bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Napâttuit: Wood use by Labrador Inuit and its impact on the forest landscape
Authors: Lemus-Lauzon Isabel , Bhiry Najat , Woollett James
Published: June 2013

In Nunatsiavut, recent studies have shown that major changes to forest tundra ecosystems have occurred over the past two centuries, including a shift in the abundance and range of tree/shrub species. Although this trend could be due to the highly variable climate of this period, we should also consider anthropogenic factors, such as wood harvesting, when conducting ecological studies of forest dynamics. Based on a literature review, interviews, and field observations, this article documents the interactions between residents of Nain (Nunatsiavut) and the forest landscape since the late 18th century. Nain is one of the few Inuit communities south of the tree line, and its inhabitants seem to have had an ambivalent and changing relationship with their forest landscape. Thus, though probably perceived initially as potentially dangerous, the forest has gradually been integrated into land use patterns and helped shape some aspects of Labrador Inuit culture. For Nain’s inhabitants, wood use has been continuous but not homogenous over time. Patterns of use and harvesting have changed with the socio-economic setting and have left their traces on the region’s forest stands, as is evident from the abundance of cut stumps and the scarcity of naturally dead trees.
The shrubs in the forest: The use of woody species by 18th-century Labrador Inuit
Authors: Zutter Cynthia
Published: June 2013

Despite low productivity rates and sparse tree cover in the circumpolar region, the Inuit identify woody plants and their products as important parts of their diet that provide essential nutrients and medicine. However, evidence of historic and prehistoric Inuit plant use is less well known. This article presents archaeobotanical research from two 18th-century Inuit sites in Northern Labrador. At both sites, abundant botanical remains were recovered, suggesting woody plants were consumed as food, used as medicines, and modified for many valuable purposes. These results are consistent with Inuit ethnobotanical studies, suggesting that woody plants contribute important elements to the Inuit economy today and have done so in the recent past.
Open skin boats of the Aleutians, Kodiak Island, and Prince William Sound
Authors: Anichtchenko Evguenia
Published: June 2013

This article examines the relationship between the open skin boat (umiak) traditions of the Unangax/Aleut who inhabited the Aleutian Islands and the Sugpiat of Kodiak Island and Prince William Sound, the two southernmost Indigenous Alaskan peoples who used such watercraft. In a larger geographical context, the Aleutian Islands and the Kodiak Archipelago form a chain of lands stretching from the Alaska Peninsula to the eastern coast of Eurasia. Drawing from archaeological and ethnographic evidence, the author discusses both technological and social aspects of open skin boats. A comparison between Sugpiaq and Unangax/Aleut boats demonstrates similarities in some structural details and leads to a discussion of technological exchange in the larger region that encompasses Southeast Alaska, Prince William Sound, the Kodiak Archipelago, the Aleutian Islands, and the Kamchatka Peninsula. The different Indigenous boat types influenced each other along a chain of overlapping related elements and structural features, rather than being adopted in each case as a complete technological corpus. This exchange occurred along routes of trade and war but ultimately created a dynamic intellectual network of watercraft technology.
Programmable Microfluidic‐Assisted Highly Conductive Hydrogel Patches for Customizable Soft Electronics
Authors: Liao Junchen , Ma Zhiqiang , Liu Shiyuan , Li Wei , Yang Xiaodan , Hilal Mohamed Elhousseini , Zhou Xiang , Yang Zhengbao , Khoo Bee Luan
Published: July 2024

The utilization of hydrogels in soft electronics has led to significant progress in the field of wearable and implantable devices. However, challenges persist in hydrogel electronics, including the delicate equilibrium between stretchability and electrical conductivity, intricacies in miniaturization, and susceptibility to dehydration. Here, a lignin‐polyacrylamide (Ag‐LPA) hydrogel composite endowed with anti‐freeze, self‐adhesive, exceptional water retention properties, and high stretchability (1072%) is presented. Notably, this composite demonstrated impressive electrical conductivity at room temperature (47.924 S cm−1) and extremely cold temperatures (42.507 S cm−1). It is further proposed for microfluidic‐assisted hydrogel patches (MAHPs) to facilitate customizable designs of the Ag‐LPA hydrogel composite. This approach enhances water retention and offers versatility in packaging materials, making it a promising choice for enduring soft electronics applications. As a proof‐of‐concept, soft electronics across diverse applications and dimensions, encompassing healthcare monitoring, environmental temperature sensing, and 3D‐spring pressure monitoring electronics are successfully developed. The scenery of an extremely cold environment is further extended. The conductivity of the embedded Ag‐LPA hydrogel composite unveils the potential of MAHPs in polar rescue missions. It is envisioned that MAHPs will impact the development of sophisticated and tailored soft electronics, thereby forging new frontiers in engineering applications.
Mutual Destabilization of Wide Bandgap Perovskite and PbI2 Inclusions through Interface Carrier Trapping
Authors: Zhou Yang , Wong E Laine , Folpini Giulia , Zanolini Martina , Jiménez‐López Jesús , Treglia Antonella , Petrozza Annamaria
Published: July 2024

