bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advantages of using the flipped classroom model in science and social studies instruction
Authors: Milovanović Anđela , Cekić-Jovanović Olivera , Ristanović Dušan
Published: October 2022

In this research we explored the effects of using the flipped classroom model on the quality of students' knowledge about the issues related to the living nature. The applied model implied that the position and role of homework and schoolwork were switched and the multimedia resources were used to a great extent. The research was conducted using a quasi-experiment with parallel groups. The sample of teaching content comprised the segments of the teaching content for the school subject Science and Social Studies, while the sample of participants included 61 students of the third grade of elementary school (30 students respectively in control and experimental groups). In the experimental group, the selected content was taught using the flipped classroom model, whereas the frontal form of classroom interaction was used in the control group, with a minimal use of modern technology that was limited to Power Point presentations. Unlike the results of the initial test, which showed the uniformity of the groups in terms of the quality of the tested knowledge (reproduction, understanding, and practical application), on the final test of knowledge, the students of the experimental group demonstrated a significantly better achievement. They were more successful in solving tasks that required memorization of facts, critical reflection, solving problem situations, and practical application of knowledge in situations from everyday life. The conclusion of the research is that the application of the flipped classroom model in teaching the content of the Science and Social Studies has a positive effect on increasing the quality of students' acquired knowledge.
Children's understanding of thermal phenomena in initial science instruction
Authors: Balać Sanja , Bošnjak-Stepanović Marija , Bogdanović Ivana
Published: October 2022

The method of interpreting thermal phenomena in the lower grades of primary school, which avoids explaining these phenomena based on the particle structure of a substance, gives room for pupils' alternative ideas. The aim of this paper is to determine the level of pupils' understanding of thermal phenomena in the lower grades of primary school. For this purpose we developed a test of knowledge of the following concepts: aggregate states of a substance, substance structure, temperature, heat, and heat conduction. The research was carried out in primary schools in the towns of Sombor and Kikinda and the sample consisted of 475 pupils. According to the obtained results, the lowest achievement, between 0% and 20% of the maximum points, is observed much more among the pupils of the first and second grades of primary school than among the pupils of the higher grades. In all grades the majority of the pupils had between 20% and 40% of the maximum number of points. There were no pupils with the highest scores. There was no significant statistical difference in terms of achievement bewtween the first and second grade pupils, nor between the third and fourth grade pupils, whereas this difference is statistically significant in other, higher pairs of grades (the final two grades had the highest level of achievement). The research confirmed that there is an insufficient impact of instruction on the level of understanding thermal phenomena among the pupils of the lower grades, which requires finding new approaches to teaching this type of content.
ANALYSIS AND FEASIBILITY OF CHEMICAL PRODUCTS REDUCTION IN THE CLEAN IN PLACE OF ULTRAFILTRATION AS A PRE-TREATMENT TECHNOLOGY FOR REVERSE OSMOSIS DESALINATION
Authors: ROO FILGUEIRA FRANCISCO JAVIER , ARENAS  URREA SIGRID YURENA , PORDOMINGO  BAÑÓ JORGE , RAMOS MARRERO CRISTOFER , MESA LEON RUBEN , DE LA FUENTE BENCOMO JUAN ANTONIO , LEON ZERPA FEDERICO
Published: October 2022

The reverse osmosis seawater desalination plants open-intake requires different strategies of pre-treatment to reduce the biofouling and scaling. The UltraFiltration (UF) technology is a recent application to this process. In this work, some alternatives to chemical products reducing in chemically enhanced backwash (CEB) and clean in place (CIP) of a UF rack have been studied. Mainly the sodium hypochlorite consumption, due to its biofouling precursor effect over reverse osmosis membranes. For this purpose, the optimal filtration time has been studied, to get the highest water production prior to the CIP, as well as some modifications in the conventional CIP's, modifying the duration of the stages of the same. The results were compared with the current mode of daily operation of the CEB.
The results show that a reduction of up to 60% in the amount of sodium hypochlorite per cubic meter of water produced employed in UF CEB's, mini CIP's and CIP's can be achieved. However, the consumption of the rest of chemical dosing increased notably, and therefore the operating cost of UF also increased. In addition, there was an increase of desalted water consumption to the chemical products removed, up to almost 95,84 %, in comparison with the currently operational mode of CEB. On the other hand, operating the UF plant in the manner proposed requires a automatization of the process and expert staff to programme the control.
Therefore, based on the results obtained, the alternatives proposed could reduce the chemical products in use, but it is not conclusive in terms of exploitation operational costs.
Key Words: Ultrafiltration, Reverse osmosis, Open-intake, Clean in place, Chemically Enhanced Backwash, chemical products reduction, biofouling, pre-treatment.
BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Authors: CHALMETA ROSALEÑ RICARDO , GUEDE TEJEDOR MAITE
Published: October 2022

