bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eating and Drinking with Acknowledged Risks (EDAR) in Older Adults: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Clinicians in Japan and the UK
Authors: Yoshimatsu Yuki , Markowski Marianne , Smithard David G. , Hansjee Dharinee , Hashimoto Tadayuki , Nagano Hiroyuki , Essex Ryan
Published: November 2024

Eating and drinking are fundamental to life. However, older patients are often restricted with oral intake due to feared risk of aspiration. Eating and Drinking with Acknowledged Risks (EDAR) is an alternative process which enables comfort, dignity, and autonomy for these patients. While national guidance has been developed for EDAR in the UK, other ageing societies such as Japan do not have such guidance. To understand the perspectives and experiences of healthcare professionals regarding the complex decision-making process around EDAR we planned a mixed methods study comparing the two countries. This was the qualitative phase of the study. Twelve healthcare professionals (two doctors, nurses and speech and language therapists each in Japan and the UK) participated in semi-structured interviews on their roles and experiences related to EDAR in older adults. We analysed the data thematically, and three themes emerged: (1) healthcare professionals and healthcare systems, (2) priorities in decision-making and (3) relationship with family and patient. There were many similarities but also differences across the countries, in the setting, training and individual experience. Decision-making was shaped by a complex combination of individual, structural and cultural factors, which indicated in the Japanese culture a greater likeliness to defer clinical decision-making and to side with families’ wishes. Healthcare professionals’ experiences and attitudes towards EDAR differed depending on various factors related with the individual and environment. The next quantitative phase of our research aims to establish the mechanism to increase confidence around EDAR in professionals and training options.
Maintaining the physiological stability during artificial spawning of Liza ramada in captivity
Authors: Ayyat M. S. , Khalil N. A. , Al-Sagheer A. A. , Elmemy M. M. , Monem U. M. Abdel
Published: November 2024

In captivity, the physiological condition of mature brood fish has a vital role for a successful artificial spawning. Therefore, the current study aimed to minimize endocrine and metabolic disruptions during routine handling, transportation, and acclimatization during artificial spawning in L. ramada. Here, we determined the impacts of transportation and handling, as well as the acclimation to different salinities on the levels of total thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), cortisol, and glucose in the mature L. ramada females. The transportation procedures of cultured mature females of L. ramada without anesthesia induced physiological stress as reflected with a rapid elevation in serum cortisol and glucose concomitant with a decrease in T4 within 3 h. However, the anesthesia protocol and the gradual acclimatization to seawater (24 h) were successful in maintaining baseline concentrations of the measured hormones in mature L. ramada females. The recorded levels of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) and cortisol proved that 40 mg l−1 of clove oil was superior to anesthetic tricaine methane sulfonate (MS-222). In parallel, clove oil as an anesthetic has a rapid induction time and longer recovery time compared to MS-222 in L. ramada anesthesia. So, the slow acclimation and clove oil anesthesia were crucial during the induction of spawning in L. ramada. Indeed, all injected females were physiologically stable and spawned within the appropriate time consistent with the histological observation of both ovary and liver. Together, these findings recommend that maintaining the physiological stability of broodstock is critical for the successful artificial spawning of mullet.
Nickel and Molybdenum-Containing Perovskites as Efficient Heterogeneous Catalysts for the Conversion of Biobased Furfural to a Fuel Additive Intermediate
Authors: Baabua Ketshepile , Pole Phadishe S. , Bingwa Ndzondelelo
Published: November 2024

In this work, the catalytic conversion of furfural was found to follow both CTHs and etherification pathways in one-pot over multicationic inorganic perovskites (LaNi1-xMoxO3±δ) as heterogeneous catalysts. The conversion of furfural (FA) into alcohols and ether functionalities using the as-synthesized perovskite catalysts showed good conversions that are above 80% and excellent selectivity towards the desired product. The LaMoO3 catalyst was found to achieve the highest percentage conversion of 83%. Simple and multicationic inorganic perovskites were successfully employed in the transformation of furfural to produce β-methoxy-2-furanethanol. Furthermore, we postulate the hydrogenation of the keto-group to be the first step in the mechanism of the formation of β-methoxy-2-furanethanol and that its formation is characterized by rearrangement of the intermediate over the surface of the catalyst.

Graphical abstract
Design and First Tests From Room Temperature to 200 mK of a 16-to-1 CMOS Multiplexing ASIC for High Impedance NbSi TESs
Authors: Criton Benjamin , de la Broïse Xavier , Sauvageot Jean-Luc
Published: November 2024

Achieving high spectral and spatial resolution of wide astrophysical objects in the X-ray band will be the main focus of the future X-ray space telescopes. We explore a new technological solution based on high impedance NbSi TES detectors (

$$\sim $$

∼

2 M

$$\Omega $$

Ω

) enabling the transfer of the pre-amplification stage to higher temperatures (4 K) and the use of a 50 mK CMOS time-division multiplexer to reduce power dissipation at 50 mK. We present the design and first tests, down to 200 mK, of this CMOS ASIC eventually able to work down to 50 mK and multiplexing 16 high impedance NbSi TES detectors to one 4 K amplifier with a total power budget under 2 

$$\mu $$

μ

W. In parallel of this development we fabricated 4-by-4 NbSi pixel matrices to build a complete demonstrator (comprising the detector array, presented in another paper to be published, the multiplexing ASIC and the 4 K amplification stage). We aim at a multiplexing frame time of 48 

$$\mu $$

μ

s leaving 3 

$$\mu $$

μ

s for reading-out each high impedance pixel. The multiplexing ASIC embeds parasitic capacity compensation techniques.
Partisanship, political alignment, and charitable donations
Authors: Klein Teeselink Bouke , Melios Georgios
Published: November 2024

