bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nexus between foreign assistance and economic growth in Tanzania
Authors: Chindengwike James Daniel
Published: July 2024

The ability of a country to grow economically sustainably depends on its ability to borrow since borrowing is an essential component of resource creation and the foundation of resource generation strategy, particularly in emerging nations. Evaluating the relationship between Tanzania’s economic progress on foreign aid, it was the main goal of the study. Secondary data and a quantitative time series data regression research methodology were used in the study. The fiscal years 1970–2020 were covered by the 51 data observations. The findings indicated that while there is a statistically significant positive relationship between foreign aid and economic growth.
Research on the “Two Combinations” in the Localization of Marxism in China and Their Relationships
Authors: Xie Jinyou
Published: July 2024

Marxist theory is the important guiding ideology on which we have built the Party and the country, and prospered and strengthened the Party. The Communist Party of China has led the people of all ethnic groups throughout the country through a century of hard struggle to make the brilliant achievement of rising from standing up, getting rich and becoming strong. This is attributed to the fact that the Party has combined the essence of the excellent culture of the Chinese nation, which has been deposited for thousands of years, with the standpoints, viewpoints and methods of Marxism, and has made creative use and innovative development of Marxist theory, forming a Chinese-style and modernized scientific theoretical system of Marxism that meets China’s national conditions in the practice of China’s revolution, construction and reform. The “two combinations” is a major theoretical point of view formed in the process of the development of the localization of Marxism in China, reflecting the realistic requirements of the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era. At the same time, it also highlights the Party’s profound understanding of the trend of Marxism’s theoretical evolution, promotes the theoretical innovation and development of contemporary Marxism, and lays a solid theoretical and practical foundation for the realization of the second hundred-year goal.
河南省语言服务存在的问题及提升路径研究
Authors: Yan Chaoya , Shi Qi
Published: July 2024

本文围绕河南省语言服务行业的现状进行了深入研究。通过对河南省翻译服务企业、外语服务能力、高等教育机构的外语教育现状进行综合分析,揭示了该省语言服务行业面临的主要问题,包括翻译企业的结构性问题、高素质翻译人才缺乏、外语教育的局限性等。基于这些发现,文章提出了一系列针对性的改进建议和发展策略,旨在促进翻译行业的创新与合作发展、加强翻译人才培养与社会认可度提升、深化翻译企业管理优化服务质量、优化高校外语课程培育复合型外语人才。这些策略不仅有助于提升河南省语言服务质量,也为其他省份提供了可借鉴的经验。
新时代红色精神的传承与弘扬——以革命老区广宁县红色精神文明建设为例
Authors: Zhuo Chengliang , Guo Meiting , Yang Biwei
Published: July 2024

中国共产党领导全国各族人民,从不同历史时期的实践中,培育出凝聚民心、引领前行的红色革命精神。进入新时代以来,肇庆市广宁县把红色革命精神放在新时代精神文明建设的重要位置,把本土的革命老区红色精神内化为引领县域精神文明建设焯厉奋发、勇毅前行的精神力量。在新时代的广宁精神文明建设工作中,广宁县在继承弘扬前人科学理论成果和因地制宜的精神文明建设基础上,围绕红色革命精神提出了一系列新思路、新特性、新创新,以此来推动老区建设换新貌、引领新时代的县域精神文明新路径,从而助力革命老区乡村振兴。
积极心理学视角下提升高校资助育人实效研究
Authors: Chen Yuxia , Xu Xiaoqi
Published: July 2024

