bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A ScWIP5 gene confers fall armyworm resistance by reducing digestive enzyme activities in sugarcane
Authors: Wang Ya‐ru , Yao Yang , Chen Yao‐hui , Huang Cheng , Guo Yan‐fang , Fang Yong , Gao San‐ji , Hou You‐ming , Wang Jin‐da
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, is one of the most dangerous pests to various crops. As the most crucial sugar crop, sugarcane is also constantly threatened by these pests. Plant wound‐induced proteinase inhibitors (WIP) are natural defense proteins that play important roles in the defense system against insect attack. Breeding for resistance would be the best way to improve the variety characteristics and productivity of sugarcane. Screening and verification for potential plant endogenous insect‐resistant genes would greatly improve the insect‐resistant breeding progress of sugarcane.

RESULTS

A sugarcane WIP5 gene (ScWIP5) was up‐regulated 536 times after insect feeding treatment on previous published transcriptome databases. ScWIP5 was then cloned and its potential role in sugarcane resistance to fall armyworm evaluated by construction of transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana. The toxicity of ScWIP5 transgenic N. benthamiana to fall armyworm showed lower weight gain and higher mortality compared to wild‐type N. benthamiana feeding group. Furthermore, the concentration of JA and NbAOC, NbAOS, and NbLOX from the Jasmin acid biosynthesis pathway was significantly induced in ScWIP5 transgenic N. benthamiana compared to the control. In addition, digestive enzyme actives from the insect gut were also evaluated, and trypsin and cathepsin were significantly lower in insects fed with ScWIP5 transgenic N. benthamiana.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that ScWIP5 might enhance insect resistance by increasing JA signal transduction processes and reducing insect digestive enzyme activities, thus impacting insect growth and development. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Reliability Instability Assessment with Interfacial Trapping Analysis for the Optimization of Al Composition in AlxGa1−xN/GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors
Authors: Amir Walid , Shin Ju-Won , Chakraborty Surajit , Shin Ki-Yong , Hoshi Takuya , Tsutsumi Takuya , Sugiyama Hiroki , Matsuzaki Hideaki , Kim Tae-Woo
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the trapping characteristics present at the interface of AlxGa1−xN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) and explores the influence of the Al composition within the AlxGa1−xN barrier on the device's performance. Using a single pulse ID–VD characterization technique, the reliability instability is evaluated in two different AlxGa1−xN/GaN HEMTs: one with an Al composition of 25% (Al0.25Ga0.75N/GaN) and the other with an Al composition of 45% (Al0.45Ga0.55N/GaN). The results unveil a notable higher drain current degradation (ΔID) in Al0.45Ga0.55N/GaN devices, attributed to fast transient charge trapping. Conversely, the Al0.25Ga0.75N/GaN device exhibits a substantial 35% reduction in interface trap density (Dit) and an impressive 73% decrease in border trap density (Nbt), solidifying its reduced trapping behavior compared to Al0.45Ga0.55N/GaN due to the rougher barrier/channel interface of the latter device. Furthermore, load‐pull measurements unveiled a noteworthy 60% power‐added efficiency for the Al0.25Ga0.75N/GaN device, presenting a 10% performance improvement over the Al0.45Ga0.55N/GaN device. These findings provide valuable insights into the trapping phenomena within AlGaN/GaN HEMTs, paving the way for enhanced device design and performance optimization.
Benefits of Open Quantum Systems for Quantum Machine Learning
Authors: Olivera‐Atencio María Laura , Lamata Lucas , Casado‐Pascual Jesús
Published: December 2023

Quantum machine learning (QML) is a discipline that holds the promise of revolutionizing data processing and problem‐solving. However, dissipation and noise arising from the coupling with the environment are commonly perceived as major obstacles to its practical exploitation, as they impact the coherence and performance of the utilized quantum devices. Significant efforts have been dedicated to mitigating and controlling their negative effects on these devices. This perspective takes a different approach, aiming to harness the potential of noise and dissipation instead of combating them. Surprisingly, it is shown that these seemingly detrimental factors can provide substantial advantages in the operation of QML algorithms under certain circumstances. Exploring and understanding the implications of adapting QML algorithms to open quantum systems opens up pathways for devising strategies that effectively leverage noise and dissipation. The recent works analyzed in this perspective represent only initial steps toward uncovering other potential hidden benefits that dissipation and noise may offer. As exploration in this field continues, significant discoveries are anticipated that could reshape the future of quantum computing.
Multiple imputation of incomplete multilevel data using Heckman selection models
Authors: Muñoz Johanna , Efthimiou Orestis , Audigier Vincent , de Jong Valentijn M. T. , Debray Thomas P. A.
Published: December 2023

