bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of livelihood support with MHPSS in rehabilitation of torture survivors in LMICs
Authors: Mushtaq Ayesha
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The integration of livelihood support with mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) is crucial for the rehabilitation of torture survivors in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to explore the intersectionality of poverty and mental health, and the integration of livelihood support within MHPSS frameworks within the rehabilitation settlements of torture survivors in LMICs.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire distributed to members of the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT) in LMICs. The questionnaire was designed to gather data on the extent to which poverty contributes to poor mental health outcomes among torture survivors and the effectiveness of integrating livelihood support into MHPSS interventions.
Results: The study found that 92% of respondents believed that poverty and mental health outcomes of torture survivors are strongly linked. Economic and social inequalities were identified as key determinants of mental disorders in the country, emphasizing the need to address these inequalities in rehabilitation programs for torture survivors. The study also highlighted the significant economic challenges faced by torture survivors, indicating a high prevalence of extreme poverty among this group.
Discussion: The study underscores the critical connection between poverty, mental health, and the experience of torture, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support. The integration of livelihood support with MHPSS is essential for addressing economic disparities and promoting long-term resilience among survivors. The study recommends enhancing coordination among stakeholders, addressing cultural and social barriers, securing sustainable funding, and developing strategies to overcome anticipated challenges or barriers in integrating livelihood support with MHPSS for torture survivors in LMICs. By addressing the diverse needs of torture survivors, including economic empowerment, mental health support, and social integration, this integrated model can contribute to holistic recovery, long-term resilience, and overall well-being.
Oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery: evolution, techniques, and the emerging role of acellular dermal matrix
Authors: Choi Jun Ho , Kim Yoonsoo
Published: September 2024

Oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery (OBCS) has revolutionized breast cancer treatment, aiming to achieve optimal oncological outcomes while preserving an aesthetically favorable appearance. This review explores the evolution, techniques, and outcomes of OBCS, with a particular focus on the emerging role of acellular dermal matrix in volume replacement techniques. We conducted a comprehensive literature review using PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane databases, focusing on studies published between 2010 and 2024. OBCS demonstrates comparable oncological safety to traditional breast-conserving surgery, with local recurrence rates ranging from 2.7% to 5.7% at 5 years. Patient satisfaction rates are consistently high, with 85% to 95% reporting good to excellent aesthetic outcomes. Volume replacement techniques using acellular dermal matrix show promising results, with one study reporting that 94% of patients were highly satisfied with cosmetic outcomes. Although the current results are encouraging, future advancements in OBCS may require innovative approaches, including the integration of robotic surgery and artificial intelligence technologies.
Le devoir de vigilance des entreprises dans les instruments juridiques africains
Authors: Anicet Tayo Rodrigue
Published: September 2024

Cet article a pour objectif d’apporter une approche nouvelle à la question de la transposition de l’obligation de diligence raisonnable en droit interne et régional. Il s’agit de mettre en lumière une conception distinctive de la diligence raisonnable dans l’espace africain. De fait, le devoir de vigilance des entreprises en matière des droits de l’homme et de l’environnement connaît un développement remarquable ces dernières années. L’Afrique n’est pas en marge de ce mouvement. Si certaines législations nationales africaines contiennent des dispositions expresses relatives à la diligence raisonnable, reste que la notion est encore en débat en Afrique. L’article fait un état des lieux de la réglementation du devoir de vigilance dans les instruments juridiques africains. Il met en lumière les mérites du dispositif normatif africain actuel et suggère des pistes de réflexion pour la formulation du devoir de vigilance dans la convention générale en cours d’élaboration au sein de l’Union africaine sur la question des entreprises et des droits de l’homme.
Propriété intellectuelle et santé publique : vers une prise de conscience de la part des pays africains ?
Authors: Eba Nguema Ismaelline
Published: September 2024

Le débat relatif à l’incidence de l’Accord sur les aspects de la propriété intellectuelle touchant au commerce (Accord sur les ADPIC) sur la santé publique a été remis à l’ordre du jour par la communication de l’Inde et de l’Afrique du Sud visant à lever provisoirement les engagements des membres en matière de propriété intellectuelle pour permettre aux Membres de l’Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC) de lutter contre la COVID-19. L’implication des pays africains dans le processus de négociation en vue de garantir un meilleur accès aux médicaments date du début des années 2000, voire de la Conférence ministérielle de Seattle de 1999. Elle est motivée par les défis démographiques et sanitaires auxquels sont confrontés les pays africains. Pourtant, malgré quelques victoires symboliques à l’OMC, la santé publique et la propriété intellectuelle semblent difficilement conciliables, comme l’atteste la récente décision ministérielle sur les aspects des droits de propriété intellectuelle qui touchent au commerce (ADPIC). Par ailleurs, alors que le rôle proactif des pays africains à l’OMC est en phase avec l’Agenda 2063 de l’Union africaine, à l’échelle régionale, des ambiguïtés demeurent. Celles-ci semblent avoir un effet dommageable sur la santé publique dans certaines régions. Toutefois, l’Afrique étant le continent de bien des contrastes, une solution pourrait également y émerger avec l’Initiative Pharma. Une telle perspective dépend grandement de l’harmonisation des politiques menées sur le continent en matière de promotion de la santé publique et de propriété intellectuelle. Par conséquent, l’objectif de cet article est d’analyser le changement de stratégie déployé par les pays africains à l’OMC afin de faire valoir les préoccupations de santé publique dans le cadre de l’Accord sur les ADPIC, puis d’en évaluer la cohérence au sein des organisations africaines de la propriété intellectuelle et enfin à l’échelle continentale. Pour ce faire, la méthode retenue consiste à analyser les différentes approches déployées par les pays à des niveaux multidimensionnels (multilatéral, national, au sein des organisations africaines de la propriété intellectuelle et continentale) afin de faire ressortir la cohérence, les limites et les perspectives de celles-ci. Cette méthode a permis de démontrer que malgré un rôle proactif au niveau multilatéral, les pays africains peinent à coordonner et harmoniser leurs politiques au sein des organisations africaines de la propriété intellectuelle afin de tirer profit des flexibilités offertes par l’Accord sur les ADPIC. L’existence de telles ambiguïtés serait susceptible d’entraver les initiatives déployées à l’échelle continentale.
Paper Dolls
Authors: Whiteley Rebecca
Published: September 2024