积极心理学主张关注个体积极情绪体验、挖掘个体积极人格特质、塑造积极社会环境,促进个体全面成长,这为高校开展资助育人工作提供了新的理论视角和实践指导。本文基于积极心理学理论内涵,结合困难生发展的差异性,指出当前高校资助育人工作存在的不足。如:重资助工作轻育人实效、重短视资助轻长远帮扶、重物质资助轻心理帮扶,并从引导困难生挖掘积极情绪体验、培育困难生积极人格特质、构建困难生成长的积极社会支持系统等方式,论述提升高校资助育人实效的优化路径,让资助育人和心理育人并轨同行,促进困难生全面发展。
The (In)Tangible Legacy of “Generic Lusotropicalism”: Unexamined Links in the Textual History of “Portuguese Humane Colonialism”
Authors: PEDRO SCHACHT PEREIRA
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT: For  quite  some  time,  Portuguese  scholars  have  proposed  that  the  success  of  the  cooptation  of  Gilberto  Freyre’s  Lusotropicalism  by  the  colonial  discourse  of  Portugal’s Estado Novo can be explained in part due to the preexistence of a colonial discourse that contained similar ideas, at least as far back as the late eighteenth century. In this article, I trace the textual history of what has been called “generic Lusotropicalism”  in  order  to  establish  some  of  the  known  and  lesser-known  sources  of  this  ideological construct. Whereas the authority of sources has continually been claimed both by proponents of generic Lusotropicalism—as historical corroboration—and by scholars who have studied it, I claim here that this textual history is more heterogeneous than may  have  been  previously  thought  and  has  not  always  been  wielded  with  the  same  rhetorical or political purposes.
KEYWORDS: Lusotropicalism, humane colonialism, Hegel, Henry Koster, Jaime Cortesão
RESUMO: A existência de um ideário de feição lusotropicalista em Portugal prévio à apropriação do lusotropicalismo de Gilberto Freyre pelo discurso colonial do Estado Novo, e que se manifestaria desde pelo menos os finais do séc. XVIII, tem sido explicada pelos estudiosos como uma razão do sucesso dessa apropriação. Este artigo segue no encalço da história textual daquilo a que se chamou “lusotropicalismo genérico,” de forma a estabelecer algumas das fontes conhecidas e menos conhecidas desse construto ideológico. Enquanto que a autoridade das fontes tem sido uma constante entre os defensores do lusotropicalismo genérico—que veem nela uma corroboração histórica—e os seus estudiosos, neste artigo proponho que a história textual em questão é mais heterogénea do que antes se pensava e nem sempre foi usada com os mesmos propósitos retóricos e políticos. 
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Lusotropicalismo,  colonialismo  humano,  Hegel,  Henry  Koster,  Jaime  Cortesão
The Right to Represent, Reproduce, and Refuse: Memory, Photography, and Postcolonial Ekphrasis in the Work of Djaimilia Pereira de Almeida
Authors: ERIN MCCOMBE
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT: By employing Gabriele Rippl’s edited collection Handbook of Intermediality (2015), which aims at developing a theoretical framework for Intermedial Studies within the Anglophone context, this article proposes to explore examples of postcolonial ekphrasis and word-image configurations across the works of Djaimilia Pereira de Almeida. This includes her novel Esse Cabelo(2015) and the crónica “Pérola sem rapariga.” The article proposes to establish a dialogue between memory, photography, and postcolonial ekphrasis within the Lusophone context. I argue that Almeida as an Afrodescendant woman writer, employs intermedial references to inscribe new forms of representations of Black women’s bodies and attribute agency to Black women, both past and present. By doing so, she counteracts the offcial historical narrative, which continues to silence the memory of Africans and Afrodescendants in Europe.
KEYWORDS: Postcolonial ekphrasis; memory; photography; Djaimilia Pereira de Almeida; Afrodescendant literature
RESUMO: Partindo da coleção Handbook of Intermediality (2015), editada por Gabriele Rippl, que pretende construir um quadro metodológico para os Estudos de intermidialidade, centrando-se no contexto anglófono, este artigo propõe explorar exemplos da écfrase pós-colonial e da combinação imagem-texto nas obras literárias de Djaimilia Pereira de Almeida. Tal inclui o seu romance Esse Cabelo (2015) e a crónica “Pérola sem rapariga.” O artigo pretende estabelecer um diálogo entre a memória, a fotografia e a écfrase pós-colonial no contexto lusófono, alegando que como uma escritora afrodescendente, Almeida usa referências intermidiais para inscrever novas formas de representação do corpo da mulher negra e para dar visibilidade às mulheres negras, tanto passada como presente. Dessa forma, ela vai contra o discurso histórico oficial que até hoje continua a silenciar a memória dos Africanos e dos Afrodescendentes na Europa.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: écfrase pós-colonial; memória; fotografia; Djaimilia Pereira de Almeida; literatura afrodescendente
Black Europe and a Contested European Union
Authors: NIMAKO KWAME
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT: European nations have several things in common, such as notions of geography, religion and race, they also have differences, such as their historical relationship to colonialism, and the constitutional arrangements prevalent in each nation-state. Each of these differences in turn can have a significant impact on the possibilities and the constraints for political mobilization and social mobility of Black Europeans within member states. The European Union (EU) is also a contested project in which multiple ‘stakeholders’ compete or cooperate to defend or advance their position and status within it. The stakeholders include nations, states, political parties, ethnic groups, religious groups, and social and civil movements, each of which has differential access to political power, and to economic and cultural resources. 
KEYWORDS: Black Europe, European Union, Populism, Nativism, Social movements
Implementation of the Flipped Classroom Model to Improve Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Marantika Juliaans E. R. , Tomasouw Jolanda , Que Stella R. , Van Delzen June C. Noya
Published: July 2024

This study investigates how implementing the Flipped Classroom model can improve high school students' German language learning outcomes at Lab Unpatti High School. The Flipped Classroom is a blended learning approach combining face-to-face interaction with online activities, integrating synchronous (real-time) learning with asynchronous (self-paced) study. This model moves the initial information delivery outside the classroom, allowing class time to be used for deeper knowledge assimilation. The study involved 24 tenth-grade students from Lab Unpatti High School. An experimental method with a one-group pre-test and post-test design was employed. Data collection instruments included tests and questionnaires. Data analysis using a t-test showed that the calculated t-value (5.055) significantly exceeded the t-table value (1.710). This significant difference indicates a substantial improvement in learning outcomes, with students' average German scores increasing by over 89%. Therefore, it can be concluded that the Flipped Classroom model effectively enhances students' learning outcomes.
Analysis of collocational word combinations in the exercises of the textbooks Netzwerk Neu A2 & B1
Authors: Lestari Fitria Legiana , Chaiwan Patcharin
Published: July 2024

This thesis investigates how the textbooks Netzwerk Neu A2 & B1 support teaching collocations in German as a Foreign Language in Indonesia. It categorizes collocation exercises, qualitatively analyzing them following Gevkalyuk (2009), Stojić (2016), and Targońska and Stork (2017). Exercises are compared across A2 and B1 levels. Netzwerk Neu A2 & B1 offers numerous collocation exercises, primarily in the workbooks rather than in the coursebooks, with A2 exercises slightly outnumbering B1. Most focus on receptive skills, necessitating a balanced approach including both receptive and productive skills. German teachers in Indonesia play a crucial role, designing effective teaching methods and emphasizing collocation benefits and importance. The proposed teaching model for A2 and B1 enables parallel development of receptive and productive collocation skills. This research provides valuable insights for German language educators, offering a practical approach to enhancing collocational competence among learners. Through meticulous analysis and comparison, this thesis contributes to optimizing collocation teaching strategies, benefiting both teachers and learners in the Indonesian context.
VOCALISMS IN THE MAMLUK KIPCHAK LANGUAGE AND PROBLEMS OF TRANSCRIPTION INTO THE MODERN KAZAKH ALPHABET
Authors: Dyusenov Bagdat
Published: July 2024

