bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scholars Possessed! On Writing Africana Religions with the Left Hand
Authors: Johnson Paul Christopher
Published: June 2016

Consequential categories like “Africana religions” emerge from a calibration of religious practices with ethnographic writing practices. Attending to the processes of writing Africana religions warrants close attention because it is mostly through such second-order representations that “Africana religions” enter the broader comparative field of the study of religion. These representations exert force as durable indexes of religion and race. For example, descriptions of Africana religions have long emphasized the centrality of “spirit possession,” at least in part as a contraposition to European individualism and rationalism. This essay gives close attention to writing on the practices of spirit possession and the ways the category of “Africana religions” is thereby constituted. Scholars' narratives of their own possessions, or what I call the technique of “writing with the left hand,” present a relatively recent strategy for writing Africana religions. I focus on the work of the French ethnographer Michel Leiris in Africa to address the affordances and risks of this mode of report.
Writing Vodou into Literature: Exploring Diasporic Religious Symbols and Lore in Zora Neale Hurston's “Sweat” and Jonah's Gourd Vine
Authors: Jenkins Tammie
Published: June 2016

This article explores Zora Neale Hurston's role in promoting the study of African-derived religions such as Haitian Vodou and New Orleans Hoodoo through her literary works. An anthropologist by trade and an author by choice, Hurston assumed the roles of observer, initiate, and participant as she absorbed the lore and customs associated with these African-derived religious practices from devotees in Haiti and New Orleans. Hurston's “Sweat” (1926) and Jonah's Gourd Vine (1933) serve as two distinct case studies illustrating Hurston's use of African-derived religions in her literary offerings. In this article I respond to the following questions: What are the African-derived religious practices Zora Neale Hurston portrays in her works? How does she reflect these practices in “Sweat” and Jonah's Gourd Vine? In what ways do Hurston's works promote the study of African-derived religious practices?
Conjuring Pasts and Ethnographic Presents in Zora Neale Hurston's Modernity
Authors: Manigault-Bryant James A. , Manigault-Bryant Lerhonda S.
Published: June 2016

Although history suggests that conjure is a practice hidden from plain view, Zora Neale Hurston's ethnographies unearthed the pervasive and varied ways Black people throughout the diaspora—and Black women especially—used conjure to create a new reality or to disrupt the existing one. In this essay, we revisit Hurston's ethnographic and folkloric study Mules and Men to consider the question: What does it mean for Black women in America to conjure in modernity? We use ethnographic examinations of two contemporary locales—one of Florida's fantasy corridors and the South Carolina lowcountry—to unearth how contemporary Black women draw from the conjure tradition Hurston documented eighty years ago. When viewed through Hurston's ethnographic history, contemporary Black women's richly layered conjure practices disrupt the widely destructive effects of modernity.
Zora Neale Hurston, Freethought, and African American Religion
Authors: Cameron Christopher
Published: June 2016

This article explores the contributions of Zora Neale Hurston to African American freethought during the early to mid-twentieth century. Focusing on her personal (ir)religious development as well as her anthropological studies of Black religion, it demonstrates that she was a central figure in a burgeoning secular movement of this era, especially in the close ties she posits between Black feminism and Black freethought. The presence and growth of Black secularism, as indicated in Hurston's work, should push scholars to further reexamine the importance of the conversion moment in Black religion and the boundaries of African American religious studies.
The Discontents of Steinbeck's America and Americans
Authors: Dowland Douglas
Published: June 2016

This article seeks to understand how in his later works, John Steinbeck came to see America as a “discontented land.” It explores the discontents of form and tone in his last book-length work, America and Americans, arguing that Steinbeck's discontent is the result of his synecdochical reading of the nation—seeing the part for the whole—and his insistence that national paradoxes and problems are the “manifestations of one single cause.” Steinbeck's discontent seems as much of a rhetorical issue—the discontents that come with synecdochical thinking—as it is a narrative issue—the discontented nation that is produced by such rhetoric.
A Russian Journal: John Steinbeck's Quixotic Quest to the Soviet Union
Authors: Jacobson Zachary Jonathan
Published: June 2016

In the years following the Second World War, a time when Joseph Stalin let few Americans into the Soviet Union, John Steinbeck was granted exceptional access to travel to the red empire. He fashioned a long, if part-time, journalistic career alongside his fiction writing and in 1947 convinced the New York Herald Tribune to sponsor a six-week trip. Steinbeck saw himself as a reporter determined to bring back news from beyond the Iron Curtain. He also suffered debilitating episodes of depression throughout his life, and in the months leading up to his departure Steinbeck hoped that his Soviet journey might offer him an opportunity to reconnect with a vitality once found at home. As the sociologist Peter Berger has argued, travel to the East could hold with it all the productive and redemptive possibilities of the quixotic quest. For the Oriental flight, as imagined for centuries by adventurers such as Steinbeck, depended on “a belief that there is another reality” far away from one's own.
The English Education in Primary Schools in Minor Ethnic Areas in Western China - Taking Leshan City as an Example
Authors: Bing Wang
Published: June 2016