This article addresses the striking resemblance of a late nineteenth-century obstetrical simulator to contemporary commercial paper dolls. This period is often characterised in histories of medicine as one of increasing institutionalisation and professionalisation of childbirth through hospital training and state regulation. But this narrative is only part of the story. It marginalises the perspective of patients and midwives, and those outside of the geographic ‘West’, and it silences aspects of medical culture: social and caring relationships, emotion, play, and humour. While these aspects of medical history are less well represented in textual sources, material objects like Shibata Kōichi’s ‘Obstetrical Pocket-Phantoms’ can help to give a fuller picture.

Beginning by situating Shibata’s phantoms in the conventional histories of obstetric training and the intermedial spaces of the clinic and lecture theatre, I then ask how the phantoms might have been used and understood differently outside of these spaces. Using Robin Bernstein’s concept of ‘scriptive things’, I employ a visual and material study of the objects, informed by the wider cultural contexts of dolls and popular print culture in Germany, the USA and Japan, to argue for a history of Shibata’s phantoms as paper dolls that encouraged many forms of play: from learning and explorative, to mothering and caring, to humorous and subversive. By acknowledging that Shibata’s phantoms would also have been recognised as paper dolls, I present a history that centres unrecorded aspects of, and under-studied agents in, medical culture.
De ‘Mrs. America’ a la polémica de las ‘tradwives’: el antifeminismo como baza de la ultraderecha en redes sociales
Authors: Herrera Sánchez Sonia
Published: September 2024

El pasado verano el concepto de tradwife inundó las redes sociales españolas tras la viralización de algunas de las publicaciones en TikTok de la creadora de contenidos Roro Bueno en las que aparecía cocinando para su pareja. Hasta aquí, todo puede sonar inofensivo y banal, si no fuera porque dichos contenidos se enmarcan en un fenómeno mucho más amplio y global de mujeres que ensalzan los roles de género tradicionales, aquellos relacionados con las tareas de cuidados y el trabajo reproductivo, reivindicando el retorno de las mujeres a la esfera doméstica, mientras que los varones se enaltecen como los abastecedores económicos.
Targeted anticancer pre-vinylsulfone covalent inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase IX
Authors: Vaškevičius Aivaras , Baronas Denis , Leitans Janis , Kvietkauskaitė Agnė , Rukšėnaitė Audronė , Manakova Elena , Toleikis Zigmantas , Kaupinis Algirdas , Kazaks Andris , Gedgaudas Marius , Mickevičiūtė Aurelija , Juozapaitienė Vaida , Schiöth Helgi B , Jaudzems Kristaps , Valius Mindaugas , Tars Kaspars , Gražulis Saulius , Meyer-Almes Franz-Josef , Matulienė Jurgita , Zubrienė Asta , Dudutienė Virginija , Matulis Daumantas
Published: September 2024

We designed novel pre-drug compounds that transform into an active form that covalently modifies particular His residue in the active site, a difficult task to achieve, and applied to carbonic anhydrase (CAIX), a transmembrane protein, highly overexpressed in hypoxic solid tumors, important for cancer cell survival and proliferation because it acidifies tumor microenvironment helping invasion and metastases processes. The designed compounds have several functionalities: (1) primary sulfonamide group recognizing carbonic anhydrases (CA), (2) high-affinity moieties specifically recognizing CAIX among all CA isozymes, and (3) forming a covalent bond with the His64 residue. Such targeted covalent compounds possess both high initial affinity and selectivity for the disease target protein followed by complete irreversible inactivation of the protein via covalent modification. Our designed prodrug candidates bearing moderately active pre-vinylsulfone esters or weakly active carbamates optimized for mild covalent modification activity to avoid toxic non-specific modifications and selectively target CAIX. The lead inhibitors reached 2 pM affinity, the highest among known CAIX inhibitors. The strategy could be used for any disease drug target protein bearing a His residue in the vicinity of the active site.
The deubiquitinase Ubp3/Usp10 constrains glucose-mediated mitochondrial repression via phosphate budgeting
Authors: Vengayil Vineeth , Niphadkar Shreyas , Adhikary Swagata , Varahan Sriram , Laxman Sunil
Published: September 2024