Lead halide perovskites (LHPs) are promising for versatile optoelectronic applications due to their tunable bandgap, but their photoinstability impedes the development. Lead iodide (PbI2) inclusions are commonly seen in LHPs, either formed during the fabrication of the thin film or during its degradation under external stimuli like heat and illumination. Here It is shown how the coexistence of these different phases mutually boost their photodegradation. It is demonstrated that the photodecomposition of PbI2 to form I2, and the photo‐induced halide segregation and decomposition of the mixed I─Br perovskite are both accelerated when they are interfaced. Such a mutual destabilization originates from the nature of PbI2, both because it is rich in hole traps whose energy level spreads within the bandgap of perovskite and because it has a loose layered structure. Thus it becomes a sink for both photocarriers (holes) and ions (A‐site cations and halides) transferred from the perovskite, respectively. It is shown that consistently reducing the PbI2 inclusions in the mixed I─Br perovskite thin film improves the solar cell stability substantially, extending, in the model devices, the operational time from ≈10 to 500 h under illumination.
Multi‐Modal Melt‐Processing of Birefringent Cellulosic Materials for Eco‐Friendly Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Li Xinkai , Qiu Xiaoyan , Yang Xin , Zhou Peng , Guo Quanquan , Zhang Xinxing
Published: July 2024

Ubiquitous anti‐counterfeiting materials with a rapidly rising annual consumption (over 1010 m2) can pose a serious environmental burden. Biobased cellulosic materials with birefringence offer attractive sustainable alternatives, but their scalable solvent‐free processing remain challenging. Here, a dynamic chemical modification strategy is proposed for multi‐modal melt‐processing of birefringent cellulosic materials for eco‐friendly anti‐counterfeiting. Relying on the thermal‐activated dynamic covalent‐locking of the spatial topological structure of preferred oriented cellulose, the strategy balances the contradiction between the strong confinement of long‐range ordered structures and the molecular motility required for entropically‐driven reconstruction. Equipped with customizable processing forms including mold‐pressing, spinning, direct‐ink‐writing, and blade‐coating, the materials exhibit a wide color gamut, self‐healing efficiency (94.5%), recyclability, and biodegradability. Moreover, the diversified flexible elements facilitate scalable fabrication and compatibility with universal processing techniques, thereby enabling versatile and programmable anti‐counterfeiting. The strategy is expected to provide references for multi‐modal melt‐processing of cellulose and promote sustainable innovation in the anti‐counterfeiting industry.
A novel porous liquid for enhanced CO2 uptake to improve conversion efficiency
Authors: Jin Dongyu , Ge Wenyu , Zhou Zhiyong , Tu Yuming , Du Chenchan , Ren Zhongqi
Published: July 2024

Porous liquids (PLs) with unique porous frameworks and good flow properties can achieve coupling enhancement for CO2 capture and conversion. In this paper, a series of novel PLs were designed and synthesized using UiO‐66 as the framework and novel bi‐cationic ionic liquids (ILs) as an excluded solvent. The prepared PLs showed significant improvement in CO2 uptake capacity over ILs at different pressures and exhibited excellent CO2 catalytic conversion performance, exceeding the sum of the effects of ILs and UiO‐66. Especially at low pressure, the PLs still showed excellent catalytic performance, but the catalytic performance of the corresponding ILs was significantly reduced, which was due to the rapid adsorption and conversion of CO2 by the porous framework of UiO‐66 to improve the CO2 uptake and transfer efficiency within the ILs, thus achieving coupling enhancement. It can provide a new way to realize the efficient conversion of CO2 under milder conditions.
Proton‐Enriched Alginate–Graphene Hydrogel Microreactor for Enhanced Hydrogen Peroxide Photosynthesis
Authors: He Chun , Lei Juying , Li Xiang , Shen Ziyun , Wang Lingzhi , Zhang Jinlong
Published: July 2024

Efficient synthesis of H2O2 via photocatalytic oxygen reduction without sacrificial agents is challenging due to inadequate proton supply from water and difficulty in maintaining O−O bond during O2 activation. Herein, we developed a straightforward strategy involving a proton‐rich hydrogel cross‐linked by metal ions [M(n)], which is designed to facilitate the selective production of H2O2 through proton relay and metal ion‐assisted detachment of crucial intermediates. The hydrogel comprises CdS/graphene and alginate cross‐linked by metal ions via O=C−O−M(n) bonds. Efficient O2 reduction and hydrogenation occurred, benefitting from the collaboration between proton‐rich alginate and the photocatalytically active CdS/graphene. Meanwhile, the O=C−O−M(n) bonds enhance the electron density of α‐carbon sites on graphene, crucial for O2 activation and *OOH intermediate detachment, preventing deeper O−O bond cleavage. The role of metal ions in promoting *OOH desorption was demonstrated through Lewis acidity‐dependent activity, with Y(III) having the highest activity, followed by Lu(III), La(III), and Ca(II).
A Versatile Reversible, Degenerative Chain Transfer Mechanism for the Catalytic Living Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization
Authors: Mandal Indradip , Kilbinger Andreas F. M.
Published: July 2024

