bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surrogacy in India: in The Light of The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2020
Authors: Trehan Pooja
Published: October 2024

Cry of a baby- that’s the sound a couple awaited for 22 years to hear.2 It was a benevolent act requiring help of a surrogate mother which is a gigantic industry in India. The country is being called ‘Womb of World’. Heart of it is Anand’s in the westward state of Gujarat; a town filled by women, dubbed by critics as ‘Wombs for Rent’. At present, government is working to put whole business out of business. The decision of government to regulate the surrogacy industry came in the wake of multiple complaints received about non – payment of promised amount, medical challenges and complications faced by surrogate mothers or enigma of deserted children. The Cabinet has accepted the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2020 which will soon be introduced in Parliament. It will clamp down more than two thousand under regulated fertility clinics in the country, and if passed, will put a stop to rewarded surrogacy. If looked from the prospective of ‘the surrogate’ it will end the pay checks of thousands of dollars for women, who are amongst the poorest. India’s plan to ban surrogacy would not only preclude several women from making considerable amount of money as surrogates but it will also stop people from all over globe from coming to India to have babies. The only people that could have surrogate babies would be married heterosexual Indian couples who have been unable to bear the child and who are able to find unpaid surrogate willing women. Through this article, researcher attempts to understand the constitutional pledge of equal treatment and right of individual liberty that includes right to make choices about their bodies and to earn money on the one hand and on the other to address delicate issues through cleverly designed legislation to protect the surrogate mother's, surrogate child's, and intended parents' rights.
الظاهرة الاسلوبية في روايات عباد يحيى، رواية رام الله انموذجًا
Authors: الفضلي محمود جواد كاظم
Published: October 2024

تحاول الدراسة الموسومة بـ «دراسة أسلوبية في رواية «رام الله» لعباد يحيى» أن تشف عن المعطيات الأسلوبية التي تسعى الرواية أو يسعى الكاتب إلى إبرازها في نسيقة النص الروائي، وذلك عبر تبيان الأثر الأسلوبي المتجلي في مستويات متعددة أشارت اليها الدراسات الأسلوبية في حقلها النظري على مدى واسع من تاريخ الأسلوبية، تلك المستويات التي تمثل المادة الأساس في بناء هيكلية الدرس الأسلوبي في كل دراسة أسلوبية تعتمد على نص أدبي ما ومن خلال رواية «رام الله» للكاتب الفلسطيني «عبّاد يحيى» نحاول إبراز تلك المستويات الأسلوبية وإسقاطها على السرد النصي لها ومن تلك المستويات التي تم التطرق إليها المستوى الفكري في الرواية الذي جاء خلاصةً لما اعتمده الكاتب من تشابك أحداث نصه الروائي القائم على خلط الحقيقة بالخيال، فهذا المستوى نتناول من خلاله عملية توثيق الأحداث الروائية بمختلف أشكالها، لتشكل الجانب الفكري في الراوية وكذلك من المستويات التي تم التطرق إليها في ضوء الأسلوبية هو المستوى اللغوي الذي ينقسم بدوره إلى المستويات المشهورة ضمن تقسيماته، وهو المستوى الصوتي والصرفي والنحوي والدلالي، وتم الخوض في مثل تلك المستويات الأسلوبية لبيان الأثر الأسلوبي اللغوي في مختلف تمظهراته في الجانب السردي للرواية. فقد تناولت الدراسة جانبًا أعمق مما سبق من الجوانب الأسلوبية، وهو المستوى الأدبي في الرواية، ذلك المستوى الذي يأخذ على عاتقه الإهتمام بجماليات النص الروائي وعناية الكاتب الفائقة في إبراز تلك الجماليات، من خلال العناية في اختيار الألفاظ التي تميز أسلوب الكاتب عن غيره من الكتّاب الآخرين، كما تندرج بلاغة النص الروائي ضمن المحددات البلاغية ضمن ذلك الأسلوب. إنّ المستويات السالفة الذكر هي التي حددت الحدود الأسلوبية في رواية «رام الله» لعباد يحيى، فمن خلال تلك المستويات استطعنا ولوج معالم أسلوبية النص عند عباد يحيى في هذه الراوية.
استكشاف بنية الشعر العربي الكلاسيكي: دراسة عن الإيقاع والقافية في القصائد الجاهلية
Authors: عبد الستار محمود علي
Published: October 2024