The main purpose of this study is to study the graphic transmission, use and other features of vocalisms in the vocabulary of Arabic-Kipchak dictionaries written in the Mamluk state in the 13-14 centuries, and to discuss the issues of transcription of works in Arabic graphics into a new alphabet based on modern Latin graphics. The novelty and idea of the research consisted in analyzing the achievements and shortcomings of modern Kazakh writing based on Latin graphics (digraph, akut, apostraph, new alphabet), studying and solving the problems of transcription of Arabic manuscripts into the modern Kazakh alphabet. During the implementation of these ideas, among the works done before the adoption of the national alphabet, we realized the tasks of writing Arabic-written texts in Latin script based on the materials of the dictionary "ad-Durra al-Mudaiya" for transcription of Arabic-written manuscripts into modern Kazakh script. We have revealed the use, graphic transmission of vowels of the Mamluk-Kipchak language and the modern Kazakh language using methods of comparative study, description, systematization, grouping, generalization of opinions. As a result, the scientific community of the Kipchak language researcher confirmed the statement that there are 8 vowels in the Old Kipchak language. And in the modern Kazakh language there are 9 vowels. In the latest Kazakh alphabet based on Latin graphics, the 28 letters of the English keyboard are not fully used. We consider it advisable to use everything. Then, the 9 vowels of the modern Kazakh language themselves correspond to the marking of the Latin keyboard. Of these, 6 vowels could be written as follows: a – a, e – e, o – o, u – u, y – y, i – i. And for the sounds ә, ө, you can use the diacritical marks "umlaut" – ä, – ö, and the Kazakh ү can be written without reproach with the Latin letter v. This is because the Latin letter v originated from the letter u, which we designate as ұ – u. Later, the letter w was formed from them. Therefore, instead of ү, you can freely use the letter v.
Impacto de la inclusión financiera en las áreas informales del Paraguay
Authors: Barreto Presentado Gustavo Josué , Kwan Chung Chap Kau
Published: July 2024

El objetivo de la investigación es establecer el impacto de la inclusión financiera en las áreas informales del Paraguay. Se basó en un enfoque cualitativo con corte transversal y descriptivo. Se realizaron cuatro entrevistas profundas de una hora a cada una por juicio y cuyo criterio de inclusión fue: ser experto del sector financiero. El instrumento de recolección de datos compuesto por diez preguntas abiertas y realizada vía Zoom en septiembre 2021. Los resultados más relevantes fueron: Las principales causas de la exclusión financiera en el Paraguay es la falta de educación financiera y el alto efecto que tiene la falta de inclusión financiera en las actividades económicas al reducir el crecimiento de los micro, pequeños y medianos emprendimientos. Se concluye que la falta de políticas públicas enfocadas hacia la inclusión financiera traería consecuencias negativas tanto por el lado social como económico a menos que este sector trabaje conjuntamente con el sector privado y académico para poder crear mayores oportunidades económicas dentro del sistema financiero reduciendo también así las áreas informales del Paraguay.
Peran Pendidikan Kewarganegaraan dalam Membentuk Identitas Nasional di Era Globalisasi Generasi Z
Authors: Nurhasanah Yahdini , Pahdulrahman Iqbal , Sari Fauziah Rahma Indah , Darma Hilwa Dwi , Plani Helsi Tiara , Dayu Nur I , Hudi Ilham
Published: July 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis bagaimana Pendidikan Kewarga negaraan dapat menanamkan nilai-nilai Pancasila dan memperkuat rasa nasiona lisme pada generasi yang terhubung secara digital ini. Menggunakan pendekatan penelitian kualitatif deskriptif, data dikumpulkan melalui penelitian pustaka yang berfokus pada jurnal-jurnal akademis yang relevan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Pendidikan Kewarganegaraan sangat penting dalam mempromosikan pema haman tentang Pancasila, mengembangkan karakter etis, dan mendorong rasa cinta tanah air di kalangan Generasi Z. Hasil menunjukan bahwa integrasi nilai-nilai lokal dan global dalam kurikulum Pendidikan Kewarganega raan sangat penting untuk memberdayakan Generasi Z agar dapat menjadi warga negara yang bertanggung jawab dan kompetitif di dunia yang terus berubah.
Sistem Informasi Manajemen Daerah dan Pengawasan untuk Akuntabilitas Laporan Keuangan Daerah
Authors: Rahmawati Yannisa , Anggraini Ayu , Billah Muhammad Arief , Saputra Deo Radja
Published: July 2024