This paper examines how alignment with the government influences beliefs about the efficiency and role of government, and examines the behavioral consequences of these beliefs. In particular, we examine how support of versus opposition to the government affects people’s charitable donations. For both Republicans and Democrats, we find that alignment with the government leads to a reduction in charitable donations. Specifically, when accounting for government spending, supporters of the incumbent government decrease their charitable contributions, while detractors increase theirs. We explain this result by documenting a shift in people’s beliefs about the efficiency and normative role of government.
Faculty Members’ Perspective on the Internationalization of Higher Education in Taiwan
Authors: Ma Ai-hsuan Sandra
Published: November 2024

Faculty members are a key stakeholder group in the internationalization of higher education. However, there is scant research on faculty in higher education internationalization, especially in the non-English-speaking world. Taking Taiwan as a case study, this study examines faculty’s perspective on and role in internationalization. Based on the data collected through in-depth interviews with faculty members and participant observation at four universities, the study shows that while faculty unanimously agreed on internationalizing higher education, they held divergent imaginaries on internationalization and different perspectives on internationalization strategies. Furthermore, university internationalization affected faculty’s work lives through performancism in faculty evaluations, the emphasis on international publications for research output, and using English as a medium of instruction (EMI). In response, faculty either took an active role in internationalization by embracing the changes, or a passive role by avoiding, questioning, or resisting internationalization initiatives. Faculty’s imaginaries of internationalization and seniority ranking were crucial in shaping their responses to and roles taken in the internationalization of higher education. This study discusses the impact of higher education internationalization on faculty’s academic profession and illuminates the challenges that universities and faculty face in non-English-speaking countries that aspire to compete in the global market of higher education.
Weder Heim noch Familie?
Authors: Hörler Daniela , Fink Andreas , Griesser Markus
Published: November 2024

In den 1970er-Jahren etablierten sich im deutschsprachigen Raum sozialpädagogische WGs (Wohngruppen, Wohngemeinschaften) als alternative Angebote der stationären Jugendhilfe. Ihre Entstehungsgeschichte und insbesondere deren geschlechterspezifische Implikationen, die sich bis heute als relevant erweisen, sind bislang kaum erforscht. Anhand zweier Fallbeispiele aus Zürich, Schweiz, und Innsbruck, Österreich, arbeitet die vorliegende Untersuchung heraus, wie in den zeitgenössischen Debatten um die neuen Unterbringungsformen sowohl Ideen von vergeschlechtlichter Familienähnlichkeit als auch familienkritische Ansätze verhandelt wurden. Dabei wird die Ausgestaltung der sozialpädagogischen WGs aus einer geschlechterkritischen Perspektive analysiert und mit Rückgriff auf das von Niederberger und Bühler-Niederberger entwickelte Konzept der Gesellungsformen eingeordnet. Hierbei zeigt sich ein differenziertes Bild: Einerseits lassen sich in den neuen Ansätzen der 1970er-Jahre neben den Gesellungsformen Familie und Organisation Spuren einer dritten Form, dem Kollektiv, nachweisen. Andererseits wird die damit einhergehende Möglichkeit veränderter Geschlechterverhältnisse durch deren Retraditionalisierung im Feld der stationären Jugendhilfe stark restringiert.
Recent Advances in Artificial Sensory Neurons: Biological Fundamentals, Devices, Applications, and Challenges
Authors: Zhong Shuai , Su Lirou , Xu Mingkun , Loke Desmond , Yu Bin , Zhang Yishu , Zhao Rong
Published: November 2024

Spike-based neural networks, which use spikes or action potentials to represent information, have gained a lot of attention because of their high energy efficiency and low power consumption. To fully leverage its advantages, converting the external analog signals to spikes is an essential prerequisite. Conventional approaches including analog-to-digital converters or ring oscillators, and sensors suffer from high power and area costs. Recent efforts are devoted to constructing artificial sensory neurons based on emerging devices inspired by the biological sensory system. They can simultaneously perform sensing and spike conversion, overcoming the deficiencies of traditional sensory systems. This review summarizes and benchmarks the recent progress of artificial sensory neurons. It starts with the presentation of various mechanisms of biological signal transduction, followed by the systematic introduction of the emerging devices employed for artificial sensory neurons. Furthermore, the implementations with different perceptual capabilities are briefly outlined and the key metrics and potential applications are also provided. Finally, we highlight the challenges and perspectives for the future development of artificial sensory neurons.
Transnational Management
Authors: Bartlett Christopher A. , Beamish Paul W. , Delios Andrew
Published: November 2024

