bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Finite Volume Scheme for Three-Dimensional Diffusion Equations
Authors: Lai Xiang , Sheng Zhiqiang , Yuan Guangwei
Published: September 2015

The extension of diamond scheme for diffusion equation to three dimensions is presented. The discrete normal flux is constructed by a linear combination of the directional flux along the line connecting cell-centers and the tangent flux along the cell-faces. In addition, it treats material discontinuities by a new iterative method. The stability and first-order convergence of the method is proved on distorted meshes. The numerical results illustrate that the method appears to be approximate second-order accuracy for solution.
Automated rain rate estimates using the Ka-band ARM zenith radar (KAZR)
Authors: Chandra A. , Zhang C. , Kollias P. , Matrosov S. , Szyrmer W.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The use of millimeter wavelength radars for probing precipitation has recently gained interest. However, estimation of precipitation variables is not straightforward due to strong signal attenuation, radar receiver saturation, antenna wet radome effects and natural microphysical variability. Here, an automated algorithm is developed for routinely retrieving rain rates from the profiling Ka-band (35-GHz) ARM (Atmospheric Radiation Measurement) zenith radars (KAZR). A 1-dimensional, simple, steady state microphysical model is used to estimate impacts of microphysical processes and attenuation on the profiles of radar observables at 35-GHz and thus provide criteria for identifying situations when attenuation or microphysical processes dominate KAZR observations. KAZR observations are also screened for signal saturation and wet radome effects. The algorithm is implemented in two steps: high rain rates are retrieved by using the amount of attenuation in rain layers, while low rain rates are retrieved from the reflectivity–rain rate (Ze–R) relation. Observations collected by the KAZR, rain gauge, disdrometer and scanning precipitating radars during the DYNAMO/AMIE field campaign at the Gan Island of the tropical Indian Ocean are used to validate the proposed approach. The differences in the rain accumulation from the proposed algorithm are quantified. The results indicate that the proposed algorithm has a potential for deriving continuous rain rate statistics in the tropics.
Polar cap patches observed during the magnetic storm of November 2003: observations and modeling
Authors: Valladares C. E. , Pedersen T. , Sheehan R.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. We present multi-instrumented measurements and multi-technique analysis of polar cap patches observed early during the recovery phase of the major magnetic storm of 20 November 2003 to investigate the origin of the polar cap patches. During this event, the Qaanaaq imager observed elongated polar cap patches, some of which containing variable brightness; the Qaanaaq digisonde detected abrupt NmF2 fluctuations; the Sondrestrom incoherent scatter radar (ISR) measured patches placed close to but poleward of the auroral oval–polar cap boundary; and the DMSP-F13 satellite intersected topside density enhancements, corroborating the presence of the patches seen by the imager, the digisonde, and the Sondrestrom ISR. A 2-D cross-correlation analysis was applied to series of two consecutive red-line images, indicating that the magnitude and direction of the patch velocities were in good agreement with the SuperDARN convection patterns. We applied a back-tracing analysis to the patch locations and found that most of the patches seen between 20:41 and 21:29 UT were likely transiting the throat region near 19:41 UT. Inspection of the SuperDARN velocities at this time indicates spatial and temporal collocation of a gap region between patches and large (1.7 km s−1) line-of-sight velocities. The variable airglow brightness of the patches observed between 20:33 and 20:43 UT was investigated using the numerical Global Theoretical Ionospheric Model (GTIM) driven by the SuperDARN convection patterns and a variable upward/downward neutral wind. Our numerical results indicate that variations in the airglow intensity up to 265 R can be produced by a constant 70 m s−1 downward vertical wind.
Determination of hydrological roughness by means of close range remote sensing
Authors: Kaiser A. , Neugirg F. , Haas F. , Schmidt J. , Becht M. , Schindewolf M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The objective of the presented work was to develop a method to acquire Manning's n by creating very high-resolution surface models with structure-from-motion methods. As hydraulic roughness is an essential parameter for physically based erosion models, a practical measuring technique is valuable during field work. Data acquisition took place during several field experiments in the Lainbach valley, southern Germany, and on agricultural sites in Saxony, eastern Germany, and in central Brazil. Rill and interrill conditions were simulated by flow experiments. In order to validate our findings stream velocity was measured with colour tracers. Grain sizes were derived by measuring distances from a best fit line to the reconstructed soil surface. Several diameters from D50 to D90 were tested with D90 showing best correlation between tracer experiments and photogrammetrically acquired data. Several roughness parameters were tested (standard deviation, random roughness, Garbrecht's n and D90). Best agreement in between the grain size and the hydraulic roughness was achieved with a non-linear sigmoid function and D90 rather than with the Garbrecht equation or statistical parameters.
A Return to The Waste Land After Césaire's Cahier
Authors: Gennaro Mara de
Published: September 2015

