bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and polymorphism of microsatellite primers in Ficus pumila L. (Moraceae)
Authors: Zhang Jian , Jiang Kai , Shi Yi‐Su , Liu Min , Chen Xiao‐Yong
Published: June 2011

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite primers were developed in the functionally dioecious Ficus pumila L. to provide polymorphic markers for further population genetic studies and parentage analysis.

• Methods and Results: Eleven polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed in F. pumila. These loci were successfully amplified in four F. pumila populations from eastern China (Fodu, Xiangshan, Xianju, and Hexi). These loci had 3–11 alleles across all 80 F. pumila individuals. At the population level, the number of alleles per locus varied from 1 to 8, and the observed (HO) and expected (HE) heterozygosities ranged from 0.000 to 0.900 and from 0.000 to 0.830, respectively. Linkage disequilibrium between loci FP213 and FP435 was found in three of the four tested populations.

• Conclusions: These loci showed high levels of polymorphism, indicating the utility of these primers in population genetic studies as well as parentage analysis of F. pumila.
Development and characterization of 20 novel polymorphic STS markers in Vicia faba (fava bean)
Authors: Wang Haifei , Yang Tao , Guan Jianping , Ma Yu , Sun Xuelian , Zong Xuxiao
Published: June 2011

• Premise of the study: Sequence tagged site (STS) primers were developed for Vicia faba, based on amplified bands by ISSR primers. The usefulness of these STS markers was validated for size polymorphism among fava bean accessions.

• Methods and Results: Based on the sequences derived from intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) amplification, 66 sequence tagged site (STS) primer pairs were developed and screened, and 20 of them were polymorphic. The polymorphism of these markers was identified in 32 fava bean germplasm from different global geographical locations. Alleles (Na) per locus numbered 2 to 4, and expected heterozygosity (HE) per locus ranged from 0.000 to 0.714. There was significant variation in HE among germplasm from different regions for individual primers.

• Conclusions: These novel polymorphic STS markers may be useful and convenient for further studies of population genetics, cultivar identification, and evolution in fava bean.
Gold-catalyzed oxidation of arylallenes: Synthesis of quinoxalines and benzimidazoles
Authors: Cui Dong-Mei , Zhuang Dan-Wen , Chen Ying , Zhang Chen
Published: June 2011

A gold-catalyzed oxidation of arylallenes to form α-diketones and aldehydes in good yields is presented. Further directed synthesis of quinoxalines and benzimidazoles, via the condensation of the resulting α-diketones and aldehydes with benzene-1,2-diamine, was achieved in high yields.
Figures de l'emprise
Authors: Bessoles Philippe
Published: June 2011

La propagande comme le fanatisme rend compte des figures de l’emprise. En référence aux propositions freudiennes et post freudiennes de l’emprise, nous envisageons la cruauté (1905), la fécalisation (1913) et le sadisme (1915) comme triptyque majeur des composantes psychiques, sociales et sociétales de l’emprise. La pulsion scopique en relaye les variables de destructivité et d’assujettissement. À partir du référentiel génocidaire du Rwanda ou du génocide khmer rouge, nous faisons de la paranoïa le paradigme psychopathologique de la relation d’emprise à l’œuvre dans le fanatisme et la propagande.
Diffusion of Innovations in Long-Term Care Measurement Battery
Authors: McConnell Eleanor S. , Corazzini Kirsten N. , Lekan Deborah , Bailey Donald E. , Sloane Richard , Landerman Lawrence R. , Champagne Mary T.
Published: June 2011

Poor understanding of factors influencing integration of new practices into long-term care (LTC) hinders timely implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs). Using the Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) framework, a new instrument measuring staff perceptions of an EBP was developed as part of a DOI-LTC measurement battery and tested in a cross-sectional survey of North Carolina LTC nursing personnel. Valid questionnaires were received from 95 licensed nurses and 102 certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Internal consistency reliability for five of seven subscales was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient = 0.77 to 0.95). Perception of innovation attributes was associated with intention to adopt the new practice (Spearman rho correlation: licensed nurses = 0.41 to 0.68,
p
< 0.0001; CNAs = 0.26 to 0.54,
p
= 0.05 to <0.0001). The DOI-LTC measurement battery represents a promising new approach to studying implementation of EBPs in LTC. Future work should examine its responsiveness to interventions that facilitate implementation of EBPs in LTC.
Focal dermal hypoplasia in a male
Authors: George Leni , Agrawal Nisha , Hogan Peter
Published: June 2011

Focal dermal hypoplasia (FDH) is a rare mesoectodermal dysplasia syndrome characterized by cutaneous, skeletal, dental, ocular and soft-tissue defects. An X-linked dominant mode of inheritance with lethality in male subjects has been proposed. Only around 30 cases of FDH have been reported in male subjects. Live born affected males are mosaic for mutations in PORCN gene . We present the mosaic pattern of FDH  in a young boy.
Double Cord Blood Transplantation: Co-Operation or Competition?
Authors: Neokleous Nikolaos , Sideri Anastasia , Peste-Tsilimidos Corina
Published: June 2011

