophthalmic phenotypes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective case series was conducted at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia from October 2022 to November 2023 among patients with identified variants in CTNNB1 and previously documented normal results in office retinal examinations. These consecutive patients subsequently underwent an examination under anesthesia with fluorescein angiography. Detailed genotype information was analyzed for all patients, and each variant was mapped on the CTNNB1 gene to observe any associations with severity of vitreoretinopathy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Number of patients with vitreoretinopathy and number requiring treatment for vitreoretinopathy.

Results

The mean (SD) age at the time of CTNNB1 syndrome diagnosis was 2 (1) years, and the mean (SD) age at examination was 6 (3) years for the 11 total patients. A total of 9 patients had a diagnosis of strabismus, and 5 patients had undergone strabismus surgery. FEVR was present in 5 of 11 patients and in 9 eyes. The presence of disease requiring treatment was identified in 6 eyes, including 1 retinal detachment. Detailed genotype analysis of the patients found no clearly delineated high-risk loci in CTNNB1 in association with high severity of FEVR.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case series study, nearly all patients with CTNNB1 syndrome required ophthalmic care for refractive error and strabismus, and a subset also required treatment for FEVR. These findings support consideration of ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography among individuals with CTNNB1 syndrome when feasible, including the use of sedation if such an assessment is not possible in the office setting.
Cell‐Specific Transposable Element and Gene Expression Analysis Across Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Phenotypes
Authors: Cutts Zachary , Patterson Sarah , Maliskova Lenka , Taylor Kimberly E. , Ye Chun Jimmie , Dall'Era Maria , Yazdany Jinoos , Criswell Lindsey A. , Fragiadakis Gabriela K. , Langelier Charles , Capra John A. , Sirota Marina , Lanata Cristina M.
Published: August 2024

Objective

There is an established yet unexplained link between interferon (IFN) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The expression of sequences derived from transposable elements (TEs) may contribute to SLE phenotypes, specifically production of type I IFNs and generation of autoantibodies.

Methods

We profiled cell‐sorted RNA‐sequencing data (CD4+ T cells, CD14+ monocytes, CD19+ B cells, and natural killer cells) from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 120 patients with SLE and quantified TE expression identifying 27,135 TEs. We tested for differential TE expression across 10 SLE phenotypes, including autoantibody production and disease activity.

Results

We found 731 differentially expressed (DE) TEs across all SLE phenotypes that were mostly cell specific and phenotype specific. DE TEs were enriched for specific families and open reading frames of viral genes encoded in TE sequences. Increased expression of DE TEs was associated with genes involved in antiviral activity, such as LY6E, ISG15, and TRIM22, and pathways such as IFN signaling.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that expression of TEs contributes to activation of SLE‐related mechanisms in a cell‐specific manner, which can impact disease diagnostics and therapeutics.
Robust fixed‐point Kalman smoother for bilinear state‐space systems with non‐Gaussian noise and parametric uncertainties
Authors: Wang Xuehai , Liu Yage , Zhao Sirui
Published: August 2024

Kalman smoother is an effective algorithm to estimate the state of the dynamic systems with Gaussian noise. However, when the system is affected by non‐Gaussian noise, the traditional Kalman smoother may suffer severe performance degradation, since it is derived from the minimum mean square error criterion. By introducing the maximum correntropy criterion, which accounts for all higher order moments and has the ability to resist non‐Gaussian noise, this article studies the state estimation problem of the bilinear state‐space system with non‐Gaussian noises and parametric uncertainties. The bilinear system with parametric uncertainties is transformed into a linear time‐varying system, and a robust fixed‐point Kalman filter algorithm is derived based on the Cauchy kernel‐based correntropy criterion. To improve the state estimation accuracy, a Cauchy kernel‐based fixed‐point Kalman smoother (CK‐FPKS) algorithm is presented by introducing the backward smoothing. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Transport‐Friendly Microstructure in SSC‐MEA: Unveiling the SSC Ionomer‐Based Membrane Electrode Assemblies for Enhanced Fuel Cell Performance
Authors: Li Min , Ding Han , Song Jingnan , Hao Bonan , Zeng Rui , Li Zhenyu , Wu Xuefei , Fink Zachary , Zhou Libo , Russel Thomas P. , Liu Feng , Zhang Yongming
Published: August 2024