ABlockchain is an emerging technology from the Fourth Industrial Revolution that has the potential to be applied to different sectors and address issues related to sustainability. However, research on Blockchain has tended to focus on its technical characteristics, with no studies analysing its positive and negative impact on sustainability.
This article presents an analysis of how this technology can help to achieve each one of the different Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), along with a series of case examples that can serve as a model; as well as an identification of the negative impacts that the Blockchain has for sustainability.
The findings of this study are useful for engineers, since they identify the technological aspects of BC that need to be improved; for company managers, since they can appreciate the positive impact that this new technology could have on sustainability if it is applied correctly; and for politicians, to whom it poses a series of challenges and the need to carry out regulatory reforms.
BIBLIOMETRIC MAPPING OF THE SOCIAL LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT OF A PRODUCT: SCIENCE TOWARDS INDUSTRIAL INVOLVEMENT
Authors: PIKATZA GORROTXATEGI NAIARA , ALVAREZ MEAZA IZASKUN , RIO  BELVER ROSA MARIA , ZARRABEITIA BILBAO ENARA
Published: October 2022

In a scenario where bilateral environment-business relationship is becoming increasingly important, social life cycle assessment (sLCA) has emerged. sLCA is a methodology for measuring the social impacts generated by the life cycle of a product on different stakeholders, in order to promote sustainability. As this is a potentially strategic tool for companies, the aim of this article is to obtain more data on the status and evolution of the scientific activity, and analyze the impact on the reputation of companies that research and apply the sLCA model. A bibliometric study based on WOS and Scopus scientific databases has been conducted to measure the relevance of this tool in research development, identifying the main countries and organizations. The main results show a positive scientific development, identify Germany as the most productive country, and show BMW, BASF and Brødrene Hartmann as the companies with the most publications. It can be concluded, based on ESG criteria, that the implementation of sLCA in companies benefits them in terms of financial performance by improving their reputation.

Keywords: social life cycle assessment, bibliometric analysis, network analysis, social industrial involvement
SECURE MULTIPARTY COMPUTATION FOR PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE: VALIDATION OF SCALE-MAMBA TOOL IN TERMS OF ACCURACY AND EFFICIENCY
Authors: Gamiz Ugarte Idoia , LAGE SERRANO OSCAR , LEGARRETA SOLAGUREN LEIRE , Regueiro Senderos Cristina , JACOB TAQUET EDUARDO , SECO AGUIRRE IÑAKI
Published: October 2022

Privacy is a booming sector and there is an increasing number of limitations that hinder the centralization of data coming from different sources. Nowadays, having data provides value and an advantage over the rest, since it allows the performance of a wider and more generalizable analysis. Secure Multiparty Computation (SMPC) is a cryptographic technique that allows performing computations with data from different parties while maintaining the privacy of the data and avoiding centralization. This work focuses on the SCALE-MAMBA framework for conducting SMPC and the main objective is its validation in terms of types of operations, the accuracy of the results and execution times. A use case that is directly related to the industry is used, consisting of a manufacturer who wants to implement predictive maintenance on a machine whose data is collected by different users. Two types of scenarios are presented in order to analyze the results, obtaining different conclusions for each of them. On the one hand, the first scenario collects the use cases in which the aim is to compute statistics or simple calculations with data in common. On the other hand, the second scenario focuses on the training of Machine Learning (ML) algorithms. The original contribution of this work includes the implementation of these codes within the Mamba language, their application to concrete data, and the comparison of the results with those that would be obtained by performing it in an insecure way, centralizing the data, and using R or Python. The major limitations encountered are around execution times, which might be acceptable for many use cases in the first scenario, but are prohibitive for many of the techniques used in real ML training.

Keywords: cryptography, security, privacy, predictive maintenance, Privacy-Preserving Computation, Privacy-enhancing technologies, Secure Multiparty Computation, SCALE-MAMBA, machine learning, data analysis, prediction, classification, accuracy, efficiency.
A PHOTOVOLTAIC GRID-CONNECTED CONVERTER OPERATING WITH REACTIVE POWER AND CURRENT HARMONIC COMPENSATION FUNCTIONS
Authors: Viera Díaza Rosa Iris , González García Mario Arturo , ALVAREZ SALAS RICARDO , MIRANDA VIDALES HOMERO , CÁRDENAS GALINDO VÍCTOR MANUEL
Published: October 2022

The capacity of a single-phase photovoltaic (PV) grid-connected converter to perform ancillary functions for power quality improvement is studied in this research work. The importance of the nominal value of the dc bus voltage on the capacity of the converter to compensate current harmonics is demonstrated from the analysis carried out to design a control system based on hysteresis. With the proposed control scheme, the converter can inject the active power generated to the grid, compensate the reactive power and harmonics demand of a nonlinear load, and simultaneously inject reactive power as a grid-support function. It can operate exchanging reactive power with the grid or act as an active power filter even under the absence of solar energy.
Key Words: Harmonic compensation, reactive power, hysteresis control, photovoltaic systems, grid-connected converter, power quality.
GRADING DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE STUDY OF STABILIZED GANGUE OF SKELETON-DENSE CEMENT
Authors: JING HONGJUN , Zhang Chaowei , Gao Meng , Ding Renhong , Kang Mingke , Ge Lei
Published: October 2022

