bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The essential oil of the condiment species Clinopodium thymifolium (Scop.) Kuntze: new natural products and seasonal variation
Authors: Dekić Milan , Radulović Niko , Antonijević Marko , Dekić Dušica , Ličina Braho
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Clinopodium thymifolium is an aromatic plant species that is widespread in the Mediterranean region. It has been considered as a condiment and is used in cooking. As a promising spice plant, some efforts are being made to introduce this plant as a new crop species and it has been successfully cultivated in northern Italy.

RESULTS

Essential oils isolated from the aerial parts of a flavoring species C. thymifolium were analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The results of a detailed analysis of the chemical composition of the oils showed the domination of pulegone, piperitone, piperitenone and isomenthone, as well as a significant alteration of the pulegone/isomenthone ratio with the developmental stage of the plant. Additionally, a comprehensive chemical analysis of the oils in combination with detailed spectral analyses and chemical synthesis of selected compounds has led to the identification of two new natural products: isomenthyl formate and neomenthyl 2‐methylbutanoate.

CONCLUSION

The observed chemical variability at the intrapopulation level appeared to be a phenological variation. In an evolutionary sense, the alteration of the pulegone/isomenthone ratio suggests their possible role in the ecological adaptation of the species to pollinators. Significant quantitative changes in the chemical composition of the oil at different phenological stages may be relevant in the case of plant material intended for edible purposes. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Supercritical fluid chromatography for the analysis of natural dyes: From carotenoids to flavonoids
Authors: Lesellier Eric , West Caroline
Published: October 2021

Plant‐derived natural dyes are used in a variety of formulated products, from food to cosmetics and pharmaceutics. In addition to their color, they also provide some bioactivity. While they are mostly analyzed with high‐performance liquid chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography was also employed for several dye families, mostly for carotenoids and chlorophylls, and more recently for anthraquinones and flavonoids. These supercritical fluid chromatography methods are described in this review. Because the dyes have different structures and structural variations (polarity, isomers, etc.), the best chromatographic system to achieve their separation is not always the same. Hydrophobic stationary phases are preferred for the most hydrophobic dyes (chlorophylls and carotenoids) while polar stationary phases are preferred for the polar dyes (anthraquinones and flavonoids). Regarding the mobile phase composition, chlorophylls and carotenoids are best eluted with moderate proportions of co‐solvent in CO2 (about 40%), while the most polar glycosylated flavonoids require higher proportions of co‐solvent and acidic additives. Because dyes are colorful, ultraviolet‐visible detection is often sufficient, while mass spectrometry offers additional structural information. Furthermore, fundamental information can also be gained through chromatographic analysis of dyes: either solubility in supercritical fluids, in view of their extraction, or retention behavior providing an understanding of stationary phase properties.
New Hyperbranched Polysiloxanes Made by Thiol‐yne Click Reaction: Lanthanide Complexation and Applications in Bioimaging
Authors: Ding Guowei , Gai Fengqing , Wang Xiaoni , Gou Zhiming , Zuo Yujing
Published: October 2021

Hyperbranched polymers, as a unique highly branched polymers with low viscosity, simple synthesis, mixability and high reactivity, have received intensive attention and applied to many fields of resin modification, catalysts, and film materials. In this paper, hyperbranched polymers (P1 and P2) are designed and developed by the thiol‐yne “click” reaction with controlled molar ratio of reactant. After that, lanthanide ions are coordinated with P1 and P2 to prepare new hyperbranched polymer fluorescent products (P1‐Ln3+ and P2‐Ln3+). P1‐Ln3+ and P2‐Ln3+ exhibit excellent fluorescent properties, superb stability, and economic feasibility. Moreover, bioimaging experiments clearly exhibit that P1‐Ln3+ and P2‐Ln3+ has great potential in further biological applications.
Dynamic Interfacial Cross‐Linking Polymer Blends with Fiber‐Like Phase Structure by Recycling
Authors: Wang Jinyun , Su Tong , Zhuang Wei , Shi Cheng , Gao Min , Wu Xiao , Lin Cong , Lin Tengfei
Published: October 2021

The properties of polymer blends strongly depend on their microstructure. Thus, tuning the phase structure and improving the interfacial interaction of blends are relatively crucial. Inspired by the breaking and reformation of dynamic covalent bonds in vitrimers, these special bonds are introduced into the phase interface of polymer blends in this work. Through reactive blending of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR), polylactic acid (PLA) and additives, polymer blends with dynamic interfacial cross‐linking are fabricated. The prepared blends with intensive interfacial interactions display excellent recycling capacity. Strikingly, after etching the dissolvable substances with a solvent, the porous phase structure of original polymer blends changes to a fiber‐like phase structure of the third recycled blends, entirely distinct from most reported phase structures in polymer blends. In addition, the composites show great enhancements in mechanical properties during recycling. This work provides an effective method to tune the phase structure and improve the interfacial interaction of polymer blends.
Low‐pressure hydrodistension induces bladder glomerulations in female patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome
Authors: Hsu Lin‐Nei , Tsai Yuh‐Shyan , Tong Yat‐Ching
Published: October 2021

Aims

The role of hydrodistension in the diagnosis of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is controversial. This study evaluated the effect of low‐pressure hydrodistension on glomerulation formation in female patients diagnosed with the disease.