The significant role of the cathodic binder in modulating mass transport within the catalyst layer (CL) of fuel cells is essential for optimizing cell performance. This investigation focuses on enhancing the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) through the utilization of a short‐side‐chain perfluoro‐sulfonic acid (SSC‐PFSA) ionomer as the cathode binder, referred to as SSC‐MEA. This study meticulously visualizes the distinctive interpenetrating networks of ionomers and catalysts, and explicitly clarifies the triple‐phase interface, unveiling the transport‐friendly microstructure and transport mechanisms inherent in SSC‐MEA. The SSC‐MEA exhibits advantageous microstructural features, including a better‐connected ionomer network and well‐organized hierarchical porous structure, culminating in superior mass transfer properties. Relative to the MEA bonded by long‐side‐chain perfluoro‐sulfonic acid (LSC‐PFSA) ionomer, noted as LSC‐MEA, SSC‐MEA exhibits a notable peak power density (1.23 W cm−2), efficient O2 transport, and remarkable proton conductivity (65% improvement) at 65 °C and 70% relativity humidity (RH). These findings establish crucial insights into the intricate morphology‐transport‐performance relationship in the CL, thereby providing strategic guidance for developing highly efficient MEA.
Simulating the development and growth of lentil using the CSM‐CROPGRO model
Authors: Jing Qi , Boote Kenneth J. , Liu Kui , Hoogenboom Gerrit , White Jeffrey W. , Smith Ward , Jégo Guillaume , Grant Brian , Crépeau Marianne , Shang Jiali , Liu Jiangui , Chipanshi Aston , Qian Budong
Published: August 2024

The pulse crop lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) is often grown in crop rotations to provide nitrogen (N) and water benefits for subsequent crops. Lentil yields vary greatly with environmental factors and management. A reliable crop model for lentil could assist efforts to assess the effects of management practices to mitigate environmental stresses and maximize lentil yields. However, few crop models simulate the development and growth of lentil. In this study, we adapted the CSM‐CROPGRO model in the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer to simulate lentil development and growth based on data collected from six experiments conducted from 2001 to 2021 globally. The initial parameter values taken from faba bean (Vicia faba L.) were modified based on reported information and analysis of observed data. Those values were fine‐tuned to minimize the gaps between the simulated and observed crop attributes. The model simulated well development stages with root mean square error (RMSE) of 4 days and aboveground biomass with normalized root mean square error (nRMSE ≤ 23%). Seed yields were generally well simulated across experiments in calibration and validation (nRMSE = 19%) datasets, except for overestimation under the humid environment of Quebec in Canada, which may have resulted from excessive vegetative growth. The underlying mechanisms leading to excessive vegetative growth need to be explored further and included in the model for evaluating the adaptability of lentils to specific regions. Overall, the CSM‐CROPGRO‐Lentil model is ready for simulating lentil production under various scenarios, which may identify ways to improve the productivity and resiliency of cropping systems that include lentil.
Embryo excision in Compositae, with implications for combating biodiversity loss
Authors: Baldwin Bruce G. , Fawcett Susan , Wolkis Dustin
Published: August 2024

Premise

Embryo excision is an effective, under‐described means of promoting germination in the sunflower family and may help to ensure the survival of endangered taxa or lineages with limited seed availability.

Methods and Results

We describe and illustrate a detailed method of embryo excision used successfully to stimulate germination in a diversity of composites and that requires minimal materials and expense, using Layia platyglossa as an example. We show how this procedure greatly increases germination compared to control treatments in Madia elegans, a close relative of Hawaiian silverswords that exhibits physiological dormancy.