Over the last two decades umbilical cord blood (UCB) transplantation (UCBT) is increasingly used for a variety of malignant and benign hematological and other diseases. The main factor that limits the use of UCB to low weight recipients, mainly children and adolescents, is its low progenitor cell content. Various alternatives have been exploited to overcome this difficulty, including the transplantation of two UCB units (double umbilical cord blood transplantation, dUCBT). Following dUCBT, donor(s) hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) can be detected in the peripheral blood of the recipient as soon as 14 days post-transplantation. Sustained engraftment of HSC from one or both donors can be observed- dominance or mixed chimerism respectively, although single donor unit dominance has been observed in over 85% of patients. The underlying biology, which accounts for the interactions both between the two infused UCB units- cooperative or competitive, and with the recipient’s immune system, has not been elucidated.
Men Who have Sex with Men in China have Relatively Low Numbers of Sexual Partners
Authors: Zhang Lei , Chow Eric Pui Fung , Wilson David P.
Published: June 2011

HIV prevalence is increasing rapidly among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China and potentially associated with the number of male sexual partners that each man has on average. This study estimates the distribution of the number of male sexual partners among Chinese MSM through a comprehensive review of English and Chinese published literature. The overall median number of male sexual partners of Chinese MSM in the past 6 months China was estimated to be 1.5 (95% CI, 1.1-1.9) and 3.8 (95% CI 1.5-6.9) sexual partners in the past 6-month and 12-month periods respectively. An estimated 31% of sexual partners of MSM in China are regular partners, 54% are casual partners, and 16% are commercial partners. The reported numbers of sexual partners has not changed over time during the past decade. The numbers of male sexual partners reported by Chinese MSM is consistently lower than other settings and may not be sufficient to explain the recent rapid increase in HIV prevalence.
Soil ice content measurement using a heat pulse probe method
Authors: Liu Gang , C. Si Bing
Published: June 2011

Liu, G. and Si, B. C. 2011. Soil ice content measurement using a heat pulse probe method. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 235–246. Measuring the volume-based ice content (θi) and thermal conductivity (k) of frozen soil is important for modeling energy and water balance of the earth's surface. The objective of this study was to examine whether a heat pulse probe (HPP) method can be used to measure soil ice content. To minimize ice melting, a heat pulse of duration of 60 s and strength of q′≈25 W m−1was used for a HPP in frozen sands at various temperatures (T). For a 60-s heating duration, we compared the infinite line source (ILS) solution and finite line source solution with the solution of finite sample size and finite line source through simulations. The simulation suggested that a 60-s heating duration for ILS can be used for long heater probes in infinite media, or short probes in finite size samples in containers made of thermally insulating materials. In this study, sands were packed in small containers with heat pulse probes and a 60-s heating duration, and ILS were used for ice content estimation. Our results suggest that the HPP method has limited use in frozen soil. For sands with a mean grain size of 0.41 mm and 2.13 mm, there were good agreements between the HPP measured and gravimetric θivalues at temperature below −22°C and −18°C, respectively. However, above these temperatures, ice melting was significant and would lead to overestimation of θi. The higher the initial temperature, the larger the overestimation of θi.
Positive Solutions of Impulsive Dynamic System on Time Scales
Authors: Wang Da-Bin
Published: June 2011

In this paper, some criteria for the existence of positive solutions of a class of systems of impulsive dynamic equations on time scales are obtained by using a fixed point theorem in cones.
Mahjong and Problem Gambling in Sydney: An Exploratory Study with Chinese Australians
Authors: Zheng Wu Yi , Walker Michael , Blaszczynski Alex
Published: June 2011

Gambling is accepted as an integral part of Chinese cultural heritage. Epidemiological and clinical studies indicate that problem gambling rates among Chinese community members residing in Western countries are substantially higher (2.1-2.9%) compared with those reported for mainstream populations (0.5-1.7%). However, these studies failed to differentiate culturally specific forms of gambling and their association with problem gambling within Chinese samples. Thus, it is not possible to determine if, or what proportion of, Chinese problem gamblers exhibit a propensity to experience problems with culturally specific, as opposed to mainstream, forms of gambling. Mahjong, a popular game deeply entrenched in Chinese tradition, is played among peers and family members. In a recent study conducted by Zheng, Walker, and Blaszczynski (2008), high rates of Mahjong-associated problem gambling were found in a sample of Chinese international students attending language schools and universities in Sydney, Australia. The aim of the current study was to explore the extent of Mahjong-associated problem gambling in a broader community sample of Chinese Australians. Results showed that in a sample of 229 respondents, males and those 35 years or older were more likely to gamble on Mahjong and that 3.1% met the Canadian Problem Gambling Severity Index criteria for Mahjong problem gambling.
Exploring Expectations for Upper-Extremity Motor Treatment in People After Stroke: A Secondary Analysis
Authors: Prager Eliza M. , Birkenmeier Rebecca L. , Lang Catherine E.
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE. We explored expectations for outcomes during a research intervention for people with stroke.