Most metathesis polymers based on norbornene derivatives carry a vinyl end group. Here we show that these vinyl end groups readily undergo a degenerative exchange of the terminal methylene unit in the presence of sub‐stoichiometric amounts of a propagating metathesis polymer carrying a Grubbs ruthenium complex. We show that this degenerative exchange can be exploited in synthesizing ROMP polymers in a catalytic living fashion. Chain transfer agents based on styrene, or monosubstituted conjugated 1,3 diene derivatives are used as initiating sites for the catalytic living polymerization. Suitable derivatives of these chain transfer agents not only allow the linear living growth of polymers but also the synthesis of block copolymers from macro‐initiators or star polymers from multi‐functional chain transfer agents. This reversible exchange mechanism offers a cheaper, greener, and more sustainable alternative for the synthesis of living ROMP polymers compared to the classical synthetic route.
Half‐Curcumin‐Based Chemiluminescence Probes and Their Applications in Detecting Quasi‐Stable Oxidized Proteins
Authors: Yang Jun , Zhu Biyue , Zhang Jing , Liang Steven H. , Shen Shiqian , Ran Chongzhao
Published: July 2024

Numerous methods have been reported for detecting ROS/RNS in vitro and in vivo; however, detecting methods for the secondary products of the reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) reactions, particularly quasi‐stable oxidized products, have been much less explored. In this report, we observed that half‐curcumins could generate chemiluminescence (CL). In contrast to other chemiluminescence scaffolds, the distinguishing feature of a half‐curcumin is the formation of a carbanion intermediate of its acetylacetone moiety, opening unique avenues for applications. In this study, we designed a series of half‐curcumins CRANAD‐Xs and found that CRANAD‐164 could be used to detect quasi‐stable oxidized proteins (QSOP) in vivo and in patient serum samples. We illustrated that CRANAD‐164 could be used to monitor the responses of taurine, an amino acid with newly reported anti‐aging capacity, in an inflammatory mouse model. Remarkably, we further demonstrated that the QSOP levels were much higher in the disease serum samples, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), compared to the samples from healthy controls. Moreover, our results revealed that the sera chemiluminescence intensities were higher in aged healthy controls compared to young healthy subjects, suggesting that CRANAD‐164 can be used to monitor the increase of QSOP during aging.
Highly efficient Bi/BiOCl with oxygen vacancies photocatalyst with synergetic effects of oxygen vacancy, surface plasmon resonance, and electron sink effects of metallic Bi
Authors: Dong Jixian , Yu Jiahui , Deng Peixin , Qu Deliang , Liu Junchang , Ji Xueyang , Zhang Dafeng , Pu Xipeng , Cai Peiqing
Published: July 2024

Bi/BiOCl with oxygen vacancies composite was synthesized through a facile and rapid in situ surface reduction of BiOCl, utilizing NaBH4 as the reductant. The reduction process yielded metallic Bi nanoparticles on the surface of BiOCl and meanwhile created the oxygen vacancies within the BiOCl lattice. As a consequence, the as‐synthesized Bi/BiOCl composites exhibited a substantially enhanced visible‐light absorption capacity, whereas pure BiOCl was only responsive to ultraviolet light. Additionally, the Bi/BiOCl composite demonstrated a markedly accelerated photodegradation rate of Rhodamine, exceeding that of pure BiOCl and P25 by a factor of 6.10 and 19.74, respectively. The density functional theory (DFT) calculation was carried out to estimate the band structural and electronic properties of samples. Based on systematic analysis, the underlying mechanism was attributed to the extended responsive light range due to the surface plasma resonance of metallic Bi and the formation of oxygen vacancy energy level. Moreover, the electron sink effect of Bi nanoparticles was found to suppress the recombination of photoinduced charges, further contributing to the enhanced photocatalytic performance of Bi/BiOCl.
Thermal Analysis of Evapotranspiration in Cultivated Fields for the Detection of Archaeological Anomalies
Authors: Ciccone Gabriele
Published: July 2024

Archaeological aerial thermography has traditionally focused on bare ground terrain; however, recent developments in drone technology have prompted a reconsideration of thermal analysis on cultivated fields. This study investigates three different sites using drones equipped with thermal, RGB and multispectral sensors to identify archaeological anomalies. This research challenges the traditional focus of thermal cameras on vegetation‐free terrains by investigating cultivated land, where the perceived temperature is influenced by evapotranspiration—a combination of soil evaporation and vegetation transpiration. While agricultural studies have emphasized the ability of thermal sensors to detect varying temperatures in irrigated vegetation, archaeology has mainly used multispectral sensors for vegetated land. The study shows that in wheat‐covered fields, thermal analysis outperforms multispectral and RGB sensors in detecting anomalies associated with archaeological features. Unexpectedly, optimal anomaly detection occurs during mid‐morning and mid‐afternoon flights, challenging traditional ideas about the timing of thermal analysis. The research highlights the need for renewed interest in the use of thermal cameras for archaeological anomaly detection in cultivated fields. However, further comparative studies between thermal and multispectral analyses on different sites are essential to establish the wider effectiveness of thermal sensors. This study challenges established notions of archaeological aerial thermography and argues for a re‐evaluation of sensor selection and flight timing to improve the detection of archaeological features in cultivated fields.
A nation divided: A qualitative exploration of Australians' attitudes towards the date of Australia Day
Authors: Boorman Alice , Webb Stephanie , Potter Rachael , Mortimer‐Royle Eliza
Published: July 2024