Missing data is a common problem in medical research, and is commonly addressed using multiple imputation. Although traditional imputation methods allow for valid statistical inference when data are missing at random (MAR), their implementation is problematic when the presence of missingness depends on unobserved variables, that is, the data are missing not at random (MNAR). Unfortunately, this MNAR situation is rather common, in observational studies, registries and other sources of real‐world data. While several imputation methods have been proposed for addressing individual studies when data are MNAR, their application and validity in large datasets with multilevel structure remains unclear. We therefore explored the consequence of MNAR data in hierarchical data in‐depth, and proposed a novel multilevel imputation method for common missing patterns in clustered datasets. This method is based on the principles of Heckman selection models and adopts a two‐stage meta‐analysis approach to impute binary and continuous variables that may be outcomes or predictors and that are systematically or sporadically missing. After evaluating the proposed imputation model in simulated scenarios, we illustrate it use in a cross‐sectional community survey to estimate the prevalence of malaria parasitemia in children aged 2‐10 years in five regions in Uganda.
Influence of the Electrocatalytic Anode Nature on Dye Destruction
Authors: Dimoglo Anatoli , Utlu Birkan , Öztürk Dilara , Gökmen‐Erdogan Kubra
Published: December 2023

In order to extract a highly concentrated dye from textile industry wastewater, an electrocatalytic oxidation method based on Ru/Ir/Ti, RuO2/IrO2/TiO2 electrodes and high‐density graphite was used. Optimization of the oxidation process was controlled by varying such parameters as current density, pH, concentration of supporting electrolyte (NaCl), wastewater treatment time. The maximum dye removal from wastewater is achieved at pH 7.1, current density 70 mA cm−2, NaCl concentration 3 g/L, and treatment time 15 minutes. Among the investigated electrodes, the Ru/Ir/Ti anode and titanium‐based oxides of these metals proved to be the most effective. The percentage of color removal for all anodes increases with increasing current density and duration of solution treatment. For a graphite electrode, at a current density of 70 mA cm−2 and a treatment time of 10 minutes, a maximum dye removal of 90 % is achieved. The percentage of color removal for Ru/Ir/Ti and RuO2/IrO2/TiO2 electrodes is higher than for graphite and amounted to 98 % and 92 %, respectively. The results of the electronic structure of the dye made it possible to shed light on the nature of the electronic spectra and the possible mechanism of the electrocatalytic act. Consideration of the dependence of color removal, COD and TOC on such parameters as current density, water treatment time in the reactor showed that the efficiency of the wastewater treatment process increases in the series: graphite<RuO2/IrO2/TiO2<Ru/Ir/Ti. The role of various factors of RedOx processes that affect the degree of dye degradation, as well as chloride ions on the formation of active particles with high chemical energy at the moment of their formation, is discussed.
Graphene‐Based Enzymatic and Non‐Enzymatic Electrochemical Glucose Sensors: Review of Current Research and Advances in Nanotechnology
Authors: Qurat‐ul‐Ain  , Mahmood Khan RanaRashad , Pervaiz Muhammad , Saeed Zohaib , Majid Abdul , Liaqat Maira
Published: December 2023

The determination of the body's glucose level is a difficult job that has served as the foundation for substantial research efforts in biosensing applications. Recent advances in material engineering and synthesis methodologies have had a significant influence on the development of enzymatic and non‐enzymatic sensors for glucose detection that may be used in managing diabetes, food technology, and clinical, and bio‐processing applications. The intricate fabrication, detecting principles and phenomena involved, material alterations, and design to improve sensor performance. There is a great need for high‐efficiency, low‐cost blood glucose sensors that may be used on industrial and domestic scales. This review is primarily intended to shed light on the current state of knowledge about the use of graphene. The performance of non‐enzymatic glucose sensors is comprehensively compared with that of enzymatic electrochemical sensors based on graphene. This study will go over the research efforts that have been conducted to build biosensors employing nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, and metal sulfides. The manufacturing of the very sensitive enzyme‐free glucose biosensor will be thoroughly discussed. A thorough examination of the use of graphene as a co‐catalyst to improve the sensitivity of electrochemical sensors for glucose detection is also provided.
Comment on “An Injectable Hydrogel to Modulate T Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy”
Authors: Lin Liangbin , Zhang Sunfu , Yang Wenyong
Published: December 2023

Recent clinical successes of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies represents a milestone as a novel anti‐tumor strategy beyond surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy in cancer therapy. T cells, especially CD8+ T cells, play crucial roles in anti‐tumor immune responses. However, most T cells in the tumor microenvironment express high inhibitory receptors, such as PD‐1, TIM‐3, and LAG‐3, and decreased T cell response in response to stimuli. Applying ICB therapies, such as anti‐PD‐1, promotes T cell activation and increases cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response, leading to the enhanced anti‐tumor immune response in patients with malignancy. Therefore, studies aimed to define novel targets that can restrain T cell terminal exhaustion are urgently required to provide new strategies for patients resistant to immunotherapy. The previously published study by Zhang et al. (An Injectable Hydrogel to Modulate T Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy, https://doi.org/10.1002/smll.202202663) introduces a new type of injectable hydrogel that can regulate the function of T cells, thereby improving their effectiveness in cancer immunotherapy. However, it remains to be discussed for its conclusion, as the flow cell assay of this article may not be proper.
Nano‐Si for On‐Demand H2 Production: Optimization of Yield and Real‐Time Visualization of Si─H2O Reaction Using Liquid‐Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Mitra Arijit , Kuo Hsueh‐Yuan , Huang Jun‐Han , Rachel Gunalan , Chu Wen‐Huei , Chiu Wei‐Cheng , Kuo Jenn‐Kun , Liu Chuan‐Pu
Published: December 2023