As we all know, China is a country with many ethnic minorities mainly living in the northeastern and southwestern China. The English education in the primary schools in these areas is an important issue. The article analyzes the status quo of English education in primary schools in minor ethnic areas, taking the Leshan city, a western one as an example, and then proposes some suggestions of enhancing English education in primary schools in minor ethnic areas.
Carbonyl Chalcogenides Clusters Existing as Disguised Forms of Hydrocarbon Isomers
Authors: Kiremire Enos Masheija Rwantale
Published: June 2016

The 4n Series Method has been utilized to categorize, analyze and predict structures for transition metal carbonyl, borane, hydrocarbon and Zintl ion clusters. The method is being extended to study carbonyl chalcogenide clusters. Adequate examples have been given to demonstrate the application of the 4n series method to categorize clusters and where possible predict their possible skeletal structures. In this paper, the method is being applied to the study of carbonyl chalcogenide cluster complexes. What has been found is the striking structural similarity of a wide range of carbonyl chalcogenide clusters to those of corresponding hydrocarbon clusters. It was observed that when a derived hydrocarbon from a cluster, FCH = CnHq, is such that nq, the ‘hydrocarbon character’ becomes reduced and the typical cluster tendencies increase. When n = q, the situation becomes more or less a borderline case. When q=0, then FCH = Cn. When the series becomes bi-capped or more, then the equivalent carbon cations are obtained.
Effect of Temperature on the Intensity of Basic Tastes: Sweet, Salty and Sour
Authors: Lipscomb Keri , Rieck James , Dawson Paul
Published: June 2016

Sensory panels were trained to identify specific concentrations of sucrose, sodium chloride and citric acid as an intensity level value of 6 on a 15-point scale for flavors of sweet, salty and sour, respectively. Trained panels were exposed to a single concentration of each taste singly, in combinations of 2 and all three at 3 temperatures (3°C, 23°C, 60°C) using concentrations previously identified at an intensity level of 6. Panelists determined the perceived intensity of each taste at each temperature in the single and combined treatments. Sweetness was perceived as more intense at 60°C than 23°C and 3°C when tasted alone but not when in combination with other tastes (salty and sour). Salty perceived intensity was not affected by serving temperature while sourness was perceived as more intense at 23°C compared to 3°C and 60°C. In general, perceived sweetness was less suppressed when combined with other tastes than salty and sour.
Microbial Contamination Associated with “Wagashi-Cheese” Production in Sissala East District- Ghana
Authors: Mwini Grace Annagmeng , Darkwa Sarah
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the study was to identify the possible sources of microbial contamination in the production of Wagashi-Cheese in the Sissala East District, Upper West Region of Ghana. Also, the hygienic practices involved were examined. A survey, observation and experiment were used to collect data. Eighty (40 raw cow milk producers and 40 Wagashi-Cheese producers) were randomly selected for the survey. Six (3 milk producers and 3 Wagashi –Cheese producers) were purposively sampled for the experimental part. Microbial analysis of the milk and Wagashi-Cheese were carried out using the ISO and NMKL Analytical Standard procedures. Findings from the study revealed that milk and Wagashi-Cheese producers do not practice optimal personal, food and environmental hygiene. Coliform, fecal coliform, Escherichia coli, Total mesophilic (PCA), yeast and mould were identified in both the milk and Wagashi-Cheese. Dirty cow teat, unclean containers for receiving milk and improper handling of milk while transporting to Wagashi-Cheese centers were identified as Critical Control Points along the production line of Wagash-Cheese. Post interventions showed significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction in microbial levels in the samples analyzed. In conclusion, the application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) improved the quality of the final product. HACCP education and training for milk and Wagashi-Cheese producers is highly recommended. In conclusion, there is a significant difference (P ≥ 0.05) in the microbial load of wagashi from the selected producers and thus the alternate hypothesis that there is no significant difference in the microbial loads of wagashi from different producers.
Estudio de preferencias por los elementos agrarios del paisaje mediante los métodos de Análisis Conjunto y Valoración Contingente
Authors: Sayadi Samir , González Roa Mª Carmen , Calatrava Requena Javier
Published: June 2016

Among the externalities produced by agrarian activities one must consider its contribution to the shaping of the landscape, an aesthetic externality value of the agrosystems. Recognizing and appraising this contribution is becoming more and more important every day. In this study a Conjoint Analysis and Contingent Valuation methods has been used to estimate, first the relative importance of the agrarian component level in the utility function achieved from enjoying landscapes, and secondly the Willingness To Pay of surveyed for these landscapes existing in the area of The Alpujarras (Granada-Spain). Data has been obtained by a questionnaire performed to a sample of a potential visitor of the area, using three main features of landscape, as follows: Vegetation layer, level of building, and mountain inclines, each of them with different levels. Subsequently, a multiple regression model has been fitted to identify the relationship between the Willingness to Pay for landscapes and its features and the socio-cultural traits of the individuals. According to results concerning both the preferences and the Willingness To Pay of visitors for landscapes, some conclusions have finally been drawn, allowing to derive strategies to maintain the most valued landscape in the area and to make use of it for the sustainable development of the region
El desacoplamiento de los apoyos a la agricultura: Una perspectiva internacional
Authors: Antón Jesús
Published: June 2016