تتناول هذه الدراسة هيكل الشعر الجاهلي، مع التركيز على الإيقاع والقافية كعنصرين أساسيين في بناء النصوص الشعرية في تلك الفترة. الشعر الجاهلي يُعد من أهم الأشكال الأدبية في التراث العربي، وكان يلعب دورًا محوريًا في الحياة الاجتماعية والثقافية للعرب قبل الإسلام. يمثل الإيقاع في الشعر الجاهلي نظامًا موسيقيًا يعزز جمالية النصوص، ويخلق تدفقًا صوتيًا منتظمًا ينسجم مع المواضيع التي يتناولها الشعراء. أما القافية، فهي أداة فنية تُسهم في تنظيم نهايات الأبيات، مما يعزز من تماسك النص ويضفي عليه انسجامًا صوتيًا. تحلل الدراسة بنية الشعر الجاهلي من خلال دراسة البحور الشعرية المستخدمة، مثل بحر الطويل والكامل والمتقارب، وكيفية توظيفها لإنتاج إيقاعات متناسقة تتناسب مع مواضيع مثل الفخر، الحماسة، والغزل. كما تستعرض نماذج من المعلقات، مثل معلقة امرؤ القيس ومعلقة زهير بن أبي سلمى، لتوضيح كيف استخدم الشعراء الجاهليون الإيقاع والقافية بشكل متقن لتشكيل جمالية النصوص وتعزيز تأثيرها على المستمعين. تُبرز الدراسة أن الإيقاع والقافية في الشعر الجاهلي لم يكونا مجرد أدوات فنية، بل كان لهما دور كبير في التأثير الثقافي، حيث ساعدا في حفظ القصائد وانتقالها شفهيًا عبر الأجيال. الإيقاع والقافية أسهما في جعل الشعر الجاهلي وسيلة فعالة للتواصل الثقافي والاجتماعي، وقد ساهما في ترسيخ القيم والمفاهيم التي كانت تهيمن على حياة القبائل العربية. في الختام، تكشف الدراسة عن الأهمية الفنية والثقافية للإيقاع والقافية في الشعر الجاهلي، وكيف أن هذه العناصر ساهمت في إنتاج نصوص شعرية خالدة ما زالت مؤثرة حتى اليوم .
A Natureza da Guerra
Authors: Gigolotti Joao Carlos Jânio
Published: October 2024

O artigo traça a trajetória da Guerra ao longo da História, apresentando sua evolução relacionada à evolução tecnológica, política, econômica e social da humanidade. Foi baseado em pesquisa de fontes secundárias, de autores brasileiros e estrangeiros renomados, sítios oficiais de periódicos, agências noticiosas e editoras na internet, livros, jornais e revistas. Clássicos da literatura especializada foram consultados e citados. A dinâmica evolutiva das armas e equipamentos, organizações militares, estratégias, táticas de emprego, doutrinas militares em si e os conflitos militares de alcance global é esmiuçada textualmente e em mapas, desde os primórdios da Revolução Agrícola há milênios até a Revolução Mecatrônica hodierna. Conclui-se com a interpretação das características mutáveis e imutáveis da guerra e com a apresentação dos cinco eixos tecnológicos que configurarão as guerras do século XXI.
Bæredygtige fremtider skabt af børn og unge gennem fremtidsværksteder
Authors: Bønnelycke Julie , Mariegaard Stine , Zhou Chunfang
Published: October 2024

I pædagogisk praksis må vi forholde os til den tid og det samfund vi lever i, og i den antropocæne tidsalder betyder det, at klima- og biodiversitetskrise nu og i fremtiden kommer til at præge vores tilværelse. For at afsøge muligheder for at udvikle fremtidens bæredygtighedspædagogik har vi anvendt participatoriske tilgange til at udvikle et fremtidsværkstedsformat der tager udgangspunkt i deltagernes perspektiver og ønsker i projektet ’Børnepanelet’. Perspektiver på gode børne- og ungeliv nu og i fremtiden, og hvilken rolle bæredygtighed spiller i disse forestillinger, er her skabt af en gruppe 14-15- årige. Vores teoretiske udgangspunkt er posthumanistiske perspektiver, der muliggør intra-aktive tilblivelser af forholdemåder. Vi viser, hvordan et pædagogisk greb, fremtidsværkstedsformat med brug af kreative metoder, skaber rum for fælles udforskning af mulige, bedre fremtider. AbstractThe Children’s panel – a participatory workshop approach to sustainable futures We are living in the Anthropocene, an era where climate crisis and biodiversity crisis are deeply entangled with the human way of living. In pedagogy we need to find new ways to integrate perspectives on the Anthropocene in our everyday practice. In the project the Children’s Panel we work with a group of 14–15-year-old children to investigate how Participatory Design-inspired methods can be employed to study children’s perceptions of sustainability and their wishes for learning about sustainability. With a theoretical onset in posthumanist perspectives we develop a situated approach to becoming together for sustainability-related intra-actions and connections. The methods enable a common articulation of possible futures, exploring possibilities for living better lives in times of climate crisis.
Zmiany sieci hydrograficznej na obszarze Kotliny Jeleniogórskiej od XVIII w. = Changes to the hydrographic network in the Jelenia Góra Basin since the 18th century
Authors: Wieczorek Iwo , Latocha-Wites Agnieszka , Wieczorek Małgorzata
Published: October 2024

Kotlina Jeleniogórska położona jest u podnóża Karkonoszy, gdzie swoje źródła mają liczne rzeki i potoki zasilane opadami deszczu i śniegu. Położenie to niesie więc ze sobą zagrożenia ze strony cyklicznych powodzi, a współcześnie coraz częściej okresów suchych. Pierwsi osadnicy pojawili się tutaj jeszcze we wczesnym średniowieczu i wykorzystując powszechny dostęp do wód powierzchniowych, zaczęli znacząco ingerować w jej przebieg oraz retencję. Rekonstrukcja wód powierzchniowych w ujęciu ilościowym w oparciu o archiwalne materiały kartograficzne, pozwoliła nam na powiązanie pewnych zabiegów regulujących wody powierzchniowe z ówczesną sytuacją gospodarczą i polityczną regionu. Niniejsza praca pokazuje transformację wód Kotliny Jeleniogórskiej od początku Ery Przemysłowej aż do dnia dzisiejszego, gdy coraz większy nacisk kładzie się na odpowiednią gospodarkę wodną i przeciwdziałanie katastrofalnym zjawiskom, takim jak susze czy powodzie.
Textile plot drawings of the 1920s and 1930s: substantive and formal aspects
Authors: Ignat'kova Angelina Dmitrievna
Published: October 2024