This article argues that reading The Waste Land and the Cahier d'un retour au pays natal together and in light of diasporic, postcolonial, and transnational feminist theory suggests new interpretive possibilities for both poems, and, more broadly, destabilizes an enduring divide between cosmopolitan varieties of canonical Anglo-modernism and transnational, especially francophone, postcolonialisms. The article's central claim is that the transfigured modernist elements in Césaire's poem and in C. L. R. James's theorizations of collectivity and poetics have the potential to educate us to interpret canonical modernist texts such as The Waste Land differently than we could before. Putting under scrutiny the idea that the cultural politics of poems remain constant notwithstanding the critical training we bring to reading them, the article asserts that Eliot and Césaire are productive to read together because, despite their obvious political differences, their signature poetic practices of indirection and comparatism undermine the cultural authority of canonical discourse in ways that can induce readers to try to imagine languages and perspectives excluded from such discourse. When we read for what is missing, what has no voice or adequate means of being heard or understood in the poems, we can better see how the poems reveal inadequacies of both inherited discourses and authoritative speaking subjects to make sense of the multivocal worlds to which both poems continually allude.
A usabilidade e acessibilidade de um ambiente virtual de aprendizagem com foco no usuário idoso: uma verificação ergonômica do Moodle
Authors: Campos Josiane Vieira , Anjos Thaiana Pereira dos , Gontijo Leila Amaral , Vieira Milton Luiz Horn
Published: September 2015

Introdução: o público idoso tem, em geral, características físicas, fisiológicas e cognitivas que dificultam a interação com produtos e sistemas eletrônicos e digitais, particularmente aqueles disponíveis em ambientes virtuais. Visto que a educação à distância tem se expandido consideravelmente, atingido os mais diferentes públicos e regiões, este artigo objetiva identificar recomendações de usabilidade e acessibilidade, para este público-alvo, no Moodle do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Santa Catarina (IFSC). Método: a investigação consistiu em quatro etapas: 1) pesquisa na literatura de recomendações de usabilidade e acessibilidade; 2) avaliação heurística do Moodle do IFSC; 3) identificação de características e consequências do envelhecimento que influenciam na utilização do Moodle pelo público idoso; e, 4) recomendações de usabilidade e acessibilidade para o Moodle com foco no usuário idoso. Resultados: as recomendações estão relacionadas com as funcionalidades, as os problemas de usabilidade e acessibilidade detectados na avaliação heurística e as características e consequências do envelhecimento. Conclusão: as recomendações de usabilidade e acessibilidade propostas podem auxiliar na inclusão digital do idoso, facilitando o seu aprendizado e o uso do ambiente, fomentando assim, a efetividade do processo educacional à distância e a possibilidade de uso do sistema pelo público idoso.
O Desafio da visibilidade
Authors: Marchiori Patricia Zeni , Appel Andre Luiz , Bettoni Eduardo Michelotti
Published: September 2015

A equipe editorial da AtoZ explora alguns aspectos condicionantes para a visibilidade de periódicos científicos e as estratégias da Revista para avançar neste objetivo.
Religie en cultuur in familierechtelijke beslissingen over kinderen
Authors: Jonker Merel , van Spaendonck Rozemarijn , Tigchelaar Jet
Published: September 2015

Religie en cultuur in familierechtelijke beslissingen over kinderen

In deze bijdrage worden de resultaten gepresenteerd van een uitgebreid jurisprudentieonderzoek naar de wijze waarop religie en cultuur betrokken worden in de overwegingen van de rechter in familierechtelijke beslissingen over kinderen in Nederland. Naast een kwantitatief overzicht van de gepubliceerde jurisprudentie worden de uitspraken inhoudelijk ontsloten en geanalyseerd aan de hand van thema's zoals bloedtransfusies, cultuurverschillen en identiteitsontwikkeling, rituelen (besnijdenis en doop) en schoolkeuze. Bij de analyse wordt onderscheid gemaakt tussen de rechten van het kind en de rechten van ouders, en wordt ingegaan op de vraag welke criteria de rechter hanteert voor de afweging van de rechten van het kind en diens ouders. Ook wordt besproken in hoeverre internationale normen herkenbaar zijn in de overwegingen van de rechter. Uit de 79 rechtszaken waarin de rechter overwegingen wijdt aan religie en cultuur, blijkt dat deze aspecten zowel positieve als negatieve effecten kunnen hebben op het belang van het kind en met name op de identiteitsontwikkeling van het kind. De rechter hanteert hierbij criteria zoals: schade voor de gezondheid van het kind, sociale aansluiting met anderen van dezelfde religieuze of culturele achtergrond, en praktische overwegingen.

This contribution presents the results of an extensive Dutch case law study on the way in which religion and culture play a role in the considerations of judges in family law decisions regarding children. In addition to a quantitative overview of the published case law in the Netherlands, the decisions are analysed on the basis of themes such as blood transfusion, culture differences and identity development, rituals (circumcision and baptism), and choosing a school. In the analysis, a distinction is made between the rights of the child and the rights of parents. Furthermore, the criteria which the judge deploys to balance the rights of the child and the rights of its parents are addressed. Finally, the extent to which international legal standards can be identified in the considerations of the judge is discussed. From the 79 cases in which the judge consider to religion and culture, it appears that these aspects can have both positive and negative effects upon the best interests of the child, and in particular upon the identity development of the child. In these cases, the judge uses criteria such as: harm to the health of the child, social connections with others of the same religious and cultural background, and practical day-to-day considerations.
Inburgeringseisen en het Unierecht
Authors: Woltjer A.
Published: September 2015

In een tweetal arresten heeft het Hof van Justitie uitspraak gedaan over de vraag of de in Nederland gehanteerde inburgeringseis verenigbaar is met het Unierecht, met name de Richtlijn langdurig ingezeten derdelanders en de Richtlijn gezinshereniging.