The evolution of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) from price support to payments that are more decoupled from production is part of a broader international context in which other OECD countries have also reformed in a similar direction. This paper explains the meaning of «decoupling» from the legal perspective of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and from a more empirical approach as the one adopted by the OECD work on decoupling. The main arguments in favour of decoupling —both from efficiency and distribution considerations— are discussed and the scope of the reforms in different OECD countries is analyzed. Finally it is argued that a good definition of the objectives is needed in order to design the most appropriate policies.
Las principales aportaciones a la teoría de la regulación medioambiental. Los últimos cuarenta años
Authors: Viladrich Grau Monserrat
Published: June 2016

In this article I present the main contributions to the theory of environmental regulation developed during the last forty years. I begin the analysis in the sixties and seventies reviewing the main articles of these years, focusing in the comparison of the properties of the instruments based on economic incentives and of the instruments based on quantities. Next I evaluate the policy developments of the eighties, centering my attention on the generalization of the systems of marketable permits. Finally, I analyze how in the nineties the main interest of environmental regulation is oriented towards the solution of global environmental problems.
El establecimiento de reglas de la Organización Mundial de Comercio sobre laayuda interna. Una evaluación del enfoque de la Ronda de Doha
Authors: Blandford David
Published: June 2016

The elements of the approach to disciplining domestic support for agriculture in the Doha round of WTO negotiations are evaluated using data for a selection of OECD countries. Despite a substantial increase in complexity in comparison to the Uruguay Round Agreement, the new approach is unlikely to require real reductions in trade-distorting support. As a result it is unlikely to stimulate further reforms in domestic agricultural policies in OECD countries.
Evaluación comparativa multifuncional de sistemas agrarios mediante AHP: Aplicación al olivar ecológico, integrado y convencional de Andalucía
Authors: Parra López Carlos , Calatrava Requena Javier , De Haro Giménez Tomás
Published: June 2016

Even though multifunctionality concept is reflected, implicit or explicitly, in the design of actual agrarian policies, its consideration when analysing and assessing farming systems is relatively limited in the scientific literature. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is proposed with this aim. AHP is a multicriteria discrete decision support technique that is used in complex decision making. This methodology is stated jointly with a proposed procedure to measure relative agreement among decision makers and uniformity of alternatives’ performances in group decision making. Finally AHP is implemented in the assessment of organic, integrated and conventional olive groves in Andalusia considering criteria of a different nature – economic, technical, sociocultural and environmental –. The final purpose is determining the more interesting growing techniques from a holistic point of view for all the society in the medium/long-term on the basis of knowledge of experts on olive.
Estructura de preferencias de los consumidores de vino y actitudes hacia los vinos con denominación de origen. El caso de Castilla-La Mancha
Authors: Bernabéu R. , Olmeda M. , Díaz M.
Published: June 2016

This paper covers a dual objective. On the one hand, the relative importance was determined of the wine attributes that influence the formation of consumer preferences in Castilla-La Mancha. On the other, consumer attitude was analysed towards wine with Castilla-La Mancha’s most important Designation of Origin (D.O.) certifications (D.O. La Mancha and D.O. Valdepeñas), compared with the best-known wine in the national ambit (D.O. Rioja). As a result of the first objective, the most relevant attributes are price, colour (red, white), certification and origin, in this order. The second objective shows that D.O. La Mancha and D.O. Valdepeñas are considered cheaper wines, of habitual consumption and a lower prestige image, while D.O. Rioja wines are seen as prestigious and expensive, so their consumption is considered appropriate for special occasions.
El nuevo seguro de ingresos de la patata: Una evaluación preliminar
Authors: Estavillo Dorado Julio , Aguado Manzanares Salomón , Bielza Díaz-Caneja María , Garrido Colmenero Alberto , Sumpsi Viñas José Mª
Published: June 2016

In 2003 and 2004, an insurance product that protects against market risks of agricultural commodities was offered in Spain. It consists on a revenue insurance product which has been launched as a pilot program for mid-season and late potato in five Spanish provinces (Álava, Burgos, La Rioja, León and Valladolid). The objective of this article is to describe the characteristics of this insurance product and to perform a preliminary evaluation of the seasons it was marketed. We start from a conceptual approach to the market risk management instruments, that constitute the context for the current program. Later, we explain the price model used to define market reference prices and the premia, checking the quality of the statistical price model against the potato farm-gate prices. Finally, the article ends with a preliminary valuation/ assessment of this first pilot experience in Spain, stressing those aspects which are liable/prone to be improved and reckoning the possible extensions of this insurance line to other potato varieties, provinces and also to other agricultural commodities.
VI Coloquio Ibérico de Estudios Rurales «El papel de las economías rurales»
Authors: Atance Ignacio , Baviera Amparo , Martínez Encarnación
Published: June 2016

The 6th Iberian Seminar on Rural Studies was hosted during February 23rd-24th in the International University of Andalusia at Santa Maria de la Rábida (Huelva). The Seminar was organised by the Spanish Association of Agricultural Economics (AEEA) and the Portuguese Society of Rural Studies (SPER). The present note presents a summary of the main contents debated in the Seminar.
Comercio internacional libre y las consecuencias para las áreasrurales europeas
Authors: Bureau Jean-Christophe
Published: June 2016