The article examines the uniqueness of the narrative design in domestic textiles of the 1920-1930s. Subject of the study: substantive (figurative-thematic) and formal (means of artistic expression) aspects of narrative compositions of domestic printed fabrics of the 1920-1930s. Object of the study: samples of domestic printed fabrics of the 1920-1930s with narrative designs. The purpose of the article is to identify and analyze the substantive and formal aspects of narrative designs of domestic printed fabrics of the 1920-1930s. In achieving this goal, the author examines the figurative and thematic components of narrative designs of fabrics (the embodiment of the history and ideology of the post-revolutionary period, features of the display of national themes, intergenre interaction in narrative scenes). Particular attention is paid to the means of artistic expression, in particular the methods and forms of subject and conventional depiction. The methodology of the conducted research is based on the understanding of the category of "artistic style", developed in the domestic philosophy and theory of art (V.P. Bransky, V.G. Vlasov, E.N. Ustyugova), as a certain substantive and formal integrity formed in the context of its historical era. The author used the methods of formal-stylistic, iconographic, cultural and historical analysis. The novelty of the study lies in the attempt to highlight the formal and substantive aspects of the organization of the artistic integrity of the plot patterns of domestic printed fabrics of the 1920-1930s, which has both theoretical significance (use of the proposed methodology in further studies of the history of textiles) and practical value (use of the results in modern practice of fabric ornamentation; in the field of training textile designers). The main conclusions of the study are as follows: 1) plot compositions constitute a significant part in the art of fabric ornamentation of the studied period, being a figurative reflection of the era; 2) narrative drawings had a dual character: a combination of thematic unity of narrative compositions and the diversity of the formal character of the drawing; 3) in new subjects of textile drawings it is possible to identify characteristic substantive features that connect them with fine art; 4) formal features are characterized by a variety of artistic approaches in solving common themes associated with new subjects, which allows us to note the simultaneous coexistence of the traditions of realism and avant-garde trends in the style of narrative drawings.
Sacred landscape of rural historical settlements of the Russian North and the Arctic
Authors: Usov Aleksei Aleksandrovich
Published: October 2024

The article presents the results of a research monuments of religious wooden architecture. They are considered as the main component of the settlements sacred landscape in the Russian North and the Arctic. The case study uses materials from the village of Kimzha, Mezensky District, Arkhangelsk Region. However, the author also addresses religious buildings in the territory of Oneghskoye and Terskoye Pomorye. The object of research is the sacred landscape of rural historical settlements in the Russian North. The research aim is to analyze the sacred landscapes of settlements at the present stage of their existence (late 20th–early 21st centuries). The case study uses new materials from a field survey of the representative village of Kimzha. Materials of the Pomor and Tersky coasts research are also used. The research is based on the application of the methodology of Dr. of Cultural Studies A.B. Permilovskaya on architectural and ethnographic survey of wooden architecture objects, on historical settlements as objects of cultural heritage. Scientific novelty consists in specifying the range of surviving monuments of religious architecture, their significance in the process sacred landscapes formation not only in historical retrospect, but also at the current moment in time. It is concluded that the wooden church, chapel, cross in rural historical settlements of the North are preserved and recreated within the framework of the existing canon, due to which the continuity of both carpentry and religious traditions is ensured. They also acquire the function of preserving collective memory, a tool for transmitting the cultural experience of the people; they acquire special significance as visual and historical-cultural dominants in the cultural and sacred landscape of settlements, contributing to the development of local tourism industries.
Characterisation of Polacrylate-Polysacharide System. Part I. Infrared Structural Studies
Authors: Kaczmarska Karolina , Śmietana Mateusz , Drożyński Dariusz , Bobrowski Artur , Woźniak Faustyna
Published: October 2024

For the prepared polymer systems based on an poly(acrylic acid) and a colloidal solution of native starch, a series of IR (FTIR)structural studies and tests under heating conditions (ATR-FTIR) were carried out. Two components from the group of nativestarch of different biological origin (potato, cassava) were selected. The analysis of the collected results was aimed at assessing the effect of the biological origin of the starch on the structure, thermal sensitivity of the acrylic polymer-based system. On the basis of interaction effects occurring in the obtained synthetic polymer-natural polymer systems, the validity of mixing selected components to obtain composition was verified.
Evaluation of 3D-printed Pattern Material for Heat-hardened Inorganic Moulds
Authors: Jalava Kalle , Anwar Nurul , Orkas Juhani
Published: October 2024

Inorganic binders for sand moulding are currently of high interest due to the need to lessen our environmental impact and emissions. In this study, a heat hardened solid inorganic sodium silicate binder was tested with a 3D printed resin material to see how the use of such a material affected a silica mould’s quality, e.g. surface roughness. Results were compared to moulds made with metallic patterns. The unmodified binder had sticking issues when used with a metallic pattern, resulting in a rough as-moulded surface. Such issues were not seen with the printed resin patterns, also hinting at good performance with binders that contain performance increasing additives. The resin pattern material has a Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) of 230°C, enabling the use of inorganic binders that require temperatures between 160–200°C to harden and dry. Additive manufacturing of such materials also allows designs for other hardening techniques than furnace heating, such as microwave heating. The moulds hardened with microwaves did not exhibit sticking issues. Additive manufacturing of tooling is a potential source of geometrical variation in final castings and are also studied in this work. In general, switching from traditional sand moulding patterns used with organic binder systems to inorganic systems, the patterns and core boxes need to be replaced by new ones made of a metallic or other heat resistant material. The studied material is a promising option for such a switch, especially when a complex shape enabled by additive manufacturing is also required.
Alloys for Hot Dip Galvanising on Thin-Walled Materials
Authors: Żabiński Piotr , Leszczynska-Madej Beata , Włoch Grzegorz , Lewartowski Piotr
Published: October 2024