Gangue is a kind of waste rock produced in coal mining. Gangue in different regions has considerably different physicochemical properties. As a road material, gangue has an uneven particle size distribution and breaks easily, so its application in road projects is limited. To increase gangue utilization, a grading range that is applicable to cement-stabilized gangue was established in this study in consideration of the uneven particle size distribution and easy breakage of gangue. The aim was to explore the feasibility of using gangue as a road base. The appropriate mixing ratio of coarse and fine aggregates was optimized based on the grade filling method and the K method in accordance with the results of 7d unconfined compressive strength (UCS). Moreover, the reasonable grading scope of the stable gangue aggregate of skeleton-dense cement was determined. On this basis, experiments were conducted on splitting strength, compressive resilience modulus, and freeze–thaw performance, and the shrinkage characteristics were analyzed. The stable gangue aggregate of skeleton-dense cement was compared with that of the grading-median (GF) mixture recommended by standards. Results demonstrated that the stable gangues of cement formed a skeleton-dense structure when the content ratio between coarse and fine gangue aggregates was 40%–50%. When the cement dosage was 5%, the 7d, 28d, and 90d UCS of the designed grading mid-value (TJ2) increased by 38.03%, 40.13%, and 34.93%, respectively, compared with that of GF. Specifically, the 7d UCS was higher than 3.0 MPa. The 28d TJ2 was 30.13% higher than the GF anti-freezing coefficient, and TJ2 decreased by 35.85% relative to the GF shrinkage coefficient. The cement-stabilized gangue of the designed grading showed better pavement performance than that of the standard recommending grading. These findings provide a theoretical reference for the practical engineering application of cement-stabilized gangue.

Keywords: grading, skeleton dense, gangue, mechanical properties, durability
Automated construction of aerodynamic profiles through evolutionary computing
Authors: BAUTISTA  JACOBO JUANA LILIA , JIMENEZ HERNANDEZ HUGO , MONTES  RODRIGUEZ JOSE JULIAN , RODRIGUEZ MORALES ESPERANZA , GUAMEZ CUATZIN HUGO
Published: October 2022

Airfoil geometry design has progressed in recent years, using geometries inspired by nature and mimicking bird wings to improve aerodynamic performance.
GREEN HYDROGEN FUTURE
Authors: ARIAS ERGUETA PEDRO LUIS , Aguirre Arisketa Ion , BARRIO CAGIGAL VICTORIA LAURA
Published: October 2022

El hidrógeno es uno de los compuestos más abundantes del universo. Las estrellas lo contienen en proporciones muy elevadas y es el combustible de las reacciones de fusión que generan la enorme cantidad de energía que emiten como radiación.
Rede de apoio social e afetivo de adolescentes em acolhimento institucional e de seus familiares
Authors: DA CRUZ EDSON JUNIOR SILVA , Cavalcante Lilia Iêda Chaves , Pedroso Janari da Silva
Published: October 2022

Este estudo investigou percepções de familiares e adolescentes em acolhimento institucional sobre a estrutura e organização de suas redes de apoio social e afetivo. Participaram da pesquisa cinco adolescentes e quatro familiares de referência. Entre os instrumentos utilizados, cita-se o Mapa dos Cinco Campos (MCC), entrevistas semiestruturadas e diário de campo. Os familiares mostraram-se satisfeitos com os campos “abrigo” e “contatos formais”, já os adolescentes apontaram de forma positiva os itens “escola” e “abrigo”. Os adolescentes citaram os adultos como principais fontes de apoio, principalmente os técnicos das instituições, enquanto que os familiares demonstraram relações satisfatórias com pessoas da igreja e do trabalho, sendo o apoio instrumental mais percebido. O campo “família” teve maior número de contatos insatisfatórios e apresentou concepções divergentes sobre a família real e ideal. A rede de apoio social dos participantes demonstrou-se limitada, com pouca participação na vida dos participantes, sugerindo a necessidade de estudos que consigam investigar implicações desse fator para o desenvolvimento de adolescentes e de seus familiares em situação de vulnerabilidade.
Aleksander Kiklewicz, Fenomeny komunikacji (normy i dewiacje w zachowaniach językowych), Olsztyn: Centrum Badań Europy Wschodniej Uniwersytetu Warmińsko-Mazurskiego, 2020
Authors: Lewandowska-Tomaszczyk Barbara
Published: October 2022

Recenzja książki
Effect of lavender and rosemary aromatherapy on test anxiety in chiropractic students
Authors: Enwright Paige , Blank Samantha , Wells Breanne M. , Nightingale Lia M. , Torgerud Steven
Published: October 2022

Objective

Test anxiety is a debilitating disorder that can impair cognitive performance and affect academic success. Aromatherapy is commonly used for relaxation therapy. The primary aim of the study was to determine if nasal inhaler aromatherapy, utilizing a blend of rosemary and lavender essential oils, could be a useful strategy to reduce testing anxiety in students.

Methods

This study recruited first trimester chiropractic students enrolled in both Neuroanatomy I and Biochemistry I. A randomized crossover design was utilized over 2 study days during final exams, with a 2-day wash-out period. Participants were randomly assigned into groups based on results of test anxiety analysis. On each day, students were given a nasal inhaler with either an aromatherapy blend of lavender and rosemary essential oils or distilled water as the control. Students completed pretest surveys and posttest surveys to rate their anxiety levels. Paired sample t-tests were performed to determine group differences in test anxiety. Both intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were conducted.