Methods

Sixty female patients with the clinical diagnosis of IC/BPS and 30 female controls without the disease underwent cystoscopy and hydrodistension. Cold‐cup biopsy was taken from bladder posterior wall at sites with normal cystoscopic appearance before hydrodistension in the IC/BPS group. The tissue samples were processed for histology study. Low‐pressure (40 cmH2O) hydrodistension for 2 min was performed and the appearance of glomerulations was compared between the two groups. High‐pressure (80 cmH2O) hydrodistension for 8 min was then performed as a therapeutic measure for the IC/BPS patients. Further changes to the degree of glomerulations were recorded.

Results

Histology showed pathological changes in the normal‐appearing IC/BPS bladder mucosa including urothelium denudation, inflammatory cell infiltration, stromal edema, fibrosis, and vascular congestion. Low‐pressure hydrodistension induced significant glomerulation formation in the patient group (percentage of patients with Grades 0–4: 0%, 8.3%, 40%, 35%, 10%, respectively) while none in the controls. High‐pressure hydrodistension further increased the glomerulation grading in the IC/BPS patients.

Conclusions

Structural changes are present in prehydrodistension IC/BPS bladder wall, which may not be macroscopically detectable. Hydrodistension at low pressure is adequate to disrupt the integrity of such diseased mucosa and offers a more discriminative test in the diagnosis of IC/BPS.
An efficient hybrid reliability analysis method based on active learning Kriging model and multimodal‐optimization‐based importance sampling
Authors: Wang Tai , Yang Xufeng , Mi Caiying
Published: October 2021

A novel method is proposed, which aims to solve rare‐event hybrid reliability problems with random and interval variables, where the performance function has various failure zones. It combines the active learning Kriging (ALK) model with importance sampling (IS) and evolutionary multimodal‐based multiobjective optimization (EMO‐MMO). The surrogate limit state surfaces (LSS) for the upper and lower failure probability bounds are respectively defined considering the Kriging variance. Failure candidate solutions located in different failure regions are generated by the EMO‐MMO method. Subsequently, all the most probable failure points (MPPs) are identified from those candidate solutions. The IS samples are simulated around the MPPs using the MPP‐based IS method. The IS samples located in unimportant regions are removed in order to improve the efficiency of approximating the surrogate LSSs. The optimal training points are selected from the truncated IS samples to update the Kriging model. After several training iterations, the surrogate LSSs are convergent. Ultimately, a reliable and unbiased estimation of the upper and lower failure probability bounds is provided. The performance of the ALK‐EMO‐IS‐HRA approach is verified through five application examples.
Neo‐colonial philanthropy in the UK
Authors: Irfan Fozia
Published: October 2021

UK philanthropic foundations are being subjected to greater scrutiny in how they address racial inequality with their funding distribution, yet the deeper critical question of whether these foundations perpetuate racial inequality in their very ethos, practices and existence remains unanswered. These foundations provide over £6.5billion of grants annually to the charitable sector, hold substantial power and influence over social movements and justify their charitable status by stating that they are addressing issues such as poverty and inequality. Yet many private foundations were built on a Victorian paternalistic model of gracious benefactor and grateful beneficiary and against the historical context of empire‐building, slavery and colonialism which embedded ideas about ‘race’ within philanthropy. Furthermore, delineation between the deserving and undeserving poor connected with these formulations of race, to position subjects of colonies inequitably within this charitable paradigm and reinforce stereotypes. At the time, this formed the justification for the expansion of missionary or colonial philanthropy overseas which was the biggest philanthropic cause of the pre first world war era and which can be traced back as the basis for the ‘white saviour complex’ exhibited today within UK foundations, as they continue to operate a colonial social architecture. This inherent and unchallenged colonial social architecture used for grantmaking and funding distribution imbues processes and practices with the same ethos and principles exhibited by colonialism, resulting in a ‘neo‐colonial philanthropy’, the tenets of which are identified and explored. In addition, as racial inequality remains one of the most critical issues of our time, it is asserted that foundations will need to understand the historical context of the UK’s colonialist history in order to recognise the link with racial disparities exhibited in communities today. This direct connection together with their own inbuilt colonial architecture necessitates an urgent conversation for Foundations about whether reparative or restorative justice is a more effective operational paradigm and the long term solution needed to address neo‐colonial philanthropy or the ‘Empires new clothes’.
Home pulse oximetry after discharge from a quaternary‐care children's hospital: Prescriber patterns and perspectives
Authors: Fierro Julie , Herrick Heidi , Fregene Nicole , Khan Amina , Ferro Daria F. , Nelson Maria N. , Brent Canita R. , Bonafide Christopher P. , DeMauro Sara B.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Pulse oximetry monitoring is prescribed to children receiving home oxygen for chronic medical conditions associated with hypoxemia. Although home pediatric pulse oximetry is supported by national organizations, there is a lack of guidelines outlining indications and prescribing parameters.