Australia Day continues to be a divisive event in Australia. The contentious public holiday currently falls on January 26, a date which marks the beginning of colonisation in Australia and the subsequent persecution of Australian First Nations peoples. Despite the date's controversial historical ties, some Australians remain in support of ‘saving the date’. The current study aimed to deepen understanding of Australians' thoughts and opinions regarding Australia Day, including their reasons in support of changing or saving the January 26 date. Responses from 208 Australian citizens, collected via a national survey, were thematically examined. While analysis confirmed a division in attitudes towards Australia Day, greater support for date change was found among younger Australians. The current study applies and extends Social Identity Theory, identifying key themes which were linked to support for date change and improved intergroup relations within the Australia Day context. Themes included acknowledgement of colonisation and the damage done to First Nations peoples, participants' political views, and educational awareness. These findings have important theoretical and practical implications which may assist with breaking down the social barriers that support date‐change resistance, helping Australians move towards a more inclusive future.
Feeling blue to seeing red: A case of escitalopram‐induced epistaxis
Authors: Ogundare Temitope , Ologun Olumayowa Adesoji
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are associated with an increased risk of bleeding, most commonly intracranial and gastric bleeding, especially in conjunction with anticoagulant use. Although uncommon, escitalopram is associated with epistaxis in a dose‐dependent manner. Dosage reduction may be sufficient in management.
Origins of Temperature‐Dependent Anomeric Selectivity in Glycosylations with an L–Idose Thioglycoside
Authors: See Nicholas W. , Roseli Ras Baizureen , Wimmer Norbert , Le Tri T. , Krenske Elizabeth H. , Ferro Vito
Published: July 2024

L–Idose thioglycosides are useful glycosyl donors for the construction of glycosaminoglycan oligosaccharides. When activated with NIS and catalytic TMSOTf in the presence of methanol, the stereoselectivity of O‐glycosylation displays an intriguing dependence on the reaction temperature, with an increased preference for formation of the α‐glycoside at higher temperatures. Using a combination of vt‐NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations, we show how a simple mechanistic model, based on competing reactions of the iodinated thioglycoside, can explain the main features of the temperature dependence. In this model, the increased selectivity at high temperature is attributed to differences among the entropy and energy terms of the competing reaction pathways. Neighbouring‐group participation (giving an intermediate acyloxonium ion) plays an increasingly dominant role as temperature is raised. The general features of this kinetic regime may also apply more broadly to other glycosylations that likewise favour α‐glycoside formation at high temperature.
Adsorption of Prochiral Solvent Molecules by Surface‐Confined Chiral Supramolecular Assemblies: How Solvent Impacts on‐Surface Chirality
Authors: Ozawa Yu , Hashimoto Shingo , Sato Yuta , Sato Kazuya , Yokoyama Takumi , Machida Yoshihito , De Feyter Steven , Tobe Yoshito , Tahara Kazukuni
Published: July 2024

The understanding of supramolecular chirality in self‐assembled molecular networks (SAMNs) on surfaces generates a lot of interest because of its relation to the production of chiral sensors, reactors, and catalysts. We herein report the adsorption of a prochiral solvent molecule in porous SAMNs formed by a chiral dehydrobenzo[12]annulene (cDBA) derivative. Through the prochirality recognition of a solvent molecule, the supramolecular chirality of the SAMN is switched: the cDBA exclusively forms a counter‐clockwise pore through co‐adsorption of the solvent molecule in prochiral 1,2,4‐trichlorobenzene, while in 1‐phenyloctane it produces the opposite chiral, clockwise pore. The prochirality recognition of the solvent molecule in the chiral SAMN pores is attributed to the adaptable conformational changes of the chiral chains of the cDBA molecule.
Development of a MIMO fuzzy inference system—PI controller for a closed‐circuit grinding ball mill circuit
Authors: Ferreira Bruno Xavier , dos Santos Brunno Ferreira
Published: July 2024