General equilibrium models estimated by various authors and institutions show that, although trade liberalization leads to aggregate welfare gains, there are winners and losers. The aim of this article is to determine to what extent rural regions have won or lost in the trade opening process that has been underway since the 1990s. The economic literature on international trade and regional development suggests the presence of opposing forces, making the global impact of international trade liberalization on rural areas ambiguous. Using a series of empirical studies, the author assesses the impact of trade opening on the European regions, observing a significant proportion of losers in the trade liberalization process among the rural regions of Europe. The article concludes with an analysis of the negative effects of welfare losses on the environment and territorial ordering in many rural regions, and suggests the need to address the problem by modifying current EU policies.
Desarrollo rural en la UE
Authors: Buckwell Allan
Published: June 2016

This article analyses the evolution of European rural regional economies and the Community’s public regional policies, with a view to drawing lessons for other areas of the world, especially Latin America. After presenting relative size data for the EU regions based on population, territory, employment and income, the article analyses the key economic and social trends in these areas, together with the underlying explanatory factors. The main conclusion is that the economic development of the rural regions of the EU is much more due to the overall national economic development issues, than to rural development policies. Therefore, the way to achieve rural development is by means of a good overall economic development policy, and national policies are more determining than EU-wide policies in the overall economic development of the EU member states. The article finishes with a summary of the lessons to be learnt from EU rural development policy, which suggest the need for radical policy change based on a reduction in the agricultural component coupled with an increase in the territorial and environmental components.
¿Existe un conflicto entre la globalización del turismo y los recursos naturales?
Authors: Riera Font Antoni , Capó Parrilla Javier , Palmer Tous Teresa
Published: June 2016

Globalization and Tourism are two of the most analyzed economic phenomenon of the last decades. Their great significance and important impacts on economy may be the main reasons for this increasing interest. Remarkable growth in Tourism has similar causes to Globalization, so we can talk about Tourism Globalization. In this context, one of the most used arguments by Globalization critics is their relevant impacts on the environment. Then, it becomes necessary to analyze the potential conflict between tourist development and natural resources conservation. Tourism is dependent upon natural resources in the way that environmental degradation damages destination image and their competitiveness. In this way, only through the decrease of the environmental problems and overexploitation of natural resources it is possible to guarantee a sustainable tourism. Having this objective in mind, optimal destination management has an extensive range of policy instruments, as «command and control» mechanisms or «incentive based» tools applied by public administrations and different private initiatives adopted by the industry.
Optimization of Signal Timing of Intersections by Internal Metering of Queue Time Ratio of Vehicles in Network Scale
Authors: Ghanbarikarekani Mina , Sohrabi Soheil , Vefghi Ali
Published: June 2016

Optimization of signal timing in urban network is usually done by minimizing the delay times or queue lengths. Sincethe effect of each intersection on the whole network is not considered in the mentioned methods, traffic congestion may occur in network links. Therefore, this paper has aimed to provide a timing optimization algorithm for traffic signals using internal timing policy based on balancing queue time ratio of vehicles in network links. In the proposed algorithm, the difference between the real queue time ratio and the optimum one for each link of intersection was minimized. To evaluate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm on traffic performance, the proposed algorithm was applied in a hypothetical network. By comparing the simulating software outputs, before and after implementing the algorithm, it was concluded that the queue time ratio algorithm has improved the traffic parameters by increasing the flow as well as reducing the delay time and density of the network.
Public and Private Ports in Croatian Law
Authors: Vojković Goran , Grubišić Neven , Vojković Lea
Published: June 2016

Existing classification of the Croatian seaports does not fit the level and meet the needs of the economic development of the Republic of Croatia, particularly after the Republic of Croatia joined the European Union. Equalizing public service offered by a port with the purpose of the port itself (general purpose – port open for public traffic, special purpose – port not open for public traffic) limits the economic development and aggravates the implementation of the basic market policies of the EU. Therefore, modernisation of the basic classification of ports in the Croatian legislation is suggested. Basic categorization of ports should be as follows: public service ports, private service ports and private ports for private needs of an entrepreneur.
Atypical calcium regulation of the PKD2-L1 polycystin ion channel
Authors: DeCaen Paul G , Liu Xiaowen , Abiria Sunday , Clapham David E
Published: June 2016