The article reviews alloy additives to zinc and their impact on the quality of coatings achieved on structural steel. It also analyses the impact of the concentration of acid used for the chemical stripping of raw material on the zinc coating thickness of the steel. The zinc layer thickness changed depending on the concentration of alloy elements in the bath. It was stated that aluminium and bismuth have a low impact on the decrease in zinc coating thickness, while in the case of tin, a small change to the content (from 0.6% to 0.8%) significantly decreased the zinc layer thickness. Furthermore, it was found that, during the hot dip galvanising of steel, particular alloy elements are extracted from the bath. This results in the need to supplement alloy elements through periodical melting in for the purpose of maintaining the assumed bath composition. It was observed that, together with the increase in alloy elements concentration, zinc uptake (galvanised component weight ratio to black component weight) decreases, improving the process economics.
A Large-Scale Proteomics Resource of Circulating Extracellular Vesicles for Biomarker Discovery in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Bockorny Bruno , Muthuswamy Lakshmi , Huang Ling , Hadisurya Marco , Lim Christine Maria , Tsai Leo L , Gill Ritu R , Wei Jesse L , Bullock Andrea J , Grossman Joseph E , Besaw Robert J , Narasimhan Supraja , Tao W Andy , Perea Sofia , Sawhney Mandeep S , Freedman Steven D , Hidalgo Manuel , Iliuk Anton , Muthuswamy Senthil K
Published: October 2024

Pancreatic cancer has the worst prognosis of all common tumors. Earlier cancer diagnosis could increase survival rates and better assessment of metastatic disease could improve patient care. As such, there is an urgent need to develop biomarkers to diagnose this deadly malignancy. Analyzing circulating extracellular vesicles (cEVs) using ‘liquid biopsies’ offers an attractive approach to diagnose and monitor disease status. However, it is important to differentiate EV-associated proteins enriched in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) from those with benign pancreatic diseases such as chronic pancreatitis and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). To meet this need, we combined the novel EVtrap method for highly efficient isolation of EVs from plasma and conducted proteomics analysis of samples from 124 individuals, including patients with PDAC, benign pancreatic diseases and controls. On average, 912 EV proteins were identified per 100µL of plasma. EVs containing high levels of PDCD6IP, SERPINA12 and RUVBL2 were associated with PDAC compared to the benign diseases in both discovery and validation cohorts. EVs with PSMB4, RUVBL2 and ANKAR were associated with metastasis, and those with CRP, RALB and CD55 correlated with poor clinical prognosis. Finally, we validated a 7-EV protein PDAC signature against a background of benign pancreatic diseases that yielded an 89% prediction accuracy for the diagnosis of PDAC. To our knowledge, our study represents the largest proteomics profiling of circulating EVs ever conducted in pancreatic cancer and provides a valuable open-source atlas to the scientific community with a comprehensive catalogue of novel cEVs that may assist in the development of biomarkers and improve the outcomes of patients with PDAC.
Epidemiology of Mansonella perstans and Loa loa: Prevalence and Specific Risk Factors in Njombe-Penja Health District, Littoral Region of Cameroon
Authors: Akumeyam Elvis Akum , Ambele Chaba Felicitas
Published: October 2024

Aim: This epidemiological survey aimed to determine the prevalence and specific risk factors of Mansonella perstans and Loa loa infections in the Njombe-Penja Health District of Cameroon. This region is endemic for filarial infections, posing significant public health burden.
Study Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 360 participants, representing various occupational groups and areas of settlements.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Njombe-Penja Health District of the Littoral Region of Cameroon. Recruitment of participants, biological samples collection and questionnaire administration was done over a period of 1 month (July 2023).
Methodology: Fifty microliters (50 µL) of peripheral blood was collected using capillary tubes, and analyzed for microfilarial presence and load. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data on demographic characteristics, exposure to risk factors, and preventive practices. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests with p-values, and odds ratios were calculated to identify significant associations.
Results: The results showed a prevalence of 45.8% for M. perstans and 19.4% for L. loa, with higher infection rates among farmers, especially those working in the large scale banana farming sector, and those living near water bodies (P = .002, OR = 3.15). Poor environmental sanitation (P = .004, OR = 2.75), and low monthly income (< 50,000 CFA) (P = .001, OR = 2.32), were also significantly associated with increased infection risk. Although 70.0% of participants were aware of the diseases, only 50.0% could identify key symptoms. Preventive measures like using bed nets and insect repellents were linked to a lower risk of infection (P =.003, OR = 2.10).
Conclusion: Mansonella perstans and L. loa infections are highly prevalent in the district, driven by occupational exposure, socioeconomic factors, and environmental risks. Interventions should focus on improving sanitation, enhancing public health education, and expanding healthcare access.
Millet: A Promising Crop for Food and Nutritional Security of Urban and Rural Households
Authors: Banu Arjuman , Somashekar K. S. , Bhat Dattatraya , T.H. Gajendra
Published: October 2024