Results

Forty-five students were randomly assigned into the study, whereas only 38 completed per-protocol. Between group comparisons showed no statistically significant difference between change in anxiety scores between aromatherapy and control for both intention-to-treat (p =.10) and per-protocol (p =.07).

Conclusion

Use of personal inhalers and aromatherapy diffusers were not shown to reduce test anxiety in a chiropractic population under high-stakes examination. Other options should be explored for future research.
Sexual Maturity Scale of the Swimming Crab Callinectes pallidus (Rochebrune, 1883) from Lake Nokoué in South Benin, West Africa
Authors: Dessouassi Comlan Eugène , Akele David G. , Tokpon Yissegnon A. , Gougbedji Armel , Laleye Philippe A.
Published: October 2022

Aims: Reproductive parameters are important tools for the sustainable management of halieutic species in the water bodies of its exploitation. This study intends to characterize the sexual maturity scale of swimming crab Callinectes pallidus, perform testicular and ovarian structures in order to develop a specific maturity scale.

Study Design: This study was carried out with macroscopic and microscopic observations of 394 specimens of crabs including 206 females and 188 males.

Place and Duration of Study: The specimens used in this study were collected monthly from March to July 2018 from small scale fisheries of Lake Nokoué (Benin).

Methodology: At the laboratory, each crab specimen is identified and its sex determined. Grids for describing each sexual maturity stage of the crab C. pallidus were developed based on the Zairon et al. (2015) scale. Histological sections of female and male gonads were analyzed in order to certify the different stages of sexual development noted from the macroscopic study.

Results: Macroscopic analysis of external and internal anatomy and histological study of male and female gonads of C. pallidus allowed to establish a sexual maturity scale with 5 stages in females and 4 stages in males respectively. Macroscopic observations made with a binocular magnifying glass allowed to describe the characteristic features of the sexual development cycle of the species. The histological study confirmed the results of the macroscopic analysis. Significant difference was recorded between the mean oocytes diameters of the different oocyte development stages (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The outcomes of this constitute an important database for the assessment of the reproductive parameters of the species in the water bodies of its exploitation. The stages IV and V are the mature steps in the female development whereas the stages III and IV are that of the male. It is recommended to allow C. pallidus reach the sexual maturity size (5,95 cm for female and 6,38 cm for male) before their exploitation to ensure the sustainable management of the species.
Battery Capacity Calculation Method of a Stationary Battery for an Emergency Power Supply
Authors: Song Youngjoo , Kim Hakjoong
Published: October 2022

A storage battery is used as an emergency power supply that stores energy and supplies the stored energy to the load when necessary. While stationary lead-acid batteries were used in the past, lithium-ion batteries are being increasingly used in recent times, yielding improved efficiency. There are two methods to calculate the capacity of stationary lead-acid batteries, domestically and internationally. One is from IEEE Std. 485, conforming to KEPIC EEG 1200, and the other is from the design criteria of a construction-based electrical installation that quoted SBA S 0601. First, to calculate the capacity of a stationary lead-acid battery (for using emergency power), I compared both methods and analyzed their differences, modifications, and capacity calculations. Subsequently, I demonstrated the gaps between the two methods using actual calculations by applying the duty cycle from IEEE Std. 485-2020 and the Kt-T curve by the manufacturer. Based on these results, I finally reviewed the approaches to calculate the capacity of lithium-ion batteries and proposed an effective method.
An Experimental Study on the Separation Distance to Prevent Impairment of Sprinkler Head Spray
Authors: Lee Seokjae , Lee Daemin
Published: October 2022

Sprinkler facilities are a reliable fire-extinguishing method, but a spray barrier around the sprinkler head has a significant impact on fire suppression and control. Rule 13 from the National Fire Protection Association aims to set fire safety standards but might reduce sprinkler reliability because of confusion about the rule application. The sprinkler height should be up to three times the width of an obstacle, which is confused with an obstacle’s maximum size. Therefore, this study conducted a spray distribution experiment by adjusting the separation distance between the bottom-up head and the spray barrier to between 1 and 8 times the outer diameter. As a result, the performance standards relating to the amount of water collected satisfied the reference curve at a separation distance of 7 times the outer diameter when the radiation pressure was 0.1 MPa.
Thermal Behavior in the Inclined Space Connected to Fire Room
Authors: Park Hyunwoo
Published: October 2022

In this study, a model experiment was conducted to understand the effects of the parameters of the inclined space (cross-sectional aspect ratio and angle of incline) connected to the fire room on the hot gas flow in it. The trend of dimensionless temperature (T*) decrease in the vertical direction of hot gas flow in the inclined space was found to not be related to the width of inclined space in the range of T* > 0.3. Additionally, the trend of temperature decrease in the direction of hot gas flow in the inclined space was found to not be related to the width of the inclined space. Furthermore, a certain temperature decrease trend was observed under each tilt angle.
Development of a Typhoon Damage Prediction Function and Rating System Using Typhoon Characteristics and Tracks
Authors: Kim Taegyun
Published: October 2022