This article aims to study the implementation of classical proportional‐integrative (PI) controllers and their coupling with the fuzzy inference systems (FISs) in the act of closed‐circuit grinding (CCG) ball mill system. The system was formed for a multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) system, with two inputs, the feed rate (WF) and speed classifier rotor (VR), and two outputs, a sieve fraction 45 μm (P45) and the amount of material by a weight inside the drum (hold up [HU]). The model was simulated based on experimental processes and control strategies. The fuzzy‐PI controllers were developed on the software, and the data from this process were used to build the database and the necessary knowledge to construct the FIS controllers (with fuzzy rules base 3 × 3 and 5 × 5). Their implementation decreases the error criteria integral of time multiplied by the absolute error (ITAE) and integral of the absolute magnitude of the error (IAE) by 35% and 65%, respectively. Although, applying fuzzy‐PI systems with a smaller rule‐based outcome gives the benefits of implementing the fuzzy logic (FL) but with a smaller oscillatory performance and a minor negative effect on HU control.
What is the Vagal–Adrenal Axis?
Authors: Trevizan‐Baú Pedro , McAllen Robin M.
Published: July 2024

Some recent publications have used the term “vagal–adrenal axis” to account for mechanisms involved in the regulation of inflammation by electroacupuncture. This concept proposes that efferent parasympathetic nerve fibers in the vagus directly innervate the adrenal glands to influence catecholamine secretion. Here, we discuss evidence for anatomical and functional links between the vagi and adrenal glands that may be relevant in the context of inflammation and its neural control by factors, including acupuncture. First, we find that evidence for any direct vagal parasympathetic efferent innervation of the adrenal glands is weak and likely artifactual. Second, we find good evidence that vagal afferent fibers directly innervate the adrenal gland, although their function is uncertain. Third, we highlight a wealth of evidence for indirect pathways, whereby vagal afferent signals act via the central nervous system to modify adrenal‐dependent anti‐inflammatory responses. Vagal afferents, not efferents, are thus the likely key to these phenomena.
Combined Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction and Exercise Intervention for Improving Psychological Well‐Being in Patients With Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Yan‐li , Zhang Xiao‐fang , Wang Xiao‐ping , Zhang Ya‐jing , Jin Yuan‐yuan , Li Wan‐ling
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aims to assess the clinical effectiveness of combining mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR) with exercise intervention in improving anxiety, depression, sleep quality and mood regulation in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

A total of 60 patients with NSCLC who had not received surgical treatment were selected using convenience sampling and divided into an intervention group and control group, with 30 patients in each group. The control group received conventional psychological nursing care, whereas the intervention group received a combination of MBwSR and exercise therapy. Before the intervention, a questionnaire was completed to collect the basic data of the two groups. Further questionnaires were administered at 6 and 8 weeks after treatment to assess anxiety, depression, sleep quality and other items included in the five‐item Brief Symptom Rating Scale (BSRS‐5).

Results

No significant differences between the intervention and control groups were identified in terms of personal and clinical characteristics (p > 0.05). No significant differences were determined in the BSRS‐5, Self‐Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self‐Rating Depression Scale (SDS) or Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores between the intervention and control groups before the intervention. However, 6 and 8 weeks after the intervention, scores were significantly lower in both groups (p < 0.001). Significant differences in the BSRS‐5, SAS, SDS and PSQI scores were identified between the two groups at different time points (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The combination of MBSR and exercise intervention demonstrated improvements in anxiety, depression, sleep quality and BSRS‐5 scores in patients with NSCLC.
Simultaneous Optical Imaging of Action Potentials and Calcium Transients in Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell–Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Yang Hao , Yang Yuan , Lu Zijun , Zhang Joe Z
Published: July 2024

Cardiovascular diseases have emerged as one of the leading causes of human mortality, but the discovery of new drugs has been hindered by the absence of suitable in vitro platforms. In recent decades, continuously refined protocols for differentiating human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into hiPSC‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CMs) have significantly advanced disease modeling and drug screening; however, this has led to an increasing need to monitor the function of hiPSC‐CMs. The precise regulation of action potentials (APs) and intracellular calcium (Ca2+) transients is critical for proper excitation‐contraction coupling and cardiomyocyte function. These important parameters are usually adversely affected in cardiovascular diseases or under cardiotoxic conditions and can be measured using optical imaging–based techniques. However, this procedure is complex and technologically challenging. We have adapted the IonOptix system to simultaneously measure APs and Ca2+ transients in hiPSC‐CMs loaded with the fluorescent dyes FluoVolt and Rhod 2, respectively. This system serves as a powerful high‐throughput platform to facilitate the discovery of new compounds to treat cardiovascular diseases with the cellular phenotypes of abnormal APs and Ca2+ handling. Here, we present a comprehensive protocol for hiPSC‐CM preparation, device setup, optical imaging, and data analysis. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Maintenance and seeding of hiPSC‐CMs

Basic Protocol 2: Simultaneous detection of action potentials and Ca2+ transients in hiPSC‐CMs
Precision Irrigation Technologies for Water‐Wise and Climate Resilient Alfalfa Production
Authors: Dey Sourajit , Jha Gaurav , Min Doohong
Published: July 2024