Conclusions

This technique can be learned quickly and is highly effective. Embryo excision can aid conservation efforts dependent on minimal seed resources by enhancing germination and allowing evaluation of seed quality before or after storage, as well as synchronizing seedling development, thereby allowing for refinement of ex situ seed bank conditions and efficient use of horticultural resources.
Selective Detection of Chromate and Permanganate Ions Using Gallic Acid Capped CaF2:Tb3+ Nanocrystals
Authors: Madhukar Nikita , Adusumalli Venkata N. K. B. , Koppisetti Heramba V. S. R. M. , Mondal Ayan , Ito Akitaka , Park Yong II , Mahalingam Venkataramanan
Published: August 2024

In this study, we have developed ligand‐sensitized Ln3+‐doped nanocrystals (NCs) for the selective sensing of Cr2O72− and MnO4− ions in nanomolar concentrations. This is accomplished with the gallic acid capped‐CaF2:Tb3+ NCs. These NCs display bright green emission through an efficient energy transfer from surface functionalized gallic acid molecules to Tb3+ ions upon UV light excitation. The luminescence from Tb3+ ions are selectively quenched by the addition of Cr2O72− and MnO4− anions. The reduction in the luminescence intensity is found to be quite selective, as the addition of other strong oxidizing species (I−, F−, Br−, Cl−, PO32−, SO42−, VO3−, WO42−, IO3−, ClO4−,) had minimal impact on the luminescence intensity of Tb3+ ions. The calculated limit of detection from the experimental results (for the 3σ/slope criterion) is 77 nM and 55 nM for K2Cr2O7 and KMnO4, respectively. The findings show that tuning the resonance energy transfer (RET) between analytes and Tb3+ inside the NCs serves as a tool for the detection of dichromate and permanganate ions selectively.
Enhanced red luminescence from GdAl3(BO3)4: Pr3+ phosphors under NUV excitation
Authors: Jamalaiah Bungala Chinna , Khan Pedinti Shahab , Madhu Napa
Published: August 2024

The GdAl3(BO3)4:xPr3+ (0 ≤ x ≤ 5.0 mol%) phosphors were prepared through solid state reaction route and characterized for various lighting applications. Powder X‐ray diffraction investigations revel rhombohedral structure matched to JCPDS card no. 83‐1907. The morphological studies confirm the agglomeration of particles with different size and shape. The emission spectra show various emission transitions originating from Pr3+:(3P1,0, 1D2) emission states to their lower lying energy states upon 274 nm NUV excitation with a red shift for x > 0.5 mol%. The colour perception analysis results an intense red luminescence due to efficient energy transfer from Gd3+ to Pr3+ ions. The temperature‐dependent luminescence investigations show good thermal stability even beyond 150°C with an activation energy of 0.24 eV. The observed experimental results show the potentiality of GdAl3(BO3)4:0.5 Pr3+ phosphor for red emitting devices and red component in phosphor converted white LEDs.
Greening the supply chain: Leveraging additive manufacturing for sustainable risk management
Authors: Singh Shubhendu , Misra Subhas Chandra , Singh Gaurvendra
Published: August 2024

Modern supply chains face multifaceted risks due to their intricate nature, often leading to disruptions that ripple across the entire chain. However, in the era of Industry 4.0, innovative technologies such as additive manufacturing technology (AMT) promise to enhance supply chain sustainability and address environmental concerns. This study investigates the potential of AMT in mitigating supply chain risks (SCRs) through a comprehensive risk assessment framework employing the best‐worst method (BWM). Our analysis encompasses 14 SCRs grouped into four SCR categories. Analysis of the outcome reveals that AMT adoption has the most significant impact in addressing risks related to lead time fluctuations, waste generation, supplier dependency, inventory‐related risks, and logistics‐related risks. Notably, the adoption of AMT emerges as a robust strategy, significantly impacting these critical risk areas, thereby aligning with the principles of supply chain sustainability, strategic environmental management, and fostering innovation in green technologies. The implications of this study offer invaluable insights for researchers and practitioners, emphasizing the pivotal role of AMT in addressing environmental risks and promoting sustainable supply chain practices. By understanding and leveraging the potential of AMT, businesses can strategically navigate supply chain challenges while embracing environmentally conscious approaches, driving positive impacts across industries.
Prepare to comply with latest Title IX regulations
Authors: Bowers Blaze
Published: August 2024

The Aug. 1, 2024, implementation date for the revised Title IX regulations is here. Since the rule's April 19 release, we’ve seen experts, media outlets, and others providing resources that are helpful, voluminous, or even confusing.
Are you a supercommunicator?
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: August 2024

I think all college and university administrators, including presidents, deans, faculty, admission and financial aid officers, student affairs deans, registrars, and alumni officers, could benefit from the advice of Charles Duhigg, presented in his book Supercommunicators.
Did court dismiss student‐athlete's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: August 2024