Hydrogen (H2), the most abundant element in the universe, has the potential to address the challenges of energy security and climate change. However, due to the lack of a safe and efficient method for storing and delivering hydrogen, its practical application is still in its infancy stages. To overcome this challenge, a promising solution is demonstrated in the form of on‐demand production of H2 using nano‐Silicon (Si) powders. The method offers instantaneous production of H2, yielding a volume of 1.3 L per gram of Si at room temperature. Moreover, the H2 production yield and the rate can be effectively controlled by adjusting the reaction pH value and temperatures. Additionally, liquid‐phase transmission electron microscopy (LPTEM) is utilized in situ to demonstrate the entire reaction in real‐time, wherein H2 bubble formation is observed and illustrated the gradual conversion of crystalline Si particles into amorphous oxides. Moreover, it is confirmed that the purity of the generated gas is 99.5% using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). These findings suggest a viable option for instant H2 production in portable fuel cells using Si cartridges or pellets.
Triboelectrification and Unique Frictional Characteristics of Germanium‐Based Nanofilms
Authors: Xu Chaochen , Egberts Philip
Published: December 2023

In this study, germanium arsenide (GeAs) is investigated as a promising nanomaterial for application in triboelectric nanogenerators and green energy harvesting. The mechanical and electrical properties of mechanically exfoliated GeAs on silica substrates are evaluated through friction force microscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy, respectively. First, it is observed that the surface potential/work function of GeAs varied with thickness. Second, thickness‐dependent friction on GeAs films is found. However, the variation of friction with GeAs thickness followed an inverse trend typically observed for most other 2D material systems: larger friction is measured on thicker GeAs films. The higher friction is attributed to the higher surface potential of thicker GeAs, resulting from the accumulation of electrons on the GeAs surface that also resulted in higher adhesion between GeAs surface and the tip. Finally, history‐dependent friction is observed and resulted from a continual increase in the friction force as the surface is scanned and originated from the triboelectrification of the surface. The dynamic triboelectrification behavior of thick GeAs during the scanning process is further verified and visualized by a serial experiment, where the GeAs is tribo‐electrified through scanning and gradually de‐electrified/discharged upon ceasing the scan.
Fault Diagnosis of Shipboard Medium‐Voltage Alternating Current Power System with Fault Recording Data‐Driven SE‐ResNet18‐1 Model
Authors: Peng Fengjian , Mu Longhua , Fang Chongkai
Published: December 2023

The electrification trend of marine vessels has led to the rapid development of all‐electric ships. Yet the unique topology and harsh working environment of shipboard power system have posed significant challenges to its fault diagnosis. This paper addresses the research gap in fault diagnosis for shipboard medium‐voltage alternating current (MVAC) power systems and proposes a machine learning‐based fault diagnosis scheme. Signals from fault recorders before relay triggering are used as input for the neural network model. By combining the residual neural network (ResNet) with Squeeze‐and‐Excitation (SE) Block, the feature extraction capability of the network model is maximized. Utilizing the fault transient information, the proposed scheme can realize real‐time diagnosis of any large disturbance to the power system. The data set for scheme verification is established through simulation experiments on PSCAD/EMTDC platform, while model training is completed under the PyTorch framework. The experimental results show that the proposed fault diagnosis scheme can effectively discriminate all types of faults from non‐fault conditions in shipboard MVAC power system. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Doing Reflexive Migration Research in Cultural Institutions: Some Thoughts on Critical Knowledge Production
Authors: Gram Rikke , Bädeker Lars , Schmiz Antonie
Published: December 2023

This contribution focuses on the possibilities and restrictions of studying change in cultural institutions from the perspective of migration research. To elaborate on the main argument of the chapter – that knowledge production is relational and situated – we draw on the reflexive turn in migration studies. This helps us to examine major societal institutions and the changes they are undergoing and thus to broaden the scope beyond the migrant subject. Furthermore, it enables us to develop a relational perspective on our positionality as researchers – of (not) becoming part of these researched institutions – and to focus on power relations within the institutions. By drawing on two cases in the German cities of Osnabrück and Dresden, we contrast a research setting that was easily accessible, flexible and open for change with one in which access meant overcoming a number of hurdles and being on the lower end of a hierarchical organisation that was partly resistant to a reflective researcher. From our ethnographic fieldwork in both case studies, we draw several conclusions. First, the initial contact with the institutions is very important; second, the local embeddedness and networks of the institution are of importance; and, third, the positionality of the researcher plays a major role in the outcome of the study. In so doing, the article argues for the embedding of reflexivity in the role of entanglement and positionality when generating knowledge on change and migration in cultural institutions.
Informationen zu Gesundheitsförderung und Prävention auf den Webseiten baden-württembergischer Gesundheitsämter – eine erste Annäherung
Authors: Mangold Jasmin , Hesmert Daniela , Siegel Achim , Klein Anika J. , Häske David , Wössner Sofie , Rieger Monika A. , Joos Stefanie , Mahler Cornelia
Published: December 2023