METHOD. Twelve people with chronic stroke participated in this secondary analysis from a pilot trial of a high-repetition, task-specific, upper-extremity intervention. First, we examined relationships between individual expectancy and session-by-session achievement of high numbers of repetitions. Second, we examined the relationship between expectancy for the intervention as a whole and improvements in upper-extremity motor function. We used Spearman rank-order correlation coefficients to evaluate the relationships.

RESULTS. Correlations between individual expectancy and session-by-session achievement ranged from 0 to .84. Expectancy for improvement from the intervention was good (average = 7 of 10) but had a low correlation (.17) with actual improvement.

CONCLUSION. Individual expectancy ratings were inconsistently related to session-by-session achievement. Expectancy for the invention as a whole was not related to improvement in upper-extremity motor function.
Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy for Elderly Clients With Subacute Stroke
Authors: McCall Martha , McEwen Sara , Colantonio Angela , Streiner David , Dawson Deirdre R.
Published: June 2011

A growing body of research, including evidence from numerous randomized controlled trials, suggests that constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) reduces impairment. The mean age of participants in most studies has been <65 yr, even though most stroke survivors are older than that. We investigated the efficacy of a modified CIMT protocol on participation, activity, and impairment in a population of older adults experiencing subacute stroke. Using an interrupted time series design, 4 older adults (mean age = 82) were assessed before and after intervention. Although none of the participants adhered to the 6-hr per day self-practice aspect of the CIMT protocol, considerable improvements were noted in participation, as measured using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. Some improvements were also noted at the level of impairment and activity. This work accords with previous literature on CIMT and has important implications for the evolution of stroke rehabilitation in elderly people.
Barriers to Developing and Sustaining Driving and Community Mobility Programs
Authors: Stav Wendy , Weidley Laura Snider , Love Anthea
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE. To begin to address the shortage of driving rehabilitation and community mobility programs to meet the community mobility needs of older adults and clients with rehabilitative needs, we sought to identify the key barriers to developing and sustaining such programs.

METHOD. We used a survey design to solicit input from a nationally representative sample of occupational therapy practitioners, rehabilitation managers, and health care administrators.

RESULTS. The 2,869 completed surveys revealed widespread and largely contextual barriers related to fiscal support, infrastructure, physical environment, and institutional culture. The barriers were highly correlated with each other and did not differ across regions, practitioner experience levels, or facility types.