In this study, a typhoon exposure index (TEI) was developed that can identify the effects of typhoons on the Korean Peninsula, allowing the development of a typhoon damage prediction function using TEI and rainfall data, based on which a new typhoon rating system is proposed that takes likely damage into consideration. TEI takes a value inversely proportional to the distance from the center of a typhoon to a district and proportional to the maximum wind speed in the center of a typhoon. In the rainfall data, a variable identified using principal component analysis was introduced to resolve the issue of multicollinearity between the maximum rainfall and duration. The typhoon damage prediction function for all typhoons showed good predictive precision, and the predictive precision for typhoons passing through the East Sea and making landfall in the South Sea was higher than for all typhoons. Since the KMA typhoon rating system cannot represent the degree of disaster risk on the Korean Peninsula by track, a new typhoon rating system considering with damage was developed using TEI and rainfall data.
Analysis of Flooding Patterns in River Terraces
Authors: An Donghee , Jeon Wooyeol , Ko Hyunsoo
Published: October 2022

River terraces are utilized as a space for water-friendly leisure activities in urban areas and communities. In this study, river terrace flooding was defined and selected as a maintenance risk factor for ecofriendly infrastructure. Previous studies did not propose specific measures for analyzing the pattern of river terrace flooding and restoring river terrace resilience. Therefore, this study attempted to analyze the pattern of river terrace flooding through numerical modeling of the entire Taehwagang National Garden. Based on the analysis results obtained using the InfoWorks ICM model, the higher the slope of the rising part of the water level curve, the higher the inundation range, even if the same water level conditions. Moreover, the specifications of the starting point of the inundation and the diffusion pattern were confirmed. This study contributes to strengthening urban disaster resilience, such as the planning and maintenance of various infrastructural facilities and the provision of forecast and warning manuals.
Development of Heatwave Crisis Alert Standard for Administrative Districts Using Heatwave Risk Index
Authors: Kim Dongwook , Yeom Woongsun , Song Juil , Ahn Jae-Hyun , Kim Tae-Woong
Published: October 2022

The current heatwave crisis alert system considers the daily maximum temperature alone; therefore, the present study proposed a new method for estimating the daily heatwave crisis alert level. Specifically, the heatwave risk index was calculated by combining regional vulnerability, as estimated using principal component analysis, and normalized daily maximum temperature. The crisis alert level was classified according to the risk index value using the natural breaks method. The correlation coefficient between the heatwave risk index and heat-related morbidity rate was approximately 0.4. In addition, analysis of variance confirmed significant differences in the heat-related morbidity rate among different crisis alert levels. The current method is limited in that it does not take into account the various regional environmental characteristics, which may results in an ambiguous alert standard; however, this shortcoming may be resolved using the proposed heatwave risk index. Therefore, the results of the present study may be valuable for risk assessment and management in Korea.
Reliability and Validity of an Instrument of COVID-19 Patient-Reported Symptoms in Outpatients
Authors: Rofail Diana , Griffiths Pip , Flore Giulio , Hussein Mohamed , Sivapalasingam Sumathi , Podolanczuk Anna J. , Rodriguez Ana Maria , Mastey Vera , Gwaltney Chad
Published: October 2022

Importance

Patient-reported outcome instruments are key in assessing COVID-19–related symptoms and associated burden. However, a valid and reliable instrument to assess symptom severity and progression among outpatients with COVID-19 is not yet available.

Objectives

To assess the extent to which the Symptoms Evolution of COVID-19 (SE-C19) instrument is valid, reliable, and able to detect symptom changes in outpatients with COVID-19, as well as to establish a definition of symptom resolution.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this diagnostic/prognostic study, psychometric properties of SE-C19 were assessed in participants recruited into an ongoing, adaptive, phase 1/2/3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, during 2020 to 2022. Adult outpatients with symptomatic COVID-19 were randomized 1:1:1 to receive 2.4 g or 8.0 g intravenous casirivimab and imdevimab or placebo, in outpatient centers at 114 sites, from 2 countries (US and Mexico).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change of the SE-C19 were assessed. SE-C19 and Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGIS) were administered daily from predose at day 1 to day 29.

Results

Analysis was conducted on 657 adult outpatients (342 female patients [52.1%], 562 White patients [85.5%]), and 337 non-Hispanic patients [51.3%]. At baseline, patients reported a mean (SD) of 6.6 (3.9) symptoms (ie, rated as at least mild) with a mean (SD) of 3.8 (3.3) of these symptoms being rated as moderate or severe. Stable patients according to PGIS showed scores with intraclass correlation values indicating moderate-to-good test-retest reliability (ie, 0.50-0.90). At baseline, 20 item scores (87%) varied significantly across PGIS-defined groups, supporting the validity of the SE-C19. A symptom-resolution end point was defined after excluding the item sneezing due to its low ability to discriminate severity levels, and excluding confusion, rash, and vomiting, due to their low prevalence in this population. Symptom resolution required complete absence of all remaining items, except cough, fatigue, and headache, which could be mild or moderate in severity. A total of 19 of 23 items from the SE-C19 instrument were identified as valid and reliable to measure disease-related symptoms in outpatients with COVID-19.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study identified 19 items that are valid and reliable to measure disease-related symptoms in outpatients with COVID-19, and proposed a definition of symptom resolution for potential use in future clinical trials.
Surface‐Doping‐Induced Mobility Modulation Effect for Transport Enhancement in Organic Single‐Crystal Transistors
Authors: Shan Yu , Wang Jiawei , Guo Zean , Liu Dongyang , Zhao Ying , Lu Nianduan , Li Ling
Published: October 2022