The Tumakuru district of Karnataka's small millets-consuming households were the study's focus from 2021 to 2022. The study looked at their food consumption patterns, nutrition, and overall health. Based on primary data from 60 households, 30 from each of the urban and rural areas were conducted. The results demonstrated that, consumption of small millet was higher in the high-income group (>1,00,000) in urban areas due to health and nutrition consciousness across all income groups. The per capita consumption of small millets was relatively higher in rural area (2.2 kg/month) as compared to urban area (1.4 kg/month).  While 57 per cent of rural households ate millets as a cultural and dietary practice, 40 per cent of urban households to control their blood sugar levels. Energy from the consumption of small millets, such as ragi, is produced in rural areas. About 67 per cent of households in urban areas reported that eating small millets helped them control their blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes, while 80 per cent of farmers in rural areas said that eating small millets kept them alert and energized all day. The amount of small millets consumed and the nutritional and health status of rural and urban households are both improved by policy initiatives such as the addition of small millets to the Public Distribution System (PDS), the Mid Day Meal program, and raising public awareness of the health and nutritional benefits of small millets consumption.
Seasonal Drought Prediction: Advances, Challenges, and Future Prospects
Authors: Hao Zengchao , Singh Vijay P. , Xia Youlong
Published: January 2018

Drought prediction is of critical importance to early warning for drought managements. This review provides a synthesis of drought prediction based on statistical, dynamical, and hybrid methods. Statistical drought prediction is achieved by modeling the relationship between drought indices of interest and a suite of potential predictors, including large‐scale climate indices, local climate variables, and land initial conditions. Dynamical meteorological drought prediction relies on seasonal climate forecast from general circulation models (GCMs), which can be employed to drive hydrological models for agricultural and hydrological drought prediction with the predictability determined by both climate forcings and initial conditions. Challenges still exist in drought prediction at long lead time and under a changing environment resulting from natural and anthropogenic factors. Future research prospects to improve drought prediction include, but are not limited to, high‐quality data assimilation, improved model development with key processes related to drought occurrence, optimal ensemble forecast to select or weight ensembles, and hybrid drought prediction to merge statistical and dynamical forecasts.
Modeling East Asian Dust and Its Radiative Feedbacks in CAM4‐BAM
Authors: Xie Xiaoning , Liu Xiaodong , Che Huizheng , Xie Xiaoxun , Wang Hongli , Li Jiandong , Shi Zhengguo , Liu Yangang
Published: January 2018

East Asian dust and its radiative feedbacks are analyzed by the use of the fourth version of the Community Atmosphere Model (CAM4) with a bulk aerosol model parameterization (BAM) for the dust size distribution (CAM4‐BAM). Two numerical experiments are conducted and intercompared: one with (Active) and one without (Passive) the radiative effects of dust aerosols. This CAM4‐BAM captures the main spatial distribution of the dust aerosol optical depth (AOD) and the dust surface concentrations over East Asia, with positive correlations with the local observational data on annual and seasonal means. A comparative analysis of the Active and Passive experiments reveals that consideration of the dust‐radiation interaction can significantly reduce dust emissions, loading, transport, and dry and wet depositions over East Asia, which is opposite to the enhanced dust cycle over North Africa. Further analysis of the contrasting dust‐radiation feedbacks between North Africa and East Asia shows that over North Africa, the dust radiative forcing significantly increases the surface temperature and 10 m wind speed, whereas it decreases the surface temperature and the surface wind speeds over East Asia. These contrasting radiative effects, in turn, result in distinct dust cycle changes over these two regions. Mechanistic analysis reveals that the radiative contrasts between East Asia and North Africa are mainly due to the differences in their regional surface albedo, dust vertical distribution, and size distribution.
On Factors Influencing Air‐Water Gas Exchange in Emergent Wetlands
Authors: Ho David T. , Engel Victor C. , Ferrón Sara , Hickman Benjamin , Choi Jay , Harvey Judson W.
Published: January 2018

Knowledge of gas exchange in wetlands is important in order to determine fluxes of climatically and biogeochemically important trace gases and to conduct mass balances for metabolism studies. Very few studies have been conducted to quantify gas transfer velocities in wetlands, and many wind speed/gas exchange parameterizations used in oceanographic or limnological settings are inappropriate under conditions found in wetlands. Here six measurements of gas transfer velocities are made with SF6 tracer release experiments in three different years in the Everglades, a subtropical peatland with surface water flowing through emergent vegetation. The experiments were conducted under different flow conditions and with different amounts of emergent vegetation to determine the influence of wind, rain, water flow, waterside thermal convection, and vegetation on air‐water gas exchange in wetlands. Measured gas transfer velocities under the different conditions ranged from 1.1 cm h−1 during baseline conditions to 3.2 cm h−1 when rain and water flow rates were high. Commonly used wind speed/gas exchange relationships would overestimate the gas transfer velocity by a factor of 1.2 to 6.8. Gas exchange due to thermal convection was relatively constant and accounted for 14 to 51% of the total measured gas exchange. Differences in rain and water flow among the different years were responsible for the variability in gas exchange, with flow accounting for 37 to 77% of the gas exchange, and rain responsible for up to 40%.
Contrasting Patterns in Abrupt Asian Summer Monsoon Changes in the Last Glacial Period and the Holocene
Authors: Liu Dianbing , Wang Yongjin , Cheng Hai , Edwards R. L. , Kong Xinggong , Chen Shitao , Liu Shushuang
Published: January 2018