Hintergrund

Gesundheitsförderung und Prävention zählen zu den Kernaufgaben des Öffentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes. Von zentraler Bedeutung für ihre Wirksamkeit ist u. a. die Gesundheitskommunikation. Da sich das Internet zu einer wichtigen Quelle für Gesundheitsinformationen entwickelt hat und die Gesundheitsämter immer mehr im Interesse der Öffentlichkeit stehen, rücken auch ihre Webseiten mehr in den Fokus. Vor diesem Hintergrund wurde der Frage nachgegangen, wie Gesundheitsämter die Thematik der Gesundheitsförderung und Prävention nicht übertragbarer Erkrankungen (GuPnüE) über ihre Webseiten darstellen.

Methoden

Die Webseiten der 38 baden-württembergischen Gesundheitsämter wurden von Juni bis Oktober 2022 mittels qualitativer Inhaltsanalyse untersucht. Die Darstellung der Thematik der GuPnüE über die Webseiten sowie präsentierte Maßnahmen der GuPnüE wurden erfasst. Es wurden die adressierte Zielgruppe, das Thema und die Interventionsform für jede Maßnahme erhoben.

Ergebnisse

Auf allen Internetauftritten (n = 38) wurde die Thematik der GuPnüE aufgegriffen, die Darstellungsform war heterogen. Insgesamt wurden 243 GuPnüE-Maßnahmen über die 38 Internetauftritte identifiziert. Es zeigte sich ein breites Spektrum der in den dargestellten Maßnahmen bearbeiteten Themen, der adressierten Zielgruppen und genutzten Interventionsformen.

Diskussion

Die Studie zeigt eine umfangreiche jedoch heterogene Darstellung der GuPnüE auf den Internetauftritten der Gesundheitsämter. Dabei bewegen diese sich im Spannungsfeld zwischen Anforderungen von Öffentlichkeitsarbeit und Gesundheitsinformation. Die Nutzung von Synergieeffekten durch die gemeinsame Bewerbung von überregional relevanten Materialien und Maßnahmen könnte Vorteile für die Gesundheitsämter mit sich bringen.
Availability of medical care and social support from the perspective of women with breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Szymanowicz Paulina Aleksander , Janus Edyta
Published: December 2023

Aim

This article describes the situation of women with breast cancer during the pandemic. The study assessed the accessibility of oncological care, experienced stress, and use of social support.

Subject and methods

The study involved 158 women with breast cancer who lived in Poland. Purposive sampling was used. The research method was a diagnostic poll, and the research tool was a survey questionnaire designed by the authors of this study.

Results

The results showed that the pandemic was an additional aggravating factor for the participants, was associated with difficulties accessing medical care, and generated anxiety related to potential hospitalization and the resulting limited contact with loved ones. All participants were concerned that they might be unable to continue treatment. Family situation did not affect the level of stress, but was associated with seeking social support. Participants living alone sought support outside their families more often. The use of psychological care differed depending on place of residence: participants living in large cities used it more often than participants living in medium-sized and small cities and villages.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a highly aggravating factor that was further exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Investigating the usability of a new framework for creating, working and teaching artificial neural networks using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools
Authors: Kiraly Roland , Kiraly Sandor , Palotai Martin
Published: December 2023

Deep learning is a very popular topic in computer sciences courses despite the fact that it is often challenging for beginners to take their first step due to the complexity of understanding and applying Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). Thus, the need to both understand and use neural networks is appearing at an ever-increasing rate across all computer science courses. Our objectives in this project were to create a framework for creating and training neural networks for solving different problems real-life problems and for research and education, as well as to investigate the usability of our framework. To provide an easy to use framework, this research recruited five instructors who have taught ANNs at two universities. We asked thirty-one students who have previously studied neural networks to fill out an online survey about what were "the major difficulties in learning NNs" and the "key requirements in a Visual Learning Tool including the most desired features of a visualization tool for explaining NNs" they would have used during the course. We also conducted an observational study to investigate how our students would use this system to learn about ANNs. The visual presentation of ANNs created in our framework can be represented in an Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) environment thus allowing us to use a virtual space to display and manage networks. An evaluation of the effect of the AR/VR experience through a formative test and survey showed that the majority of students had a positive response to the engaging and interactive features of our framework (RKNet).
A systematic review and meta-analysis of procedural justice and legitimacy in policing: the effect of social identity and social contexts
Authors: Chan Angus , Bradford Ben , Stott Clifford
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To systematically review the effect of social identity and social contexts on the association between procedural justice and legitimacy in policing.