Transnational Management provides an integrated conceptual framework to guide students and instructors through the challenges facing enterprises operating in today's complex worldwide environment. Through text narrative and cases, the authors skillfully examine the development of strategy, organizational capabilities and management roles, and responsibilities for managing effectively across national boundaries. The key concepts are developed in eight chapters supplemented by practical case studies from world-leading case writers. All chapters have been revised and updated for this ninth edition to reflect the latest thinking in transnational management while retaining the book's strong integrated conceptual framework. Nineteen new cases have been added and thirteen classics are retained. Recommended academic and practitioner readings have been updated for each chapter. A full range of online support materials include detailed case teaching notes, comprehensive lecture slides and a test bank. Suitable for MBA, executive education, and senior undergraduate students studying courses such as international management, international business or global strategy.
An Introduction to German Law and Legal Culture
Authors: Miller Russell A.
Published: November 2024

An Introduction to German Law and Legal Culture offers students, comparative law scholars, and practitioners an insightful and innovative survey of the German legal system. While recognizing the significant influence of the Civil Law tradition in the German legal culture, the book also considers other legal traditions – Common Law, Socialist Law, Islamic Law, Adversarial Law, European Law – that are woven into the varied and colorful fabric of the German legal culture. The book provides an informed yet accessible introduction to the foundations of German law as well as to the theory and doctrine of some of the most relevant fields of law: Private Law, Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, Criminal Law, Procedural Law, and European Law. It is an engaging and pluralistic portrayal of one of the world's most interesting, important, and frequently modelled legal systems.
Pilot Course Assessment Report: Trauma, Resuscitation and Evacuation in Combat Course (“TRECC”)
Authors: Fernando Rajeev , Quinn John
Published: November 2024

Objective

In an effort to institutionalize NATO prehospital medical best practice standards, and to reduce preventable morbidity and mortality from Russian conventional weapon systems and irregular and multidomain warfare, the US-based non-governmental humanitarian organization HEAL Corp supported Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) through a working group to establish a fit for purpose curriculum for Ukrainian battlefield medics with the National Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MoIA) for Ukraine.

Methods

The curriculum working group culminated in the delivery of the pilot course in Ukraine. The institutionalization of Modules for training on combat medics may offer a fit for purpose, sustainable and standardized approach for NATO standardization and to rapidly reduce morbidity and mortality for warfighters.

Results

This short report describes the methodology, implementation and evaluation of the Trauma, Resuscitation and Evacuation in Combat Course (“TRECC”) curriculum and course delivery which is a product of the working group and program series with novel approaches and lessons learned for future iterations.

Conclusion

The institutionalization of Modules for training on combat medics may offer a fit for purpose, sustainable and standardized approach for NATO standardization and to rapidly reduce morbidity and mortality for warfighters.
Non-compete clauses in employment contracts: The case for regulatory response
Authors: Ross Iain
Published: November 2024

In the employment context, non-competes are contractual terms which provide that once the employment ends the employee cannot work for another employer in the same industry or field (i.e. a competitor), within a specified geographic area, for a specified time. The existing law and practice regarding non-competes in Australia is plagued with confusion and uncertainty. Non-competes also have adverse economic consequences; they are associated with reduced employee mobility and consequent negative impacts on wages and productivity.

The use of non-competes by Australian business has increased over the past 5 years and absent a policy response; this trend is likely to continue. Non-competes are no longer limited to highly paid executives but now apply to about one in five Australian workers, across income, age, occupational, and education groups.

The distribution and prevalence of non-competes in Australia are broadly consistent with data in other developed economies. A number of jurisdictions within the Organisation for Economics Co-operation and Development have imposed restrictions on the use of non-competes. The US Federal Trade Commission is considering a ban on their use and, in the UK, the government has announced its intention to limit the term of non-competes to 3 months. In Australia, the Competition Minister has recently asked the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and Treasury for advice on the competitive aspect of non-competes. The Australian Government released an Issues Paper (https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-04/c2024-514668-issues-paper.pdf#page40) – ‘Non-competes and other restraints: understanding the impacts on jobs, business and productivity’ in April 2024. The Issues Paper outlines the existing research and evidence in Australia and overseas on the use and effects of non-competes. A public consultation process will conclude in May 2024 and Treasury will advise the Government on the outcomes of the consultations by the end of 2024.

After reviewing the arguments for and against restricting the ‘reach’ of non-competes, I conclude that the weight of the evidence favours a regulatory response to ameliorate the unfairness inherent in the existing law and practice. A number of possible regulatory responses are considered.
A theoretical derivation of slip boundary conditions based on the Cercignani–Lampis–Lord scattering model
Authors: Luan Peng , Yang Hao , Ma Qihan , Zhang Jun
Published: November 2024

To characterize fluid flow in the slip regime, the use of Navier–Stokes–Fourier (NSF) equations with slip boundary conditions is prevalent. This trend underscores the necessity of developing reliable and accurate slip boundary conditions. According to kinetic theory, slip behaviours are intrinsically linked to the gas scattering processes at the surface. The widely used Maxwell scattering model, which employs a single accommodation coefficient to describe gas scattering processes, reveals its limitations when the difference between accommodation coefficients in the tangential and normal directions becomes significant. In this work, we provide a derivation of velocity slip and temperature jump boundary conditions based on the Cercignani–Lampis–Lord scattering model, which applies two independent accommodation coefficients to describe the gas scattering process. A Knudsen layer correction term is introduced to account for the impact of the surface on the velocity distribution function, which is associated with the scattering model. The governing equation of the correction term is established based on the linearized Boltzmann equation. Additionally, two moments are derived to capture the collision effect in the Knudsen layer: a conserving moment of collision invariants, and an approximate higher-order conserving moment. These moments are then employed to determine the coefficients in the correction term. We demonstrate that the derived slip coefficients align closely with numerical results obtained by solving the Boltzmann equation in the Knudsen layer. Besides, we apply the derived slip boundary conditions within the framework of the NSF equations, yielding numerical results that exhibit excellent consistency with those obtained through molecular-level simulations.
Transition to turbulence in hypersonic flow over a compression ramp due to upstream forcing
Authors: Cao Shibin , Hao Jiaao , Guo Peixu
Published: November 2024