Many cells in high glucose repress mitochondrial respiration, as observed in the Crabtree and Warburg effects. Our understanding of biochemical constraints for mitochondrial activation is limited. Using a Saccharomyces cerevisiae screen, we identified the conserved deubiquitinase Ubp3 (Usp10), as necessary for mitochondrial repression. Ubp3 mutants have increased mitochondrial activity despite abundant glucose, along with decreased glycolytic enzymes, and a rewired glucose metabolic network with increased trehalose production. Utilizing ∆ubp3 cells, along with orthogonal approaches, we establish that the high glycolytic flux in glucose continuously consumes free Pi. This restricts mitochondrial access to inorganic phosphate (Pi), and prevents mitochondrial activation. Contrastingly, rewired glucose metabolism with enhanced trehalose production and reduced GAPDH (as in ∆ubp3 cells) restores Pi. This collectively results in increased mitochondrial Pi and derepression, while restricting mitochondrial Pi transport prevents activation. We therefore suggest that glycolytic flux-dependent intracellular Pi budgeting is a key constraint for mitochondrial repression.
Hippocampal-occipital connectivity reflects autobiographical memory deficits in aphantasia
Authors: Monzel Merlin , Leelaarporn Pitshaporn , Lutz Teresa , Schultz Johannes , Brunheim Sascha , Reuter Martin , McCormick Cornelia
Published: September 2024

Aphantasia refers to reduced or absent visual imagery. While most of us can readily recall decade-old personal experiences (autobiographical memories, AM) with vivid mental images, there is a dearth of information about whether the loss of visual imagery in aphantasics affects their AM retrieval. The hippocampus is thought to be a crucial hub in a brain-wide network underlying AM. One important question is whether this network, especially the connectivity of the hippocampus, is altered in aphantasia. In the current study, we tested 14 congenital aphantasics and 16 demographically matched controls in an AM fMRI task to investigate how key brain regions (i.e. hippocampus and visual-perceptual cortices) interact with each other during AM re-experiencing. All participants were interviewed regarding their autobiographical memory to examine their episodic and semantic recall of specific events. Aphantasics reported more difficulties in recalling AM, were less confident about their memories, and described less internal and emotional details than controls. Neurally, aphantasics displayed decreased hippocampal and increased visual-perceptual cortex activation during AM retrieval compared to controls. In addition, controls showed strong negative functional connectivity between the hippocampus and the visual cortex during AM and resting-state functional connectivity between these two brain structures predicted better visualization skills. Our results indicate that visual mental imagery plays an important role in detail-rich vivid AM, and that this type of cognitive function is supported by the functional connection between the hippocampus and the visual-perceptual cortex.
Enhancing energy balance in wireless sensor networks through optimized minimum spanning tree
Authors: Saad Hafiz Muhammad , Shdefat Ahmed , Nawaz Asif , El-Sherbeeny Ahmed M. , El-Meligy Mohammed A. , Rana Muhammad Rizwan Rashid
Published: September 2024

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are important for applications like environmental monitoring and industrial automation. However, the limited energy resources of sensor nodes pose a significant challenge to the network’s longevity. Energy imbalances among nodes often result in premature failures and reduced overall network lifespan. Current solutions have not adequately addressed this issue due to network dynamics, varying energy consumption rates, and uneven node distribution. To tackle this, we propose a novel method using Prim’s algorithm to construct minimum spanning trees (MSTs) that enhance energy balance in WSNs. Prim’s algorithm effectively identifies optimal connections among network nodes to minimize energy consumption. Our methodology includes several key steps: network initialization, energy consumption modeling, MST construction using Prim’s algorithm, and optimizing the movement of mobile sink nodes. Extensive experiments with diverse datasets show that our approach significantly improves energy equilibrium, demonstrating high sensitivity and moderate complexity. This research underscores the potential of Prim’s algorithm to extend the lifespan of WSNs and enhance energy efficiency, contributing to sustainable and effective network deployments.
The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on frozen-thawed embryo transfer outcomes
Authors: Diao Junrong , Aijun Du , Wang Xinyan , Zhang Shuai , Han Ying , Xiao Nan , Pang Zhe , Ma Junfang , Zhang Yunshan , Luo Haining
Published: September 2024

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has raised concerns about its potential effects on human fertility, particularly among individuals undergoing assisted reproductive therapy (ART). However, the impact of COVID-19 on female reproductive and assisted reproductive outcomes is unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of COVID-19 on pregnancy outcomes during frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 327 enrolled patients who underwent FET cycles at a single reproductive centre. The study group consisted of patients treated between 1 January 2023 and 31 March 2023 who recently recovered from COVID-19. The embryos for transfer were generated prior to COVID-19 infection. The control group consisted of patients treated between 1 January 2021 and 31 March 2021 who were not infected and did not receive a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine. Demographic and cycle characteristics and outcomes were compared.