Methods

A meta-analysis synthesising data from 123 studies (N = 200,966) addressing the relationship between procedural justice and legitimacy in policing. Random effects univariate and two-stage structural equation modelling meta-analyses were performed.

Results

Both procedural justice and social identity are found to be significantly correlated with police legitimacy. Moreover, social identity significantly mediates, but does not moderate, the association between procedural justice and legitimacy. People of younger age and from more developed countries tend to correlate procedural justice stronger with police legitimacy.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that social identity is an important antecedent of legitimacy and a critical factor in the dynamics of procedural fairness in policing. It also shows that the extent to which procedural justice and legitimacy are correlated varies across social groups and contexts. The theoretical implications of our findings are discussed.
Dual Sourcing and Resilient Supply Chains: The Case of Essential Resources
Authors: Gehrig Thomas , Stenbacka Rune
Published: December 2023

The resilience of supply chains is analyzed in a model of strategic technology investments in markets with essential resources. With a monopoly supplier, dual sourcing is a strategy to reduce switching costs in the long-run. It serves as an insurance mechanism against future opportunism by providing access to competitive global markets. Investments in dual sourcing are required to limit abuse of market power by the active source provider, even though the option of dual sourcing may not be exercised in equilibrium. The analysis has implications for the European natural gas market. Liquefied natural gas terminals may serve a strategic purpose of limiting ex-post opportunism even when delivering gas by pipeline is more efficient.
Does the Presence of Heavy Metals Influence the Gene Expression and Oxidative Stress in Bladder Cancer?
Authors: El-Agrody Eslam , Abol-Enein Hassan , Mortada Wael I. , Awadalla Amira , Tarabay Heba H. , Elkhawaga Om-Ali
Published: December 2023

Heavy metal toxicity is associated with cancer progression. Studies have reported the relation between some metal ions and bladder cancer (BC). Direct influence of such agents in bladder carcinogenesis is still needed. Total 49 BC patients were included in the study. Level of Pb, Cr, Hg and Cd, oxidative stress markers, and gene expression of Bcl-2, Bax, IL-6, AKT, and P38 genes were detected in cancer and non-cancerous tissues obtained from bladder cancer patients. Concentrations of Pb, Cr, and Cd were significantly elevated in cancer tissues than normal, while Hg level was significantly increased in normal tissue than cancer. MDA level was significantly higher and SOD activity was lower in the cancer tissues compared to non-cancerous. The expressions of Bcl-2, IL-6, AKT, and P38 were significantly increased in the cancer tissues than in normal tissues while Bax level was significantly increased in non-cancerous tissue than in cancer tissue. In cancer tissue, there were significant correlations between Cr level with expression of Bax, AKT, and P38 while Cd level was significantly correlate with Bax, IL-6, AKT, and P38expression. The correlation between Cr and Cd with the expression of Bax, IL-6, AKT, and P38 may indicate a carcinogenic role of these metals on progression of bladder cancer.
Circular RNA circRANGAP1/miR-512-5p/SOD2 Axis Regulates Cell Proliferation and Migration in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: Zhao Chunhua , Zhang Zhongqi , Wang Zhengzuo , Liu XinLi
Published: December 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most prevalent histology type of lung cancer worldwide, accounting for 18% of total cancer-related deaths estimated by GLOBOCAN in 2020. CircRNAs have emerged as potent regulators of NSCLC development. CircRANGAP1 (hsa_circ_0001235/hsa_circ_0063526) is a potential biomarker for NSCLC identified by microarray dataset analysis. Here, we investigated the biological functions of circRANGAP1 in NSCLC development and elucidated the associated competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanisms. We found that circRANGAP1 expression was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells, which was inversely correlated with carcinogenesis and poor clinical outcome of NSCLC patients. CircRANGAP1 knockdown inhibited NSCLC migration by regulating miR-512-5p/SOD2 axis. In conclusion, circRANGAP1 facilitated NSCLC tumorigenesis and development by sponging miR-512-5p to upregulate SOD2 expression. Suppression of circRANGAP1 expression by si-circRANGAP1 treatment could be a strategy to inhibit NSCLC development and metastasis.
Weighted spectral correlation angle target detection method for land-based hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Wang Qianghui , Zhou Bing , Hua Wenshen , Ying Jiaju , Liu Xun , Cheng Yue
Published: December 2023

In land-based spectral imaging, the spectra of ground objects are inevitably affected by the imaging conditions (weather conditions, atmospheric conditions, light conditions, zenith and azimuth angle conditions) and spatial distribution of targets, leading to uncertainties featured by “same object different spectrum”. That is, the spectrum of a ground object may change within a certain range under different imaging conditions. Traditional target detection (TD) methods are mainly based on similarity measurements and do not fully account for the spectral uncertainties. These detection methods are prone to false detections or missed detections. Therefore, reducing the impact of spectral uncertainties on TD is an important research topic in hyperspectral imaging. In this paper, we first review traditional TD methods and compare their principles and characteristics. It is found that the spectral correlation angle (SCA) method has good adaptability in land-based imaging. The shortcoming of the SCA method that it cannot reflect the local spectrum characteristics, is also analyzed. As the effect of spectral uncertainties cannot be completely overcome by the SCA method, a new similarity measurement method, the weighted spectral correlation angle (WSCA) method, is proposed. It can reduce the influence of spectral uncertainties on TD by increasing the weight of particular bands. Finally, we use two sets of experiments to analyze the effect of the WSCA method on TD. Its performance in overcoming spectral uncertainties caused by variations in imaging conditions or uneven spatial distributions of targets is tested. The results show that the WSCA method can effectively reduce the influence of spectral uncertainties and obtain a good detection result.