Several transition scenarios are present in a hypersonic compression-ramp flow. In our previous work (Cao et al., J. Fluid Mech., vol. 941, 2022, p. A8), a complete transition process induced by the global instability of a compression-ramp flow was revealed. In a globally stable flow, however, the transition to turbulence can be promoted by convective instabilities, which is the focus of this work. The same flow conditions as in our previous work (Mach number 7.7, Reynolds number

$8.6\times 10^5$

based on the flat-plate length) are considered here. Owing to a smaller ramp angle, a weakly separated flow forms on the compression ramp, which supports no global instability. Resolvent analysis identifies low-frequency streamwise streaks as the optimal response of base flow to upstream forcing. Local stability analysis reveals Mack's second mode in the boundary layer downstream of reattachment. By introducing random disturbances upstream of separation in direct numerical simulations, we observe breakdown to turbulence downstream of reattachment. Two transition scenarios are revealed, and they are highly dependent on the amplitude of upstream disturbances. For a large amplitude, strong streamwise streaks develop near the reattachment region, which break down to turbulence quickly. However, when the disturbance amplitude is reduced, the second-mode instability dominates the transition to turbulence.
Rethinking Ownership, Power and Policy in Drug Patents: The Case for an Ubuntu-Infused Approach
Authors: Kolawole Omowamiwa , Ncube Caroline B
Published: November 2024

The conceptualization of a proper approach to patent law, as it relates to drug patents and access to medicines, remains contested. This article joins the discourse by positing that an application of the communitarian approach of ubuntu to the might of human rights is a useful framing for normalizing equity-based interventions and would help tilt the balance of power from a narrow profit-seeking imperative to one that prioritizes the public good. It contends that, while private entity ubuntu, corporate social responsibility or charity yield some positive results, they are inadequate and must be buttressed by the right to health, which entails access to the necessary diagnostics, therapeutics and medicine for all. The article argues against the predominant hegemony of current thought, which has so far not yielded meaningful and timely access, and advocates for a rethink of the possibilities of more just outcomes through more just processes.
Engaging Jeffrey Koperski’s decretalism: is occasionalism really avoidable?
Authors: Muhtaroglu Nazif , Malik Shoaib Ahmed
Published: November 2024

This article critically evaluates Jeffrey Koperski’s decretalism, which presents the laws of nature as divine decrees functioning as constraints rather than dynamic forces. Building on his work, we explore whether his model successfully avoids the implications of occasionalism, as he claims. By analysing his latest publications, we first reconstruct Koperski’s argument and then present three key objections. These include (1) issues related to scientific realism, (2) the principle of simplicity, and (3) the reduction of Koperski’s model to occasionalism. We argue that despite his attempts to distinguish his framework, Koperski’s model ultimately collapses into occasionalism due to the continuous divine sustenance required for natural processes. By engaging with recent developments in metaphysical and scientific debates, this article highlights the limitations of Koperski’s decretalism.
The Impact of Non-profit Regulatory Instruments on Civic Engagement Intention in China
Authors: Yang Yongzheng , Wang Ying
Published: November 2024

In China, both governments and civil institutions play important roles in non-profit regulation. However, with various regulatory instruments available, it remains unclear which has the strongest public support and most effectively promotes civic engagement. This study compared the impact of different non-profit regulatory instruments addressing information disclosure on two aspects of civic engagement intention: willingness to donate and willingness to volunteer. A survey experiment was conducted to analyse the perspectives of 939 Chinese participants on four types of regulation: no regulation, civil regulation, accommodative government regulation and deterrent government regulation. Results showed that regulation was preferred to no regulation and deterrent government regulation was preferred to accommodative government regulation, which was preferred to civil regulation. Additionally, public trust in non-profits significantly mediated the relationship between regulation and civic engagement intention. These findings suggest that government regulation, particularly the deterrent approach, garners strong public support and may be prioritized within the Chinese context.
Food and Labour under Imperial Rule: Unravelling the Food Landscape of Transplanted Workers (mitmaqkuna) in the Inka Empire
Authors: Hu Di , Vásquez Sánchez Víctor Felix , Rosales Tham Teresa Esperanza , Chiou Katherine L. , Cuthrell Rob , Quave Kylie E.
Published: November 2024