Native PKD2-L1 channel subunits are present in primary cilia and other restricted cellular spaces. Here we investigate the mechanism for the channel's unusual regulation by external calcium, and rationalize this behavior to its specialized function. We report that the human PKD2-L1 selectivity filter is partially selective to calcium ions (Ca2+) moving into the cell, but blocked by high internal Ca2+concentrations, a unique feature of this transient receptor potential (TRP) channel family member. Surprisingly, we find that the C-terminal EF-hands and coiled-coil domains do not contribute to PKD2-L1 Ca2+-induced potentiation and inactivation. We propose a model in which prolonged channel activity results in calcium accumulation, triggering outward-moving Ca2+ ions to block PKD2-L1 in a high-affinity interaction with the innermost acidic residue (D523) of the selectivity filter and subsequent long-term channel inactivation. This response rectifies Ca2+ flow, enabling Ca2+ to enter but not leave small compartments such as the cilium.
CO2-evoked release of PGE2 modulates sighs and inspiration as demonstrated in brainstem organotypic culture
Authors: Forsberg David , Horn Zachi , Tserga Evangelia , Smedler Erik , Silberberg Gilad , Shvarev Yuri , Kaila Kai , Uhlén Per , Herlenius Eric
Published: June 2016

Inflammation-induced release of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) changes breathing patterns and the response to CO2 levels. This may have fatal consequences in newborn babies and result in sudden infant death. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we present a novel breathing brainstem organotypic culture that generates rhythmic neural network and motor activity for 3 weeks. We show that increased CO2 elicits a gap junction-dependent release of PGE2. This alters neural network activity in the preBötzinger rhythm-generating complex and in the chemosensitive brainstem respiratory regions, thereby increasing sigh frequency and the depth of inspiration. We used mice lacking eicosanoid prostanoid 3 receptors (EP3R), breathing brainstem organotypic slices and optogenetic inhibition of EP3R+/+ cells to demonstrate that the EP3R is important for the ventilatory response to hypercapnia. Our study identifies a novel pathway linking the inflammatory and respiratory systems, with implications for inspiration and sighs throughout life, and the ability to autoresuscitate when breathing fails.
Introduction of measurement techniques in ultrasonic electronics: Basic principles and recent trends
Authors: Mizutani Koichi , Wakatsuki Naoto , Ebihara Tadashi
Published: June 2016

Measurement — the act of measuring physical properties that we perform — has the potential to contribute to the successful advancement of sciences and society. To open doors in physics and other sciences, various measurement methods and related applications have been developed, and ultrasound has remained a useful probe, power source, and interesting measurement object for the past two centuries. In this paper, we first summarize the basic principles of ultrasound from the viewpoint of measurement techniques for readers who just have started studying or are interested in the field of ultrasonic electronics. Moreover, we also introduce recent studies — ultrasonic properties of materials, measurement techniques, piezoelectric devices, nonlinear acoustics, biomedical ultrasound, and ocean acoustics — and their trends related to measurement techniques in ultrasonic electronics to provide some ideas for related applications.
Study on spherical stator for multidegree-of-freedom ultrasonic motor
Authors: Nakajima Shuta , Kajiwara Hidekazu , Aoyagi Manabu , Tamura Hideki , Takano Takehiro
Published: June 2016

A multidegree-of-freedom ultrasonic motor (MDOF-USM) has excellent features such as high torque at a low speed and a self-holding force, compared with other types of MDOF motor. Therefore, the MDOF-USM has been considered for applications in robot joints, multidimensional systems, and spacecraft. In previous research, the MDOF-USM consisting of a spherical rotor and a stator vibrator of various shapes has been mainly studied. In contrast, the MDOF-USM consisting of a spherical stator and a rotor of various shapes is proposed in this paper. The excitation methods for vibration modes and mode rotation using piezoelectric plates and multilayered piezoelectric actuators were examined. Furthermore, a stator support method that does not significantly affect the vibration of the sphere was devised. From the results of experiments using the fabricated prototype stator, the generation of vibration mode and mode rotation were confirmed. Therefore, the possibility of the realization of the MDOF-USM using a spherical stator was indicated.
Measurement of temperature decrease caused by blood flow in focused ultrasound irradiation by thermal imaging method
Authors: Tsuchiya Takenobu , Hatano Yuichi , Mori Yashunori , Shen Rakushin , Endoh Nobuyuki
Published: June 2016

In this study, to estimate the local temperature changes caused by a thick blood vessel, the temperature distribution in a tissue phantom with a thick blood vessel during focused ultrasound irradiation was measured by a thermal imaging method. The blood flow rate in the simulated blood vessel was varied and the relationship between flow rate and temperature decrease was examined. The phantom using the thermal imaging method is divided into two parts, and the increases in temperature distribution as a function of blood flow rate are measured using a thermocamera under constant ultrasound irradiation. The irradiation conditions of ultrasound waves were a central frequency of 1 MHz, a wave number length of 200 cycles, and a duty ratio of 0.2. The irradiation duration was 5 min, and the ultrasound intensity I
SPTA was 36 W/cm2. The amount of temperature decrease caused by the cooling effect of blood flow increased with the blood flow rate and it became constant at a certain threshold of blood flow rate. The threshold of blood flow rate is about 250 ml/min.
Radiative properties of ceramic metal-halide high intensity discharge lamps containing additives in argon plasma
Authors: Cressault Yann , Teulet Philippe , Zissis Georges
Published: June 2016