Graphical Abstract
De-assimilation Without Assimilation? The Continuities in the Polish Secular Model of Jewishness
Authors: Bilewicz Michał , Bilewicz Aleksandra
Published: December 2023

This article critically examines Krajewski’s (in this issue of Contemp Jewry) argument about the assimilation and subsequent de-assimilation of the Jewish population in Poland. While Krajewski asserts that Polish Jews underwent a process of assimilation followed by a revival of their cultural and religious practices, the authors argue that the term “de-assimilation” is not applicable in this context. They propose that post-war Polish Jews consciously chose to embrace a secular identity rather than a religious one, keeping their Jewish life private. This secular identity, characterized by interests in secular Jewish culture, learning, and social justice, as well as maintaining specific distinctive habits, remained dominant even after 1989. The authors also compare this process to the experiences of Spanish and Portugueseconversos, who returned to Judaism but retained syncretic identities. They emphasize the importance of understanding the complex nature of Jewish identity and involvement, highlighting the significance of secular and cultural practices among Polish Jews.
Incidence Trends of Inherited Anemias at the Global, Regional, and National Levels Over Three Decades
Authors: Tang Hongwei , Zhang Nan , Liu Xinlei , Xiao Hongbo , Zhang Hanyue , Zhou Kang , Deng Jianchuan
Published: December 2023

Inherited anemia continues to pose a significant public health concern on a global scale, owing to its extensive geographical prevalence, substantial patient population, and profound ramifications. Here, we investigated detailed information on inherited anemias (including thalassemias, thalassemias trait, sickle cell disease, sickle cell trait, G6PD deficiency, and G6PD trait) for the period 1990–2019 from the Global Burden of Disease study. Over the course of three decades, there has been a persistent rise in the incidence of inherited anemias worldwide, culminating in a total of 44,896,026 incident cases in 2019. However, the prevalence of inherited anemias has exhibited a consistent downward trend over successive years. Significantly, these inherited anemias primarily impact females, exhibiting a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.88. Among males, the most prevalent inherited anemia is G6PD deficiency, whereas G6PD trait prevails among females. The incidence rates of inherited anemias and their temporal trend exhibited significant variations across different regions, with Central Sub-Saharan Africa displaying the highest incidence rates and Central Latin America experiencing the most substantial decline. The findings of this study suggest a significant correlation between the Socio-Demographic index (SDI) and incidence rates of inherited anemias, particularly in regions with lower SDI levels such as Africa and South Asia. These results contribute valuable insights for the analysis of global trends in the burden of inherited anemias.
The Resident Evil study: do depictions of race matter in action video games?
Authors: Ferguson Christopher J. , Bradley Cassandra , Hill Madison , Karon Breanna , Madison Shardae , Mais Kiera , Mauro Jennifer , Monde Alexandra , Radesi Lauren , Shaw Sarena , Washington Chloe , Wilkerson Madison
Published: December 2023

Considerable research has examined the issue of whether action video games contribute to aggression. Increasingly, evidence has called this association into question. However, little research has considered whether racial depictions in action games can influence racial attitudes or aggression toward people of similar ethnicities as those depicted in the games. In the current study, 103 young adults were randomized to play versions of the Resident Evil game franchise with either a majority of African race zombies or Caucasian race zombies. Results were mixed. On a test of mild aggression, participants were more aggressive toward a confederate of the same race as the zombies in the game and this was particularly true for white confederates. However, game version had no impact on ethnocentric attitudes. Game version may have small effects on prank-level aggression toward similar race individuals, but game effects don’t easily influence deeper attitudes that may lead to real-life racism.
Bacille Calmette-Guérin preparation and intravesical administration to patients with bladder cancer: Risks to healthcare personnel and patients, and mitigation strategies
Authors: Marx Ashley H. , Nowicki Diana N. , Carlson Rebecca B. , Schultz Katherine M. , Sickbert-Bennett Emily , Weber David J.
Published: December 2023

Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is a standard therapy for non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer used in urology clinics and inpatient settings. We present a review of infection risks to patients receiving intravesical BCG, healthcare personnel who prepare and administer BCG, and other patients treated in facilities where BCG is prepared and administered. Knowledge of these risks and relevant regulations informs appropriate infection prevention measures.
La despensa nacional: Quinoa and the Spatial Contradictions of Peru’s Gastronomic Revolution
Authors: McDonell Emma
Published: December 2023