Detailed Asian summer monsoon (ASM) variability across Heinrich stadials (HSs) 5 to 2 was reconstructed from four stalagmite oxygen isotopic (δ18O) records in central and southern China. For the last glacial period, these speleothem records, combined with previous cave records, reveal a rapid ASM decline at the onset of each HS. During this time, ASM intensity decreases immediately to the weakest level within approximately 50 years, which is followed by a gradual intensification in the mid‐HS. Typically, this process of ASM weakening is synchronous with peak ice‐rafted debris deposition and large freshwater outbursts into the North Atlantic, implying a tight link between the two. During the Holocene, however, a relatively gradual ASM decrease occurred at the start of the Bond events. Comparatively, the ASM decrease during the Bond events is generally accomplished within 110 years, and the weakest ASM occurs near the end. This difference implicates a further southward displacement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone and a stronger impact from the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation on the ASM in the early HS. Moreover, contrasting expressions of the ASM during HSs and Bond events suggest that a fixed phase relationship during bipolar climate changes cannot be expected.
A novel pathogenic MYH3 mutation in a child with Sheldon–Hall syndrome and vertebral fusions
Authors: Scala Marcello , Accogli Andrea , De Grandis Elisa , Allegri Anna , Bagowski Christoph P. , Shoukier Moneef , Maghnie Mohamad , Capra Valeria
Published: January 2018

Sheldon–Hall syndrome (SHS) is the most common of the distal arthrogryposes (DAs), a group of disorders characterized by congenital non‐progressive contractures. Patients with SHS present with contractures of the limbs and a distinctive triangular facies with prominent nasolabial folds. Calcaneovalgus deformity is frequent, as well as camptodactyly and ulnar deviation. Causative mutations in at least four different genes have been reported (MYH3, TNNI2, TPM2, and TNNT3). MYH3 plays a pivotal role in fetal muscle development and mutations in this gene are associated with Freeman–Sheldon syndrome, distal arthrogryposis 8 (DA8), and autosomal dominant spondylocarpotarsal synostosis. The last two disorders are characterized by skeletal abnormalities, in particular bony fusions. The observation that MYH3 may be mutated in these syndromes has suggested the involvement of this gene in bone development. We report the case of a boy with a novel pathogenic MYH3 mutation, presenting with the classical clinical features of SHS in association with unilateral carpal bone fusion and multiple vertebral fusions. This distinctive phenotype has never been reported in the literature so far and expands the phenotypic spectrum of SHS, endorsing the clinical variability of patients with MYH3‐related disorders. Our findings also support a role for MYH3 in both muscle and bone development, suggesting a phenotypic continuum in MYH3‐related disorders.
Synthesis and Analysis of Substituted Bullvalenes
Authors: Yahiaoui Oussama , Pašteka Lukáš F. , Judeel Bernadette , Fallon Thomas
Published: January 2018

Herein we detail a practical synthesis of bullvalene and a variety of mono‐ and disubstituted analogues through cobalt‐catalysed [6+2] cycloaddition of cyclooctatetraene to alkynes, followed by photochemical di‐π‐methane rearrangement. The application of isomer‐network analysis, coupled with quantum‐chemical calculations, provides a powerful automated tool for predicting the properties of bullvalene isomer networks.
Orientation Control of Molecularly Functionalized Surfaces Applied to the Simultaneous Alignment and Sorting of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Selmani Serxho , Schipper Derek J.
Published: January 2018

Self‐assembly has been relied upon for molecular alignment in many advanced technological applications. However, although effective, it is inherently limited in its capability for optimization. Despite the potential benefits, the seemingly fundamental strategy of external orientation control has yet to be realized. Herein we demonstrate an approach that allows control of the orientation of small molecules covalently bound to a surface. The method exploits an alignment relay technique, passing alignment information through a liquid‐crystal medium to small molecules to control surface functionalization events. The method is technically simple and can be carried out on a bench top without the need for specialized equipment. Moreover, we demonstrate the utility of the resulting surfaces to address two long‐standing problems in nanoscience: the sorting and alignment of single‐walled carbon nanotubes. This new method enabled significant alignment of the nanotubes as well as length and diameter sorting.
Synthesis and characterization of poly(aminobismaleimide)s obtained from solvent‐free mixtures
Authors: Soisson Arnaud , Chikh Linda , Banet Philippe , Morelle Jean‐Michel , Fichet Odile
Published: January 2018

A series of eight poly(aminobismaleimide)s containing aromatic units have been synthesized from a one‐step nucleophilic addition reaction between diamine and bismaleimide, without exogeneous solvent, to provide encapsulant withstanding high temperature suitable for power electronics. To have a homogeneous medium at room temperature, the solid aromatic diamines are first mixed with different liquid aliphatic ones, and then mixed with bismaleimide. The syntheses were then carried out at 175 °C for 15 min. Thus, according to their composition, these obtained thermosetting resins are characterized by a relaxation temperature between 98 and 190 °C and a coefficient of thermal expansion between 20 and 150 ppm/K. All material surfaces are hydrophobic and their moisture uptake is lower than 2–3 wt %. Finally, as expected, the substitution of a part of the aliphatic diamine by an aromatic one improves the thermal stability under air atmosphere of the resulting materials (Td = 280–300 °C increased to Td = 315–340 °C). Their use as power module encapsulant can therefore be considered. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46105.
Effect of block copolymer containing ionic liquid moiety on interfacial polarization in PLA/PCL blends
Authors: Wang Ping , Xu Pei , Wei Haibing , Fang Huagao , Ding Yunsheng
Published: January 2018