Methods

A mixed‐methods analysis of pediatric home pulse oximetry orders prescribed through the institutional home healthcare provider at a large US children's hospital 6/2018–7/2019 was retrospectively reviewed to determine prescribed alarm parameter limits and recommended interventions. Semi‐structured qualitative interviews with pediatric providers managing patients receiving home oxygen and pulse oximetry were conducted to identify opportunities to improve home pulse oximetry prescribing practices. Interviews were analyzed using a modified content analysis approach to identify recurring themes.

Results

A total of 368 children received home pulse oximetry orders. Orders were most frequently prescribed on noncardiac medical floors (32%). Attending physicians were the most frequent ordering providers (52%). Frequency of use was prescribed in 96% of orders, however, just 70% were provided with specific instructions for interventions when alarms occurred. Provider role and clinical setting were significantly associated with the presence of a care plan. Provider interviews identified opportunities for improvement with the device, management of alarm parameter limits, and access to home monitor data.

Discussion

This study demonstrated significant variability in home pulse oximetry prescribing practices. Provider interviews highlighted the importance of the provider–patient relationship and areas for improvement. There is an opportunity to create standardized guidelines that optimize the use of home monitoring devices for patients, families, and pulmonary providers.
Effects of an evidence‐based nursing intervention on prevention of anxiety and depression in the postpartum period
Authors: Meng Jun , Du Junying , Diao Xiaoli , Zou Yingxia
Published: October 2021

Postpartum depression has been one of the most common psychological disorders in patients during postpartum period. The constant anxiety and depression during this period seriously affect the physiological and psychological health of both the mother and infant. Evidence‐based nursing has been widely applied in clinical practice and has achieved remarkable results. However, the effect of evidence‐based nursing on postpartum depression remains unclear. Pregnant women who were not diagnosed with postpartum depression during hospitalisation (Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale [EPDS] ≤ 13 points) but prone to postpartum depression (EPDS scores of 9–13) were recruited into the study. They were randomly divided into the Intervention group (N = 60) and Control group (N = 60). Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), EPDS and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to investigate the psychological outcomes of puerperae during and after the 6‐week intervention. Both the intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analyses showed that 6 weeks of evidence‐based nursing intervention significantly reduced the incidence of postpartum depression. The application of the evidence‐based nursing also improved the patients' satisfaction degree and effectively alleviated their anxiety according to both the intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analyses. Evidence‐based nursing intervention had positive effects against anxiety and depression in the postpartum period.
Introduction
Authors: Pelz Peter F.
Published: October 2021

In this chapter, the motivation for this book is given. The analysis process of socio-technical systems based on data and models is examined from the perspective of uncertainty. The synthesis process of systems based on models and/or intuition leads to the important concepts of function and quality as well as data, model, and structural uncertainty. This forms both the foundation and the introduction to the following chapters. It is shown that the mastering of uncertainty is the key to Sustainable Systems Design. Thus, the societal need for safety and sustainability is met.
X-linked histone H3K27 demethylase Kdm6a regulates sexually dimorphic differentiation of hypothalamic neurons
Authors: Cabrera Zapata Lucas E. , Cisternas Carla D. , Sosa Camila , Garcia-Segura Luis Miguel , Arevalo Maria Angeles , Cambiasso María Julia
Published: October 2021

Several X-linked genes are involved in neuronal differentiation and may contribute to the generation of sex dimorphisms in the brain. Previous results showed that XX hypothalamic neurons grow faster, have longer axons, and exhibit higher expression of the neuritogenic gene neurogenin 3 (Ngn3) than XY before perinatal masculinization. Here we evaluated the participation of candidate X-linked genes in the development of these sex differences, focusing mainly on Kdm6a, a gene encoding for an H3K27 demethylase with functions controlling gene expression genome-wide. We established hypothalamic neuronal cultures from wild-type or transgenic Four Core Genotypes mice, a model that allows evaluating the effect of sex chromosomes independently of gonadal type. X-linked genes Kdm6a, Eif2s3x and Ddx3x showed higher expression in XX compared to XY neurons, regardless of gonadal sex. Moreover, Kdm6a expression pattern with higher mRNA levels in XX than XY did not change with age at E14, P0, and P60 in hypothalamus or under 17β-estradiol treatment in culture. Kdm6a pharmacological blockade by GSK-J4 reduced axonal length only in female neurons and decreased the expression of neuritogenic genes Neurod1, Neurod2 and Cdk5r1 in both sexes equally, while a sex-specific effect was observed in Ngn3. Finally, Kdm6a downregulation using siRNA reduced axonal length and Ngn3 expression only in female neurons, abolishing the sex differences observed in control conditions. Altogether, these results point to Kdm6a as a key mediator of the higher axogenesis and Ngn3 expression observed in XX neurons before the critical period of brain masculinization.
Have farmers had enough of experts?
Authors: Rust Niki A. , Stankovics Petra , Jarvis Rebecca M. , Morris-Trainor Zara , de Vries Jasper R. , Ingram Julie , Mills Jane , Glikman Jenny A. , Parkinson Joy , Toth Zoltan , Hansda Regina , McMorran Rob , Glass Jayne , Reed Mark S.
Published: October 2021