This article explores the spatial politics of Peru’s gastronomic revolution and corresponding efforts to territorialize Peruvian agricultural products by tracing the spatial dynamics of quinoa’s trajectory from highland dietary staple to coveted national food. Efforts to codify Peru’s national cuisine have involved mapping ingredients and dishes onto specific regions while dramatically reshaping agricultural production geographies and culinary topographies. Because of quinoa’s success as a high-value export crop, the Peruvian altiplano is no longer perceived as a landscape useful exclusively for livestock pasture and mining. Instead, it is imagined as agriculturally productive: the country’s quinoa heartland. At the same time, quinoa’s trajectory illuminates spatial contradictions in the gastronomic boom’s purported objectives and its tangible effects. The revalorization of quinoa led to a geographical expansion of its production outside the high Andes, undermining the spatially bound concepts of authenticity promoted by gastronomic leaders in Peru. Broadly, efforts to commercialize marginalized food products and their corresponding regions can at once reconfigure territorial discourses in important ways, reinforce long-standing geographical inequalities, and generate contestations of the geographic imaginaries of food and nation.
REGULATING USE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES OF LIVE FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY IN PUBLIC SPACES: AN INCREMENTAL APPROACH
Authors: Gikay Asress Adimi
Published: December 2023

Amid the growing calls for the complete prohibition of the use by law enforcement authorities of live facial recognition (LFR) technology in public spaces, this article advocates for an incremental approach to regulating the use of the technology. By analysing legislative instruments, judicial decisions, deployment practices of UK law enforcement authorities, various procedural and policy documents, as well as available safeguards, the article suggests incremental adjustments to the existing legal framework instead of sweeping regulatory change. The proposed approach calls for adopting national legal rules governing watch lists and introducing spatial, temporal and contextual limitations on the deployment of technology based on the assessment of proportionality and necessity. To enhance the effectiveness of overt surveillance using LFR, the article recommends adopting a transparency procedure that promotes accountability without undermining the objectives of law enforcement. Alternatively, the overt use of the technology should be limited to deterring the commission of crimes and safeguarding public safety, where transparency does not undermine its effectiveness. Limiting the scope of overt use of LFR technology entails that law enforcement agencies primarily utilise covert surveillance, with prior judicial approval, except in urgent cases, as this would improve effective criminal investigation and public safety. The legal adjustments proposed in this article can be implemented through flexible secondary legislation or local policies, rather than rigid statutory rules.
Infotaining Canadian Politics? Measuring Infotainment in English-Language Newspaper Coverage of the 2019 Canadian Federal Election
Authors: Marinov Robert , Saurette Paul
Published: December 2023

Several scholars have noted that many types of news coverage (including political news) are increasingly characterized by an “infotainment” style—defined roughly as the communication of politically relevant information using styles and formats more commonly associated with entertainment-oriented programming. Despite this growing trend and the many findings surrounding its impact on politics and political discourse, very little research has been done on the nature and dynamics of infotainment within the Canadian context. In response, this article seeks to measure and evaluate the scope and nature of infotainment in Canadian political news coverage by (1) outlining a comprehensive conceptual definition of (and rigorous method of studying) infotainment and (2) sharing the results of our mixed-methods discourse analysis of infotainment characteristics within 969 hard news articles published in Canadian English-language newspapers that covered the 2019 Canadian federal election. Our findings demonstrate that there was a substantial presence of infotainment characteristics in this coverage. We discuss the detailed nature of these characteristics and the relationship between the presence of infotainment characteristics and those of the quintessentially “Golden Age” reporting style (often viewed as infotainment's polar opposite), while outlining a variety of broader implications and further research questions raised by these findings.
Zircon U-Pb chronology, geochemistry and geological significance of the Tongjiang-Fuyuan Mesozoic magmatic rocks, NE China
Authors: Chen Tao , Li Weimin , Liu Yongjiang , Feng Zhiqiang , Zhao Yingli , Liu Tongjun , Gao Jinhui , Zheng Shigang , Zhao Junfeng
Published: December 2023

Typical ophiolitic rock assemblages such as siliciclastic rocks, basalts and gabbros, together with the subduction-related intermediate-acidic intrusive rocks, are newly discovered in the Tongjiang-Fuyuan area of the Heilongjiang Provence, NE China. To determine the formation age and genesis of the mafic rocks (basalts and gabbros) and intermediate-acidic intrusive rocks (granodiorites) in the area, as well as their geodynamic settings, the whole-rock geochemical analysis and zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating were carried out. Zircon U-Pb results suggest that the granodiorites are 93–95 Ma and gabbro is 95 Ma, respectively. Geochemical results show that the gabbros and basalts exhibit characteristics of ocean island basalt (OIB) affinity and are typically related to having originated from mantle plumes. While the granodiorites show the nature of the island-arc magmatic rocks and may originate from the lower crust. Based on the coeval igneous rock associations and regional tectonic evolution, we conclude that the late Cretaceous magmatic rocks in the Tongjiang-Fuyuan area are the product of continuous subduction of the Palaeo-Pacific plate and reflect the subduction rollback process of the Palaeo-Pacific plate.
Merger-Driven Listing Dynamics
Authors: Eckbo B. Espen , Lithell Markus
Published: December 2023