Opini audit merupakan pernyataan profesional sebagai kesimpulan pemeriksa mengenai tingkat kewajaran informasi yang disajikan dalam laporan keuangan. Opini audit merupakan nilai atas informasi yang diberikan pada laporan keuangan untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keyakinan pemakai (user) dalam pengambilan keputusan. Pencapaian opini tertinggi yaitu Wajar Tanpa Pengecualian merupakan bentuk pertanggungjawaban atas penggunaan anggaran yang harus dicapai oleh pemerintah daerah.  Penelitian  ini  menggunakan  metode deskriptif dengan  pendekatan  kualitatif menggunakan metode wawancara terhadap Organisasi Pemerintah Daerah khususnya di Kabupaten Pringsewu. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan faktor-faktor yang dapat mendukung pencapaian opini tertinggi oleh Badan Pemeriksa Keuangan RI khususnya bagai pemerintah Kabupaten Pringsewu yaitu dengan memanfaatkan teknologi informasi berupa apliksi SIMDA serta pengawasan oleh inspektorat.Kata Kunci : SIMDA, Akuntabilitas, Pemerintah Daerah
DAMPAK SELF EFFICACY, PROFESIONALISME, DAN DISIPLIN KERJA TERHADAP KINERJA PEGAWAI SEKRETARIAT DAERAH KABUPATEN PESAWARAN
Authors: Adriani Weni Yunisa , Nurhasanah Iis Ariska
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh variabel independen terhadap variabel dependen. Objek penelitian ini adalah Sekretariat Daerah Kabupaten Pesawaran. Jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 95 responden dengan menggunakan rumus slovin. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah regresi linear berganda. Hasil penelitian yang didapatkan berdasarkan Uji Parsial (Uji t) diperoleh: (a) Terdapat pengaruh positif dan signifikan self efficacy terhadap kinerja pegawai. (b) Terdapat pengaruh positif dan signifikan profesionalisme terhadap kinerja pegawai. (c) Terdapat pengaruh positif dan signifikan disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja. Hasil penelitian secara simultan menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh positif dan signifikan self efficacy, profesionalisme, dan disiplin kerja secara bersama-sama terhadap kinerja. Berdasarkan uji koefisien Determinasi (R2) diperoleh nilai sebesar 0,741 atau 74,1% hal ini menunjukkan bahwa persentase sumbangan variabel independen Self Efficacy, Profesionalisme, dan Disiplin Kerja terhadap variabel dependen Kinerja sebesar 0,741 atau 74,1%. Sedangkan sisanya sebesar 25,9% dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain di luar penelitian ini.
PENGARUH STRATEGI KOMUNIKASI PEMASARAN DAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN TERHADAP LOYALITAS PELANGGAN DALAM PERSPEKTIF EKONOMI ISLAM (Studi Pada Mahasiswa FEBI UIN RIL Angkatan 2019-2022 Pengguna Jasa Maxim)
Authors: Yulina Radita Tri
Published: July 2024

Salah satu kunci keberhasilan perusahaan dibutuhkan sumber daya yang proaktif. Pentingnya pengaruh komunikasi Pemsaran pada perusahaan berperan menumbuhkan suatu ikatan yang terjadi pada pelanggan. Kurangnya tingkat Loyalitas Pelanggan, Banyaknya komplain atau keluhan dari pelanggan  membuat pelanggan kurang puas atau bahkan tidak puas dengan aplikasi maxim..Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian lapangan (Field Research) dan penelitian kepustakaan (library research) dengan jenis pendekatan penelitian kuantitatif dengan Jumlah Sampel 100 Mahasiswa Febi Angakatan 2019-2020. Pengumpulan data menggunakan wawancara, dokumen dan kuesioner, kuesioner disebarkan melalui google form dengan pertanyaan dan pernyataan yang dibuat oleh peneliti. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis Structural Equation Model (SEM) berbasis Partial Least Square (PLS) dengan menggunakan aplikasi SmartPLS versi 3.0.Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa variabel Komuniksi Pemasaran dan Kualitas Pelayanan secara parsial berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan. Hasil dari penelitian ini juga menunjukkan bahwa variabel Komunikasi Pemasaran dan Kualitas Pelayanan secara simultan atau bersama-sama berpengaruh signifikan terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan. Perspektif Ekonomi Islam memandang bahwa Loyalitas Pelanggan merupakan suatu produk atau jasa ditentukan oleh kepuasan atau ketidakpuasan akan suatu produk sebagai akhir dari proses penjualan. Konsep loyalitas pelanggan lebih banyak diartikan dengan perilaku daripada sikap. Salah satu sikap positif pelanggan dapat ditunjukan melalui setia kepada produk perusahaan dan merekomendasikan produk tersebut kepada pihak lain. Memuculkan rasa loyalitas dalam melaksanakan tugasnya sesungguhnya dirahmati Allah SWT.
Digital photogrammetry and CAD / BIM technology in the reconstruction of computer models for the concept of the Virtual Factory
Authors: Stryhunivska Olena
Published: July 2024

The research article aims to check the feasibility of combining digital photogrammetry and CAD / BIM technology to develop a 3D digital model for the concept of a Virtual Factory. The main objective of this research is evaluation and continuous improvement of all relevant processes of creating the spatial layout planning. During the research 3D floor plan of a laboratory was created to find matching common features for these methods. The article presents a comparative analysis of the time needed to create a spatial layout in which one can see exactly where in the spatial arrangement of point-to-point montage each particular element is placed. On this ground, one of the key elements determining the success of a design result is the effectiveness of the design process. Furthermore, the article indicates the scope of possibilities for using modern photogrammetric techniques to inventory buildings interiors and compare the speed of measurements processing using Photomodeler Scanner and ArchiCAD software.
Deficiency of IQCH causes male infertility in humans and mice
Authors: Ruan Tiechao , Zhou Ruixi , Yang Yihong , Guo Junchen , Jiang Chuan , Wang Xiang , Shen Gan , Dai Siyu , Chen Suren , Shen Ying
Published: July 2024

IQ motif-containing proteins can be recognized by calmodulin (CaM) and are essential for many biological processes. However, the role of IQ motif-containing proteins in spermatogenesis is largely unknown. In this study, we identified a loss-of-function mutation in the novel gene IQ motif-containing H (IQCH) in a Chinese family with male infertility characterized by a cracked flagellar axoneme and abnormal mitochondrial structure. To verify the function of IQCH, Iqch knockout (KO) mice were generated via CRISPR-Cas9 technology. As expected, the Iqch KO male mice exhibited impaired fertility, which was related to deficient acrosome activity and abnormal structures of the axoneme and mitochondria, mirroring the patient phenotypes. Mechanistically, IQCH can bind to CaM and subsequently regulate the expression of RNA-binding proteins (especially HNRPAB), which are indispensable for spermatogenesis. Overall, this study revealed the function of IQCH, expanded the role of IQ motif-containing proteins in reproductive processes, and provided important guidance for genetic counseling and genetic diagnosis of male infertility.
A contribuição da pedagogia da alternância para a redução da evasão escolar na educação profissional e tecnológica
Authors: Bezerra Ana Keuly Luz , Carvalho Antonio Auricélio Silva
Published: July 2024