The exponential rise of information available means we can now, in theory, access knowledge on almost any question we ask. However, as the amount of unverified information increases, so too does the challenge in deciding which information to trust. Farmers, when learning about agricultural innovations, have historically relied on in-person advice from traditional ‘experts’, such as agricultural advisers, to inform farm management. As more farmers go online for information, it is not clear whether they are now using digital information to corroborate in-person advice from traditional ‘experts’, or if they are foregoing ‘expert’ advice in preference for peer-generated information. To fill this knowledge gap, we sought to understand how farmers in two contrasting European countries (Hungary and the UK) learnt about sustainable soil innovations and who influenced them to innovate. Through interviews with 82 respondents, we found farmers in both countries regularly used online sources to access soil information; some were prompted to change their soil management by farmer social media ‘influencers’. However, online information and interactions were not usually the main factor influencing farmers to change their practices. Farmers placed most trust in other farmers to learn about new soil practices and were less trusting of traditional ‘experts’, particularly agricultural researchers from academic and government institutions, who they believed were not empathetic towards farmers’ needs. We suggest that some farmers may indeed have had enough of traditional ‘experts’, instead relying more on their own peer networks to learn and innovate. We discuss ways to improve trustworthy knowledge exchange between agricultural stakeholders to increase uptake of sustainable soil management practices, while acknowledging the value of peer influence and online interactions for innovation and trust building.
3D mapping of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, hydroxyl radicals, and soot volume fraction in sooting flames using FRAME technique
Authors: Chorey Devashish , Koegl Matthias , Boggavarapu Prasad , Bauer Florian J. , Zigan Lars , Will Stefan , Ravikrishna R. V. , Deshmukh Devendra , Mishra Yogeshwar Nath
Published: October 2021

We report the three-dimensional (3D) mapping of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), soot, and hydroxyl radicals (OH) in ethylene/air diffusion flames. A structured illumination-based frequency recognition algorithm for multiple exposures (FRAME) approach is combined with sample translation to intersect the flame in several two-dimensional planes. The FRAME technique has been used for recording a snapshot of multiple species on a single camera. It relies on extracting the amplitude of spatial modulation of two or more probed species encoded on a single sub-image. Here, the FRAME technique is first applied for simultaneous imaging of PAH by laser-induced fluorescence (PAH-LIF) and soot by laser-induced incandescence (LII). Sequentially, it is employed for simultaneous mapping of OH-LIF and soot-LII. The LII signal is converted to absolute soot volume fraction (fv) maps using a line-of-sight light extinction measurement. Finally, we have demonstrated the approach for layer-wise 2D imaging of soot volume fraction and averaged 3D mapping of multiple species.
Occurrence of heatwave in Korea by the displacement of South Asian high
Authors: Cha Yumi , Choi JaeWon , Kim Eung-Sup , Ahn Joong-Bae
Published: October 2021

The South Asian high (SAH) index was defined using the 200 hPa geopotential height for 1973–2019. Of the movements of the SAH center in the north–south, east–west, northwest-southeast, and southwest-northeast directions, the movements in the northwest-southeast direction showed the highest positive correlation with heatwave days (HWDs) in South Korea. Thirteen years with the highest values in the northwestward shift of the SAH (positive SAH years) and 13 years with the highest values in the southeastward shift of the SAH (negative SAH years) were selected from a time series of SAH indices from which the linear trend was removed, and the differences between these two groups were analyzed. An analysis of vertical meridional circulation averaged along 120°–130° E showed that in the latitude zones containing Korea, anomalous downward flows with anomalous high pressures formed in the entire troposphere and coincided with a positive anomaly of air temperature and specific humidity. An analysis of stream flows and geopotential heights showed that in the positive SAH years, anomalous anticyclones developed in Korea, the North Pacific, North America, Western Europe, and the Iranian Plateau. These anticyclones had the wavenumber-5 pattern and showed more distinct barotropic vertical structures at higher altitudes, which resembled the circumglobal teleconnection (CGT) pattern. The maintenance of CGT depends on the interaction between the CGT circulation and the Indian summer monsoon (ISM), which has a major influence on the mid-latitude atmosphere. Strengthening of the ISM results in the formation of upper-level anomalous anticyclones in the northwestern Iranian Plateau and produces continuous downstream cells along the waveguide due to the Rossby wave dispersion. When diabatic heating by Indian summer monsoon precipitation is strengthened, the SAH is strengthened to the northwest of India, and a positive CGT pattern is formed. As a result, anomalous anticyclones formed in all layers of the Korean troposphere, resulting in heatwaves, tropical nights, and droughts exacerbated in South Korea.
The novel dynamic MPFL-reconstruction technique: cheaper and better?
Authors: Horstmann Hauke , Karkosch Roman , Berg Annika , Becher Christoph , Petri Maximilian , Smith Tomas
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is an established procedure to restore patellar stability. Aim of this study is to evaluate the results of a dynamic MPFL reconstruction technique in a large university hospital setting.