Results

A total of 160 recovered women and 167 controls were included. The primary outcome—the live birth rate—was similar between the two groups (43.8% vs. 43.1%, P > 0.05). The secondary outcomes, such as the implantation rates (41.2% vs. 39.3%), biochemical pregnancy rates (56.3% vs. 56.3%), clinical pregnancy rates (52.5% vs. 52.1%), early abortion rates (8.3% vs. 12.6%) and ongoing pregnancy rates (46.9% vs. 44.3%), were also similar (P < 0.05). According to a logistic regression model, the live birth rate did not decrease after SARS-CoV-2 infection after adjusting for confounding factors (adjusted OR (95% CI) = 0.953 (0.597∼1.523)). Regardless of stratification by age or the number of embryos transferred, the differences remained nonsignificant. Subgroup logistic regression demonstrated that the time interval from infection to transplant had no significant influence on the live birth rate.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 infection after oocyte retrieval had no detrimental effect on subsequent FET outcomes.
Toll-like receptor 4 damages the intestinal epithelial cells by activating endoplasmic reticulum stress in septic rats
Authors: Wu Xue , Yang Jilin , Bao Xin , Wang Yijie
Published: September 2024

Background

The severity of acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI) is a critical determinant of survival in sepsis. However, there is no specifically interventional management for gastrointestinal dysfunction. Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) is an important contributor to sepsis-induced multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. So, we investigated the effect of TLR4 on leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) + cells and goblet cells and its potential mechanism.

Methods

A cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model reflecting the development of clinical sepsis was developed. Tak-242, a TLR4 inhibitor, was administered to septic rats at a dose of 3 mg/kg via intraperitoneal injection. Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect TLR4 and Lgr5+ cells. AB-PAS staining was performed to detect goblet cells. MUC1 and MUC2 secreted by goblet cells, biomarkers of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammatory cytokines in the intestine were detected by western blotting and real-time PCR.

Results

We found that the upregulation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway activated intestinal inflammatory response in sepsis. Meanwhile, the structure of intestinal mucosa was destroyed, Lgr5+ cells and goblet cells count were significantly reduced, and the secretory function of goblet cells also decreased. Further studies have found that TLR4 increased the levels of activating transcription factor-6 (ATF6), XBP1, ER chaperone (Bip) and CHOP, but did not activate the protein kinase RNA (PKR)-like ER kinase (P-PERK).

Conclusion

We concluded that the inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway can reduce intestinal inflammatory response, protect intestinal mucosa, protect Lgr5+ cells, goblet cells and relieve ER stress. Our findings suggest that Tak-242 protects Lgr5+ cells and goblet cells after sepsis, partly may be through the suppression of ER stress. Thus, inhibition of TLR4-mediated ER stress may be a promising therapy of septic AGI.
Corporate hypocrisy as a convergent concept among the forms of strategic communication of the largest bank in Colombia A concurrent analysis between users and organization
Authors: Pacheco-Ortiz Diana , Escobar-Sierra Manuela , Suárez-Monsalve Ana María
Published: September 2024

Las organizaciones deben acordar sus propósitos para establecer una comunicación estratégica con sus diferentes públicos para asegurar coherencia y evitar riesgos reputacionales por percepciones de hipocresía corporativa. En este trabajo nos proponemos caracterizar la hipocresía corporativa como un concepto convergente entre las formas de comunicación estratégica del banco más grande de Colombia y sus usuarios, usando una metodología mixta compuesta por una fase de análisis exploratorio cuantitativo y una segunda fase basada en análisis de contenido cualitativo. Los principales hallazgos muestran una brecha entre las comunicaciones del banco y la forma en la que se comunican los usuarios que lo mencionan, lo que podría estar configurando un fenómeno de percepciones de hipocresía que la estrategia comunicacional del banco debería considerar. La limitación del estudio es que se necesita más que la información compartida en redes para deducir las motivaciones reales del banco o cómo presta los servicios prometidos, por lo que es fundamental considerarlo en investigaciones futuras.
Comportamento microestrutural e mecânico do Aço SAE 1040 submetido a diferentes tratamentos
Authors: Silva Amanda Cristina Medeiros da , Brito Carlos Eduardo Costa , Oliveira Wilker Costa de , Gonçalves Mayara Machado , Silva Claudete Rosa da , Silva Priscilla Andrade
Published: September 2024

O aço SAE 1040 é classificado como médio carbono, hipoeutetóide, que possui maior resistência e dureza e menor tenacidade e ductilidade do que o baixo carbono. Apresenta quantidade de carbono suficiente para receber tratamento térmico de têmpera e revenimento, embora o tratamento, para ser efetivo, exija taxas de resfriamento elevadas e em seções finas. Este trabalho tem o propósito de avaliar a resistência mecânica obtida no aço SAE 1040, através do ensaio de dureza após tratamento térmico de têmpera e revenido, nas temperaturas 860ºC e 200ºC respectivamente, em três meios de resfriamento: salmoura, água e óleo, em seguida foram avaliadas as propriedades obtidas através de ensaio mecânico. Dessa maneira, os dados obtidos também foram utilizados para extrapolação, com o objetivo de estimar o limite de resistência do material e compará-lo com outros aços de grandes solicitações na indústria metal-mecânica. A maior dureza obtida foi na peça resfriada em salmoura, além do maior limite de resistência estimado, pois nesse meio de arrefecimento a severidade de têmpera e a taxa de extração de calor são maiores, o que leva a não ocorrer difusão e evitar microestruturas como a perlita ou a baianita.
Biophysicochemical and Antioxidant Properties of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius Leaves
Authors: Nnadiukwu Tochukwu A. , Nnadiukwu Chinonso U.
Published: September 2024

Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Chaya leaf or spinach tree) commonly found in West Africa especially Nigeria, was carefully investigated for its biophysicochemical properties, and in-vitro antioxidant potential. Well dried and pulverized sample of C. aconitifolius was assayed for its flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, nitrate, moisture, ash and crude content as well as peroxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and its scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) following the standard assay methodologies. The result showed that C. aconitifolius contains 79.12 ± 0.16% moisture content, 6.61 ± 0.27% ash and 13.35 ± 0.27% crude fiber. The result recorded flavonoid content, at 132.83±9.25 mg/100gQE, alkaloid (105.91±1.52 mg/100g), phenol (351.53±2.33 mg/100gCE), and nitrate concentration of 461.29 ± 5.83 mg/100g. The in-vitro antioxidant activity results revealed 0.442 ± 0.027 activity/min/unit/g for peroxidase, and 0.076 ± 0.004 units/g Units/g fresh weight for SOD. Meanwhile, the inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of the sample against DPPH activity was 12.95 as against 0.13 recorded by the standard (ascorbic acid), indicating that the sample has a lower DPPH scavenging potential when compared to ascorbic acid. In conclusion, these findings highlight the nutritional abundance and antioxidant properties of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, indicating its potential health benefits especially in countering the deleterious actions of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species, however the antioxidant activity should be examined in-vivo. Also, the high moisture content is an indication that the sample requires effective storage mechanism to inhibit or lower microbial growth, which can reduce its shelf life.
Design of a Climate Model for Forecasting and Alerting Meningitis Epidemics in Burkina Faso
Authors: SAMA Sampaawende Jeremie , KERE Moumini
Published: September 2024

In this paper we are interested in the impact of climatic factors on the meningitis epidemic. To do this, we analyze data from 1990 to 2020 on climatic factors and on the number of reported cases and deaths from meningitis. So, we established a multi-linear model giving the number of reported cases of meningitis as a function of four environmental variables studied on the one hand and the number of deaths as a function of the same environmental variables on the other. The aim is to propose a mathematical model of the meningitis epidemic according to these climatic factors. Analysis of climate models shows that climatic factors such as temperature, humidity and wind favor the spread of meninigitis epidemics in Burkina Faso because their impact coeffcients in the number of cases model are positive. By applying the Alienor method to the number of cases model, it turns out that the geographical positioning of Burkina Faso does not allow for a climate favouring zero cases of meningitis. The emphasis should therefore be placed on raising awareness among the population about good hygiene and wearing a mask (nose cover).
Integrated Weed Management of Mustard Crop (Brassica juncea L.) under Mid-Hill Region of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Sandeep  , Alam Mohd Shah , Patel Jay Nath , Yograj
Published: September 2024

Aim: To study on Integrated Weed Management of mustard crop (Brassica juncea L.) under mid-hill region of Himachal Pradesh.
Study Design: The field experiment was conducted in randomized block design (RBD).
Place and Duration of Study: A field experiment was carried out during 2022-2023 with the concept of integrated weed management at Abhilashi University Chail chowk Mandi (H.P.).
Methodology: Eight treatments were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications. T1-Oxadiargyl 0.90 kg a.i. ha-1 (pre-emergence), T2-Oxadiargyl 0.90 kg ai. ha-1 (pre-emergence) + two hand weeding at 30 and 60 DAS,T3-Pendimethalin 1.5 kg a.i. ha-1 (pre - emergence)T4-Pendimethalin 0.75 kg a.i. ha-1 (pre - emergence) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS,T5-Oxadiargyl 0.90 kg a.i. ha-1 (pre - emergence) fb IPU 0.75 kg a.i ha-1  (post emergence),T6-Pendimethalin 0.75 kg a.i ha-1 (pre-emergence) fb IPU 0.75 kg a.i ha-1  (post- emergence),T7-Two hand weeding at 30 and 60 DAS, T8-Weedy check.
Results: The investigation found that the most effective ways to control weeds are by keeping the area completely T2-Oxadiargyl 0.90 kg ha-1 (pre-emergence) + two hand weeding at 30 and 60 DAS, which involved keeping the area weed-free, was found to be the most successful in terms of achieving the lowest weed density and highest weed control efficiency.
Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that integrated weed management practices T2-Oxadiargyl 0.90 kg ha-1 (pre-emergence) + two hand weeding at 30 and 60 DAS, treatment is the most effective option for managing weeds in mustard crop.
Genetic Variability Studies in Oncidium Orchids
Authors: M.S Aswini, , Thomas Beena , A Sheena,
Published: September 2024

An investigation was carried out with eighteen Oncidium orchid genotypes for the assessment of genetic variability and heritability in 2023. In this investigation, variation due to genotypes for all the traits under study was found significant indicating high amount of variability among different genotypes for different traits providing ample scope for selection and further evaluation as well as improvement in the shelf life and other traits. Number of base leaves per plant, length of inflorescence(cm), petal length (cm), petal width (cm), and lip length (cm) had high heritability estimates along with high genetic advance expressed as per cent of mean which implied that these traits are controlled by genes which are additive in nature. Simple selection for such characters would be rewarding. In addition, vase life of flowers (days) had moderate heritability estimates along with moderate genetic advance expressed as per cent of mean, it may require a sustained effort and might be enhanced by complementary strategies such as environmental management and advanced breeding techniques. GCV (%) was found high in petal width which is close to PCV (%) indicating that variability of the trait is largely due to genetic factors with minimal environmental influence. High heritability (>60%) combined with high genetic advance (>20%) was exhibited by majority of the characters under study indicating additive gene action for these characters and it provides a scope for further improvement of these traits in advance generations.
On Some Mixed Polynomial Exponential Diophantine Equation: \(\alpha^n+\beta^n+a(\alpha^s\pm\beta^s)^m+D=r(u^k+v^k+w^k)\) with \(\alpha\) and \(\beta\) Consecutive
Authors: Mude Lao Hussein
Published: September 2024