HvJ 4 juni 2015, zaak C-579/13, P en S, ECLI:EU:C:2015:369

HvJ 9 juli 2015, zaak C-153/14, K en A, ECLI:EU:C:2015:453
Implementatie van de herziene Asielprocedurerichtlijn: een nieuwe beslissystematiek en meer waarborgen voor asielzoekers
Authors: Reneman M.
Published: September 2015

Deze bijdrage bespreekt de gevolgen van de herziene Procedurerichtlijn (2013/32/EU) voor de Nederlandse asielprocedure. Deze richtlijn heeft geleid tot een aantal belangrijke wijzigingen in het Nederlandse systeem van procedures en soorten asielbeslissingen. De onverkorte handhaving van een aantal cruciale aspecten van de Nederlandse asielprocedure, zoals de snelle algemene asielprocedure en het toetsingskader voor tweede en volgende asielaanvragen, wringt echter met het systeem van de Procedurerichtlijn. Daarnaast zijn in navolging van de richtlijn een aantal nieuwe waarborgen voor asielzoekers geïntroduceerd, zoals passende steun voor kwetsbare asielzoekers, een verruimd recht op een rechtsmiddel met schorsende werking en een volledig en ex nunc onderzoek door de rechter.

Richtlijn 2013/32/EU van het Europees parlement en de Raad van 26 juni 2013 betreffende gemeenschappelijke procedures voor de toekenning en intrekking van de internationale bescherming (herschikking), PbEU 2013, L 180/60.
The long history of a melanoma associated with a congenital large plaque type blue nevus with subcutaneous cellular nodules
Authors: Savoia Francesco , Gaddoni Giuseppe , Re Giuseppe , Crisanti Emilia
Published: September 2015

The term large plaque type blue nevus with subcutaneous cellular nodules (LPTBN-SN) refers to a huge blue nevus, usually located on the trunk, that develops subcutaneous nodules many years after the lesion has appeared. The potential malignancy of an LPTBN-SN was only discovered in 2012.

We report the case of a 56-year-old Caucasian man that developed a cutaneous melanoma on an LPTBN-SN of the trunk. The first diagnosis was made more than 10 years before his death due to melanoma metastasis.

The case reported here highlights the malignant potential of an LPTBN-SN, the very long course even without treatment and the possible coexistence of benign, borderline or malignant subcutaneous nodules in the same LPTBN-SN.

Patients with large congenital blue nevi should be advised on the potential oncologic transformation of these lesions, the importance of follow-ups should be emphasized and, whenever possible, a preventive complete surgical removal should be evaluated before subcutaneous nodules develop.
The effects of a deleterious mutation load on patterns of influenza A/H3N2's antigenic evolution in humans
Authors: Koelle Katia , Rasmussen David A
Published: September 2015

Recent phylogenetic analyses indicate that RNA virus populations carry a significant deleterious mutation load. This mutation load has the potential to shape patterns of adaptive evolution via genetic linkage to beneficial mutations. Here, we examine the effect of deleterious mutations on patterns of influenza A subtype H3N2's antigenic evolution in humans. By first analyzing simple models of influenza that incorporate a mutation load, we show that deleterious mutations, as expected, act to slow the virus's rate of antigenic evolution, while making it more punctuated in nature. These models further predict three distinct molecular pathways by which antigenic cluster transitions occur, and we find phylogenetic patterns consistent with each of these pathways in influenza virus sequences. Simulations of a more complex phylodynamic model further indicate that antigenic mutations act in concert with deleterious mutations to reproduce influenza's spindly hemagglutinin phylogeny, co-circulation of antigenic variants, and high annual attack rates.
Chapter 8. The politics of place names: a summation
Authors: Wråkberg Urban
Published: September 2015

Remarks at the conclusion of a workshop, sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation, and held in Oslo, Norway, from 12-13 May 2015, to discuss the historic place names of the High Arctic archipelago of Franz Josef Land.  Discussed are new approaches to toponymic research suggested at the workshop, as well as perspective based in the author’s research on the toponymic history of Kong Karls Land in Svalbard.
5-α Reductase Inhibitors and Prostate Cancer Mortality
Authors: Hamilton Robert J. , Chavarriaga Julian , Khurram Najia , Lau Cindy , Luo Jin , Liu Ning , Komisarenko Maria , Kulkarni Girish , Wallis Christopher , Juurlink David N. , Fleshner Neil , Finelli Antonio
Published: August 2024

Importance

5-alpha-reductase-inhibitors (5-ARIs) are approved for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and have been found to reduce prostate cancer (PCa) risk by 25%. However, trials also have shown 5-ARIs to be associated with high-grade PCa. Whether 5-ARIs increase mortality among those with a diagnosis of PCa remains unclear.

Objective

To determine long-term outcomes of clinically localized PCa arising in individuals taking 5-ARIs compared with nonusers.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study was conducted between January 2003 and October 2017. Eligible participants were men aged 65 years or older in Ontario, Canada, who developed clinically localized PCa with complete pathological abstraction from the Ontario Health Administrative Databases. Data analysis occurred from November 2017 to November 2022.

Exposure

5-ARIs before PCa diagnosis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were overall mortality and PCa-specific mortality. Cause-specific hazard models with inverse probability treatment weights (IPTW) were used to examine associations of 5-ARI use with mortality outcomes. Sensitivity analyses based on prediagnostic 5-ARI use, Gleason score, comorbidity, 5-ARI indication, prostate-specific antigen modeling, and statin use were also performed.