The Inka empire's expansion incorporated diverse cultural and ecological elements in microcosmic representations of their empire. Imperial practices included the resettlement of communities from various regions into labour enclaves near Inka ceremonial, administrative and economic hubs. This degree of imperial control might suggest a limitation on Inka subjects’ freedom to integrate non-local food resources into their diets. Employing starch grain analysis from stone tools, we seek to identify the range of plant food sources and examine the extent to which the Inka imposed constraints on inter-community interactions and the exchange of comestibles. Focusing on a translocated labour force residing near the Inka provincial centre of Vilcashuamán, our findings reveal the consumption of a variety of edible plants originating from multiple, occasionally distant, ecological regions. The results indicate that, in contrast to the restrictions on trade of other commodities as recorded in ethnohistorical accounts and previous archaeological research, the exchange of edible plant species among the subjugated peoples may have been less regulated. This study demonstrates how food landscapes potentially served as loci of resistance to the Inka empire's manipulative cosmopolitanism.
Low-profile pattern reconfigurable patch antenna with dual bands characteristic for 5G NR communication
Authors: Wang Zhonggen , Ma Jianguo , Nie Wenyan , Mu Weidong
Published: November 2024

In this paper, a low-profile antenna with characteristic of reconfigurable of dual bands’ pattern for 5G New Radio (NR) communication is proposed to mitigate the problems of signal fading and multipath propagation. The design incorporates a turnstile-shaped patch, a circular patch with etched rectangular slots and a discontinuous ring patch. The circular patch with etched rectangular slots and discontinuous ring patch are placed in the same plane to obtain dual band characteristic. The discontinuous ring patch works as a near-field resonant parasitic unit to improve the front-to-back ratio values at the resonance points and adjust the beam direction. Eight diodes are loaded to control the connection states of the rectangle slots on the circular patch. By combining an electric dipole formed by diode-controlled slot with a magnetic dipole formed by the turnstile-shaped patch, then a dual-band antenna with diverse patterns is designed. The measured results show that the designed antenna has dual-band characteristics and operates in the bands of 3.39–3.62 GHz and 4.77–5.01 GHz with peak gains of 3.6 dBi and 4.2 dBi, respectively. Furthermore, the measured radiation pattern results show that it is feasible to reconfigure the pattern in both bands simultaneously at 45° intervals.
Transgressive segregation and the inheritance of paraquat resistance in horseweed (Erigeron canadensis)
Authors: Hickmott Hayley , Tardif François J. , Laforest Martin , Rajcan Istvan , Meloche Sydney , Thibodeau Alyssa , Bedal Emma , Page Eric R
Published: November 2024

Transgressive segregation refers to the phenomenon whereby the progeny of a diverse cross exhibit phenotypes that fall outside the range of the parents for a particular trait of interest. Segregants that exceed the parental values in life-history traits contributing to survival and reproduction may represent beneficial new allelic combinations that are fitter than respective parental genotypes. In this research, we use geographically disparate paraquat-resistant biotypes of horseweed (Canada fleabane) [Erigeron canadensis L.; syn.: Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronquist] to explore transgressive segregation in biomass accumulation and the inheritance of the paraquat resistance trait in this highly self-fertilizing species. Results of this research indicate that the paraquat resistance traits in E. canadensis biotypes originating in California, USA, and Ontario, Canada, were not conferred by single major gene mechanisms. Segregating generations from crosses among resistant and susceptible biotypes all displayed transgressive segregation in biomass accumulation in the absence of the original selective agent, paraquat. However, when challenged with a discriminating dose of paraquat, progeny from the crosses of susceptible × resistant and resistant × resistant biotypes displayed contrasting responses with those arising from the cross of two resistant biotypes no longer displaying transgressive segregation. These results support the prediction that transgressive segregation is frequently expressed in self-fertilizing lineages and is positively correlated with the genetic diversity of the parental genotypes. When exposed to a new environment, transgressive segregation was observed regardless of parental identity or history. However, if hybrid progenies were returned to the parental environment with exposure to paraquat, the identity of the fittest genotype (i.e., parent or segregant) depends on the history of directional selection in the parental lineages and the dose to which the hybrid progeny was exposed. It is only in the original selective environment that the impact of allelic fixation on transgressive segregation can be observed.
Influence of Lithology and Biota on Stream Erosivity and Drainage Density in a Semi‐Arid Landscape, Central Chile
Authors: Lodes Emma , Scherler Dirk , Wittmann Hella , Schleicher Anja M. , Stammeier Jessica A. , Loyola Lafuente Martín Andrés , Grigusova Paulina
Published: November 2024

Drainage density is a fundamental landscape feature that determines the length scale for hillslope sediment transport and results from the competition of diffusive hillslope and advective stream incision processes, whose efficiencies are known to vary with rock type but are notoriously difficult to quantify. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of a catchment in semi‐arid Central Chile, where landscapes with different drainage densities, but equal tectonic and climatic conditions, have formed on three neighboring granitoid plutons (a monzogranite and two diorites). We combined topographic analysis of a 1‐m digital elevation model with 10Be‐derived denudation rates to estimate stream erosivity and soil diffusivity in the different landscapes. We find that the higher drainage density in the monzogranite is primarily due to higher stream erosivity, whereas soil diffusivity is similar between rock types. Remote sensing data from Landsat imagery confirm field observations of higher vegetation cover in the diorites, especially with regard to deeper‐rooted shrubs, which may result in increased infiltration. Based on geochemical and compositional analyses, we link vegetation differences to a relatively higher abundance of plant‐essential elements in the diorite bedrock. Additionally, the monzogranite's composition and crystal grain size supports more intense physical weathering and leads to a smaller observed hillslope grain size, which increases its erodibility. We conclude that subtle differences in composition and grain size can have a significant impact on stream erosivity and drainage density. Our results demonstrate the importance of taking lithology into account when interpreting fluvial networks and topographic metrics in slowly eroding landscapes.
Comparison of drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization combined with apatinib versus drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a randomized, prospective, multicenter phase III trial
Authors: Duan Xuhua , Li Hao , Kuang Donglin , Chen Pengfei , Zhang Mengfan , Li Tengfei , Jiao Dechao , Li Yanliang , He Xiang , Xing Cheng , Wang Haibo , Liu Yaoxian , Xie Limin , Zhang Shixi , Zhang Qiang , Zhu Peixin , Chang Yongchuang , Xie Jichen , Ren Jianzhuang , Han Xinwei
Published: November 2024