Let \(a,\alpha,\beta,r,u,v,w\) and \(D\) be any integers and suppose that \(n,m,s\) and \(k\) are non-negative exponent. In thispaper, the diophantine equation \(\alpha^n+\beta^n+a(\alpha^s\pm\beta^s)^m+D=r(u^k+v^k+w^k)\) is developed and investigated for integer solution and its various polynomial identities. Moreover, the study formulates some conjectures for the title equation.
Amplitude of solar wind density turbulence from 10 to 45 R⊙
Authors: Sasikumar Raja K. , Ingale Madhusudan , Ramesh R. , Subramanian Prasad , Manoharan P. K. , Janardhan P.
Published: November 2016

We report on the amplitude of the density turbulence spectrum (
) and the density modulation index (δN/N) in the solar wind between 10 and 45R⊙. We derive these quantities using a structure function that is observationally constrained by occultation observations of the Crab nebula made in 2011 and 2013 and similar observations published earlier. We use the most general form of the structure function, together with currently used prescriptions for the inner/dissipation scale of the turbulence spectrum. Our work yields a comprehensive picture (a) of the manner in which
and δN/N vary with heliocentric distance in the solar wind and (b) of the solar cycle dependence of these quantities.
Simulations of long‐period ground motions from a large earthquake using finite rupture modeling and the ambient seismic field
Authors: Viens Loïc , Miyake Hiroe , Koketsu Kazuki
Published: November 2016

Long‐period ground motions generated by large earthquakes slowly attenuate with distance and can be significantly amplified by local velocity structures even at large distances. We take advantage of the wave propagation information carried by the ambient seismic field to simulate the long‐period ground motions of the 2008 Mw 6.9 Iwate‐Miyagi Nairiku earthquake, which occurred in the Tohoku region, Japan. We extract Green's functions between pairs of stations by regarding seismometers located in the vicinity of the main shock fault plane as virtual sources and others as receivers. We calibrate the amplitude of the extracted Green's functions using records of a Mw 5.0 aftershock with a reverse‐faulting focal mechanism similar to that of the main shock. We use scaling relations between small and large earthquakes to construct several finite fault models that are used together with the extracted Green's functions to simulate the ground motions of the main shock. Among the different models, a uniform finite source model with a rupture velocity of 1.95 km/s combined with the Green's functions extracted using one virtual source station located at the center of the fault plane yields the best fit between the simulated and observed long‐period ground motions. This study demonstrates the potential of the ambient seismic field combined with finite source modeling to assess the seismic hazard related to long‐period ground motions that could be generated by forthcoming large earthquakes.
The performance of the EarthCARE Cloud Profiling Radar in marine stratiform clouds
Authors: Burns David , Kollias Pavlos , Tatarevic Aleksandra , Battaglia Alessandro , Tanelli Simone
Published: November 2016

Marine stratiform clouds are a challenging target for spaceborne radars due to their proximity to Earth's surface, limited vertical extent, and low radar reflectivity. The joint European‐Japanese Earth Clouds, Aerosol and Radiation Explorer (EarthCARE) mission is scheduled for launch in 2019 and features the first atmospheric Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR) with Doppler capability in space. Here the performance of the CPR in (i) detecting these clouds and their boundaries and (ii) measuring the Doppler velocities of drizzle particles is evaluated. Extensive observations from the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Mobile Facility in marine stratus regimes are used as input to an EarthCARE CPR simulator and to compare the resulting reflectivity factors, Doppler velocities, and cloud detections. Cloud detection of the CPR is 70–80% that of the ground‐based radars, depending upon integration length and feature mask configuration. For clouds entirely contained within the surface clutter, detection is limited but is predicted to be an order of magnitude greater for the EarthCARE CPR than for CloudSat due to the improved range sampling rate of the former. The EarthCARE‐CPR range resolution is found to introduce cloud top height and reflectivity biases of +100 m (equal to the range sampling rate) and +1.3 dB; by applying a constrained linear inversion to the range resolution, these are reduced to 30 m and 0.1 dB, respectively. The analysis indicates that a velocity uncertainty of 0.5 ms−1 is achievable through either a 5 km along‐track integration or a combination of matched spatial filters and 1 km along‐track integration.
Nitrogen mineralization and immobilization in sediments of the East China Sea: Spatiotemporal variations and environmental implications
Authors: Lin Xianbiao , Hou Lijun , Liu Min , Li Xiaofei , Zheng Yanling , Yin Guoyu , Gao Juan , Jiang Xiaofen
Published: November 2016