A Pedagogia da Alternância, que intercala teoria e prática em ambientes de aprendizagem diversificados, é apresentada como uma metodologia promissora para reduzir a evasão na Educação Profissional e Tecnológica (EPT). O estudo parte do pressuposto que a partir da implantação dessa metodologia na organização curricular, será possível alcançar níveis mais elevados nos resultados de ensino-aprendizagem e redução na evasão escolar. Para o alcance dos objetivos propostos utilizou-se da pesquisa bibliográfica no portal de periódicos da CAPES. Os resultados da pesquisa apontaram que os processos de adoção deste modelo vêm sendo um excelente suporte para o fortalecimento da gestão escolar e a consequente diminuição da evasão escolar nas escolas que conseguem utilizar esse suporte educacional com excelência. A gestão participativa, com a colaboração de toda a comunidade escolar, e a Pedagogia da Alternância, que oferece uma educação mais contextualizada e prática, são ferramentas importantes para melhorar a permanência dos alunos na escola e reduzir a evasão escolar.
An Overview of Reproduction in Insects
Authors: Adams Ibrahim , Tariq Mubashir
Published: July 2024

Reproduction is a fundamental process in all life forms, including insects, in which offspring are produced from the parent organisms. The offspring combines genetic information from each of its parents and is genetically unique. Insects reproduce through both sexual and asexual reproduction, ensuring rapid population increase. Sexual reproduction involves the use gametes from both male and female insects, whilst asexual reproduction permits solitary creatures to lead to genetically identical progeny. Reproductive ecology deals with the study of how physiological characteristics, behavioral, and environmental elements impact on insect reproduction. The complexity of insect reproduction is focused by important processes known as vitellogenesis, which is required for egg development and transgenerational immunity. The i5k initiative planned to sequence more than 5,000 insect genomes to increase our understanding, yet challenges remain due to genome assembly issues and budgetary limitations. Understanding the reproductive morphology and methods of insects, as well as oviposition-related genes, is critical for effective pest management and biological control measures. Insect reproductive research contributes immensely to evolutionary biology, conservation, and agricultural productivity by understanding life cycles, reproductive behaviors, and pollination roles. Insect neurobiology, microbiome and environmental entomology are three most important study fields that will come up with new insights into basic biological processes as well as anticipated pest management and conservation measures in the face of environmental changes in the coming future.
Sensitivity Analysis of the Physiographic Parameters of the Teesta River Basin by Hydrological Modelling
Authors: Anjum Noshin , Hossain Md. Motaleb
Published: July 2024

Estimating the discharge from a rainfall event is a challenging task because of a number of affecting elements. A multitude of physiographic factors are essential for both channel and surface flow. In a developing nation like Bangladesh, discharge measurement is critical for forecasting floods, managing land, measuring sediment, nutrients and promoting sustainable development. It is possible to measure the discharge and physiographic parameter using a hydrological model. Using a semi-distributed model Soil and water Assessment Tool (SWAT), the discharge of the Teesta River Basin, one of the most significant basins of Bangladesh, is simulated for the years 2003 to 2020. Sequential Uncertainty Fitting version2 (SUFI-2) technique within SWAT-CUP (SWAT Calibration Uncertainty Program) is used to accomplish model calibration and validation for daily time periods utilizing physiographic parameters. The simulation period of this study spans from 2003 to 2020, and the meteorological data utilized includes temperature, wind speed, relative humidity and rainfall. With  and , our calibration results for the time period 2003–2011 demonstrated a strong correlation between observed and simulated discharge. Reasonable values are obtained for the  and , which are 0.65 and 0.70 for the validation period 2012-2020. Sensitivity analysis is an integral part of model development and involves analytical examination of input parameters to aid in model validation and provide guidance for future research and sustainable development. Sensitivities of physiographic parameters have been analyzed using SUFI-2 algorithm in SWAT-CUP. It is done by global and one-at-a-time sensitivity procedures. For the Teesta river basin parameters coefficient curve number CN2.mgt, saturated hydraulic conductivity of the soil lair SOL_K ().sol and soil bulk density SOL_BD ().sol show most sensitivity for both of global and one-at-a-time sensitivity procedures. The findings contribute to predict the discharge in period of no observe data as well as to enhance the understanding and informing decision-making processes for sustainable water resource management.
Oxygen isotope signatures preserved in tree ring cellulose as a proxy for April–September precipitation in Fujian, the subtropical region of southeast China
Authors: Xu Chenxi , Zheng Huaizhou , Nakatsuka Takeshi , Sano Masaki
Published: November 2013

A tree ring cellulose oxygen isotope (δ18O) chronology for the period 1870–2011 was established using samples from four Fokienia hodginsii trees with the aim of exploring the potential to use tree ring δ18O records to reconstruct climatic variations in Fujian, a subtropical region of southeast China. We believe that this is the first tree ring δ18O chronology from this area. Response analysis revealed that tree ring δ18O is significantly correlated with precipitation between April and September, relative humidity between August and October, and the Palmer drought severity index between April and October. Our δ18O chronology accounts for 37.4% (24.6%) of actual variation in precipitation between April and September during the period from 1951 to 2011 (1901 to 2011). Spatial correlation analysis revealed that tree ring cellulose δ18O is a suitable proxy for reconstructing April–September precipitation in Fujian, as well as in parts of Guangdong and Jiangxi, southeast China. In addition, significant correlations between δ18O chronology and the Indian summer monsoon index show that large‐scale atmosphere circulation also influences tree ring δ18O. Comparisons between the tropical Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) and tree ring δ18O, during the period from 1895 to 2009, indicate that the tropical Pacific SST is positively correlated with tree ring δ18O in the study region over the last 110 years, except between 1920 and 1960. Reduced El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) variance from 1920 to 1960 may result in collapsed relationship between tree ring δ18O in Fujian and tropical Pacific SST.
Change of the wintertime SSTA variability over the West Pacific after the mid‐1980s: Effect of the increasing El Niño Modoki
Authors: Yang Chengyun , Ren Baohua , Li Gen , Zheng Jianqiu
Published: November 2013