Results

The cohort included 19 938 patients with PCa. Of these, 2112 (10.6%; median [IQR] age, 74 [70-79] years) were 5-ARI users and 17 826 (89.4%; median [IQR] age, 71 [68-76] years) were nonusers. During a median (IQR) follow-up of 8.96 (6.28-12.17) years, 6053 (30.4%) died, including 1047 (5.3%) from PCa. 5-ARI use appeared to be associated with increased overall and PCa specific mortality in crude analyses; however, after IPTW, 5-ARI use was not associated with overall mortality (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.90-1.07; P = .77) or PCa-specific mortality (hazard ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.83-1.25; P = .84).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this population-based cohort study of 5-ARI use prior to PCa diagnosis including long-term follow-up and clinicopathologic details, prediagnostic 5-ARI use was not associated with PCa-specific or all-cause mortality. This study offers reassuring safety data for patients using 5-ARIs before PCa diagnosis for both BPH and chemopreventive reasons.
Crystalline Texture Reengineering of Zinc Powder‐Based Fibrous Anode for Remarkable Mechano‐Electrochemical Stability
Authors: Shao Yanyan , Xia Zhou , Xu Liang , Zhang Xinyu , Yang Dongzi , Yang Zhicheng , Luo Jinrong , Xiao Gang , Yang Yinan , Su Yiwen , Lu Guoqing , Sun Jingyu , Cheng Tao , Shao Yuanlong
Published: August 2024

The challenge of inadequate mechano‐electrochemical stability in rechargeable fibrous Zn‐ion batteries (FZIBs) has emerged as a critical challenge for their broad applications. Traditional rigid Zn wires struggle to maintain a stable electrochemical interface when subjected to external mechanical stress. To address this issue, a wet‐spinning technique has been developed to fabricate Zn powder based fibrous anode, while carbon nanotubes (CNTs) introduced to enhance the spinnability of Zn powder dispersion. The followed annealing treatment has been conducted to reengineer the Zn crystalline texture with CNTs assisted surface tension regulation to redirect (002) crystallographic textural formation. The thus‐derived annealed Zn@CNTs fiber demonstrates great mechano‐electrochemical stability after a long‐term bending and electrochemical process. The fabricated FZIB demonstrates a remarkable durability, surpassing 800 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2, with a marginal voltage hysteresis increase of 21.7 mV even after 100 twisting cycles under 180 degree twisting angle. The assembled FZIB full cell displays an 88.6% capacity retention even after a long cycle of a series of bending, knotting, and straightening deformation. It has been also woven into a 200 cm2 size textile to demonstrate its capability to integrate into smart textiles.
All‐in‐One 2D Molecular Crystal Optoelectronic Synapse for Polarization‐Sensitive Neuromorphic Visual System
Authors: Dong Meiqiu , Zhang Yu , Zhu Jie , Zhu Xiaoting , Zhao Jinjin , Zhao Qiang , Sun Lingjie , Sun Yajing , Yang Fangxu , Hu Wenping
Published: August 2024

Neuromorphic visual systems (NVSs) hold the potential to not only preserve but also enhance human visual capabilities. One such augmentation lies in harnessing polarization information from light reflected or scattered off surfaces like bees, which can disclose unique characteristics imperceptible to the human eyes. While creating polarization‐sensitive optoelectronic synapses presents an intriguing avenue for equipping NVS with this capability, integrating functions like polarization sensitivity, photodetection, and synaptic operations into a singular device has proven challenging. This integration typically necessitates distinct functional components for each performance metric, leading to intricate fabrication processes and constraining overall performance. Herein, a pioneering linear polarized light sensitive synaptic organic phototransistor (OPT) based on 2D molecular crystals (2DMCs) with highly integrated, all‐in‐one functionality, is demonstrated. By leveraging the superior crystallinity and molecular thinness of 2DMC, the synaptic OPT exhibits comprehensive superior performance, including a linear dichroic ratio up to 3.85, a high responsivity of 1.47 × 104 A W−1, and the adept emulation of biological synapse functions. A sophisticated application in noncontact fingerprint detection achieves a 99.8% recognition accuracy, further highlights its potential. The all‐in‐one 2DMC optoelectronic synapse for polarization‐sensitive NVS marks a new era for intelligent perception systems.
Anatase‐Rutile TiO2@V4C3Tx MXene for Omnidirectional Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Shabana Neermunda , Muhsin Punnoli , Yang Ya‐Yun , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: August 2024