The lighting represents a consumption of about 19% of the world electricity production. We are thus searching new effective and environment-friendlier light sources. The ceramic metal-halide high intensity lamps (C-MHL) are one of the options for illuminating very high area. The new C-MHL lamps contain additives species that reduce mercury inside and lead to a richer spectrum in specific spectral intervals, a better colour temperature or colour rendering index. This work is particularly focused on the power radiated by these lamps, estimated using the net emission coefficient, and depending on several additives (calcium, sodium, tungsten, dysprosium, and thallium or strontium iodides). The results show the strong influence of the additives on the power radiated despite of their small quantity in the mixtures and the increase of visible radiation portion in presence of dysprosium.
Characteristics of surface sterilization using electron cyclotron resonance plasma
Authors: Yonesu Akira , Hara Kazufumi , Nishikawa Tatsuya , Hayashi Nobuya
Published: June 2016

The characteristics of surface sterilization using electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) plasma were investigated. High-energy electrons and oxygen radicals were observed in the ECR zone using electric probe and optical emission spectroscopic methods. A biological indicator (BI), Geobacillus stearothermophilus, containing 1 × 106 spores was sterilized in 120 s by exposure to oxygen discharges while maintaining a temperature of approximately 55 °C at the BI installation position. Oxygen radicals and high-energy electrons were found to be the sterilizing species in the ECR region. It was demonstrated that the ECR plasma could be produced in narrow tubes with an inner diameter of 5 mm. Moreover, sterilization tests confirmed that the spores present inside the narrow tube were successfully inactivated by ECR plasma irradiation.
Improvement of efficiency and viability in plasma gene transfection by plasma minimization and optimization electrode configuration
Authors: Jinno Masafumi , Tachibana Kunihide , Motomura Hideki , Saeki Noboru , Satoh Susumu
Published: June 2016

Plasma gene transfection is expected as a safe and useful method of gene transfection. However, in this method, there is difficulty in keeping both high transfection efficiency and less cell damage simultaneously. The authors have evaluated transfection efficiency and cell viability using four different plasma sources, such as arc discharge, plasma jet, dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), and microplasma. A high transfection efficiency was achieved by discharge forms in which the electric current flows via the cells. This suggested that an electric current plays an important role in plasma gene transfection. The total volume of gas flow must be small or zero and the area in which the cells are directly irradiated by plasma must be small in order to achieve a higher cell viability. The microplasma that satisfies these conditions achieved both the highest transfection efficiency and the highest cell viability simultaneously.
Social-Environmental Injustice and Cancer Screening Prevalence
Authors: Ashad-Bishop Kilan C. , Wiese Daniel , Baeker Bispo Jordan A. , Ogongo Margaret Katana , Islami Farhad , Bandi Priti
Published: September 2024

This cross-sectional study characterizes the prevalence of cancer screening across geographic clusters of social risk factors, environmental burden, and compounded social-environmental injustice in densely-populated urban areas of the US.
Differential Diagnosis of Suspected Multiple Sclerosis in Pediatric and Late-Onset Populations
Authors: Hua Le H. , Solomon Andrew J. , Tenembaum Silvia , Scalfari Antonio , Rovira Àlex , Rostasy Kevin , Newsome Scott D. , Marrie Ruth Ann , Magyari Melinda , Kantarci Orhun , Hemmer Bernhard , Hemingway Cheryl , Harnegie Mary Pat , Graves Jennifer S. , Cohen Jeffrey A. , Bove Riley , Banwell Brenda , Corboy John R. , Waubant Emmanuelle
Published: September 2024

Importance

While the typical onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) occurs in early adulthood, 2% to 10% of cases initially present prior to age 18 years, and approximately 5% after age 50 years. Guidance on approaches to differential diagnosis in suspected MS specific to these 2 age groups is needed.

Observations

There are unique biological factors in children younger than 18 years and in adults older than age 50 years compared to typical adult-onset MS. These biological differences, particularly immunological and hormonal, may influence the clinical presentation of MS, resilience to neuronal injury, and differential diagnosis. While mimics of MS at the typical age at onset have been described, a comprehensive approach focused on the younger and older ends of the age spectrum has not been previously published.

Conclusions and Relevance

An international committee of MS experts in pediatric and adult MS was formed to provide consensus guidance on diagnostic approaches and key clinical and paraclinical red flags for non-MS diagnosis in children and older adults.
Lipoxygenase Dynamics and Catalysis Studied by Temperature‐Dependent Hydrogen–Deuterium Exchange
Authors: Offenbacher Adam R. , Guy Samuel W.
Published: September 2024

An active pursuit in biochemistry is the understanding of how the structure and dynamics of protein systems regulate their biological function. In this chapter, we describe temperature‐dependent hydrogen–deuterium exchange mass‐spectrometry (TDHDX‐MS) as a tool used to investigate the structure and dynamics of metalloenzymes in solution. While the method is applicable to many metalloproteins, this review will present TDHDX‐MS studies centered on the widely represented family of mononuclear, non‐heme iron containing lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes that oxidize fatty acids to initiate biological reactions and activate cellular signaling. We will present how TDHDX has been used to describe the anisotropic nature of energy transfer in LOXs to initiate the rate‐limiting hydrogen atom transfer reaction that proceeds through a tunneling process. Further, TDHDX‐MS has been used detect protein motions and conformations in LOXs related to molecular recognition, protein allostery, and polymorphisms linked to disease.
Advancing SARS‐CoV‐2 Variant Detection with High Affinity Monoclonal Antibodies and Plasmonic Nanostructure
Authors: Ryu Jea Sung , Lee Soo Hyun , Kim Hyeran , Kang Hyunju , Li Pei , Lee Joo Hoon , Jang Hyowon , Kim Sunjoo , Kwon Hyung‐Jun , Jung Ho Sang , Jung Yongwon , Lim Eun‐Kyung , Jung Juyeon , Park Sung‐Gyu , Kang Taejoon
Published: September 2024