Compared with poly(ɛ‐caprolactone)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol) block copolymer (BC), a systematic study of the effect of the concentration of the compatibilizer, poly(ɛ‐caprolactone)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol) BC containing ionic liquid moiety (BCIL), on the interfacial properties of a phase separating blend of poly(l‐lactic acid)/poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) (PLA/PCL) was performed. BCIL copolymer as a compatibilizer for immiscible PLA/PCL blend can reinforce the interactions between the two polymeric phases by the IL electrostatic interaction at interphase, and the particle size of PCL decreases because of interfacial reinforced‐compatibilization of IL moiety. Ion mobility of IL moiety at interphase and PCL phase for PLA/PCL/BCIL blend can induce interfacial blocking of charge carriers, and IL moiety segregating mainly at the interface can decrease the relaxation rate and increase the dielectric strength of interfacial polarization. Our results provide a methodology to characterize and tune the morphology and blocking of charge carriers with the aim of tailoring the dielectric interfacial properties of blends. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46161.
Preparation of silica/poly(styrene‐co‐butyl acrylate) core/shell composite particles for absorption of toluene
Authors: Dong Xiaojie , Li Xiao , Xie Zhenpeng , Weng Sen , Zhang Weiying , Ying Xiaoguang
Published: January 2018

An absorbent for benzene series with silica/poly(styrene‐co‐butyl acrylate) core/shell structure was prepared via emulsion polymerization. The effects of emulsifier dosage, monomer concentration, and crosslinker dosage on the absorption of the core/shell composite particles were investigated. The composite particles with good absorbency could be obtained when the emulsifier concentration was 2.5 g/L, monomer concentration was 40 g/L, crosslinker dosage was 2.0% (based on the total mass of the monomer), and the initiator dosage was 1.0%. The composite particles exhibited a rapid absorption and the absorption process conformed to the quasi‐second order kinetics. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) showed the presence of copolymer layer on the surface of silica. The work provided a new path to fabricate novel composite absorbent particles for a wide range of applications. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46172.
Single Pair Förster Resonance Energy Transfer: A Versatile Tool To Investigate Protein Conformational Dynamics
Authors: Voith von Voithenberg Lena , Lamb Don C.
Published: January 2018

Conformational changes of proteins and other biomolecules play a fundamental role in their functional mechanism. Single pair Förster resonance energy transfer (spFRET) offers the possibility to detect these conformational changes and dynamics, and to characterize their underlying kinetics. Using spFRET on microscopes with different modes of detection, dynamic timescales ranging from nanoseconds to seconds can be quantified. Confocal microscopy can be used as a means to analyze dynamics in the range of nanoseconds to milliseconds, while total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy offers information about conformational changes on timescales of milliseconds to seconds. While the existence of dynamics can be directly inferred from the FRET efficiency time trace or the correlation of FRET efficiency and fluorescence lifetime, additional computational approaches are required to extract the kinetic rates of these dynamics, a short overview of which is given in this review.
Effect of triazole‐tryptophan hybrid on the conformation stability of bovine serum albumin
Authors: Aneja Babita , Kumari Meena , Azam Amir , Kumar Amit , Abid Mohammad , Patel Rajan
Published: January 2018

The effect of a potent antimicrobial compound bearing 1,2,3‐triazole core and a tryptophan tail, triazole‐tryptophan hybrid (TTH), with bovine serum albumin (BSA) have been explored using various spectroscopic and molecular docking methods. Studies revealed that TTH strongly quenches the intrinsic fluorophore of BSA by a static quenching mechanism. Time‐resolved fluorescence spectra further confirmed the involvement of static quenching for TTH–BSA system. The calculated thermodynamic parameters; ΔH, ΔS, and ΔG showed that the binding process was spontaneous, exothermic and entropy driven. Synchronous fluorescence, three‐dimensional (3D) fluorescence and circular dichroism data revealed that TTH induces the structural alteration in BSA and enhances its stability. In silico study of TTH–BSA system showed that it binds with BSA at the site I of subdomain IIA. Both the experimental and in silico study showed that the hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions play a major role in TTH–BSA binding.
Progressive multiple sclerosis, cognitive function, and quality of life
Authors: Højsgaard Chow Helene , Schreiber Karen , Magyari Melinda , Ammitzbøll Cecilie , Börnsen Lars , Romme Christensen Jeppe , Ratzer Rikke , Soelberg Sørensen Per , Sellebjerg Finn
Published: January 2018

Background

Patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) often have cognitive impairment in addition to physical impairment. The burden of cognitive and physical impairment progresses over time, and may be major determinants of quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess to which degree quality of life correlates with physical and cognitive function in progressive MS.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of 52 patients with primary progressive (N = 18) and secondary progressive MS (N = 34). Physical disability was assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale, Timed 25 Foot Walk (T25FW) test and 9‐Hole Peg Test (9HPT). Cognitive function was assessed using Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, and Trail Making Test B (TRAIL‐B). In addition, quality of life was assessed by the Short Form 36 (SF‐36) questionnaire.

Results

Only measures of cognitive function correlated with the overall SF‐36 quality of life score and the Mental Component Summary score from the SF‐36. The only physical measure that correlated with a measure of quality of life was T25FW test, which correlated with the Physical Component Summary from the SF‐36. We found no other significant correlations between the measures of cognitive function and the overall physical measures but interestingly, we found a possible relationship between the 9HPT score for the nondominant hand and the SDMT and TRAIL‐B.