The quest for composite materials with unique features that each component, inherently, does not have is always an aspirational but challenging task. Among Transition metal oxides (TMOs), TiO2 emerged as a prototype due to its earth abundance, environmental friendliness, and cost‐effectiveness, which has shown high activity for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. Unfortunately, TiO2 is inert for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) because it has poor electrical conductivity and unfavorable hydrogen adsorption/desorption behavior. Herein the revitalization of inert TiO2 for overall water splitting, i.e., both HER and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is reported by anchoring rutile‐anatase (a/r) TiO2 nanoparticles on the ‐OH/‐F terminated V4C3Tx MXene, giving an a/r TiO2@V4C3Tx heterostructure. The synergetic effect showcases remarkable pH‐independent HER activity with an overpotential of 35, 39, and 82 mV in 0.5 m H2SO4, 1 m KOH, and 1 m phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) respectively. The catalyst also exhibits a pH‐independent OER activity with the lowest overpotential of 217, 267, and 292 mV in 1 m KOH, 0.5 m H2SO4, and 1 m PBS respectively, that outperforms pure TiO2. These findings, for the first time, support the success of anatase‐rutile TiO2@V4C3Tx MXene in omnidirectional performance, with low overpotential and pH independence, which pave an avenue for finding cost‐effective catalysts in overall water splitting.
Artificial Intelligence‐Enhanced “Photonic Nose” for Mid‐Infrared Spectroscopic Analysis of Trace Volatile Organic Compound Mixtures
Authors: Xie Junsheng , Ren Zhihao , Zhou Hong , Zhou Jingkai , Liu Weixin , Lee Chengkuo
Published: August 2024

Molecular identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) plays an important role in various applications including environmental monitoring and smart farming. Mid‐infrared (MIR) fingerprint absorption spectroscopy is a powerful tool to extract chemical‐specific features for gas identification. However, the detection and recognition of trace VOC gas mixtures remain challenging due to their intrinsic weak light–matter interaction and highly overlapped absorption spectra. Here, an artificial intelligence‐enhanced “photonic nose” for MIR spectroscopic analysis of trace VOC gas mixtures is proposed. To enhance the sensing performance by increasing bandwidth and sensitivity, the “photonic nose” is designed to employ coupled multi‐resonant plasmonic nanoantennas to cover MIR molecular fingerprints, coated with metal–organic frameworks as the gas enrichment layer. Low limits of detection are achieved (IPA: 1.99 ppm, ethanol: 3.43 ppm, and acetone: 9.82 ppm). With machine learning, a high classification accuracy of 100% is realized for 125 mixing ratios (IPA, ethanol: both 5 concentrations, 0–130 ppm; acetone: 5 concentrations, 0–201 ppm), and low‐deviation component concentration predictions of root‐mean‐squared error within 10 ppm are achieved for IPA and ethanol (both 0–130 ppm) under interference from 50 ppm acetone. The work paves the way for intelligent sensing platforms for environmental monitoring and smart framing.
Divergent Synthesis of Multisubstituted Hydroindole Derivatives via [3+2] Annulations of p‐Quinamines with Nitroalkenes
Authors: Qin Hao , Liu Didi , Wan Bingrui , Liu Zhe , Ding Yan , Zong Haonan , Huang Yi , Zou Liang‐Hua , Lai Zengwei
Published: August 2024

The synthesis of two stereoisomers of hydroindole derivatives was achieved through [3+2] annulations of p‐quinamines with nitroalkenes. Catalyst‐free or in the presence of DMAP, the annulation reactions were employed to produce the target products containing four contiguous stereogenic centers. This method enables the efficient construction of multisubstituted and functionalized hydroindole derivatives from readily accessible building blocks and reagents. Furthermore, the anti‐inflammatory activity of some resulting hydroindoles was evaluated, with three derivative products showing effective inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Effects of planting date and density on cotton cultivars in sub‐Saharan Africa rainfed conditions: A case study in Mali
Authors: Kassambara Elhadji Mamoudou , Loison Romain , Sissoko Sory , Traoré Abdou , Bretaudeau Alhousseini
Published: August 2024

Mali is among Africa's three biggest cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)‐producing countries, and cotton growing is the principal driving force behind Mali's agricultural sector. Cotton production is rainfed on small‐scale family farms as a commercial crop alongside staple crops grown for subsistence. Cultivar choice, planting date, and planting density are critical elements for seed cotton yield that should be optimized. This study aimed to understand the interactions between planting dates and planting densities for the optimal production of four cotton cultivars in Mali. Two trials were set up in two seasons at the Finkolo and N'Tarla research stations. A split‐plot design with four replications was used, with planting dates (early and delayed by 3 weeks) as the main plots and planting density (41,666; 83,333; and 166,666 plants/ha) and cultivar (Malian NTA MS334, Togolese STAM 129A, Australian SIOKRA L23, and Brazilian BRS 293) as the subplots. In 2021, seed cotton yield was 1263 kg/ha for early planting versus 361 kg/ha for late planting. Medium and high planting densities produced the same yield level, higher than the low planting density. Regardless of the planting density, early plantings' average capsular weight and seed index were higher than those of late plantings. The African cultivars (STAM 129A and Malian cultivar NTA MS334) were the most productive. Due to significant interactions on fiber percentage and to optimize cotton yields in Mali, planting should be early, with planting densities higher than 41,666 plants/ha, and either of the African cultivars tested should be used.
Engineering Polyheptazine and Polytriazine Imides for Photocatalysis
Authors: Jing Liquan , Li Zheng , Chen Zhangxin , Li Rengui , Hu Jinguang
Published: August 2024