CONCLUSION. This study was an important preliminary step in constructing a resource toolkit with strategies to overcome the identified barriers to developing and sustaining driving and community mobility programs that meet the needs of older adults and clients with rehabilitative needs. This toolkit, which is available on the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Web site, is a necessary resource for use in all practice settings to meet the driving and community mobility needs of this population in support of engagement in community-based occupations.
A global climatology of tropospheric and stratospheric ozone derived from Aura OMI and MLS measurements
Authors: Ziemke J. R. , Chandra S. , Labow G. , Bhartia P. K. , Froidevaux L. , Witte J. C.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. A global climatology of tropospheric and stratospheric column ozone is derived by combining six years of Aura Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) and Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) ozone measurements for the period October 2004 through December 2010. The OMI/MLS tropospheric ozone climatology exhibits large temporal and spatial variability which includes ozone accumulation zones in the tropical south Atlantic year-round and in the subtropical Mediterranean/Asia region in summer months. High levels of tropospheric ozone in the Northern Hemisphere also persist in mid-latitudes over the Eastern North American and Asian continents extending eastward over the Pacific Ocean. For stratospheric ozone climatology from MLS, largest ozone abundance lies in the Northern Hemisphere in the latitude range 70° N–80° N in February–April and in the Southern Hemisphere around 40° S–50° S during months August–October. The largest stratospheric ozone abundances in the Northern Hemisphere lie over North America and Eastern Asia extending eastward across the Pacific Ocean and in the Southern Hemisphere south of Australia extending eastward across the dateline. With the advent of many newly developing 3-D chemistry and transport models it is advantageous to have such a dataset for evaluating the performance of the models in relation to dynamical and photochemical processes controlling the ozone distributions in the troposphere and stratosphere. The OMI/MLS ozone gridded climatology data, both calculated mean values and RMS uncertainties are made available to the science community via the NASA total ozone mapping spectrometer (TOMS) website http://toms.gsfc.nasa.gov.
The last deglaciation: timing the bipolar seesaw
Authors: Pedro J. B. , van Ommen T. D. , Rasmussen S. O. , Morgan V. I. , Chappellaz J. , Moy A. D. , Masson-Delmotte V. , Delmotte M.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Precise information on the relative timing of north-south climate variations is a key to resolving questions concerning the mechanisms that force and couple climate changes between the hemispheres. We present a new composite record made from five well-resolved Antarctic ice core records that robustly represents the timing of regional Antarctic climate change during the last deglaciation. Using fast variations in global methane gas concentrations as time markers, the Antarctic composite is directly compared to Greenland ice core records, allowing a detailed mapping of the inter-hemispheric sequence of climate changes. Consistent with prior studies the synchronized records show that warming (and cooling) trends in Antarctica closely match cold (and warm) periods in Greenland on millennial timescales. For the first time, we also identify a sub-millennial component to the inter-hemispheric coupling. Within the Antarctic Cold Reversal the strongest Antarctic cooling occurs during the pronounced northern warmth of the Bølling. Warming then resumes in Antarctica, potentially as early as the Intra-Allerød Cold Period, but with dating uncertainty that could place it as late as the onset of the Younger Dryas stadial. There is little-to-no time lag between climate transitions in Greenland and opposing changes in Antarctica. Our results lend support to fast acting inter-hemispheric coupling mechanisms, including recently proposed bipolar atmospheric teleconnections and/or rapid bipolar ocean teleconnections.
Modelling the statistical dependence of rainfall event variables through copula functions
Authors: Balistrocchi M. , Bacchi B.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. In many hydrological models, such as those derived by analytical probabilistic methods, the precipitation stochastic process is represented by means of individual storm random variables which are supposed to be independent of each other. However, several proposals were advanced to develop joint probability distributions able to account for the observed statistical dependence. The traditional technique of the multivariate statistics is nevertheless affected by several drawbacks, whose most evident issue is the unavoidable subordination of the dependence structure assessment to the marginal distribution fitting. Conversely, the copula approach can overcome this limitation, by dividing the problem in two distinct parts. Furthermore, goodness-of-fit tests were recently made available and a significant improvement in the function selection reliability has been achieved. Herein the dependence structure of the rainfall event volume, the wet weather duration and the interevent time is assessed and verified by test statistics with respect to three long time series recorded in different Italian climates. Paired analyses revealed a non negligible dependence between volume and duration, while the interevent period proved to be substantially independent of the other variables. A unique copula model seems to be suitable for representing this dependence structure, despite the sensitivity demonstrated by its parameter towards the threshold utilized in the procedure for extracting the independent events. The joint probability function was finally developed by adopting a Weibull model for the marginal distributions.
Double rank-ordering technique of ROMA (Rank-Ordered Multifractal Analysis) for multifractal fluctuations featuring multiple regimes of scales
Authors: Tam S. W. Y. , Chang T.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Rank-Ordered Multifractal Analysis (ROMA), a technique capable of deciphering the multifractal characteristics of intermittent fluctuations, was originally applied to the results of a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulation. Application of ROMA to measured fluctuations in the auroral zone, due to the dominant physical effects changing from kinetic to MHD as the scale increases, requires an additional level of rank-ordering in order to divide the domain of scales into regimes. An algorithm for the additional step in this double rank-ordering technique is discussed, and is demonstrated in the application to the electric field fluctuations in the auroral zone as an example. As a result of the double rank-ordering, ROMA is able to take into account the nonlinear crossover behavior characterized by the multiple regimes of time scales by providing a scaling variable and a scaling function that are global to all the time scales.
Intermittent fault detection in nonstationary processes via a Wald‐based control chart
Authors: Liu Yifan , Zhao Yinghong , Gao Ming , Sheng Li
Published: May 2024

In this article, the problem of intermittent fault (IF) detection is investigated for nonstationary processes in the multivariate statistics framework. By combining the moving window technique with maximum likelihood estimation (MLE), the moving window Wald‐based control chart is proposed to realize the detection of IFs in nonstationary processes. The computational efficiency and the convergence properties are discussed for the designed iterative algorithm of MLE. Then, necessary and sufficient conditions are presented to guarantee the detectability of IFs with the consideration of window lengths. Moreover, the alarm delays are analyzed for the appearance and disappearance of IFs. In virtue of the above analysis, the optimal window length is derived by minimizing the supremum of alarm delays. In order to estimate the time of IFs' appearance and disappearance, an algorithm is designed with the inspiration of simulated annealing strategy. Finally, a simulation on rotary steerable drilling tool system is provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Photoredox/Cu‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative C(sp3)−C(sp3) Coupling to Access C(sp3)‐Rich gem‐Diborylalkanes
Authors: Huang Mingming , Sun Huaxing , Seufert Florian , Friedrich Alexandra , Marder Todd B. , Hu Jiefeng
Published: May 2024