The future of water‐wise and resilient alfalfa production lies in the integration of precision irrigation technologies and innovative water management strategies. With the continued threat of drought and depleting levels within the Ogallala aquifer in regions like the Southern Great Plains of the United States, it is important to adopt precision techniques that optimize water use while maximizing crop yields and quality. From soil moisture‐based management to canopy‐based monitoring and the development of irrigation decision support systems, farmers and CCAs have many options from commercially available tools at their disposal to navigate water scarcity challenges. The power of artificial intelligence, satellite imagery, and real‐time data analytics can all be integrated together to bring the agricultural community to work towards a future where alfalfa production remains resilient and environmentally sustainable. Earn 1.5 CEUs in Soil & Water Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Graphitic Carbon Nitride as a Promising Visible‐Light‐Activated Support Boosting Platinum Nanoparticle Activity in Ethanol Electrooxidation
Authors: Brugia Mattia , Benedet Mattia , Rizzi Gian Andrea , Gasparotto Alberto , Barreca Davide , Lebedev Oleg I. , Maccato Chiara
Published: July 2024

In the present work, exfoliated graphitic carbon nitride (g‐CN) is immobilized on carbon paper substrates by a simple electrophoretic route, and subsequently decorated with ultra‐low amounts (≈μg/cm2) of Pt nanoparticles (NPs) by cold plasma sputtering. Optimization of preparative conditions allowed a fine tuning of Pt NPs size, loading and distribution and thus a controlled tailoring of g‐CN/Pt interfacial interactions. Modulation of such features yielded g‐CN‐Pt‐based anode materials with appealing activity and stability towards the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) in alkaline aqueous solutions, as revealed by electrochemical tests both in the dark and under irradiation. The present results provide new insights on the design of nano‐engineered heterocomposites featuring improved performances thanks to Pt coupling with g‐CN, a low‐cost and environmentally friendly visible light‐active semiconductor. Overall, this work might open attractive avenues for the generation of green hydrogen via aqueous ethanol electrolysis and the photo‐promoted alcohol electrooxidation in fuel cells.
Theoretical analyses for the evolution of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOC) emission strategy
Authors: Hirose Sotaro , Satake Akiko
Published: July 2024

Plants emit biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) as signaling molecules, playing a crucial role in inducing resistance against herbivores. Neighboring plants that eavesdrop on BVOC signals can also increase defenses against herbivores or alter growth patterns to respond to potential risks of herbivore damage. Despite the significance of BVOC emissions, the evolutionary rationales behind their release and the factors contributing to the diversity in such emissions remain poorly understood. To unravel the conditions for the evolution of BVOC emission, we developed a spatially explicit model that formalizes the evolutionary dynamics of BVOC emission and non‐emission strategies. Our model considered two effects of BVOC signaling that impact the fitness of plants: intra‐individual communication, which mitigates herbivore damage through the plant's own BVOC signaling incurring emission costs, and inter‐individual communication, which alters the influence of herbivory based on BVOC signals from other individuals without incurring emission costs. Employing two mathematical models—the lattice model and the random distribution model—we investigated how intra‐individual communication, inter‐individual communication, and spatial structure influenced the evolution of BVOC emission strategies. Our analysis revealed that the increase in intra‐individual communication promotes the evolution of the BVOC emission strategy. In contrast, the increase in inter‐individual communication effect favors cheaters who benefit from the BVOCs released from neighboring plants without bearing the costs associated with BVOC emission. Our analysis also demonstrated that the narrower the spatial scale of BVOC signaling, the higher the likelihood of BVOC evolution. This research sheds light on the intricate dynamics governing the evolution of BVOC emissions and their implications for plant–plant communication.
Incoming Inspection of Lithium‐Ion Batteries Based on Multi‐cell Testing
Authors: Ank Manuel , Rößle Matti , Kröger Thomas , Sommer Alessandro , Lienkamp Markus
Published: July 2024

Incoming inspections of battery cells prior to module assembly help to ensure the quality of the battery system and prevent the installation of anomalous cells. Depending on the area of application, identifying deviations in the electrical behavior of the battery cells under test can be essential for downstream assembly processes like cell matching and algorithm adaptations of the battery management software. In this work, the use of a multi‐cell testing procedure involving differential voltage analysis, incremental capacity analysis, direct current internal resistance tests, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is investigated to reveal differences in cell properties and identify anomalous cells while economizing on the required cell test channels. The results obtained from 20 model‐identical 21700 cylindrical cells from four different batches demonstrate that this methodology can detect material variations, such as differing silicon and graphite content, which are not disclosed by the supplier or indicated in the data sheet. A teardown with elemental analysis of two cells from different batches is carried out as verification. Finally, prospects for potential application scenarios and raw measurement data are provided.
Patterns and controls of topographic change within the deflation basins of a trough and bowl coastal blowout
Authors: Smyth Thomas , Fox Beth , Rooney Paul , Bodenbender Brian , De Vries‐Zimmerman Suzanne , O'Keeffe Nicholas
Published: July 2024