Molecular doping has conventionally been an effective way to improve the electrical‐transport performances in organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs), while corresponding mechanisms associated with specific doping techniques have been less investigated and discussed in detail. Here, based on ultrathin dinaphtho[2,3‐b:2′,3′‐f]‐thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (DNTT) single crystals, robust transconductance enhancements are realized in OFETs upon surface molecular doping realized via van der Waals epitaxially growing crystalline 1,3,4,5,7,8‐hexafluoro‐tetracyanonaphthoquinodimethane (F6TCNNQ) onto the single crystal's surface. It is proposed that it is the mobility modulation effect (MME) from the interactions between charge‐transfer interface and gate electric field, that contributes to more weighted bulk carriers, and finally improves charge‐transport performances. The evaluations are further supported by scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM) surface potential characterizations, which manifest the gate‐induced more delocalized holes near the charge‐transfer interfaces. Space‐charge‐limited current (SCLC) investigations, numerical calculations, and theoretical mobility modeling are also performed to corroborate the analysis. This study can deepen the understanding of charge transport in doped semiconductors and provide effective ways for optimizing the electrical performance of organic devices.
A Demulsification–Crystallization Model for High‐Quality Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Peng Chencheng , Zhang Rui , Chen Hongting , Liu Yang , Zhang Shuai , Fang Tao , Guo Runda , Zhang Jibin , Shan Qingsong , Jin Yizheng , Wang Lei , Hou Lintao , Zeng Haibo
Published: October 2022

A room‐temperature technique with all‐nonpolar‐solvent, which circumvents the sensitivity of ionic perovskite to polar solvent, has become attractive for the synthesis of metal halide perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs). However, the lack of understanding of the inner mechanism, especially for the state of the precursor and the crystallization process of the PNCs, hinders further development of this technique. Here, through systematic study of the Pb precursor and in situ characterization of the PNCs, it is revealed that the reverse micelle nature of the Pb precursor exactly creates a novel demulsification‐crystallization (D–C) model, namely, a two‐stage nucleation is divided by a demulsification process for the PNCs. On this basis, a top efficiency for green light‐emitting diodes based on PNCs is obtained with a maximum external quantum efficiency of 22.5% through tailoring the D–C model using a multiple‐acid‐anion synergistic assisted strategy to obtain high‐quality PNCs. Beyond the high efficiency, the work paves the way for diverse ideas in PNC synthesis.
Electrolyte for High‐Energy‐ and Power‐Density Zinc Batteries and Ion Capacitors
Authors: Chen Peng , Sun Xiaohan , Pietsch Tobias , Plietker Bernd , Brunner Eike , Ruck Michael
Published: October 2022

Growth of dendrites, limited coulombic efficiency (CE), and the lack of high‐voltage electrolytes restrict the commercialization of zinc batteries and capacitors. These issues are resolved by a new electrolyte, based on the zinc(II)–betaine complex [Zn(bet)2][NTf2]2. Solutions in acetonitrile (AN) avoid dendrite formation. A Zn||Zn cell operates stably over 10 110 h (5055 cycles) at 0.2 mA cm−2 or 110 h at 50 mA cm−2, and has an area capacity of 113 mAh cm−2 at 80% depth of discharge. A zinc–graphite battery performs at 2.6 V with a midpoint discharge‐voltage of 2.4 V. The capacity‐retention at 3 A g−1 (150 C) is 97% after 1000 cycles and 68% after 10 000 cycles. The charge/discharge time is about 24 s at 3.0 A g−1 with an energy density of 49 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 6864 W kg−1 based on the cathode. A zinc||activated‐carbon ion‐capacitor (coin cell) exhibits an operating‐voltage window of 2.5 V, an energy density of 96 Wh kg−1 with a power density of 610 W kg−1 at 0.5 A g−1. At 12 A g−1, 36 Wh kg−1, and 13 600 W kg−1 are achieved with 90% capacity‐retention and an average CE of 96% over 10 000 cycles. Quantum‐chemical methods and vibrational spectroscopy reveal [Zn(bet)2(AN)2]2+ as the dominant complex in the electrolyte.
Reducing Trap Density in Organic Solar Cells via Extending the Fused Ring Donor Unit of an A–D–A‐Type Nonfullerene Acceptor for Over 17% Efficiency
Authors: Zhou Jixiang , He Dan , Li Yawen , Huang Fei , Zhang Jianqi , Zhang Cheng , Yuan Yongbo , Lin Yuze , Wang Chunru , Zhao Fuwen
Published: October 2022