gem‐Diborylalkanes are highly valuable building blocks in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical chemistry due to their ability to participate in multi‐step cross‐coupling transformations, allowing for the rapid generation of molecular complexity. While progress has been made in their synthetic metholodology, the construction of β‐tertiary and C(sp3)‐rich gem‐diborylalkanes remains a synthetic challenge due to substrate limitations and steric hindrance issues. An approach is presented that utilizes synergistic photoredox and copper catalysis to achieve efficient C(sp3)−C(sp3) cross‐coupling of alkyl N‐hydroxyphthalimide esters, which can easily be obtained from alkyl carboxylic acids, with diborylmethyl species, providing a series of C(sp3)‐rich gem‐diborylalkanes with 1°, 2°, and even 3° β positions. Furthermore, this approach can also be applied to complex medicinal compounds and natural products, offering rapid access to molecular complexity and late‐stage functionalization of C(sp3)‐rich drug candidates. Mechanistic experiments revealed that diborylmethyl Cu(I) species participated in both the photoredox process and the key C(sp3)−C(sp3) bond‐forming step.
Enhancement of nitric oxide reduction via CeZrOx/Cu‐SSZ‐39 hybrid catalyst: Improving activity and hydrothermal stability
Authors: Li Yunhui , Li Kunting , Zhu Xingdong , Zhang Xinyan , Zhang Xin
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to improve the catalytic activity and hydrothermal stability of Cu‐SSZ‐39 zeolite by coupling it with cerium zirconium oxides (CeZrOx), which possesses excellent oxidizing ability, and a hybrid catalyst CeZrOx/Cu‐SSZ‐39 was prepared. It is found that it exhibited enhanced low‐temperature activity, high‐temperature activity, and a wider effective temperature range compared to Cu‐SSZ‐39. Characterization results showed that the CeZrOx/Cu‐SSZ‐39 catalyst had a higher concentration of active Cu2+ ion species and improved redox properties, which could potentially promote the NH3‐SCR reaction. Additionally, the CeZrOx/Cu‐SSZ‐39 catalyst had increased chemisorbed oxygen species on its surface, facilitating the oxidation of NO to NO2 and enhancing the rate of the SCR reaction. Moreover, even after undergoing hydrothermal aging treatment, the CeZrOx/Cu‐SSZ‐39 catalyst exhibited superior catalytic activity and improved hydrothermal stability, surpassing the performance of Cu‐SSZ‐39. It is found the CeZrOx coupling allowed the hybrid catalyst to maintain a better specific surface area and pore structure during hydrothermal aging, resulting in reduced activity loss. Therefore, the addition of CeZrOx enhanced the NH3‐SCR activity of Cu‐SSZ‐39 zeolite, leading to improved catalytic activity and hydrothermal stability. CeZrOx/Cu‐SSZ‐39 catalyst has shown promising aspect for reducing NOx emissions from diesel vehicle exhaust.
Organic Mixed Ionic‐Electronic Conductors as Multi‐Functional Binders for Energy‐Dense Carbon‐Free Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Zhao Liyi , Dong Qingyu , Wang Xuechun , Li Zhiyun , Shao Hui , Shen Yanbin , Chen Liwei
Published: May 2024

Solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries are considered as one of the most promising candidates for next‐generation energy storage devices with high energy density and enhanced safety. Great efforts have been made to design solid‐state electrolytes with enhanced ionic conductivity and to protect the electrochemical interface of the lithium anode. However, the obstruction of ionic‐electronic transport within the cathode remains as another key challenge that needs to be addressed for the practical application of solid‐state batteries. Here, we prepared organic mixed ionic‐electronic conductors (OMIECs) by in‐situ co‐polymerization of three organic monomers (boron‐type crosslinker, ionic liquid, and sulfolene) in the network of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(4‐styrenesulfonate). The as‐prepared OMIECs show an electronic conductivity up to 33.6 S cm−1 and ionic conductivity of 1.7×10−4 S cm−1 at 30 °C, and also binder functionality, providing a combined path for Li+/e− transport in cathodes and maintaining mechanical/(electro−)chemical stability. As a result, solid‐state cathodes composed of 90.0 wt % active materials and only 10.0 wt % OMIECs display exceptional electrochemical characteristics at 30 °C, including high C‐rate capabilities and prolonged cycle life. This novel design of all‐in‐one OMIECs for carbon‐free cathodes demonstrates a promising strategy for developing multifunctional additives for high‐performance solid‐state batteries.
Bowl‐Shaped Kekulene Analogues: Cycloarenes with two Five‐Membered Rings
Authors: Murakami Hideyuki , Iwabuchi Hiroki , Asari Miki , Yamada Hiroko , Kuzuhara Daiki
Published: May 2024

Kekulene, a cycloarene composed of 12 fused benzene rings in a circular arrangement, exhibits a highly planar and robust structure. Kekulene has been the subject of investigation into its aromaticity and electronic structure, particularly in relation to the cyclic benzenoid. We have successfully synthesized novel bowl‐shaped kekulene analogues with five‐membered rings incorporated into the kekulene structure. The results of DFT calculations and VT‐NMR spectra indicate that inversion of their concave‐convex structures occurs at room temperature. The NICS and AICD plots predict that the Clar's type resonance structure is found in a manner analogous to the pristine kekulene, albeit with the interruption of the π‐conjugation on the sp3 carbons at the five‐membered rings. Despite the presence of the Clar's resonance structure, the Diels‐Alder reaction proceeded smoothly with a dienophile, in contrast to the behavior of planar kekulene derivatives. This study will lead to the creation of novel bowl‐shaped compounds and development of reactivity in aromatic compounds.
Cancer in people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or gender‐nonconforming
Authors: Kratzer Tyler B. , Star Jessica , Minihan Adair K. , Bandi Priti , Scout N. F. N. , Gary Monique , Riddle‐Jones Latonya , Giaquinto Angela N. , Islami Farhad , Jemal Ahmedin , Siegel Rebecca L.
Published: May 2024

Background

Individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, or gender‐nonconforming (LGBTQ+) experience discrimination and minority stress that may lead to elevated cancer risk.