From 1949 to 2010, the EOF 1 of sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) over the West Pacific (WP) in the boreal winter shows a clear increase during the 1980s, which is associated with the increase in global SSTA. It is found that the characteristics of WP SSTA are different since the mid‐1980s. Before the mid‐1980s, the first EOF presents a dipole pattern associated with El Niño. After the mid‐1980s, EOF1 of WP SSTA captures a uniform SSTA variability over WP and is related to El Niño Modoki. Meanwhile, the dipole SSTA pattern captured by EOF2 is associated with the canonical El Niño. The generation of these two different SSTA patterns might be attributed to the different atmospheric responses to El Niño and El Niño Modoki. The impact of El Niño Modoki over the WP SSTA is significantly enhanced along with the increased occurrences of El Niño Modoki. The increasing intensity of WP SSTA variability has a similar period with that of El Niño Modoki. During El Niño Modoki, the central Pacific SSTA has a leading impact on the development of the WP SSTA by a Rossby wave response. July(0) to October(0) is suggested as a crucial period for the development of WP SSTA during El Niño Modoki. The increased wind speed and evaporation might be responsible for the formation of WP SSTA. After the negative SSTA established, the suppressed convection would counteract the impact of evaporation anomaly and prevent the decreasing of WP SSTA.
Use of dynamical downscaling to improve the simulation of Central U.S. warm season precipitation in CMIP5 models
Authors: Harding Keith J. , Snyder Peter K. , Liess Stefan
Published: November 2013

Despite supporting exceptionally productive agricultural lands, the Central U.S. is susceptible to severe droughts and floods. Such precipitation extremes are expected to worsen with climate change. However, future projections are highly uncertain as global climate models (GCMs) generally fail to resolve precipitation extremes. In this study, we assess how well models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) simulate summer means, variability, extremes, and the diurnal cycle of Central U.S. summer rainfall. Output from a subset of historical CMIP5 simulations are used to drive the Weather Research and Forecasting model to determine whether dynamical downscaling improves the representation of Central U.S. rainfall. We investigate which boundary conditions influence dynamically downscaled precipitation estimates and identify GCMs that can reasonably simulate precipitation when downscaled. The CMIP5 models simulate the seasonal mean and variability of summer rainfall reasonably well but fail to resolve extremes, the diurnal cycle, and the dynamic forcing of precipitation. Downscaling to 30 km improves these characteristics of precipitation, with the greatest improvement in the representation of extremes. Additionally, sizeable diurnal cycle improvements occur with higher (10 km) resolution and convective parameterization disabled, as the daily rainfall peak shifts 4 h closer to observations than 30 km resolution simulations. This lends greater confidence that the mechanisms responsible for producing rainfall are better simulated. Because dynamical downscaling can more accurately simulate these aspects of Central U.S. summer rainfall, policymakers can have added confidence in dynamically downscaled rainfall projections, allowing for more targeted adaptation and mitigation.
Impact of Southern California anthropogenic emissions on ozone pollution in the mountain states: Model analysis and observational evidence from space
Authors: Huang Min , Bowman Kevin W. , Carmichael Gregory R. , Bradley Pierce R. , Worden Helen M. , Luo Ming , Cooper Owen R. , Pollack Ilana B. , Ryerson Thomas B. , Brown Steven S.
Published: November 2013

The impact of Southern California (SoCal) anthropogenic emissions on ozone (O3) in the mountain states in May 2010 is studied using the Sulfur Transport and Deposition Model. We identified two to six major transport events from SoCal to different subregions in the mountain states, with transport times of 0–2 days indicated by trajectories, time‐lag correlations, and forward/adjoint sensitivities. Based on forward sensitivity analysis, the contributions from SoCal anthropogenic emissions to the monthly mean daily maximum 8 h average (MDA8) surface O3 in the mountain states decrease with distance from SoCal, and they range from <1 ppbv (in Wyoming) to 15 ppbv (in western Arizona). These contributions show medium (>0.6) to strong (>0.8) positive correlations with the modeled total surface MDA8 O3. For the most strongly affected states of Arizona and New Mexico, these contributions have median values of ~3, ~2, ~5, and ~15 ppbv when the total surface MDA8 O3 exceeded thresholds of 60, 65, 70, and 75 ppbv, respectively. Surface MDA8 O3 values in SoCal show strong nonlinear responses to varied magnitudes of perturbation (e.g., ±50% and 100%) in SoCal anthropogenic emissions and weak nonlinear responses in the mountain states. Case studies show that different scales of transport (e.g., trans‐Pacific, stratospheric intrusions, and interstate) can be dynamically and chemically coupled and simultaneously affect O3 in the mountain states when the meteorological conditions are favorable. During some of these strong transport periods, the contributions of SoCal anthropogenic emissions to hourly O3 in the mountain states can exceed 20 ppbv, close to the magnitude during a summer event reported by Langford et al. (2010). Satellite observations from the Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer and the Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere multispectral retrievals qualitatively demonstrate large and interstate scales of transport, respectively. Suggestions are made for future satellite missions to measure O3 with improved spatial coverage, temporal frequency, and near‐surface sensitivity to provide better observational constraints on interstate pollution transport studies.
Investigating Local Structure in Layered Double Hydroxides with 17O NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhao Li , Qi Zhe , Blanc Frédéric , Yu Guiyun , Wang Meng , Xue Nianhua , Ke Xiaokang , Guo Xuefeng , Ding Weiping , Grey Clare P. , Peng Luming
Published: November 2013