The high trap density (generally 1016 to 1018 cm−3) in thin films of organic semiconductors is the primary reason for the inferior charge‐carrier mobility and large nonradiative recombination energy loss (ΔEnr) in organic solar cells (OSCs), limiting improvement in power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). In this study, the trap density in OSCs is efficiently reduced via extending the donor core of nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) from a heptacyclic unit to a nonacyclic unit. TTPIC‐4F with a nonacyclic unit has stronger intramolecular and intermolecular interactions, affording higher crystallinity in thin films relative to its counterpart BTPIC‐4F. Thus, the D18:TTPIC‐4F‐based device achieves a lower trap density of 4.02 × 1015 cm−3, comparable to some typical high‐performance inorganic/hybrid semiconductors, with higher mobility and inhibited charge‐carrier recombination in devices. Therefore, the D18:TTPIC‐4F‐based OSC exhibits an impressive PCE of 17.1% with a low ΔEnr of 0.208 eV, which is the best known value for A–D–A‐type NFAs. Therefore, extending the donor core of NFAs is an efficient method for suppressing trap states in OSCs for high PCEs.
Taming Solvent–Solute Interaction Accelerates Interfacial Kinetics in Low‐Temperature Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Jin Cheng‐Bin , Yao Nan , Xiao Ye , Xie Jin , Li Zeheng , Chen Xiang , Li Bo‐Quan , Zhang Xue‐Qiang , Huang Jia‐Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: October 2022

Lithium (Li)‐metal batteries promise energy density beyond 400 Wh kg−1, while their practical operation at an extreme temperature below −30 °C suffers severe capacity deterioration. Such battery failure highly relates to the remarkably increased kinetic barrier of interfacial processes, including interfacial desolvation, ion transportation, and charge transfer. In this work, the interfacial kinetics in three prototypical electrolytes are quantitatively probed by three‐electrode electrochemical techniques and molecular dynamics simulations. Desolvation as the limiting step of interfacial processes is validated to dominate the cell impedance and capacity at low temperature. 1,3‐Dioxolane‐based electrolyte with tamed solvent–solute interaction facilitates fast desolvation, enabling the practical Li|LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 cells at −40 °C to retain 66% of room‐temperature capacity and withstand remarkably fast charging rate (0.3 C). The barrier of desolvation dictated by solvent–solute interaction environments is quantitatively uncovered. Regulating the solvent–solute interaction by low‐affinity solvents emerges as a promising solution to low‐temperature batteries.
Impact of Asian soybean rust on vegetable soybean, considering two stages of development
Authors: Casas‐Leal Nelson Enrique , Pereira Fernanda Aparecida Castro , Rocha Gabriela Antônia de Freitas , Carvalho Renato Sérgio Batista , Vello Natal Antônio
Published: October 2022

Diseases can cause negative impacts during all stages of development of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] Asian soybean rust (ASR) (caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi) is the most destructive. The impact of ASR on vegetable soybean (consumed when the seeds are still immature) have not been studied rigorously. Thus, in a 2‐yr study, we assessed 42 F6 lines from crosses of soybean vegetable genotypes and three commercial cultivars (‘BRS 257’, ‘BRS 267’ and ‘IAC 100’) in two sites. During the R6 and R8 development stages, the genotypes were evaluated for 10 traits. The joint analysis showed that the interactions were significative for the most traits. The significance of the rust effect allowed us to identify the genotypes in which the losses were nonsignificant. We observed that ASR affected two stages of plant development. However, information about ASR losses quantified by the rust reaction rate (RRR) enabled the researchers to select lines that could be used in breeding programs aiming towards ASR tolerance. We found three lines that were superior to one of the cultivar checks. Furthermore, cluster analysis for RRR was useful in establishing the most promising groups of vegetable soybean genotypes for use in hybridization aiming to expand the genetic base for vegetable soybeans and integrate new genetic resources of vegetable soybean in the Brazilian genetic pool to ensure genetic gain.
Genomic detection of a secondary family burial in a single jar coffin in early Medieval Korea
Authors: Lee Don‐Nyeong , Jeon Chae Lin , Kang Jiwon , Burri Marta , Krause Johannes , Woo Eun Jin , Jeong Choongwon
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Family relationship is a key to understand the structure of past societies but its archeological reconstruction mostly stays circumstantial. Archaeogenetic information, especially genome‐wide data, provide an objective approach to accurately reconstruct the familial relationship of ancient individuals, thus allowing a robust test of an archaeology‐driven hypothesis of kinship. In this study, we applied this approach to disentangle the genetic relationship of early Medieval individuals from Korea, who were secondarily co‐buried in a single jar coffin.

Materials and Methods

We obtained genome‐wide data of six early Medieval Korean individuals from a jar coffin. We inferred the genetic relatedness between these individuals and characterized their genetic profiles using well‐established population genetics methods.

Results

Congruent with the unusual pattern of multiple individuals in a single jar coffin, genome‐wide analysis of these individuals shows that they form an extended family, including a couple, their two children and both paternal and maternal relatives. We show that these early Medieval Koreans have a genetic profile similar to present‐day Koreans.