This randomized, prospective, multicenter (12 centers in China) phase III trial (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry #ChiCTR2000041170) compared drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) combined with apatinib and DEB-TACE monotherapy for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). Progression-free survival (PFS) was the primary endpoint. Overall survival (OS), mRECIST-based objective response rates (ORR) and disease control rates (DCR), and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were secondary endpoints. Totally 243 cases were randomized, with 122 and 121 in the DEB-TACE + apatinib and DEB-TACE groups, respectively. Cases administered DEB-TACE + apatinib displayed markedly improved median PFS (7.1 months [95%CI 6.6–8.3] vs. 5.2 months [95%CI 5.0–5.9]) and OS (23.3 months [95%CI 20.7–29.6] vs. 18.9 months [95%CI 17.9–20.1] compared with those treated with DEB-TACE (both p < 0.001). Additionally, patients administered DEB-TACE + apatinib had elevated ORR (56.6% vs. 38.8%) and DCR (89.3% vs. 80.2%) versus the DEB-TACE group (both p < 0.001). Majority of TRAEs were mild and manageable. Regarding DEB-TACE-related TRAEs, the rates of hepatic artery thinning and spasms were elevated during the second DEB-TACE in cases administered DEB-TACE + apatinib vs. DEB-TACE. The commonest apatinib-related TRAEs in the DEB-TACE + apatinib group included hypertension, hand-foot syndrome, fatigue, and diarrhea. In conclusion, DEB-TACE plus apatinib demonstrates superior PFS versus DEB-TACE monotherapy in uHCC cases, maintaining a favorable safety profile with similar occurrences of AEs.
SPINK13 acts as a tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting Akt phosphorylation
Authors: Lun Yongzhi , Sun Jie , Wei Ling , Liu Ben , Li Zhixue , Dong Wen , Zhao Wenqi
Published: November 2024

The PI3K/Akt pathway is overexpressed in nearly 50% of hepatocellular carcinomas and inhibits apoptosis by promoting the expression of antiapoptotic genes. Serine protease inhibitors have been shown to induce apoptosis in hepatoma cells by downregulating SPINK13 in the PI3K/Akt pathway. In this study, SPINK13 was expressed in lentiviral vectors. Changes in signaling pathway adapter proteins, apoptosis regulatory proteins, cell cycle regulatory proteins, and the biological behavior of hepatocellular carcinoma were observed in cell and nude mouse xenograft models. The underlying mechanism of endogenous SPINK13-induced apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells was explored via transcriptomics. As a result, endogenous SPINK13 might inhibit the activity of Furin protease, downregulate the Notch1/Hes1 pathway in a binding manner, activate the direct effector PTEN, inhibit Akt phosphorylation, inactivate the downstream PI3K/Akt pathway, and ultimately lead to mitochondrial apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in hepatoma cells. Therefore, the Notch1/Hes1/PTEN pathway may act upstream of SPINK13 to downregulate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Our study helps elucidate the underlying mechanism of SPINK13 in anti-hepatocellular carcinoma and lays a theoretical foundation for the development of novel therapeutic serine protease inhibitors.
TNFAIP2 promotes HIF1α transcription and breast cancer angiogenesis by activating the Rac1-ERK-AP1 signaling axis
Authors: Ren Wenlong , Liang Huichun , Sun Jian , Cheng Zhuo , Liu Wenjing , Wu Yingying , Shi Yujie , Zhou Zhongmei , Chen Ceshi
Published: November 2024

Angiogenesis is well known to play a critical role in breast cancer. We previously reported that TNFAIP2 activates Rac1 to promote triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell proliferation, migration, and chemoresistance. However, the potential contribution of TNFAIP2 to tumor angiogenesis remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that TNFAIP2 promotes TNBC angiogenesis by activating the Rac1-ERK-AP1-HIF1α signaling axis. Under hypoxia, TNFAIP2 activates Rac1 and ERK sequentially. Following that, ERK activates the AP-1 (c-Jun/Fra1) transcription factor. By employing chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays, we showed that AP-1 directly interacts with the HIF1α gene promoter, thereby enhancing its transcription. The combined application of ERK inhibitors, U0126 or trametinib, with the VEGFR inhibitor Apatinib, additively suppresses angiogenesis and tumor growth of HCC1806 in nude mice. These findings provide new therapeutic strategies for TNBC.
Proton-exchange induced reactivity in layered oxides for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Xu Panpan , Guo Xingyu , Jiao Binglei , Chen Jinxing , Zhang Minghao , Liu Haodong , Yu Xiaolu , Appleberry Maura , Yang Zhenzhen , Gao Hongpeng , Yang Fan , Weng Xuefei , Shen Yanbin , Gu Jing , Meng Ying Shirley , Brooks Christopher , Ong Shyue Ping , Chen Zheng
Published: November 2024