As organic semiconductor materials gain increasing prominence in the realm of photocatalysis, two carbon‐nitrogen materials, poly (heptazine imide) (PHI) and poly (triazine imide) (PTI), have garnered extensive attention and applications owing to their unique structure properties. This review elaborates on the distinctive physical and chemical features of PHI and PTI, emphasizing their formation mechanisms and the ensuing properties. Furthermore, it elucidates the intricate correlation between the energy band structures and various photocatalytic reactions. Additionally, the review outlines the primary synthetic strategies for constructing PHI and PTI, along with characterization techniques for their identification. It also summarizes the primary strategies for enhancing the photocatalytic performance of PHI and PTI, whose advantages in various photocatalytic applications are discussed. Finally, it highlights the promising prospects and challenges of PHI and PTI as photocatalysts.
Mechanochromic Displays Based on Photoswitchable Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Elastomers
Authors: de Castro Lucas D. C. , Lub Johan , Oliveira Osvaldo N. , Schenning Albert P. H. J.
Published: August 2024

Stimuli responsive optical materials are attractive for many areas, from healthcare to art design. However, creating intricate color‐changing patterns for visual information is still a challenge. This work describes the preparation of mechanochromic structural colored intricate pictures imprinted in cholesteric liquid crystal elastomers by using a chiral isosorbide molecular photoswitch. The photoswitch contains a photoisomerizable cinnamate moiety and was incorporated in a main chain liquid crystal oligomer with photopolymerizable acrylate end groups. After coating, the structural colored film was irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light in air causing E/Z isomerization of the cinnamate units leading to a redshift of the structural color of the film. A grayscale photomask was used to spatially control the photoisomerization reaction and imprint colorful pictures such as portraits and landscapes, in the cholesteric liquid crystal films with high resolution. Photopolymerization in a nitrogen atmosphere led to a mechanochromic cholesteric liquid crystal elastomer with striking structural colors that blueshift upon strain. The sharp details of the patterns were preserved even under deformation and the system returned to the initial state upon strain removal. Our work offers a simple photoswitch approach to prepare stimuli responsive optical polymers imprinted with color‐changing pictures of unprecedented complexity.
Boryloxy Titanium Complex‐Enabled High Polar Monomer Contents in Catalytic Copolymerization of Olefins
Authors: Wei Chuanzhi , Guo Lulu , Zhu Cheng , Cui Chunming
Published: August 2024

The preparation of polyolefins with high polar monomer contents (above 20 mol %) has long been a challenge. Half‐titanocenes (Cp′)[HCN(Ar)]2BOTiCl2 bearing bulky electron‐donating N‐heterocyclic boryloxy ligands have been designed and synthesized. The complexes (Cp*)[HCN(Ar)]2BOTiCl2 (2, Ar=2,6‐iPr2C6H3; 5, Ar=2,4,6‐Me3C6H2) supported by Cp* and the boryloxy ligands have been shown to efficiently catalyze the copolymerization of ethylene and long chain α‐olefins. In particular, precatalyst 5 enabled the controlled synthesis of poly(ethylene‐co‐9‐decen‐1‐ol) with unprecedented high polar monomer contents up to 32.1 mol % while maintaining the high catalytic activity. The structural analysis and DFT calculations disclosed that the bulky and strong electron‐donating boryloxy ligands could effectively stabilize cationic active species. The mechanical studies on the hydroxyl‐functionalized copolymers disclosed that they exhibited high strength and toughness because of the existence of hydrogen bonds in the polymer network.
Navigating Accountable Conversations in Health Care: Balancing Power Dynamics
Authors: Clancy Cheri , Clancy Paige
Published: August 2024

Effective communication is crucial in health care and contributes to safe patient care and organizational excellence. Hierarchical differences can negatively affect communication among clinicians; however, recognizing and addressing power imbalances can improve patient safety. Individuals can feel empowered to express concerns and provide constructive feedback through clear communication with active listening. Perioperative nurses and leaders can use a variety of strategies to enhance accountable (or critical) conversations, such as structured communication models that guide participants through conversations and standardized procedures and tools to enhance the quality of team communication. This article provides an overview of accountable conversations, discusses the importance of structured communication models, and offers scenario‐based examples using two structured models to enhance the reader's understanding. Finally, the article describes cultural competence and the leader's role in developing a culture of accountability.
Hatcheries maintain high genetic variation but show shifts in genetic structure of progenies of five endangered riffleshell species (Epioblasma) (Bivalvia: Unionidae) of the eastern United States
Authors: Jones Jess W. , Ortiz Katlyn , Lane Timothy W. , Colletti Sarah , Leach Tiffany , McGregor Monte , Jacobs Julieann , Hallerman Eric M.
Published: August 2024

We assessed genetic variation at mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA microsatellites for progeny (i.e., juveniles produced at a hatchery) of five endangered Epioblasma species reared at three hatcheries in the eastern United States.

The progeny of Epioblasma aureola, Epioblasma brevidens, Epioblasma obliquata and Epioblasma triquetra showed no loss of mtDNA haplotype diversity relative to broodstock (i.e., wild collected gravid females used to produce juveniles) and wildstock (i.e., individuals sampled in the wild to assess baseline genetic diversity), while progeny of Epioblasma capsaeformis showed no loss relative to broodstock but an ~50% loss relative to wildstock.

At DNA microsatellites, mean expected heterozygosities (He) were maintained in wildstock, broodstock and progeny, with the lowest values observed in E. aureola and E. triquetra. Among progeny, values of He and allelic richness (A) at times exceeded those observed in the wildstock and broodstock. Hence, no loss of genetic variation at DNA microsatellites was observed in progeny among species.