A nanoplasmonic biosensor for the precise detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) by leveraging advances in nanostructured sensing materials and highly selective monoclonal antibodies is presented. The sensor integrates plasmonic Au nanostructures optimized for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), enhancing sensitivity through unique light interactions at the nanoscale. Coupled with exclusive antibodies that specifically target SARS‐CoV‐2 and its evolving variants, this sensor demonstrates remarkable selectivity and versatility. Validated with 270 clinical samples, it demonstrates a sensitivity of 98.9% and specificity of 100%. More importantly, the virus in nasopharyngeal swab samples collected over 3 years, marking the long‐term, large‐scale clinical validation of the nanoplasmonic biosensor for SARS‐CoV‐2 is been successfully detected. Furthermore, the integration of this sensor with face masks enables the detection of airborne SARS‐CoV‐2, highlighting its potential for routine management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).
Inhalation of Bioorthogonal Gene‐Editable Spiky‐Pollen Reprograms Tumor‐Associated Macrophages for Lung Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Lu Qianglan , Chen Ruiyue , Zeng Fei , Liu Zhiyong , Pan Yongchun , Gao Yanfeng , He Bangshun , Song Yujun
Published: September 2024

As a major component of tumor infiltration, tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) primarily promote the M2 phenotype of tumors in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, the overexpression of anti‐phagocytic molecules in TAMs facilitates tumor cell evasion of TAMs’ phagocytic arrest. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a reliable strategy to reprogram TAMs for more effective anti‐tumor outcomes. In this study, innovative inhalable bioorthogonal gene‐editable microparticles (SPR) have been engineered that reprogram TAMs for lung cancer therapy based on spike‐covered sunflower sporopollenin exine capsules (SECs). These microparticles utilize SECs as delivery vehicles, with reduced palladium (Pd) nanoparticles on their surface carrying CRISPR/Cas9 lipid nanoparticles (LNP‐RNPs) that specifically knock down the anti‐phagocytic SIRPα gene on TAMs. The SPR microparticles employ a tripartite strategy to reprogram the TAMs: the physical stimulation through pollen spikes, the production of a Toll‐like receptor 7 agonist (imiquimod, IMD) via Pd‐mediated bioorthogonal catalysis, and the employment of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. In an orthotopic mouse model, the inhalation of SPR microparticles not only reprograms macrophages efficiently but also bolsters their tumor‐fighting abilities. Notably, the cured mice show no signs of recurrence even upon re‐exposure to the tumor, indicating a long‐lasting anti‐tumor effect.
Nanoparticle Decorated Cellulose Nanocrystals (CNC) Composites for Energy, Catalysis, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Raghuwanshi Vikram Singh , Garnier Gil
Published: September 2024

Decorating cellulose nanocrystals(CNC) with nanoparticles(NPs) allows to engineer novel CNC/NPs composites for advanced technologies and applications. NPs are well‐known for their unique and highly efficient properties. However, NPs present challenges and limitations due to their aggregation, non‐uniform growth, size distribution, and nanotoxicity. CNC surface overcomes most of these drawbacks by providing an attractive matrix/template to grow NPs of desirable morphology, distribution, and functionality. CNC has distinctive properties such as biodegradability, high surface area, low cost, good mechanical strength, surface functionality, and chiral nematic self‐assembly. CNC/NPs composites combine the unique properties of both CNC and NPs. This review highlights the unique characteristics of CNC, NPs, and their composites for energy, catalysis, and biomedical applications. First, different production methods for CNC with their effect on morphology, crystallinity index, and yield are presented. Both organic and inorganic NPs are used to decorate either a pristine or a functionalized CNC surface. In situ nucleation and growth methods are compared with the direct incorporation of pre‐formed NPs on the CNC surface. Applications of CNC/NPs composites are reviewed for energy storage material, conductive materials, catalysts, antibacterial agents, biosensors, and bioimaging. Finally, the current challenges and perspectives are presented for unleashing new possibilities in developing functional CNC‐NPs composites.
A Multifunctional Anisotropic Patch Manufactured by Microfluidic Manipulation for the Repair of Infarcted Myocardium
Authors: Jia Xiaomeng , Liu Weiyu , Ai Yongjian , Cheung Suet , Hu Wanting , Wang Yu , Shi Xiaolu , Zhou Jin , Zhang Zhuang , Liang Qionglin
Published: September 2024