LiNixCoyMn1-x-yO2 (0 < x, y < 1, NCM) is the dominant positive material for the state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries. However, the sensitivity of NCM materials to moisture makes their manufacturing, storage, transportation, electrode processing and recycling complicated. Although it is recognized that protons play a critical role in their structure stability and performance, proton exchange with Li+ in NCM materials has not been well understood. Here, we employ advanced characterizations and computational studies to elucidate how protons intercalate into the layered structure of NCM, leading to the leaching of Li+ and the formation of protonated NCM. It is found that protonation facilitates cation rearrangement and formation of impurity phases in NCM, significantly deteriorating structural stability. The adverse effects induced by protons become increasingly pronounced with a higher Ni content in NCM. Through a comprehensive investigation into the thermodynamics and kinetics of protonation, we discover that Li deficiencies in NCM materials can be resolved via solution process in the presence of Li+ ions and controlled proton concentration. The underlying mechanism of relithiation is further explored through materials characterizations and kinetics modeling. This work provides crucial insights into controlling structural and compositional defects of Li-ion battery positive material in complicated processing environment.
Dopamine builds and reveals reward-associated latent behavioral attractors
Authors: Naudé Jérémie , Sarazin Matthieu X. B. , Mondoloni Sarah , Hannesse Bernadette , Vicq Eléonore , Amegandjin Fabrice , Mourot Alexandre , Faure Philippe , Delord Bruno
Published: November 2024

Phasic variations in dopamine levels are interpreted as a teaching signal reinforcing rewarded behaviors. However, behavior also depends on the motivational, neuromodulatory effect of phasic dopamine. In this study, we reveal a neurodynamical principle that unifies these roles in a recurrent network-based decision architecture embodied through an action-perception loop with the task space, the MAGNet model. Dopamine optogenetic conditioning in mice was accounted for by an embodied network model in which attractors encode internal goals. Dopamine-dependent synaptic plasticity created “latent” attractors, to which dynamics converged, but only locally. Attractor basins were widened by dopamine-modulated synaptic excitability, rendering goals accessible globally, i.e. from distal positions. We validated these predictions optogenetically in mice: dopamine neuromodulation suddenly and specifically attracted animals toward rewarded locations, without off-target motor effects. We thus propose that motivational dopamine reveals dopamine-built attractors representing potential goals in a behavioral landscape.
Whole genome CRISPRi screening identifies druggable vulnerabilities in an isoniazid resistant strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Wang XinYue , Jowsey William J. , Cheung Chen-Yi , Smart Caitlan J. , Klaus Hannah R. , Seeto Noon EJ , Waller Natalie JE , Chrisp Michael T. , Peterson Amanda L. , Ofori-Anyinam Boatema , Strong Emily , Nijagal Brunda , West Nicholas P. , Yang Jason H. , Fineran Peter C. , Cook Gregory M. , Jackson Simon A. , McNeil Matthew B.
Published: November 2024

Drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis are a major global health problem. Resistance to the front-line antibiotic isoniazid is often associated with mutations in the katG-encoded bifunctional catalase-peroxidase. We hypothesise that perturbed KatG activity would generate collateral vulnerabilities in isoniazid-resistant katG mutants, providing potential pathway targets to combat isoniazid resistance. Whole genome CRISPRi screens, transcriptomics, and metabolomics were used to generate a genome-wide map of cellular vulnerabilities in an isoniazid-resistant katG mutant strain of M. tuberculosis. Here, we show that metabolic and transcriptional remodelling compensates for the loss of KatG but in doing so generates vulnerabilities in respiration, ribosome biogenesis, and nucleotide and amino acid metabolism. Importantly, these vulnerabilities are more sensitive to inhibition in an isoniazid-resistant katG mutant and translated to clinical isolates. This work highlights how changes in the physiology of drug-resistant strains generates druggable vulnerabilities that can be exploited to improve clinical outcomes.
Mapping the ionosphere with millions of phones
Authors: Smith Jamie , Kast Anton , Geraschenko Anton , Morton Y. Jade , Brenner Michael P. , van Diggelen Frank , Williams Brian P.
Published: November 2024