Nitrogen (N) mineralization and immobilization are important processes of N biogeochemical cycle in marine sediments. This study investigated gross N mineralization (GNM) and NH4+ immobilization (GAI) in the sediments from the East China Sea (ESC), using 15N stable isotope dilution technique. Results show that measured rates of GNM and GAI ranged from 0.04 to 6.1 µg N g−1 d−1 and from undetectable to 9.82 µg N g−1 d−1, respectively. In general, both GNM and GAI rates were significantly greater in summer as compared to winter, and the high rates occurred mainly in the muddy area and increased gradually from the Yangtze Estuary to Zhe‐Min Coastal muddy areas. The GNM and GAI processes were related closely to sediment temperature, pH, ammonium (NH4+), nitrate (NO3−), total organic carbon (TOC), and total nitrogen (TN) contents in the muddy area, while they were associated tightly with sediment temperature, pH, NH4+, TOC, TN, sulfide, and Fe(III) concentrations in the sandy area. In addition, the total mineralized and immobilized N in the East China Sea (ECS) were estimated to be approximately 2.1 × 106 t N yr−1 and 2.7 × 106 t N yr−1, respectively. Overall, these results highlight the importance of N mineralization and immobilization in controlling the N budget in the ECS and improve the understanding of both processes and associated controlling mechanisms in the coastal marine ecosystem.
Three‐dimensional flow structure and bed morphology in large elongate meander loops with different outer bank roughness characteristics
Authors: Konsoer Kory M. , Rhoads Bruce L. , Best James L. , Langendoen Eddy J. , Abad Jorge D. , Parsons Dan R. , Garcia Marcelo H.
Published: November 2016

Few studies have examined the three‐dimensional flow structure and bed morphology within elongate loops of large meandering channels. The present study focuses on the spatial patterns of three‐dimensional flow structure and bed morphology within two elongate meander loops and examines how differences in outer bank roughness influence near‐bank flow characteristics. Three‐dimensional velocities were measured during two different events—a near‐bankfull flow and an overbank event. Detailed data on channel bathymetry and bed form geometry were obtained during a near‐bankfull event. Flow structure within the loops is characterized by strong topographic steering by the point bar, by the development of helical motion associated with flow curvature, and by acceleration of flow where bedrock is exposed along the outer bank. Near‐bank velocities during the overbank event are less than those for the near‐bankfull flow, highlighting the strong influence of the point bar on redistribution of mass and momentum of the flow at subbankfull stages. Multiple outer bank pools are evident within the elongate meander loop with low outer bank roughness, but are not present in the loop with high outer bank roughness, which may reflect the influence of abundant large woody debris on near‐bank velocity characteristics. The positions of pools within both loops can be linked to spatial variations in planform curvature. The findings indicate that flow structure and bed morphology in these large elongate loops is similar to that in small elongate loops, but differs somewhat from flow structure and bed morphology reported for experimental elongate loops.
Bed load transport in a very steep mountain stream (Riedbach, Switzerland): Measurement and prediction
Authors: Schneider Johannes M. , Rickenmann Dieter , Turowski Jens M. , Schmid Bastian , Kirchner James W.
Published: November 2016

Compared to lower‐gradient channels, steep mountain streams typically have rougher beds and shallower flow depths, making macro‐scale flow resistance (due to, e.g., immobile boulders and irregular bedforms) more important as controls on sediment transport. The marked differences in hydraulics, flow resistance, and grain mobility between steep and lower‐gradient streams raise the question of whether the same equations can predict bed load transport rates across wide ranges of channel gradients. We studied a steep, glacier‐fed mountain stream (Riedbach, Ct. Valais, Switzerland) that provides a natural experiment for exploring how stream gradients affect bed load transport rates. The streambed gradient increases over a 1 km stream reach by roughly one order of magnitude (from 3% to 38%), while flow discharge and width remain approximately constant. Sediment transport rates were determined in the 3% reach using Bunte bed load traps and in the 38% reach using the Swiss plate geophone system. Despite a ten‐fold increase in bed gradient, bed load transport rates did not increase substantially. Observed transport rates for these two very different bed gradients could be predicted reasonably well by using a flow resistance partitioning approach to account for increasing bed roughness (D84 changes from 0.17 m to 0.91 m) within a fractional bed load transport equation. This suggests that sediment transport behavior across this large range of steep slopes agrees with patterns established in previous studies for both lower‐gradient and steep reaches, and confirms the applicability of the flow resistance and bed load transport equations at very steep slopes.
Telerheumatology: A Systematic Review
Authors: McDougall John A. , Ferucci Elizabeth D. , Glover Janis , Fraenkel Liana
Published: November 2016

Objective

To identify and summarize the published and gray literature on the use of telemedicine for the diagnosis and management of inflammatory and/or autoimmune rheumatic disease.

Methods

We performed a registered systematic search (CRD42015025382) for studies using MEDLINE (1946 to July 2015), Embase (1974 to July 2015), Web of Science (1900 to July 2015), and Scopus (1946 to July 2015) databases. We included studies that demonstrated the use of telemedicine for diagnosis and/or management of inflammatory/autoimmune rheumatic disease. Following data extraction, we performed a descriptive analysis.

Results

Our literature search identified 1,468 potentially eligible studies. Of these studies, 20 were ultimately included in this review. Studies varied significantly in publication type, quality of evidence, and the reporting of methods. Most demonstrated a high risk of bias. Rheumatoid arthritis was the most commonly studied rheumatic disease (42% of patients). Studies demonstrated conflicting results regarding the effectiveness of telemedicine (18 found it effective, 1 found it effective but possibly harmful, and 1 found it ineffective). A limited number of studies included some component of a cost analysis (n = 6; 16% of patients); all of these found telemedicine to be cost‐effective.