A University of Vermont swim team member filed a report with the university claiming she had recently been sexually assaulted multiple times by a member of the men's basketball team, with whom she was previously in a relationship. Two days later, an investigator told her she could (1) file a police report, (2) request a formal investigation, or (3) participate in an informal resolution. She allegedly told the student the informal resolution would “take less time.”
Pair of studies examine health effects of Tasers, officer‐involved killings on Black people
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2024

Two new studies tracked the impact of police violence on Black Americans. One of the studies tracked the effects of police violence on mental health for Black Americans, noting that police‐involved deaths were tied to sleep disturbances. The other study reviewed police use of Tasers and found a racial gap for injuries for Black Americans.
Genipa americana L.: A Review on Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities
Authors: Nascimento Lariza Leisla Leandro , de Oliveira Souza Geane Gabriele , da Silva Mendes Johnatan Wellisson , Calixto Donelardy Ana Cecília , Viturino José Jonas Ferreira , Gomes de Carvalho Natália Kelly , Leite Débora Odília Duarte , da Costa José Galberto Martins , Rodrigues Fabíola Fernandes Galvão
Published: August 2024

Genipa americana L. (Rubiaceae), genip tree, has therapeutic and nutritional potential. This revision aimed to gather information on botanical characteristics, popular uses, phytochemical, and pharmacological aspects of the tree. The methodology adopted integrated literature published between 2000 and 2024, as well as consultations with the World International Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO); resulting in 39 articles and 11 patents to promote this research. The species, which is native and not endemic to Brazil, is most prevalent in the Amazon biome as it is suitable for reconstructing degraded areas, as well as having various traditional applications. Iridoids are the main secondary metabolites present in the species, especially ginipin, geniposide acid, and geniposide, which are the most prevalent in the fruit. The patents registered with the WIPO indicate its use as a colorant, insecticide, anti‐inflammatory, and antioxidant potential, in evidence of its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Further studies are needed on the mechanisms of the chemical components’ action and on ethnopharmacology.
Numerical Study on Effects of Nanoparticles Concentration and Steam Flow Rate on Oil Recovery from a Model Porous Medium
Authors: Darabi Keyvan Ahangar , Ahmadlouydarab Majid
Published: August 2024

Effects of nanoparticle and steam injection on the extraction of Iranian American Petroleum Institute (API) 14 heavy oil from a model porous medium at temperatures of 110, 150, and 200 °C were investigated. Nanoparticle content was 1 %, 3 %, and 5 %, and injection flow rates were 0.018, 0.036 and 0.072 mL h−1. In short‐term injection, increasing the injection temperature to 200 °C and the flow rate to 0.072 mL h−1 resulted in the highest recovery. In the mid‐term injection, the highest recovery factor was at a temperature of 150 °C and flow rate of 0.036 mL h−1, while the results of the long‐term injection predicted a non‐monotonic effect of flow rate. The effect of alumina content on the recovery factor is less than that of temperature and flow rate. Interestingly, alumina content also has non‐monotonic effects on the recovery factor.
Controlling Calcium Oxalate Crystal Growth Using Pectin and Sodium Alginate Natural Polymers
Authors: AL‐Dubai Ahmed , Akyol Emel
Published: August 2024

Calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystallization is a common phenomenon that contributes to various kidney disorders and stone formation, as well as the formation of scale in industrial processes. The inhibition of CaOx is an area of intense scientific interest in the field of materials science due to its relevance to biomineralization. The present study investigated the effects of pectin (PE) and sodium alginate (SA), two natural polymers, on the growth of CaOx crystals using a batch crystallization method in aqueous solutions at 37 °C with different concentrations (0.5, 1, 5, and 10 ppm). The results of the study showed that both PE and SA were effective inhibitors of CaOx crystal growth, with the highest inhibition observed at a concentration of 10 ppm, reaching 80 %. PE did not significantly affect the size of the crystals, while SA reduced their size as the concentration increased. These findings contribute to our understanding of the potential of natural polymers as non‐toxic inhibitors of CaOx crystal growth.
Air and Water Stable Bicyclic (Alkyl)(Amino)Carbene Stabilized Phosphenium Cation: Reactivity and Selective Fluoride Ion Affinity
Authors: Yadav Ritu , Sharma Ankita , Das Bindusagar , Majumder Chinmoy , Das Ayantika , Sen Saumik , Kundu Subrata
Published: August 2024