Methods

In the absence of population‐based cancer occurrence information for this population, this article comprehensively examines contemporary, age‐adjusted cancer risk factor and screening prevalence using data from the National Health Interview Survey, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, and National Youth Tobacco Survey, and provides a literature review of cancer incidence and barriers to care.

Results

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults are more likely to smoke cigarettes than heterosexual adults (16% compared to 12% in 2021–2022), with the largest disparity among bisexual women. For example, 34% of bisexual women aged 40–49 years and 24% of those 50 and older smoke compared to 12% and 11%, respectively, of heterosexual women. Smoking is also elevated among youth who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (4%) or transgender (5%) compared to heterosexual or cisgender (1%). Excess body weight is elevated among lesbian and bisexual women (68% vs. 61% among heterosexual women), largely due to higher obesity prevalence among bisexual women (43% vs. 38% among lesbian women and 33% among heterosexual women). Bisexual women also have a higher prevalence of no leisure‐time physical activity (35% vs. 28% among heterosexual women), as do transgender individuals (30%–31% vs. 21%–25% among cisgender individuals). Heavier alcohol intake among lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals is confined to bisexual women, with 14% consuming more than 7 drinks/week versus 6% of heterosexual women. In contrast, prevalence of cancer screening and risk reducing vaccinations in LGBTQ+ individuals is similar to or higher than their heterosexual/cisgender counterparts except for lower cervical and colorectal cancer screening among transgender men.

Conclusions

People within the LGBTQ+ population have a higher prevalence of smoking, obesity, and alcohol consumption compared to heterosexual and cisgender people, suggesting a higher cancer burden. Health systems have an opportunity to help inform these disparities through the routine collection of information on sexual orientation and gender identity to facilitate cancer surveillance and to mitigate them through education to increase awareness of LGBTQ+ health needs.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Isocyanide Insertion into the Remotely Activated N−H bond of 3‐(Phenylhydrazono)oxindoles: Facile Access to Indole‐N‐Carboxamide Derivatives
Authors: Soam Pooja , Mandal Debasish , Tyagi Vikas
Published: May 2024

A convenient approach for synthesizing indole‐N‐carboxamide derivatives through palladium‐catalyzed isocyanide insertion into the N−H bond of 3‐(phenylhydrazono)oxindoles has been developed. The inclusion of the 3‐phenylhydrazone group proved essential in remotely activating the N−H bond of the oxindole. Also, it has been established that the reaction outcome is highly dependent on the electronic effects of the substituents.
Autoimmune‐associated seizure disorders
Authors: Smith Kelsey M. , Budhram Adrian , Geis Christian , McKeon Andrew , Steriade Claude , Stredny Coral M. , Titulaer Maarten J. , Britton Jeffrey W.
Published: May 2024

With the discovery of an expanding number of neural autoantibodies, autoimmune etiologies of seizures have been increasingly recognized. Clinical phenotypes have been identified in association with specific underlying antibodies, allowing an earlier diagnosis. These phenotypes include faciobrachial dystonic seizures with LGI1 encephalitis, neuropsychiatric presentations associated with movement disorders and seizures in NMDA‐receptor encephalitis, and chronic temporal lobe epilepsy in GAD65 neurologic autoimmunity. Prompt recognition of these disorders is important, as some of them are highly responsive to immunotherapy. The response to immunotherapy is highest in patients with encephalitis secondary to antibodies targeting cell surface synaptic antigens. However, the response is less effective in conditions involving antibodies binding intracellular antigens or in Rasmussen syndrome, which are predominantly mediated by cytotoxic T‐cell processes that are associated with irreversible cellular destruction. Autoimmune encephalitides also may have a paraneoplastic etiology, further emphasizing the importance of recognizing these disorders. Finally, autoimmune processes and responses to novel immunotherapies have been reported in new‐onset refractory status epilepticus (NORSE) and febrile infection‐related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES), warranting their inclusion in any current review of autoimmune‐associated seizure disorders.
Organization capital and financial statement comparability
Authors: Biswas Pallab , Ranasinghe Dinithi
Published: May 2024

We examine whether firms with high organizational capital produce more (less) financial statement comparability. We use firm‐level data from the U.S. and apply regression analyses to a sample of 56,459 firm‐year observations from 1987 to 2019. Organizational capital encompasses the processes, systems, knowledge, culture, and technology of a firm, playing a crucial role in securing competitive advantages, which leads to enhanced profitability and growth prospects. It has been observed that companies rich in organizational capital experience better financial outcomes. However, these companies also face significant agency issues, as both shareholders and crucial employees have stakes in the cash flows generated by organizational capital. We propose that managers of companies with substantial organizational capital tend to produce financial statements that are less comparable. This strategy allows them to obscure the firm's economic performance from shareholders, aiming to retain a larger portion of the cash flows. The discovery that companies modify comparability in reaction to organization processes, culture and business models captures the attention of regulators and policymakers, who highlight the significance of comparability in enhancing the utility of information for users. The findings extend the literature on the effect of organizational capital on accounting choices.
Architecture of conductive fibers in pigtails for high‐sensitivity monitoring of structural health in fiber‐reinforced composites
Authors: Dai Mingfeng , Guo Yifan , Yan Jing , Que Longkun , Han Ruipeng , Zhou Zuowan
Published: May 2024