Engineered hydrogel patches have shown promising therapeutic effects in the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI), especially anisotropic patches that mimic the characteristics of native myocardium have attracted widespread attention. However, it remains a great challenge to develop cardiac patches with long‐range and orderly electrical conduction based on an effective, mild, and rapid strategy. Here, a multifunctional anisotropic cardiac patch is presented based on microfluidic manipulation. The anisotropic alginate‐gelatin methacrylate hydrogel patches are easily and rapidly prepared through microfluidic focusing, ion‐photocrosslinking, and parallel packing processes. The fluid‐based anisotropic realization process does not involve complex machining and strong field stimulation and is compatible with the loading of macromolecular biological agents. The anisotropic hydrogel patch can mimic the anisotropy of the myocardium and guide the directional polarization of cardiomyocytes. In animal model experiments, it also exhibits significant effects in inhibiting ventricular remodeling, fibrosis, and enhancing cardiac function recovery after MI. These comprehensive features make the multifunctional hydrogel patch a promising candidate for cardiac tissue repair and future provide a new paradigm for expanding microfluidic technology to solve tissue engineering challenges.
High Sensitivity X‐Ray Detectors with Low Degradation Based on Deuterated Halide Perovskite Single Crystals
Authors: Liu Lishan , Xu Mingxia , Xu Xinguang , Tao Xutang , Gao Zeliang
Published: September 2024

Methylammonium lead single crystal (MAPbI3 SC) possesses superior optoelectronic properties and low manufacturing cost, making it an ideal candidate for X‐ray detection. However, the ionic migration of the perovskites usually leads to instability, dark current drift, and hysteresis of the detector, limiting their applications in well‐established technologies. Here, a series of X‐ray detectors of MAPbI3 SCs are reported with different degrees of deuteration (DxMAPbI3, x = 0, 0.15, 0.75, 0.99). By controlling the content of deuterium (D) in organic cations, the sensitivity, detection limits, ion migration, and resistivity of the detector can be controlled, thereby improving its performance. Due to stronger hydrogen bonds (N─D···I), the ion activation energy significantly increases to 886 meV. Consequently, the D0.99MAPbI3 SC detector shows more than five‐fold enhancement, achieving a record‐high mobility–lifetime (µτ) product of 5.39 × 10−2 cm2 V−1, with an ultrahigh sensitivity of 2.18 × 106 µC Gy−1 cm−2 under 120 keV hard X‐ray and a low detection limit of 4.8 nGyair s−1, as well as long‐term stability. The study provides a straightforward strategy for constructing ultrasensitive X‐ray detection and imaging systems based on perovskite SCs.
Quantitative in Vivo Molecular MRI
Authors: Ning Yingying , Zhou Iris Yuwen , Caravan Peter
Published: September 2024

Molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combines chemistry, chemical biology, and imaging techniques to track molecular events non‐invasively. Quantitative molecular MRI aims to provide meaningful, reproducible numerical measurements of molecular processes or biochemical targets within the body. In this review, the classifications of molecular MRI probes based on their signal‐generating mechanism and functionality are first described. From there, the primary considerations for in vitro characterization and in vivo validation of molecular MRI probes, including how to avoid pitfalls and biases are discussed. Then, recommendations on imaging acquisition protocols and analysis methods to establish quantitative relationships between MRI signal change induced by the probes and the molecular processes of interest are provided. Finally, several representative case studies are highlighted that incorporate these features. Quantitative molecular MRI is a multidisciplinary research area incorporating expertise in chemical biology, inorganic chemistry, molecular probes, imaging physics, drug development, pathobiology, and medicine. The purpose of this review is to provide guidance to chemists developing MR imaging probes and methods in terms of in vitro and in vivo validation to accelerate the translation of these new quantitative tools for non‐invasive imaging of biological processes.
Spontaneously Formed Ratio‐Tunable Micro‐ and Nano‐Capsule Coexist System for Precision and on‐Demand Fungicide Delivery in Crop Leave
Authors: Wang Rui , Luan Feng‐xin , Wang Zi‐shu , Liu Xiao‐chi , Zhang Xiu‐guo , Wang Kai , Mu Wei , Liu Feng , Zhang Da‐xia
Published: September 2024

Multiscale particle size functional pesticide carriers can provide more efficient protection for plants, but this protection is difficult to achieve via single‐scale formulation technology. This study presents a novel one‐step method for the preparation of lignin‐based micro/nanocapsules with controllable proportions within a unified system. This strategy enables the adjustment of the proportion of nanocapsules to between 18.81% and 85.21%. The microcapsules (MCs) vary in diameter from 2 to 3 µm, whereas the nanocapsules (NCs) span from 160 to 220 nm, with an encapsulation efficiency exceeding 90%. An increased proportion of NCs in the system leads to faster release, heightened sensitivity to UV light, and enhanced penetration into the leaves. During Phytophthora capsici (P. capsici) infection, the NCs in the leaves interact with the defensive enzymes of the plant to quickly respond. Moreover, an optimal balance of MCs and NCs is key to effective fungicide use, not just a higher concentration of NCs. A 65:35 ratio of NCs to MCs ensures effective inhibition of P. capsici outside leaves and a rapid response to leaf invasion. This study enhances fungicide efficiency and advances the development of nanoresponsive fungicides to promote sustainable agricultural practices.