Stock-market effectiveness in attracting and retaining firms under public ownership depends not only on stand-alone firms’ net listing benefits but also on gains from merging with a public acquirer. Using a novel merger-adjusted listing count, we show that the dramatic (≈50%) post-1996 U.S. listing decline—often attributed to declining listing benefits—is reversed as the “missing” firms de facto continue existing inside their public acquirers. Our merger adjustment also eliminates the U.S. listing gap, pointing instead to a distinct U.S. listing advantage: providing access to a well-functioning market for complex merger transactions.
Blending style and theme: grammar and rhetoric in Han Yu's “Miscellaneous Discourses”
Authors: Tan Mei Ah
Published: December 2023

This paper analyses the intricate and extraordinary style of the influential prose writer Han Yu (768–824). It uncovers his innovative use of grammar and rhetoric and explores how this works to emphasize his theme through an in-depth analysis of his “Miscellaneous Discourses” series. The series, named for what was a budding literary genre in Tang times, later became a popular anthology selection. It showcases the linguistic intricacy of Han's renowned “long sentences” and “reverse writing”, while also demonstrating the use of various rhetorical devices, all employed to create visual effects befitting the themes. The seamless match of style and theme strengthens the persuasive power of each essay and realizes the great potential of ancient-style prose. The findings speak broadly to linguistic and rhetorical development in ways that are relevant to literary studies in general.
Evaluation of the limiting factors affecting the Seychelles Kestrel Falco araeus on Praslin Island (Seychelles) and considerations regarding a possible reintroduction of the species
Authors: Barilari Michele , Tonelli Mattia
Published: December 2023

The Seychelles Kestrel Falco araeus is an endemic species confined to the larger granitic islands in the Seychelles archipelago. It is classified as “Vulnerable” and became extinct on Praslin and La Digue islands in the 1970s, leading to an attempt of reintroduction in 1977. This reintroduction was not a success, with the last census reporting only four breeding pairs on Praslin Island. Studies on the Seychelles Kestrel are very limited and dated, and a lack of data on the biology and ecology of the species has made it difficult to make a thorough assessment of the cause of the current decline of the Praslin population. In order to determine the limiting factors on Praslin we investigated the following ecological parameters: nest-site availability, trophic availability, predatory pressure, and interspecific competition. Data were collected on Mahé and Praslin islands in three habitats (i.e. urban, suburban, and forest areas) and compared to determine if limiting factors differed among islands, habitats, and islands*habitat. We only found a significant difference in nest-site availability, with Praslin showing a marked lack of nesting cavities. Breeding pairs on Praslin are probably forced to nest in suboptimal sites. Indeed, the breeding success rate on Praslin is very low, and most of the nests there fail. The Seychelles Kestrel population on Praslin is in decline and cannot be sustained without human intervention. Such an intervention must take into account the ecological parameters highlighted in the present study.
Current practices for refractory chylothorax following congenital heart surgery
Authors: Adamson Gregory T. , Winder Melissa M. , Catton Kirsti G. , Dewitt Aaron G. , Kozyak Benjamin W. , Glenn Emilee T. , Bailly David K.
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Chylothorax following paediatric cardiac surgery is associated with significant morbidity, particularly those that are refractory to conservative therapy. It is our impression that there is important variability in the medical, surgical, and interventional therapies used to manage refractory chylothorax between congenital heart programmes. We therefore conducted a survey study of current practices for managing refractory chylothorax.

Methods:

The Chylothorax Work Group, formed with the support of the Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Consortium, designed this multi-centre survey study with a focus on the timing and indication for utilising known therapies for refractory chylothorax. The survey was sent to one chylothorax expert from each Work Group centre, and results were summarised and reported as the frequency of given responses.

Results:

Of the 20 centres invited to participate, 17 (85%) submitted complete responses. Octreotide (13/17, 76%) and sildenafil (8/17, 47%) were the most utilised medications. Presently, 9 (53%) centres perform pleurodesis, 15 (88%) perform surgical thoracic duct ligation, 8 (47%) perform percutaneous lymphatic interventions, 6 (35%) utilise thoracic duct decompression procedures, and 3 (18%) perform pleuroperitoneal shunts. Diagnostic lymphatic imaging is performed prior to surgical thoracic duct ligation in only 7 of the 15 (47%) centres that perform the procedure. Respondents identified barriers to referring and transporting patients to centres with expertise in lymphatic interventions.

Conclusions:

There is variability in the treatment of refractory post-operative chylothorax across a large group of academic heart centres. Few surveyed heart centres have replaced surgical thoracic duct ligation or pleurodesis with image-guided selective lymphatic interventions.