The synthesis and reactivity of an air and water stable Bicyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (BICAAC) stabilized phosphenium cation (1) is reported. Air and water stable phosphenium cation are rare in the literature. Compound 1 is obtained by reaction of BICAAC with Ph2PCl in THF followed by anion exchange with LiOTf. The reduction and oxidation of 1 yielded corresponding α‐radical phosphine species (2) and BICAAC stabilized phosphenium oxide (3) respectively. All compounds are well characterized by single crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. The Lewis acidity of compounds 1 and 3 are determined by conducting fluoride ion affinity experiments using UV‐Vis spectrophotometry and multinuclei NMR spectroscopy. Compounds 1 and 3 exhibited selective binding to fluoride anion but did not interact with other halides (Cl− and Br−). Quantum chemical calculations were performed to understand the structure and nature of bonding interactions in these compounds, as well as to comprehend the specific bonding affinity to fluoride over other halide ions.
Regulating the Topologies and Photoresponsive Properties of Lanthanum‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Ren Xin‐Ye , Chen Fan‐Yao , Zhang Chun‐Hua , Liang Zhen‐Gang , Yu Xiao‐Yue , Han Song‐De , Wang Guo‐Ming
Published: August 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) show potential application in many domains, in which photochromic MOFs (PMOFs) have received enormous attention. Researchers mainly utilize photoactive ligands to build PMOFs. Recently, the mixed electron donating and accepting ligands strategies have also been used to construct PMOFs driven by the electron transfer between nonphotochromic moieties. However, the potential interligand competition inhibits the formation of PMOFs. Therefore, the exploration of single‐ligand‐guided assembly is conductive for building PMOFs. Considering the existing electron accepting and donating role of pyridyl and carboxyl, the pyridinecarboxyate derived from the fusion of pyridyl and carboxyl units may serve as single ligand to yield PMOFs (Figure 1d). In this work, the coordination assembly of bipyridinedicarboxylate (2,2′‐bipyridine‐4,4′‐dicarboxylic acid, H2bpdc; 1,10‐phenanthroline‐2,9‐dicarboxylic acid, H2pda) and LaCl3 generate two PMOFs, [La(bpdc)(H2O)Cl] (1) and [La(pda)(H2O)2Cl]⋅2H2O (2). Both complexes feature dinuclear lanthanum as building blocks with differences in the connecting number of likers, in which 1 has (4,8)‐connected topology and 2 exhibits sql topology. Their structural differences result in the diversities of photoresponsive functionalities. Compared with reported PMOFs built from photoactive ligands and mixed ligands, this study provides new available categories of single ligand for generating PMOFs and tuning the structure and photoresponsive properties via ligand substitution and external photostimulus.
Optimizing hydrothermal carbonization for enhanced energy production from algal biomass with high moisture content
Authors: Nakano Kanta , Luthfi Numan , Fukushima Takashi , Takisawa Kenji
Published: August 2024

Recently, the depletion of fossil fuels has become an issue, prompting the search for sustainable alternatives. Algal biomass has gained considerable attention as a promising renewable energy source because of its high production efficiency and adaptability to external environment. However, its high‐moisture content escalates the energy requirement during the thermal drying process in algal biomass production. Thus, we proposed a new energy production system using hydrothermal carbonization, which requires no pretreatment even for high moisture content biomass, making it compatible with such materials. Herein, we investigated the decrease in moisture content of algal biomass through hydrothermal carbonization and its effect on the energy production and energy balance of algal biomass. The results showed that hydrothermal carbonization at 240°C for 3 h produced hydrochar with a moisture content of 34.6%. It was found that it was due to changes in surface structures, such as CH, CO, and OH functional groups, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) analysis. However, the greatest reduction in production energy, 45%, was achieved at 240°C for 4 h. The optimal energy balance was obtained for hydrothermal carbonization at 220°C for 4 h, for which energy production was 2.7 times more efficient than that achieved by conventional methods.