The ionosphere is a layer of weakly ionized plasma bathed in Earth’s geomagnetic field extending about 50–1,500 kilometres above Earth1. The ionospheric total electron content varies in response to Earth’s space environment, interfering with Global Satellite Navigation System (GNSS) signals, resulting in one of the largest sources of error for position, navigation and timing services2. Networks of high-quality ground-based GNSS stations provide maps of ionospheric total electron content to correct these errors, but large spatiotemporal gaps in data from these stations mean that these maps may contain errors3. Here we demonstrate that a distributed network of noisy sensors—in the form of millions of Android phones—can fill in many of these gaps and double the measurement coverage, providing an accurate picture of the ionosphere in areas of the world underserved by conventional infrastructure. Using smartphone measurements, we resolve features such as plasma bubbles over India and South America, solar-storm-enhanced density over North America and a mid-latitude ionospheric trough over Europe. We also show that the resulting ionosphere maps can improve location accuracy, which is our primary aim. This work demonstrates the potential of using a large distributed network of smartphones as a powerful scientific instrument for monitoring Earth.
Combined influence of quantum iterative reconstruction level and kernel sharpness on image quality in photon counting CT angiography of the upper leg
Authors: Krompaß Kristina , Goldbrunner Florian Andreas , Hartung Viktor , Ergün Süleyman , Peter Dominik , Hendel Robin , Huflage Henner , Patzer Theresa Sophie , Hennes Jan-Lucca , Bley Thorsten Alexander , Grunz Jan-Peter , Gruschwitz Philipp
Published: November 2024

Aim was to evaluate the influence of different quantum iterative reconstruction (QIR) levels on the image quality of femoral photon-counting CT angiographies (PCD-CTA).

Ultra-high resolution PCD-CTA were obtained from both extremities of five extracorporeally-perfused cadavers using constant tube voltage and maximum radiation dose (71.2 ± 11.0 mGy). Images were reconstructed with three kernels (Bv48, Bv60, Bv76) and the four available levels of QIR. Signal attenuation in the arterial lumen, muscle, and fat were measured. Contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR) and blurring scores were calculated for objective assessment. Six radiologists evaluated the subjective image quality using a pairwise comparison tool.

Higher QIR level resulted in a decisive image noise reduction, especially with sharper convolution kernels (Bv60: Q1 11.5 ± 6.3 HU vs. Q4 8.4 ± 2.6 HU; p < 0.001). Largest improvement of CNR was recorded with ultra-sharp reconstructions (Bv76: Q1 20.2 ± 4.4 vs. Q4 28.0 ± 3.5; p < 0.001). Blurring decreased with higher QIR levels for soft Bv48, remained constant for medium Bv60, and increased for sharp Bv76 reconstructions. Subjective QIR level preference varied kernel depending, preferred combinations were: Bv48/Q4, Bv60/Q2, Bv76/Q3. Interrater agreement was excellent.

Sharp kernels benefited most from noise reduction of higher QIR levels in lower extremity PCD-CTA. In sum, QIR level 3 provided the best objective and subjective image quality results.
The transcription factor Dof3.6/OBP3 regulates iron homeostasis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xu Peipei , Yang Yilin , Zhao Zhongtian , Hu Jinbo , Xie Junyan , Wang Lihua , Zheng Huiqiong , Cai Weiming
Published: November 2024

Iron is an essential element for plants. Iron uptake by plants is highly regulated, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Using a truncated fragment of the iron deficiency-responsive bHLH100 gene promoter, we screened the Arabidopsis transcription factor yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) library and identified the DOF family protein, OBP3, as a crucial component of the iron deficiency-signaling pathway. OBP3 is a transcriptional repressor with a C-terminal activation domain. Its expression is induced by iron deficiency. The transgenic lines that overexpress OBP3 exhibited iron overload and premature leaf necrosis, while the obp3 mutant was less tolerant of iron deficiency. It was discovered that OBP3 directly targets the Ib subgroup of bHLH gene promoters. OBP3 interacts with the bHLH transcription factor ILR3 (IAA-LEUCINE RESISTANT3), and their interaction enhances the DNA-binding ability and transcriptional promoting activity of OBP3, resulting in the positive regulation of iron deficiency-response genes. In addition, the E3 Ligase BRUTUS facilitates 26S proteasome-mediated degradation of OBP3 protein to prevent excessive iron uptake in plants. In conclusion, our research emphasizes the vital role of OBP3 in regulating plant iron homeostasis.
A highly lipophilic terpyridine ligand as an efficient fluorescent probe for the selective detection of zinc(ii) ions under biological conditions
Authors: Panicker Rakesh R. , Joseph Suman , Dharani S. , John Martin Luther , Kuriappan Amal T. , Abraham Josh T. , Abdul Majeed S. , Pavankumar B. B. , Ashok Kumar S. K. , Sivaramakrishna Akella
Published: November 2024

A lipophilic terpyridine containing an ester group at the end of the alkyl chain functions as a probe for the selective determination of Zn2+ under biological conditions with LODs 106 nM (solution-phase) and 115 nM (test paper strip).
Unveiling the effect of codoping in strontium ferrite for oxygen evolution in alkaline media
Authors: Zhu Shuangshuang , Wang Mingyuan , Mao Yuguang , Wang Jiayuan , Ding Jiabao , Liu Guiwu , Zhang Weifeng
Published: November 2024

Co and Ni atom codoped strontium ferrite exhibits enhanced performance toward the OER in alkaline media.
Advancements in endohedral metallofullerenes: novel metal–cage interactions driving new phenomena and emerging applications
Authors: Wang Dan-ning , Shen Wangqiang , Li Mengyang , Zhang Mengmeng , Mu Jiuke , Cai Wenting
Published: November 2024

This review highlights the new phenomena arising from novel metal–cage interactions in the fundamental study of pristine EMFs and the applications of EMF-based supramolecular complexes.