Methods

Two hundred and thirteen consecutive patients with 221 knees were surgically treated for recurrent lateral patellar dislocation. All patients obtained dynamic reconstruction of the MPFL with detachment of the gracilis tendon at the pes anserinus while maintaining the proximal origin at the gracilis muscle. Patellar fixation was performed by oblique transpatellar tunnel transfer. Follow-up data including Kujala and BANFF score, pain level as well as recurrent patella instability were collected at a minimum follow-up of 2 years.

Results

Follow-up could be obtained from 158 patients (71%). The mean follow-up time was 5.4 years. Mean pain level was 1.9 ± 2.0 on the VAS. Mean Kujala score was 78.4 ± 15.5. Mean BANFF score was 62.4 ± 22.3. MPFL-reconstructions that were performed by surgeons with a routine of more than ten procedures had a significantly shorter surgical time 52.3 ± 17.6 min. Male patients yielded higher satisfaction rates and better clinical scores compared to females. Complications occurred in 27.2% of procedures, 20.9% requiring revision surgery of which were 9.5% related to recurrent patellar instability. 78% of all patients indicated they would undergo the procedure again.

Conclusion

Dynamic MPFL reconstruction presents a reproducible procedure with increased complication rates, inferior to the results of static reconstruction described in the literature. Despite, it appears to be an efficient procedure to restore patellar stability in a large university hospital setting, without the necessity for intraoperative fluoroscopy.

Trial registration

The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the registration number NCT04438109 on June 18th 2020.
Structure can predict function in the human brain: a graph neural network deep learning model of functional connectivity and centrality based on structural connectivity
Authors: Neudorf Josh , Kress Shaylyn , Borowsky Ron
Published: October 2021

Although functional connectivity and associated graph theory measures (e.g., centrality; how centrally important to the network a region is) are widely used in brain research, the full extent to which these functional measures are related to the underlying structural connectivity is not yet fully understood. Graph neural network deep learning methods have not yet been applied for this purpose, and offer an ideal model architecture for working with connectivity data given their ability to capture and maintain inherent network structure. Here, we applied this model to predict functional connectivity from structural connectivity in a sample of 998 participants from the Human Connectome Project. Our results showed that the graph neural network accounted for 89% of the variance in mean functional connectivity, 56% of the variance in individual-level functional connectivity, 99% of the variance in mean functional centrality, and 81% of the variance in individual-level functional centrality. These results represent an important finding that functional centrality can be robustly predicted from structural connectivity. Regions of particular importance to the model's performance as determined through lesioning are discussed, whereby regions with higher centrality have a higher impact on model performance. Future research on models of patient, demographic, or behavioural data can also benefit from this graph neural network method as it is ideally-suited for depicting connectivity and centrality in brain networks. These results have set a new benchmark for prediction of functional connectivity from structural connectivity, and models like this may ultimately lead to a way to predict functional connectivity in individuals who are unable to do fMRI tasks (e.g., non-responsive patients).
On decompositions and approximations of conjugate partial-symmetric tensors
Authors: Fu Taoran , Jiang Bo , Li Zhening
Published: October 2021

Hermitian matrices have played an important role in matrix theory and complex quadratic optimization. The high-order generalization of Hermitian matrices, conjugate partial-symmetric (CPS) tensors, have shown growing interest recently in tensor theory and computation, particularly in application-driven complex polynomial optimization problems. In this paper, we study CPS tensors with a focus on ranks, computing rank-one decompositions and approximations, as well as their applications. We prove constructively that any CPS tensor can be decomposed into a sum of rank-one CPS tensors, which provides an explicit method to compute such rank-one decompositions. Three types of ranks for CPS tensors are defined and shown to be different in general. This leads to the invalidity of the conjugate version of Comon’s conjecture. We then study rank-one approximations and matricizations of CPS tensors. By carefully unfolding CPS tensors to Hermitian matrices, rank-one equivalence can be preserved. This enables us to develop new convex optimization models and algorithms to compute best rank-one approximations of CPS tensors. Numerical experiments from data sets in radar wave form design, elasticity tensor, and quantum entanglement are performed to justify the capability of our methods.
Symmetric power functoriality for holomorphic modular forms, II
Authors: Newton James , Thorne Jack A.
Published: October 2021

Let $f$
f
be a cuspidal Hecke eigenform without complex multiplication. We prove the automorphy of the symmetric power lifting $\operatorname{Sym}^{n} f$