In North‐West Europe and throughout the world, dune systems are increasingly stabilised by vegetation, due to both human intervention and changes in climate. Blowouts are erosional hollows produced by wind erosion in vegetated or semi‐vegetated dune systems. Where active blowouts are present in vegetated dunes, they provide a source of dynamism and sediment in an otherwise fixed environment. The transition from a fixed vegetated dune to an active blowout is poorly understood, however, and anthropogenic attempts to reactivate areas of bare sand in dunes are often unsuccessful. In this study, we measured topographic change at a monthly resolution in the deflation basins of one bowl and one trough blowout over a 23‐month period in Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve, North‐West England. Our results show that monthly surface change in the blowouts did not correlate strongly with the transport capacity of winds measured at a meteorological station 10 km south of the site. Precipitation was found to have a moderate negative correlation with all indices of surface change, that is, the more it rained the less the surface changed. Inter‐annual (23 months) patterns of topographic change in the bowl and trough blowouts were distinctly different. In the deflation basin of the bowl blowout erosion predominantly took place on the erosional walls facing into the prevailing winds, while minimal change occurred on the erosional walls facing away from the prevailing wind direction. This produced a moderate negative correlation between surface change and slope, that is, the steeper the slope, the more erosion occurred. In the trough blowout, erosion took place in the centre of the deflation basin and minimal change was measured on the easternmost erosional wall, which faced the prevailing winds. Patterns of monthly topographic change were highly variable and demonstrated that changes in the direction of above‐threshold winds can cause blowout walls and floors to ‘flip’ from erosional to depositional surfaces. These findings highlight the variability and complexity of surface change in blowouts and demonstrate that patterns vary because of landform morphology and climatic conditions.
Ecotoxicological Effects of Microplastics Combined With Antibiotics in the Aquatic Environment: Recent Developments and Prospects
Authors: Du Jia , Huang Wenfei , Pan Ying , Xu Shaodan , Li Huanxuan , Jin Meiqing , Liu Qinghua
Published: July 2024

Both microplastics and antibiotics are commonly found contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. Microplastics have the ability to absorb antibiotic pollutants in water, but the specific adsorption behavior and mechanism are not fully understood, particularly in relation to the impact of microplastics on toxicity in aquatic environments. We review the interaction, mechanism, and transport of microplastics and antibiotics in water environments, with a focus on the main physical characteristics and environmental factors affecting adsorption behavior in water. We also analyze the effects of microplastic carriers on antibiotic transport and long-distance transport in the water environment. The toxic effects of microplastics combined with antibiotics on aquatic organisms are systematically explained, as well as the effect of the adsorption behavior of microplastics on the spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Finally, the scientific knowledge gap and future research directions related to the interactions between microplastics and antibiotics in the water environment are summarized to provide basic information for preventing and treating environmental risks. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1950–1961. © 2024 SETAC
Methodology and reporting quality of patient and public versions of guidelines in China: A systematic review
Authors: Liu Hui , Yao Yuanyuan , Yang Nan , Wang Zijun , Luo Xufei , Peng Dongrui , Zhang Huayu , Zhao Junxian , He Hongfeng , Liu Xingrong , Chen Yaolong , Estill Janne
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The development of patient and public versions of guidelines (PVGs) in China is still in its early stages. The aim of this article is to systematically identify the PVGs published or released in China, analyse their development methods, and assess their reporting quality.

Methods

We searched five major literature databases and conducted supplementary searches to identify all PVGs published or released by 8 January 2023 in China. After screening the literature according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we analysed the development methodology and evaluated the reporting quality of the included PVGs using the Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in Healthcare‐Public or Patient Versions of Guidelines (RIGHT‐PVG). We reported this systematic review in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

A total of 3795 records were first identified, and 17 PVGs were included. Nine PVGs reported their development methodology: seven used de novo development (similar to developing clinical practice guidelines [CPGs]), and two rewrote the recommendations of an existing CPG. The reporting quality differed substantially between the PVGs. The PVGs adhered to between 8 and 16 (47.1%–94.1%) of the 17 RIGHT‐PVG items, with a median of 9. All PVGs specified the topic addressed in the PVGs, introduced the target condition, described the purpose, scope and target users and had precise recommendations. In contrast, none of the PVGs listed questions for patients to ask their healthcare providers.

Conclusions

Only few PVGs have so far been released in China. Most PVGs were developed de novo from the evidence, while some were instead rewritten from an existing CPG. In addition, we encourage PVGs developers to follow RIGHT‐PVG checklist when writing the guidelines in the future.
Crustal and upper mantle structure beneath South America from Rayleigh wave analysis
Authors: Corchete Victor
Published: July 2024