Structural health monitoring is vital for improving the safety and reliability of fiber‐reinforced composites. However, it is still challenging to achieve high sensing performance without changing the overall properties of composites. In this work, conductive fibers were braided into pigtails to achieve high sensing sensitivity and maintain low electrical resistance. Conductive pigtails with hierarchical and critically connected percolation networks were integrated with basalt fabric by an embroidery technique to realize self‐diagnosis of composites. After being embedded in epoxy composites, the material exhibited low electrical resistance (128.8 kΩ) and excellent sensing performance, demonstrating a high Gauge factor of 8.1, good linearity (R2 > 99%) and stability. The experimental results also showed that conductive pigtails can sensitively inform crack initiation and growth inside composites, which is extremely important for warning of the risk of material fractures. In addition, the mechanical strength of the material was almost unchanged before and after the pigtails were embedded. All these results indicate that conductive pigtails could be used as highly sensitive sensors for realizing structural health monitoring in fiber‐reinforced composites.

Highlights

CBs/TPU pigtails with hierarchical conductive paths were fabricated and firmly integrated with basalt fabric by the embroidery technique.

There is a good interface between the pigtails and the matrix, resulting in the embedding of the pigtails with little change in the mechanical properties of the composites.

Pigtails can sensitively detect crack initiation and growth in composites, demonstrating the potential for self‐diagnosis of fiber‐reinforced composites.
Consumption of Greek Political Messages: A Qualitative Approach of the Case of the Greek Political Market
Authors: Sophocleous Harry , Masouras Andreas , Anastasiadou Sofia , Apostolopoulos Sotiris
Published: May 2024

Electorates, politicians and researchers consider that issues concerning political messages are significant in electoral campaigns, although the evidence for the particular argument is delicate. A consideration of electorates’ recall of concerns reviewed in their national election campaign exposes that few voters can accurately distinguish the vital matters regarding political messages. Correspondingly, the specific research is developed primarily on the hypothesis that the voter consumes the communication, and thus, the ideological output that is produced by the political activities. In this manner, the paper attempts to find out how the average voter, “consumes” that political message. The specific timing was favored, in order to gain the deliberation of a clear electoral output and thus, to accomplish a sufficient analysis of the political messages. Accordingly, this pilot study follows a qualitative approach, by gathering and analysing qualitative data through the use of 2 focus groups and through the use of content analysis on political messages of the five bigger parliamentary parties during 2023’s elections in Greece (July 2023), following the two electoral contests. Each of the groups was consisted of 5 Greek citizens with electoral rights and a coordinator and is part of a broader study that aims to investigate the voting behaviour of Greek Voters and thus, to examine the consumption of political Marketing. Beyond the favorable timing, another reason for which the Greek case was preferred, is the fact that there is a favorable ground for the particular field. The particular fact means that many aspects concerning the Greek political communication and thus, the behaviour of Greek voters is largely unexplored the specific period of time. Accordingly, the particular research involved the analysis of the central messages. The paper concludes that, even if voters are encoding and decoding political messages, in a relatively unique manner, they do not consume those political messages in the same way and with the same sensitivity and the same criteria. The outcome of the particular research could provide a feedback for future communicational intentions to political parties, as well, as the Greek voters.
The Effect of Internal Audit on Universities’ Reliability and Performance
Authors: Xanthopoulou Aggelia , Skordoulis Michalis , Arsenos Panagiotis , Kalantonis Petros
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to present a theoretical analysis on how internal audit can influence universities’ reliability and performance. The paper’s methodological approach refers to the study and evaluation of the relevant literature. In recent years, governments are demonstrating a growing interest and willingness to use public money to fund public organizations through several measures, procedures, and incentives that are closely in line with the principles of corporate governance. The goal is to create a coherent public administrative system of accountability, integrity, and transparency of public resources. A decisive factor in creating strong public governance is the universal implementation of an effective internal control system, including audit and risk management activities, since, in most of the cases, every organization has a different control system. Efficient university governance ensures financial sufficiency for the promotion of research and scientific programs, for the upgrading of infrastructures, and for the implementation of new innovative teaching methods. University performance is tied to the organization’s funding as it is allowed to fulfill several concrete objectives. Fundings initially stabilize the financial sustainability of organizations, particularly those that face great fiscal risk, and, by extension, the sustainability of universities. The paper’s analysis includes the presentation of university governance and internal audit services cases around the world. The paper’s results indicate that audit activities in universities can ensure their financial quality and the credibility of their administration system and encourage their leadership to demonstrate more consistency about the management of financial and human resources. Thus, it is proposed that every university should develop, promote, and consolidate an audit culture that will ensure fiscal discipline.
An Onboard Tourist Experience Over the Sunken City of Epidaurus, Greece
Authors: Banou Eleni , Antoniou-Kritikou Ioanna , Akrivopoulou Efthymia , Economou Constandina , Katifori Akrivi , Ioannidis Yannis , Servi Katerina , Koukouli Myrto
Published: May 2024