Sym
n

f
for every $n \geq 1$
n
≥
1
.
How do elementary school teachers learn coding and robotics? A case study of mediations and conflicts
Authors: Boz Tugba , Allexsaht-Snider Martha
Published: October 2021

In this qualitative case study, we examined in-service elementary school teachers’ learning of coding and robotics in a blended professional learning course developed and delivered through the collaboration between university faculty and a school district. We focused on activity theory to understand and reveal the mediations, conflicts, and effective practices that facilitated or hindered teachers’ learning of coding and robotics. The participants of the study were twelve teachers from five different elementary schools in a rural school district. Data collection and generation sources included interviews, videos of class meetings, course assignments, and artifacts. In analyzing the data, we employed analytical approaches under the guidance of activity theory. The findings showed that teacher collaboration, coding/robotics platforms employed during the professional learning course, instructional approaches, and resources in and outside the professional learning setting mediated or conflicted with the teachers’ learning of coding and robotics depending on the way that each of these elements was employed in the course. Elaborating on these elements, we reported the implications for further research and practice.
Shared Control of an Aerial Cooperative Transportation System with a Cable-suspended Payload
Authors: Masone Carlo , Stegagno Paolo
Published: October 2021

This paper presents a novel bilateral shared framework for a cooperative aerial transportation and manipulation system composed by a team of micro aerial vehicles with a cable-suspended payload. The human operator is in charge of steering the payload and he/she can also change online the desired shape of the formation of robots. At the same time, an obstacle avoidance algorithm is in charge of avoiding collisions with the static environment. The signals from the user and from the obstacle avoidance are blended together in the trajectory generation module, by means of a tracking controller and a filter called dynamic input boundary (DIB). The DIB filters out the directions of motions that would bring the system too close to singularities, according to a suitable metric. The loop with the user is finally closed with a force feedback that is informative of the mismatch between the operator’s commands and the trajectory of the payload. This feedback intuitively increases the user’s awareness of obstacles or configurations of the system that are close to singularities. The proposed framework is validated by means of realistic hardware-in-the-loop simulations with a person operating the system via a force-feedback haptic interface.
The Role of the Valence, Arousing Properties and Subjective Significance of Subliminally Presented Words in Affective Priming
Authors: Imbir Kamil , Pastwa Maciej , Walkowiak Magdalena
Published: October 2021

In the verbal affective priming paradigm, the properties of a subliminally presented stimulus alter the interpretation of neutral target stimulus. In the experiment reported here, we tested the role of four factors (valence, origin, arousing properties and subjective significance) that determine the emotional reactions to words in affective priming. Subliminal masked presentation of words preceded the explicit task, which was assessment of neutral Quick Response code (QR code) stimuli. The QRs were codes for words representing personality traits. The results showed the effect of assimilation (negative words caused a negative interpretation, positive caused a positive interpretation) for words’ emotional valence and no effects for origin. Concerning arousal, we found a weak negative trend. In the case of subjective significance, a moderate positive trend was found. These results suggest that affective priming effects are susceptible not only to the valence of priming stimuli but also to activation factors.
Left ventricular remodeling in rugby is a physiological adaptation to exercise: a pilot study conducted with high-level athletes
Authors: Rato Nuno Dias , Richards Joanna
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Literature examining left ventricular (LV) structural adaptations to combined strength and endurance training is inconsistent. Rugby is a sport that combines these two exercise modalities, both during training and match play. This study aimed to explore differences in LV structure between high-level rugby players and untrained controls. Body composition analysis was performed to determine the most appropriate indexing variable for LV mass (LVM) and understand if increases in LV represent either a training-related physiological adaptation or reflect the groups’ anthropometric differences.

Methods

A cross-sectional design compared 10 rugby players and 10 untrained age-matched, male controls. Body composition was obtained by bioelectrical impedance. M-mode echocardiographic imaging was performed on the LV from the parasternal long axis view.

Results

Significantly greater end-diastolic interventricular septum, LV internal diameter, posterior wall thickness, LVM and LVM/fat-free mass (FFM) (p < 0.05) were found in rugby players compared to age-matched controls. Moreover, Pearson’s correlation tests revealed FFM to be the body composition variable with the strongest correlation to LVM (r = 0.775, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The differences in LV structure between groups suggest that the combined endurance and strength training that rugby athletes are subjected to, induce a process of concentric and eccentric enlargement of the LV structure. Furthermore, the association found with FFM, suggests it to be the most appropriate body scaling variable to index to LVM and, thus, should be considered when describing increases in LVM. The present research suggests that increased LVM in the athletes group represents true physiological adaptations to training.
Exploring trade-offs between SDGs for Indus River Dolphin conservation and human water security in the regulated Beas River, India
Authors: Momblanch Andrea , Kelkar Nachiket , Braulik Gill , Krishnaswamy Jagdish , Holman Ian P.
Published: October 2021