A review of the S‐velocity structure beneath South America, for the crust and upper mantle, is performed using a recent methodology based on Rayleigh wave analysis, and a new 3D S‐velocity model (from 0 to 400 km depth) is achieved for this study area. The precise location and structure of the asthenosphere have been both determined from this new model, which have not been obtained in other previous studies, allowing to know how the different geological units that compose South America are delimited in terms of S‐velocity and lithosphere thickness. For example, the highest S‐velocities and the thickest lithosphere of the cratonic areas, are determined at the east of the Amazonian Craton and the São Francisco Craton. The lithosphere beneath the Guyana Shield is thinner than beneath the Central Brazil Shield, and the lithospheric root of the Amazonian Craton is determined deeper than the São Francisco Craton. The lithosphere at the east of the Central Brazil Shield is the thickest (~200‐km thick). Another interesting feature depicted in terms of S‐velocity and lithosphere thickness is the Transbrasiliano Lineament, which is determined in the crust and the upper mantle, confirming that it is not just a surface feature but a deep feature.
Comparing virtual reality and simulation to teach the assessment and management of acute surgical scenarios: A pilot study
Authors: Tran Mi‐Tra , Ahmad Manal , Patel Kirtan , Argyriou Orestis , Davies Alun , Shalhoub Joseph
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Traditional apprenticeship‐based surgical training presents with challenges, especially in acute scenarios. Simulation provides the current standard of facilitating surgical training in a low‐risk environment but is restricted by limited accessibility and high costs. Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive three‐dimensional computer‐generated training scenarios and can connect users from various locations. We aimed to compare the performance of junior doctors to manage an acute surgical scenario using VR and mannequin‐based simulation. We hypothesised that VR would be as effective as mannequin‐based simulation in performance outcomes.

Methods

This multicentre, randomised controlled pilot study was conducted with eighteen junior doctor volunteers (Foundation and Core Trainee Year 1). Ten were randomly allocated to VR and eight to mannequin‐based simulation. Participants completed questionnaires and a 15‐min pneumothorax scenario. Quantitative metrics included overall score, time‐to‐critical decisions, and academic buoyancy scores (ABS). Qualitative metrics included participants' likes and dislikes of their allocated simulation modality.

Results

VR participants scored significantly higher than mannequin‐based simulation participants in overall scores (74.30% (SD ± 5.08%) vs. 59.75% (SD ± 10.14) (p = 0.04)), and technical skills aspects (77.20% (SD ± 8.01%) vs. 65.00% (SD ± 8.21%) (p = 0.01)). Mannequin‐based simulation participants initiated critical decisions faster and demonstrated a trend towards a faster mean time‐to‐completion (p = 0.06). ABS scores increased for both study groups, though was only significant for VR participants (p ≤ 0.01). VR participants liked how VR fostered independent learning but disliked the formulaic content and impaired communication‐learning compared to mannequin‐based simulation.

Conclusion

Both VR and mannequin‐based simulation training are effective in training junior doctors in acute surgical scenarios but present different educational benefits. Future research should recruit a larger sample size for a full comparative randomised controlled trial.
Effects of climate variability and change on groundwater impacts of forestry plantations
Authors: Benyon Richard G. , Doody Tanya M. , Lawson Jeff , Hay Anthony , Myers Baden
Published: July 2024

Quantifying water use of various water consumers is an essential part of sustainable water management. Annual evapotranspiration (ET) of plantation forests often exceeds that of dryland agriculture, which in South Africa and South Australia has resulted in restrictions on plantation development. In the latter case, water licences are issued to commercial forestry plantations to account for higher ET compared to dryland pasture. Unlike irrigated crops, it is not practicable to measure water use of plantations directly and so in South Australia a set of ‘deemed’ average water use rates has been applied since 2013, based on species and depth to groundwater. Since South Australia's ‘deemed’ rates were calculated, additional plot‐scale measurements of annual ET from plantations <2 years old and post‐canopy closure have been used to quantify various components of ET. This has enabled development of two empirical ET models for plantations in South Australia's Lower Limestone Coast, and facilitated an advanced understanding of the effect of plantations on hydrological processes, particularly in relation to groundwater use. In this study, we applied these models to estimate rotation‐averaged annual ET and net groundwater impacts (net groundwater extraction plus recharge reduction compared to pasture) of plantations, driven by climate and groundwater depth, for comparison with the deemed rates. The modelling suggests that the groundwater impacts of plantations vary in space and time and that the deemed rates over‐estimate these impacts, on average. Accounting for variation in the effects of climate on the various components of ET, both spatially and temporally, may allow for more flexible rules for water resource allocation than using any simple, rule‐of‐thumb approach.
Generalised evasive subspaces
Authors: Gruica Anina , Ravagnani Alberto , Sheekey John , Zullo Ferdinando
Published: July 2024

We introduce and explore a new concept of evasive subspace with respect to a collection of subspaces sharing a common dimension, most notably partial spreads. We show that this concept generalises known notions of subspace scatteredness and evasiveness. We establish various upper bounds for the dimension of an evasive subspace with respect to arbitrary partial spreads, obtaining improvements for the Desarguesian ones. We also establish existence results for evasive spaces in a nonconstructive way, using a graph theory approach. The upper and lower bounds we derive have a precise interpretation as bounds for the critical exponent of certain combinatorial geometries. Finally, we investigate connections between the notion of evasive space we introduce and the theory of rank‐metric codes, obtaining new results on the covering radius and on the existence of minimal vector rank‐metric codes.