Conclusion

Our findings support inclusion of measures of cognitive function in the assessment of patients with progressive MS as these correlated closer with quality of life than measures of physical impairment.
Real‐time monitoring of antibody glycosylation site occupancy by in situ Raman spectroscopy during bioreactor CHO cell cultures
Authors: Li Meng‐Yao , Ebel Bruno , Paris Cédric , Chauchard Fabien , Guedon Emmanuel , Marc Annie
Published: January 2018

The glycosylation of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), a known critical quality attribute, is often greatly modified during the production process by animal cells. It is essential for biopharmaceutical industries to monitor and control this glycosylation. However, current glycosylation characterization techniques involve time‐ and labor‐intensive analyses, often carried out at the end of the culture when the product is already synthesized. This study proposes a novel methodology for real‐time monitoring of antibody glycosylation site occupancy using Raman spectroscopy. It was first observed in CHO cell batch culture that when low nutrient concentrations were reached, a decrease in mAb glycosylation was induced, which made it essential to rapidly detect this loss of product quality. By combining in situ Raman spectroscopy with chemometric tools, efficient prediction models were then developed for both glycosylated and nonglycosylated mAbs. By comparing variable importance in projection profiles of the prediction models, it was confirmed that Raman spectroscopy is a powerful method to distinguish extremely similar molecules, despite the high complexity of the culture medium. Finally, the Raman prediction models were used to monitor batch and feed‐harvest cultures in situ. For the first time, it was demonstrated that the concentrations of glycosylated and nonglycosylated mAbs could be successfully and simultaneously estimated in real time with high accuracy, including their sudden variations due to medium exchanges. Raman spectroscopy can thus be considered as a promising PAT tool for feedback process control dedicated to on‐line optimization of mAb quality. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:486–493, 2018
A Thiolactone Strategy for Straightforward Synthesis of Disulfide‐Linked Side‐Chain‐to‐Tail Cyclic Peptides Featuring an N‐Terminal Modification Handle
Authors: Van Lysebetten Dorien , Felissati Stefania , Antonatou Eirini , Carrette Lieselot L. G. , Espeel Pieter , Focquet Evelien , Du Prez Filip E. , Madder Annemieke
Published: January 2018

The development of straightforward and versatile peptide cyclisation methods is highly desired to meet the demand for more stable peptide‐based drugs. Herein, a new method for the synthesis of side‐chain‐to‐tail cyclic peptides with the simultaneous introduction of an N‐terminal handle, based on the introduction of an N‐terminal thiolactone building block, is described. A primary amine liberates a homocysteine analogue from the thiolactone building block, which further enables cyclisation of the peptide through disulfide‐bond formation with a C‐terminal cysteamine. Postcyclisation modification can be achieved by using small bifunctional amines. Alternatively, the synthesis of lipopeptides is demonstrated through direct thiolactone opening with long‐chain alkyl amines.
Design of Aminobenzothiazole Inhibitors of Rho Kinases 1 and 2 by Using Protein Kinase A as a Structure Surrogate
Authors: Judge Russell A. , Vasudevan Anil , Scott Victoria E. , Simler Gricelda H. , Pratt Steve D. , Namovic Marian T. , Putman C. Brent , Aguirre Ana , Stoll Vincent S. , Mamo Mulugeta , Swann Steven I. , Cassar Steven C. , Faltynek Connie R. , Kage Karen L. , Boyce‐Rustay Janel M. , Hobson Adrian D.
Published: January 2018

We describe the design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationships (SARs) of a series of 2‐aminobenzothiazole inhibitors of Rho kinases (ROCKs) 1 and 2, which were optimized to low nanomolar potencies by use of protein kinase A (PKA) as a structure surrogate to guide compound design. A subset of these molecules also showed robust activity in a cell‐based myosin phosphatase assay and in a mechanical hyperalgesia in vivo pain model.
In situ Formed Co(TCNQ)2 Metal‐Organic Framework Array as a High‐Efficiency Catalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Wei Yicheng , Ren Xiang , Ma Hongmin , Sun Xu , Zhang Yong , Kuang Xuan , Yan Tao , Wu Dan , Wei Qin
Published: January 2018

Energy conversion and storage systems such as water splitting devices and metal‐air batteries need excellent and energy‐efficiency oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts. This work reports the in situ development of sawtooth‐like Co(TCNQ)2 (TCNQ=tetracyanoquinodimethane) metal–organic framework array on Co foil (Co(TCNQ)2/Co) by means of a solution immersion method at room temperature. As an oxygen‐evolving catalyst, the resulting Co(TCNQ)2/Co demonstrates superior OER activity with overpotential of 310 mV to drive a geometrical catalytic current density of 15 mA cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH. Notably, it also shows good long‐term electrochemical durability with its activity being retained for at least 20 h and achieves a high turnover frequency of 0.66 mol O2 s−1 at overpotential of 380 mV.
A Solution‐Processed Transparent NiO Hole‐Extraction Layer for High‐Performance Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Tang Li Juan , Chen Xiao , Wen Tian Yu , Yang Shuang , Zhao Jun Jie , Qiao Hong Wei , Hou Yu , Yang Hua Gui
Published: January 2018

A highly transparent NiO layer was prepared by a solution processing method with nickel(II) 2‐ethylhexanoate in non‐polar solvent and utilized as HTM in perovskite solar cells. Excellent optical transmittance and the matched energy level lead to the enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE, 18.15 %) than that of conventional sol–gel‐processed NiO‐based device (12.98 %).