We documented multiple paternity in progeny of E. aureola, E. capsaeformis and E. obliquata and in part attribute their high He and A to fertilization of broodstock females by multiple males in the wild.

We observed significant divergence in FST and D values between progeny to wildstock and progeny to broodstock. Most pairwise comparisons for E. brevidens and E. capsaeformis were significantly diverged, and for E. obliquata, divergence was low but also significantly different, and only for E. aureola was it low and nonsignificant.

Our results showed that population genetic structure can develop quickly between progeny and their progenitors in the first generation (F1) of offspring produced from a set of parents and that genetic diversity at mtDNA and nuclear DNA microsatellites was generally maintained in progeny of endangered Epioblasma species reared at three mussel hatcheries utilizing current propagation practices.
Evaluating UAV‐based multispectral imagery for mapping an intertidal seagrass environment
Authors: Elma Eylem , Gaulton Rachel , Chudley Thomas R. , Scott Catherine L. , East Holly K. , Westoby Hannah , Fitzsimmons Clare
Published: August 2024

Worldwide seagrass habitats are under severe anthropogenic threat. In the United Kingdom (UK), the health of habitats of the widely distributed Zostera species is particularly threatened by eutrophication that can lead to detrimental macroalgae overgrowth. To manage and conserve seagrass habitats, effective monitoring tools are required.

We use an off‐the‐shelf consumer‐grade multispectral (RGB, red edge, and near‐infrared) camera mounted on an unoccupied aerial vehicle (UAV) to map an intertidal multispecies seagrass environment in Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, Northumberland, UK.

Field surveys were undertaken of three seagrass areas, including those dominated by Zostera noltii, Zostera marina and macroalgae. Using the Maximum Likelihood Classifier (MLC), results indicated an overall accuracy (OA) between 84% and 91% across classified habitat maps. As expected, the red edge and near‐infrared bands offered an advantage beyond RGB imagery to discriminate between the vegetation types for accurate habitat mapping.

Our research provides a foundation for accurately mapping a complex intertidal seagrass environment through the utilisation of an off‐the‐shelf multispectral UAV. The study may aid the implementation and development of effective monitoring programmes for the management of Zostera spp. decline and macroalgae proliferation to prevent seagrass degradation and conserve these valuable yet fragile ecosystems.
Bioecological Attributes as Predictors of Global Extinction Risk for Marine Chondrichthyans (Chondrichthyes, Huxley, 1880)
Authors: Oliveira Cicero Diogo L. , da Silva Janaine Conceição , Ladle Richard J. , Batista Vandick S.
Published: August 2024

Marine chondrichthyans are experiencing a global decline, but identifying appropriate conservation actions is challenging due to the lack of basic biological information, such as growth parameters and reproduction. In this study, we identify biological and ecological attributes that can be both easily obtainable and are effective predictors of extinction threat.

A bioecological attribute database was constructed for marine chondrichthyan species, including information on maximum length, habitat, reproductive mode, trophic level and conservation status, among others. Data sources included the Shark‐References, IUCN and FishBase databases. Following this, a generalized linear model was built with conservation status as the response variable and bioecological attributes as explanatory variables, and the model's accuracy was tested for each group. Then, the model was applied to species not yet classified (data deficient [DD] or not evaluated [NE]) to determine their probability of extinction risk.

In total, data were compiled for 1225 species of marine Chondrichthyes (537 sharks, 636 rays and 52 chimaeras); approximately 20% of these species are classified as DD or NE. The model demonstrated high accuracy overall: 95% for chimaeras, 77% for rays and 72% for sharks. Our analysis indicates that, among the species that are classified as DD or NE, 58% of rays, 44% of sharks and 66% of chimaeras may be at risk of extinction.

These results clearly demonstrate how bioecological attributes can serve as proxies of extinction risk in Chondrichthyes and provide a solid foundation for conservation planning and prioritization for this ecologically important yet data poor taxon.
Entwicklung der digitalen Bauwerkserhaltung bei Ingenieurbauwerken der Bundesfernstraßen
Authors: Hindersmann Iris , Panzer Regina , Kraus Stefan , Windmann Sarah , Holst Ralph , Nieborowski Sonja , Richter Carl , Marzahn Gero
Published: August 2024