A new method based on the “memory effect” for efficient and economical 17O labeling of layered double hydroxides (LDHs) is introduced. High‐quality 17O solid‐state NMR spectra are obtained, for the first time, for LDHs prepared with only several hundred microliters of 17O‐enriched H2O. The 17O resonances due to the different oxygen ions in the structure of LDHs can be resolved with better resolution than the results obtained from 1H ultrafast magic angle spinning (MAS) NMR spectroscopy. The results show clear evidence for Al–O–Al avoidance. Since only intermediate MAS speeds and fields are used, this new approach can be incorporated easily with a variety of dipolar recoupling schemes to explore the key interactions and applications of LDHs.
Fast Switching ITO Free Electrochromic Devices
Authors: Jensen Jacob , Hösel Markus , Kim Inyoung , Yu Jong‐Su , Jo Jeongdai , Krebs Frederik C.
Published: November 2013

Indium‐doped tin oxide free electrochromic devices are prepared by coating electrochromic polymers onto polyethylene terephthalate substrates encompassing two different silver grids as electrodes. One design comprises a flexoprinted highly conductive silver grid electrode, yielding electrochromic devices with a response time of 2 s for an optical contrast of 27%. The other design utilizes an embedded silver grid electrode whereupon response times of 0.5 s for a 30% optical contrast are realized when oxidizing the device. A commercially available conductive poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4‐styrenesulfonate acid) formulation (PEDOT:PSS) is coated onto the silver grids as a charge balancing polymer, and is in this setting found to be superior to a polypyrrole previously employed in electrochromic devices. In addition, the PEDOT:PSS layer increases the conductivity in the hexagonal grid structure.
25th Anniversary Article: A Soft Future: From Robots and Sensor Skin to Energy Harvesters
Authors: Bauer Siegfried , Bauer‐Gogonea Simona , Graz Ingrid , Kaltenbrunner Martin , Keplinger Christoph , Schwödiauer Reinhard
Published: November 2013

Scientists are exploring elastic and soft forms of robots, electronic skin and energy harvesters, dreaming to mimic nature and to enable novel applications in wide fields, from consumer and mobile appliances to biomedical systems, sports and healthcare. All conceivable classes of materials with a wide range of mechanical, physical and chemical properties are employed, from liquids and gels to organic and inorganic solids. Functionalities never seen before are achieved. In this review we discuss soft robots which allow actuation with several degrees of freedom. We show that different actuation mechanisms lead to similar actuators, capable of complex and smooth movements in 3d space. We introduce latest research examples in sensor skin development and discuss ultraflexible electronic circuits, light emitting diodes and solar cells as examples. Additional functionalities of sensor skin, such as visual sensors inspired by animal eyes, camouflage, self‐cleaning and healing and on‐skin energy storage and generation are briefly reviewed. Finally, we discuss a paradigm change in energy harvesting, away from hard energy generators to soft ones based on dielectric elastomers. Such systems are shown to work with high energy of conversion, making them potentially interesting for harvesting mechanical energy from human gait, winds and ocean waves.
Copper(II)‐Catalyzed Reactions of Dimethylformamide with Phenylacetonitrile and Sulfur to Form N,N‐Dimethylthioamides
Authors: Qu Yanyang , Li Zhengkai , Xiang Haifeng , Zhou Xiangge
Published: November 2013

Novel copper‐catalyzed three‐component reactions of phenylacetonitrile, sulfur and DMF (dimethyformamide) for the selective preparation of N,N‐dimethylthiobenzamide and N,N‐dimethyl‐2‐phenylethanethioamides in yields of up to 96% are described.

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Asymmetric Vinylogous Michael Addition/Cyclization Cascade Reaction for the Construction of Diversely Structured Spiro‐ Oxindole Skeletons
Authors: Shi Xiao‐Mei , Dong Wei‐Ping , Zhu Li‐Ping , Jiang Xian‐Xing , Wang Rui
Published: November 2013

We present the first organocatalytic asymmetric vinylogous Michael/cyclization reaction of α,α‐dicyanoalkenes with 3‐alkylideneoxindoles. A series of diversely structured spiro‐oxindole skeletons was smoothly delivered with excellent yields and stereoselectivity control (94–99% yields, >20:1 dr and 91 to >99% ee).

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Asymmetric Synthesis of Tetrahydroquinolines via 1,5‐Hydride Transfer/Cyclization Catalyzed by Chiral Primary Amine Catalysts
Authors: Kang Young Ku , Kim Dae Young
Published: November 2013

Chiral primary amine‐catalyzed asymmetric CH functionalization has been achieved. In this process, enantiotopic Csp3H functionalization at the α‐position to the nitrogen atom of 4‐[ortho‐(dialkylamino)phenyl]but‐3‐en‐2‐one is activated by chiral 9‐amino(9‐deoxy)‐epi‐quinine to afford tetrahydroquinine derivatives with high enantioselectivities (up to 97% ee).

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Enantioselective Synthesis of Coumarin Derivatives Catalyzed by Primary Amines
Authors: Lee Yen‐Te , Das Utpal , Chen Yi‐Ru , Lee Chia‐Jui , Chen Chi‐Han , Yang Mei‐Chun , Lin Wenwei
Published: November 2013

Cinchona alkaloid‐derived primary amines were used as organocatalysts for the preparation of enantioenriched coumarin derivatives. A series of optically active coumarin derivatives was obtained in good yields with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee).