Underwater cultural heritage constitutes an invaluable asset that needs to be conserved, preserved and enhanced. Innovative technologies can facilitate public access to underwater archaeological sites and make them more accessible, thus enhancing positive effects on tourism and the local economy. Focusing on the case of Greece, the paper aims at presenting how an underwater archaeological site, like the Sunken City of Epidaurus, can be transformed into a new tourist destination both accessible and appealing to a wider audience, including Greeks and foreigners, both younger and senior audience. In this paper, we present an autonomous guided and narrated tour designed in the framework of the Periplous Project, combining innovation in the scientific and technological level, emphasizing the following: (1) transparent openings on the bottom of the boat, offering direct view of the underwater remains, (2) an autonomous navigation system, (3) a digital multimedia-enhanced storytelling approach, offered through tablet devices available on-board. The narration is provided in three languages (Greek, English and Chinese) and in Greek Sign Language so as to be accessible to people with hearing impairment. Implications are discussed.
Promotion of Digital News Media: How Age Contributes to Readers’ Preferences
Authors: Stavrianea Aikaterini , Kamenidou Irene , Papathanasopoulos Athanasios , Krassanaki Marianna , Mamalis Spyridon
Published: May 2024

In our contemporary, diverse, media-rich landscape, consumers employ a variety of avenues in order to acquire information, including conventional media outlets as well as news platforms and social networking sites. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the choices and inclinations of the current digital news viewers and users in Greece, whilst also making reference to the relevant and numerous social platforms. The research is also concerned with “influencers” and with their utilization, whilst attempting to discern potential differences in usage based on the age demographic of users. An online survey was used. 305 individuals formed the quantitative research convenience sample. Descriptive statistics and One-Way Anova were employed. Results revealed significant differences between age groups and social media preferences regarding news information as well as regarding the collaboration of a digital news media with influencers. Significant implications, both at a theoretical and practical level are evident in this work. On a theoretical level, it contributes to the existing literature by adding new information on the current topic of the promotion of digital news media. Practically, digital news media publishers and managers can formulate proposals based on more in -depth information about users’ preferences in order to increase their business acumen and success.
Exploring Determinants Regarding Visit and Revisit Intentions Considering Greece as a Medical Tourism Destination
Authors: Anastasiadou Sofia , Masouras Andreas
Published: May 2024

Medical tourism is associated with the act of travelling from of origin where an individual visits a foreign country to pursue healthcare services. Economically, medical travel has profited several southern countries, where the cost of medical procedures is extremely low compared to those of more northern countries. Greece is a medical tourism destination. The objective of the current study is to explore the issue of travel motivations, perceived risks, healthcare services quality, travel constrains, perceived destination image, as determinants regarding visit and revisit intentions considering Greece as a medical tourism destination. The topic is of great concern as this kind of tourism has been booming in current years. A survey was conducted on 540 Medical tourists who answered a questionnaire, which was distributed electronically. The study used multivariate data analysis as well as implicative statistical analysis. Results reveal that travel motivations are significantly correlated with visit and revisit intentions, perceived risks have a significant relationship with visit and revisit intentions. In addition, it was indicated that healthcare services’ quality has a significant relationship with visit and revisit intentions. Travel constrains are significantly correlated with visit and revisit intentions and perceived destination is significantly correlated with visit and revisit intentions. Regarding managerial and marketing implications it is suggested that health providers and tourism services provide certified systems and procedures. Health and tourism providers should form partnerships and all-inclusive packages for patients and attendants to provide maximum care to patients and attendants.
Psychometric Testing Procedures for Attitudes Toward Reproductive Tourism and Cross Border Reproductive Care (ATCBRC)
Authors: Anastasiadou Sofia
Published: May 2024

The study seeks to evaluate psychometric properties of Attitudes toward Cross Border Reproductive Care (ATCBRC) Inventory in terms of reliability and validity among Greek healthcare professionals. A total suitable sample of 315 doctors, 302 dentists, 356 nurses and 312 midwives were recruited to complete ATCBRC Inventory. To examine the applicability of the ATCBRC Inventory in different groups, its invariance was evaluated. The results certified the internal consistency, as measured by Cronbach alpha coefficient, test–retest reliability, composite reliability and AVE, convergent and construct validity of ATCBRC Inventory. The results revealed the internal consistency and reliability, convergent and construct validity of the ATCBRC Inventory for the group of doctors, dentists, nurses, and midwives. Furthermore, the four-factor structure of the ATCBRC Inventory was confirmed. Structural Equation Model (SEM) verified the model’s good fit and its invariance. Until now the there was any Inventory that evaluates Attitudes toward Cross Border Reproductive Care. A valid and reliable Inventory will enable researchers, doctors, healthcare marketers to capture attitudes toward CBRC and develop healthcare strategies and policies.