Im Rahmen dieses Beitrags werden die Ergebnisse des Workshops „Digitale Bauwerkserhaltung inklusive Bauwerksprüfung“ dargestellt, der im Februar 2024 in Bonn im Bundesministerium für Digitales und Verkehr stattfand. Ziel der Veranstaltung war die Vorstellung marktgängiger Lösungen für eine digitale Bauwerkserhaltung und ‐prüfung und deren zukünftiges Entwicklungspotenzial sowie die Formulierung von Anforderungen für weitergehende Anwendungsfälle und die Unterstützung zukünftiger Entwicklungen. Innerhalb einzelner Workshop‐Sessions wurden mit Teilnehmenden aus Industrie und Verwaltung die Herausforderungen, Potenziale und nächsten Schritte zur Umsetzung zu den Themen Bauwerksprüfung, zerstörungsfreie Prüfungen und Monitoring diskutiert. Im Ergebnis zeigte sich, dass das Fachgebiet der Bauwerkserhaltung ein großes Potenzial hat, durch digitale Technologien unterstützt zu werden. Dies setzt u. a. die Anpassung entsprechender Regelwerke, die Nutzung von Best‐Practice‐Anwendungen, die Integration der digitalen Technologien in den Erhaltungsprozess, die Unterstützung bei dem Aufbau eines Datenmanagementsystems und die Weiterbildung relevanter Prozesse und Arbeitsschritte voraus.
Exploring the pathogenesis of RA through the gut‐articular axis‐dysbiosis a potential factor
Authors: Wang Shuai , Liu Yue , Zou Xingyu , Pan Mengjun , Wan Qing , Chu Xiaoqin
Published: August 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease with a complex etiology. It has been suggested that the pathogenesis of RA begins in the mucosa and then transitions to the joints when many factors interact, including microbial dysbiosis, inflammatory responses, and immune abnormalities at the mucosal site. Data from RA animals and patients suggest there are changes in the mucosal microflora before the onset of RA, and that dysbiosis of the mucosal ecology continues to play a role in the development of arthritis. Microbial dysbiosis of the mucosa reduces the normal barrier function of the intestinal tract, promotes inflammatory reactions in the mucosal areas of the intestines, and then activates the intestinal immune cells abnormally to produce a large number of auto‐reactive antibodies that exacerbate arthritis. Current findings do not clarify whether dysbiosis is only a potential trigger for the development of RA. If it is possible to intervene in such microbial changes before the onset of RA, could the clinical symptoms of arthritis be prevented or reduced? Finding new ways to regulate gut flora composition to maintain gut barrier function is an ongoing challenge for the prevention and treatment of RA.
Claudin and transmembrane receptor protein gene expressions are reversely correlated in peritumoral brain edema
Authors: Abuelrub Anwar , Paker Berkay , Kilic Turker , Avsar Timucin
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Peritumoral brain edema (PTBE) has been widely reported with many brain tumors, especially with glioma. Since the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is essential for maintaining minimal permeability, any alteration in the interaction of BBB components, specifically in astrocytes and tight junctions (TJ), can result in disrupting the homeostasis of the BBB and making it severely leaky, which subsequently generates edema.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the functional gliovascular unit of the BBB by examining changes in the expression of claudin (CLDN) genes and the expression of transient receptor potential (TRP) membrane channels, additionally to define the correlation between their expressions. The evaluation was conducted using in vitro spheroid swelling models and tumor samples from glioma patients with PTBE.

Results

The results of the spheroid model showed that the genes TRPC3, TRPC4, TRPC5, and TRPV1 were upregulated in glioma cells either wild‐type isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) or the IDH1 R132H mutant, with or without NaCl treatment. Furthermore, TRP genes appeared to adversely correlate with the up regulation of CLDN1, CLDN3, and CLDN5 genes. Besides, the upregulation of TRPC1 and TRPC4 in IDH1mt‐R132H glioma cells. On the other hand, the correlation analysis revealed different correlations between different proteins in PTBE. CLDN1 exhibits a slight positive correlation with CLDN3. Similarly, TRPV1 displays a slight positive correlation with TRPC1. In contrast, TRPC4 shows a slight negative correlation with TRPC5. On the other hand, TRPC3 demonstrates a slight positive correlation with TRPC5, while the non‐PTBE analysis highlights a moderate positive correlation between CLDN1 and TRPM4 while CLDN3 exhibits a moderate negative correlation with TRPC4. Additionally, CLDN5 demonstrates a slight negative correlation with TRPC4 but a moderate positive correlation with TRPC3. Furthermore, TRPC1 have a slight negative correlation with TRPV1, TRPC3 exhibiting a slight positive correlation with TRPC4, and TRPV1 showing a slight negative correlation with TRPC5.

Conclusion

As a conclusion, the current study provided evidence of a slight negative correlation between TRPs and CLDN gene expression in PTBE patients and confirmatory results with some of the genes in cell model of edema.
Metastatic Non‐Myofibroblastic Sarcoma Harbouring EML4‐ALK Fusion—Dramatic Response to ALK Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Development of Resistance Mutations
Authors: Wilson Isabella , Qiu Min , Itchins Malinda , Wang Bin , Huang Min Li , Grimison Peter
Published: August 2024

Background

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangements are rare in non‐myofibroblastic sarcoma and there is limited data on the efficacy of ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and mechanisms of resistance in these patients.

Case

A 58 year‐old man with metastatic non‐myofibroblastic sarcoma was found to have an EML4‐ALK fusion on molecular sequencing. After progression on first line systemic therapy with doxorubicin, the patient received alectinib, a second generation ALK inhibitor, and had a marked clinical and radiological response. He progressed after 5 months of treatment. Repeat lung biopsy identified the emergence of an ALK I1171N resistance mutation. He was then treated with lorlatinib, again with rapid clinical improvement and significant partial radiological response. He progressed after 4 months, at which time a repeat lung biopsy identified a new ALK kinase domain mutation G1202R. The patient was subsequently treated with chemotherapy, though unfortunately died shortly after due to rapidly progressive disease.

Conclusion

This case report adds to a body of evidence demonstrating the potential transformative response to targeted therapy in non‐lung solid organ tumours harbouring ALK fusions. This is the first description tracking the development of resistance mutations in a patient with non‐myofibroblastic sarcoma and questions the utility of the presence of G1202R mutation as a marker of lorlatinib sensitivity in non‐lung ALK rearranged tumours, contrary to experience in lung cancer.