In India’s Indo-Gangetic plains, river flows are strongly altered by dams, barrages and water diversions for irrigation, urban supply, hydropower production and flood control. Human demands for freshwater are likely to intensify with climatic and socio-economic changes, exacerbating trade-offs between different sustainable development goals (SDGs) dependent on freshwater (e.g. SDG2, SDG6, SDG7, SDG11 and SDG15). Freshwater ecosystems and endangered aquatic species are not explicitly addressed in the SDGs, but only nested as targets within SDG6 and SDG15. Thus, there is high risk that decisions to advance other SDGs may overlook impacts on them. In this study, we link a water resource systems model and a forecast extinction risk model to analyze how alternative conservation strategies in the regulated Beas River (India) affect the likelihood of survival of the only remaining population of endangered Indus River Dolphins (IRD) in India in the face of climate change-induced impacts on river hydrology and human water demands, explicitly accounting for potential trade-offs between related SDGs. We find that the frequency of low flow released from the main reservoir may increase under some climate change scenarios, significantly affecting the IRD population. The strongest trade-offs exist between the persistence of IRD, urban water supply and hydropower generation. The establishment of ecologically informed reservoir releases combined with IRD population supplementation enhances the probability of survival of the IRD and is compatible with improving the status of relevant SDGs. This will require water managers, conservation scientists, and other stakeholders to continue collaborating to develop holistic water management strategies.
The latest process and challenges of microwave dielectric ceramics based on pseudo phase diagrams
Authors: Yang Hongcheng , Zhang Shuren , Yang Hongyu , Wen Qingyu , Yang Qiu , Gui Ling , Zhao Qian , Li Enzhu
Published: October 2021

The explosive process of 5G communication evokes the urgent demand of miniaturized and integrated dielectric ceramics filter. It is a pressing need to advance the development of dielectric ceramics utilization of emerging technology to design new materials and understand the polarization mechanism. This review provides the summary of the study of microwave dielectric ceramics (MWDCs) sintered higher than 1000 from 2010 up to now, °C with the purpose of taking a broad and historical view of these ceramics and illustrating research directions. To date, researchers endeavor to explain the structure-property relationship of ceramics with multitude of approaches and design a new formula or strategy to obtain excellent microwave dielectric properties. There are variety of factors that impact the permittivity, dielectric loss, and temperature stability of dielectric materials, covering intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Many of these factors are often intertwined, which can complicate new dielectric material discovery and the mechanism investigation. Because of the various ceramics systems, pseudo phase diagram was used to classify the dielectric materials based on the composition. In this review, the ceramics were firstly divided into ternary systems, and then brief description of the experimental probes and complementary theoretical methods that have been used to discern the intrinsic polarization mechanisms and the origin of intrinsic loss was mentioned. Finally, some perspectives on the future outlook for high-temperature MWDCs were offered based on the synthesis method, characterization techniques, and significant theory developments.
Advanced Strategies to Improve Performances of Molybdenum-Based Gas Sensors
Authors: Hermawan Angga , Septiani Ni Luh Wulan , Taufik Ardiansyah , Yuliarto Brian , Suyatman  , Yin Shu
Published: October 2021

Molybdenum-based materials have been intensively investigated for high-performance gas sensor applications. Particularly, molybdenum oxides and dichalcogenides nanostructures have been widely examined due to their tunable structural and physicochemical properties that meet sensor requirements. These materials have good durability, are naturally abundant, low cost, and have facile preparation, allowing scalable fabrication to fulfill the growing demand of susceptible sensor devices. Significant advances have been made in recent decades to design and fabricate various molybdenum oxides- and dichalcogenides-based sensing materials, though it is still challenging to achieve high performances. Therefore, many experimental and theoretical investigations have been devoted to exploring suitable approaches which can significantly enhance their gas sensing properties. This review comprehensively examines recent advanced strategies to improve the nanostructured molybdenum-based material performance for detecting harmful pollutants, dangerous gases, or even exhaled breath monitoring. The summary and future challenges to advance their gas sensing performances will also be presented.
3D Ultralight Hollow NiCo Compound@MXene Composites for Tunable and High-Efficient Microwave Absorption
Authors: Wang Hui-Ya , Sun Xiao-Bo , Yang Shu-Hao , Zhao Pei-Yan , Zhang Xiao-Juan , Wang Guang-Sheng , Huang Yi
Published: October 2021

The 3D hollow hierarchical architectures tend to be designed for inhibiting stack of MXene flakes to obtain satisfactory lightweight, high-efficient and broadband absorbers. Herein, the hollow NiCo compound@MXene networks were prepared by etching the ZIF 67 template and subsequently anchoring the Ti3C2Tx nanosheets through electrostatic self-assembly. The electromagnetic parameters and microwave absorption property can be distinctly or slightly regulated by adjusting the filler loading and decoration of Ti3C2Tx nanoflakes. Based on the synergistic effects of multi-components and special well-constructed structure, NiCo layered double hydroxides@Ti3C2Tx (LDHT-9) absorber remarkably achieves unexpected effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 6.72 GHz with a thickness of 2.10 mm, covering the entire Ku-band. After calcination, transition metal oxide@Ti3C2Tx (TMOT-21) absorber near the percolation threshold possesses minimum reflection loss (RLmin) value of − 67.22 dB at 1.70 mm within a filler loading of only 5 wt%. This work enlightens a simple strategy for constructing MXene-based composites to achieve high-efficient microwave absorbents with lightweight and tunable EAB."Image missing"
Sensitivity of the area method with mono isotopic fission chambers to reactivity changes in subcritical nuclear reactors
Authors: Janczyszyn Jerzy A. , Domańska Grażyna , Stanisz Przemysław
Published: October 2021