Conclusion

Studies identified by this systematic review generally found telemedicine to be effective for the diagnosis and management of autoimmune/inflammatory rheumatic disease; however, there is limited evidence to support this conclusion. Further studies are needed to determine the best uses of telemedicine for the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
Hallux Valgus, By Nature or Nurture? A Twin Study
Authors: Munteanu Shannon E. , Menz Hylton B. , Wark John D. , Christie Jemma J. , Scurrah Katrina J. , Bui Minh , Erbas Bircan , Hopper John L. , Wluka Anita E.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To evaluate the contributions of shared but unmeasured genetic and environmental factors to hallux valgus (HV).

Methods

Between 2011 and 2012, 74 monozygotic (MZ) and 56 dizygotic (DZ) female twin pairs self‐reported HV and putative risk factors, including footwear use across their lifespan. Estimates of casewise concordance (PC), correlation (ρ), and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated, adjusting for age and other risk factors, and compared between MZ and DZ pairs using logistic regression, generalized estimating equations, and a maximum likelihood‐based method, respectively.

Results

A total of 70 participants (27%) reported HV, with 12 MZ and 7 DZ pairs being concordant. After adjusting for age, twins were correlated (ρ = 0.27 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.08, 0.46]) and concordant (PC = 0.45 [95% CI 0.29, 0.61]; mean age 58 years), with no difference between MZ and DZ pairs (P = 0.7). HV was associated with regularly wearing footwear with a constrictive toe‐box during the fourth decade (adjusted OR 2.73 [95% CI 1.12, 6.67]). This risk factor was correlated in MZ (ρ = 0.38 [95% CI 0.15, 0.60]) but not DZ (ρ = −0.20 [95% CI −0.43, 0.03]) pairs. These correlations were significantly different (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Twins are correlated for HV, but we found no evidence that correlation was due to shared genetic factors. We identified an environmental risk factor, footwear with a constrictive toe‐box, that is not shared to the same extent by MZ and DZ pairs, contrary to the assumption of the classic twin model. Footwear, and possibly genetic factors and unknown shared environmental factors, could contribute to developing HV.
Phosphorescent Pt(II) and Pd(II) Complexes for Efficient, High‐Color‐Quality, and Stable OLEDs
Authors: Fleetham Tyler , Li Guijie , Li Jian
Published: November 2016

Phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) are leading candidates for next‐generation displays and solid‐state lighting technologies. Much of the academic and commercial pursuits in phosphorescent OLEDs have been dominated by Ir(III) complexes. Over the past decade recent developments have enabled square planar Pt(II) and Pd(II) complexes to meet or exceed the performance of Ir complexes in many aspects. In particular, the development of N‐heterocyclic carbene‐based emitters and tetradentate cyclometalated Pt and Pd complexes have significantly improved the emission efficiency and reduced their radiative lifetimes making them competitive with the best reported Ir complexes. Furthermore, their unique and diverse molecular design possibilities have enabled exciting photophysical attributes including narrower emission spectra, excimer ‐based white emission, and thermally activated delayed fluorescence. These developments have enabled the fabrication of efficient and “pure” blue OLEDs, single‐doped white devices with EQEs of over 25% and high CRI, and device operational lifetimes which show early promise that square planar metal complexes can be stable enough for commercialization. These accomplishments have brought Pt complexes to the forefront of academic research. The molecular design strategies, photophysical characteristics, and device performance resulting from the major advancements in emissive Pt and Pd square planar complexes are discussed.
Quaternary Pseudocubic Cu2TMSnSe4 (TM = Mn, Fe, Co) Chalcopyrite Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Song Qingfeng , Qiu Pengfei , Hao Feng , Zhao Kunpeng , Zhang Tiansong , Ren Dudi , Shi Xun , Chen Lidong
Published: November 2016

High‐performance thermoelectric materials require high‐symmetry crystal structures that have large band degeneracies to yield good electronic properties. However, most of the semiconductors in nature possess low‐symmetry crystal structures. In this study, the authors demonstrate a successful example of a high‐performance thermoelectric material from a family of low‐symmetry noncubic quaternary chalcopyrites. Three novel quaternary tetragonal chalcopyrites Cu2TMSnSe4 (TM = Mn, Fe, Co) have been selected based on their structure distortion parameters close to unity. This gives rise to a pseudocubic structure containing an inherently long‐range cubic‐like framework and localized lattice distortions. Thermoelectric properties of Cu2TMSnSe4 (TM = Mn, Fe, Co) from 300 to 850 K have been systematically investigated. Large Seebeck coefficients, moderate electrical conductivities, and high power factors are observed in these chalcopyrites, which are attributed to their high band degeneracies caused by the cubic‐like cation framework. Meanwhile, the locally distorted noncubic anion frameworks lead to a low lattice thermal conductivity in Cu2TMSnSe4 (TM = Mn, Fe, Co). Consequently, high thermoelectric figures of merit with a maximum value of about 0.7 at 850 K have been achieved in these materials, representing some of the best values seen in quaternary chalcopyrites.