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Iron‐Oxide‐Based Advanced Anode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wu Hao Bin , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: November 2013

Iron oxides, such as Fe2O3 and Fe3O4, have recently received increased attention as very promising anode materials for rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) because of their high theoretical capacity, non‐toxicity, low cost, and improved safety. Nanostructure engineering has been demonstrated as an effective approach to improve the electrochemical performance of electrode materials. Here, recent research progress in the rational design and synthesis of diverse iron oxide‐based nanomaterials and their lithium storage performance for LIBs, including 1D nanowires/rods, 2D nanosheets/flakes, 3D porous/hierarchical architectures, various hollow structures, and hybrid nanostructures of iron oxides and carbon (including amorphous carbon, carbon nanotubes, and graphene). By focusing on synthesis strategies for various iron‐oxide‐based nanostructures and the impacts of nanostructuring on their electrochemical performance, novel approaches to the construction of iron‐oxide‐based nanostructures are highlighted and the importance of proper structural and compositional engineering that leads to improved physical/chemical properties of iron oxides for efficient electrochemical energy storage is stressed. Iron‐oxide‐based nanomaterials stand a good chance as negative electrodes for next generation LIBs.
Micro‐Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Membranes Prepared by Aerosol‐Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Schlupp Meike V. F. , Evans Anna , Martynczuk Julia , Prestat Michel
Published: November 2013

Free‐standing electrolyte membranes for low‐temperature micro‐solid oxide fuel cells (micro‐SOFCs) are prepared by aerosol‐assisted chemical vapor deposition (AA‐CVD), a cost‐effective, non‐vacuum thin‐film deposition technique. Thin, yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) membranes (50–400 nm) as well as bilayer membranes of YSZ and gadolinia‐doped ceria are prepared at temperatures of 600 °C and below. AA‐CVD, which is a gas‐phase deposition method, allows for the synthesis of precursor‐free crystalline layers, thereby limiting the development of tensile stress. High membrane survival rates of around 90% are thus obtained. The columnar structure of the electrolyte ensures high oxygen‐ion conductivity and results in negligible ohmic losses. Using sputtered platinum electrodes, the demonstration of a micro‐SOFC based on AA‐CVD electrolyte is achieved and first power density data of 166 mW cm‐2 at 410 °C is obtained.
Sinonasal melanoma: survival and prognostic implications based on site of involvement
Authors: Khan Mohemmed N. , Kanumuri Vivek V. , Raikundalia Milap D. , Vazquez Alejandro , Govindaraj Satish , Baredes Soly , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: November 2013

Background

Sinonasal melanoma (SNM) is a rare malignancy that commonly presents at an advanced age and has a slight male predominance. Local recurrence has been implicated as a major reason for treatment failure, and there are poor reported 5‐year survival rates. We analyzed the impact of specific location within the sinonasal region on the survival of this rare malignancy.

Methods

The U.S. National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry was used to extract data on SNM between 1973 and 2009. Survival trends and hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated to compare the prognostic implications of involvement of varying areas of the sinonasal tract.

Results

A total of 567 cases were identified. Females constituted 56.44% patient. Disease‐specific survival (DSS) at 5 years was 36.66% for patients diagnosed with nasal cavity disease, 23.80% for patients with maxillary sinus tumors, and 18.20% for patients with ethmoid sinus disease. Patients showing evidence of overlapping sinus involvement had approximate 1‐year survival of 54.45% and none survived beyond 49 months. HRs for maxillary sinus, ethmoid sinus, and overlapping sinus disease were 1.34, 1.60, and 2.30, respectively. All DSSs and HRs were statistically significant (p < 0.05). There was a higher proportion of earlier‐stage disease in the nasal cavity compared to the most common paranasal sinus region (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Prognosis in SNM is dependent on the anatomic subsite. Paranasal sinus involvement indicates a poorer prognosis when compared to nasal cavity disease. Patients presenting with overlapping sinus involvement have the poorest prognosis.
The role of secondhand smoke in allergic rhinitis: a systematic review
Authors: Hur Kevin , Liang Jonathan , Lin Sandra Y.
Published: November 2013

Background

The objective of this work was to systematically review existing literature on the association between allergic rhinitis (AR) and secondhand smoking (SHS) in children and adults.

Methods

We performed a literature search encompassing the last 25 years in PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE. Inclusion criteria included English language papers containing original human data with greater than 6 subjects. Data was systematically collected on study design, patient demographics, clinical characteristics/outcomes, and level‐of‐evidence (Oxford Center of Evidence‐Based Medicine). Quality assessment of the studies was performed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale. Two investigators independently reviewed all manuscripts.

Results

The initial search yielded 590 abstracts, of which 40 articles were included. 12 (37.5%) of the 32 articles studying children and 5 (62.5%) of the 8 articles studying adults showed a statistically significant association between AR and SHS. One article was a prospective cohort study (Level 2b) and all other articles were case‐control studies (Level 3b). For characterizing AR, 10 (25%) studies included skin‐prick testing and 5 (12.5%) used in vitro testing. For determining presence of SHS, 39 (97.5%) of the studies used questionnaires and 1 article used a cotinine/creatinine ratio.

Conclusion

This review demonstrated a majority of adult studies vs a minority of children studies found a significant association between AR and SHS. However, the percent difference between age groups was not statistically significant. Further higher‐quality studies with validated methods for diagnosing AR and quantifying SHS exposure should be performed to better evaluate the relationship between AR and SHS in adults and children.