High-level waste is an important safety issue in the development of nuclear power. A proposed solution is the transmutation of waste in fast reactors. The exclusion of the risk of supercriticality by using subcritical reactors is currently under development. Controlling the subcriticality level in such reactors presents difficulties. A problem is posed by the so-called space effect observed when using in reactors many neutron detectors in different locations of the core and reflector. Reactivity obtained from measurements, for example, by the Sjöstrand method, differs by nonnegligible values. Numerical corrections can partially improve this situation. The use of a monoisotopic fission chamber set, designed for a given reactor, when each chamber is intended for a specific position in the system, can improve the situation. A question arises about the sensitivity of the results to reactivity changes. This issue is analyzed by computer simulation for possible fissionable and fissile nuclides for the total range of control rod insertion, changes in reactor fuel enrichment, and fuel temperature. The tested sensitivity was satisfactory at most levels from several dozen to several hundred pcm. A case study was conducted using the VENUS-F core model.
The Book of Revelation and its Eastern Commentators
Authors: Schmidt Thomas
Published: October 2021

In this volume, T.C. Schmidt offers a new perspective on the formation of the New Testament by examining it simply as a Greco-Roman 'testament', a legal document of great authority in the ancient world. His work considers previously unexamined parallels between Greco-Roman juristic standards and the authorization of Christianity's holy texts. Recapitulating how Greco-Roman testaments were created and certified, he argues that the book of Revelation possessed many testamentary characteristics that were crucial for lending validity to the New Testament. Even so, Schmidt shows how Revelation fell out of favor amongst most Eastern Christian communities for over a thousand years until commentators rehabilitated its status and reintegrated it into the New Testament. Schmidt uncovers why so many Eastern churches neglected Revelation during this period, and then draws from Greco-Roman legal practice to describe how Eastern commentators successfully argued for Revelation's inclusion in the New Testaments of their Churches.
Memory and the Dissolution of the Monasteries in Early Modern England
Authors: Lyon Harriet
Published: October 2021

The dissolution of the monasteries was recalled by individuals and communities alike as a seismic rupture in the religious, cultural, and socio-economic fabric of early modern England. It was also profoundly important in shaping contemporary historical consciousness, the topographical imagination, and local tradition. Memory and the Dissolution is a book about the dissolution of the monasteries after the dissolution. Harriet Lyon argues that our understanding of this historical moment is enriched by taking a long chronological view of the suppression, by exploring how it was remembered to those who witnessed it and how this memory evolved in subsequent generations. Exposing and repudiating the assumptions of a conventional historiography that has long been coloured by Henrician narratives and sources, this book reveals that the fall of the religious houses was remembered as one of the most profound and controversial transformations of the entire English Reformation.
Strategy and Command
Authors: Horner David
Published: October 2021

In Strategy and Command, David Horner provides an important insight into the strategic decisions and military commanders who shaped Australia's army history from the Boer War to the evolution of the command structure for the Australian Defence Force in the 2000s. He examines strategic decisions such as whether to go to war, the nature of the forces to be committed to the war, where the forces should be deployed and when to reduce the Australian commitment. The book also recounts decisions made by commanders at the highest level, which are passed on to those at the operational level, who are then required to produce their own plans to achieve the government's aims through military operations. Strategy and Command is a compilation of research and writing on military history by one of Australia's pre-eminent military historians. It is a crucial read for anyone interested in Australia's involvement in 20th-century wars.
Enemies of the People
Authors: Stackhouse J. Ryan
Published: October 2021

How do terror and popularity merge under a dictatorship? How did the Gestapo deal with critics of Nazism? Based on hundreds of secret police case files, Enemies of the People explores the day-to-day reality of political policing under Hitler. Examining the Gestapo's policy of 'selective enforcement', J. Ryan Stackhouse challenges the abiding perception of the Gestapo as policing exclusively through terror. Instead, he reveals the complex system of enforcement that defined the relationship between state and society in the Third Reich and helps to explain the Germans' abiding support for Hitler and their complicity in the regime's crimes. Stories of everyday life in Nazi Germany paint the clearest picture yet of just how differently the Gestapo handled certain groups and actions, and the routine investigation, interrogation, and enforcement practices behind this system. Enemies of the People offers penetrating insights into just how reasonable selective enforcement appeared to Germans, and draws unavoidable parallels with the contemporary threat of authoritarianism.