Discussion

We show that an unusual case of the secondary multiple burial in a single jar coffin reflects family relationship among the co‐buried individuals. We find both paternal and maternal relatives co‐buried with the nuclear family, which may suggest a family structure with limited gender bias. We find the genetic profile of early Medieval Koreans similar to that of present‐day Koreans, showing that the genetic root of the present‐day Koreans goes back at least 1500 years in the Korean peninsula.
Achievement of high surface charge in poly(vinylidene fluoride) fiber yarns through dipole orientation during fabrication
Authors: Bokka Sreevalli , Li Yue , Reneker Darrell H. , Chase George G.
Published: October 2022

Electrospun fiber materials are of scientific interest for use in multiple application areas. Charged fiber structures show enhanced properties as desired for some of these applications. One factor influencing the charge on the fiber structure that has not been explored is fiber alignment. Electrospun fiber structures, such as membranes, typically consist of randomly oriented fibers. Structural properties of the membranes such as mechanical strength are known to be affected by the random orientation of the fibers. It is suspected that fiber orientation may also affect the charge capacity of charged fiber structures. A few approaches to form electrospun yarns have been reported. Some of these approaches can also cause fibers to preferentially align along the yarn axis instead of assembling into a random structure. In this work, a rotating metal cone was used to collect Poly(vinylidene fluoride) electrospun fibers from which stretched yarns were drawn and twisted into yarns. The alignment of the fibers in the yarns was controllable to a degree that allowed exploration of the effect of alignment on charge. Long continuous oriented or random yarns of relatively uniform thickness were produced at a rate of about 10 m/h. The yarns were polarized by methods of heating, stretching, and poling. The results show that the fiber yarn formation process endows more charges to the fibers compared to the normal fiber membrane electrospinning and post polarization. This provides a facile route for the preparation of enhanced charge‐functionalized fiber structures for a wide range of applications.
Final results from the ribavirin pregnancy registry, 2004–2020
Authors: Sinclair Susan M. , Jones Judith K. , Miller Richard K. , Greene Michael F. , Kwo Paul Y. , Maddrey Willis C.
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Significant teratogenic effects have been demonstrated for ribavirin in animal studies. Ribavirin is prescribed for chronic hepatitis C and is contraindicated in pregnant women and their male sexual partners. Both are advised to avoid pregnancy for 6 months after exposure. The registry monitored pregnancy exposures to oral formulations of ribavirin for hepatitis C for signals of possible human teratogenicity from 2004 to 2020.

Methods: Pregnant women were voluntarily enrolled following direct exposure (ribavirin use during pregnancy or the 6 months prior) or indirect exposure (through sexual contact during pregnancy or 6 months prior, with a man who has taken ribavirin within 6 months). Women were followed until the end of pregnancy. Infants were followed until 1 year of age. Birth defect rates were compared with the published rate of 2.67 per 100 live births from the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP).

Results: The registry enrolled 280 pregnancies resulting in 186 live births: eight birth defect cases among 88 directly exposed [9.09% (8/88, 95% CI: 4.01, 17.13)], and six birth defect cases among 98 indirectly exposed [6.12% (6/98, 95% CI: 2.28, 12.85)]. The 95% CI around the birth defect rate among directly exposed pregnancies exceeds the MACDP rate; however, no patterns suggestive of a teratogenic mechanism or safety signal were detected.

Conclusion: Based on the patterns of birth defects reported, the final results from this registry do not suggest a clear signal of human teratogenicity for ribavirin. The registry did not meet sample size requirements; therefore, caution should be exercised when interpreting the results.
MicroRNA‐433‐3p enhances chemosensitivity of glioma to cisplatin by downregulating NR5A2
Authors: Li Jun , Gu Jingshun , Wang Juntong , You Aiwu , Zhang Yuyan , Rao Guomin , Li Shuang , Ge Xuehua , Zhang Kun , Wang Dongchun
Published: October 2022

Objective

We attempted to investigate influence of microRNA‐433‐3p on malignant progression of glioma and identify its molecular mechanism, thus laying groundwork for glioma management.

Methods

Expression data along with clinical data of glioma were accessed from the TCGA database for differential and survival analyses to look for the target differentially expressed genes. Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT‐PCR) and western blot were utilized to assess NR5A2 mRNA and protein expression in different glioma cell lines, respectively. MTT, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry were carried out to assay the impact of NR5A2 on behaviors of glioma cells in vitro. Bioinformatics analysis was used to identify the upstream microRNA of NR5A2 in glioma, while dual‐luciferase and western blot assays were used to detect binding of microRNA and NR5A2. Chemosensitivity of glioma cells was evaluated by cisplatin cytotoxicity test.

Results

NR5A2 was upregulated in both glioma tissues and cell lines. Dual‐luciferase assay result showed binding site of microRNA‐433‐3p on NR5A2 mRNA 3′UTR, and microRNA‐433‐3p reduced NR5A2 expression. Cell assays revealed that silencing NR5A2 could hamper proliferation, invasion, and migration and enhance chemosensitivity to cisplatin while promoting glioma cell apoptosis and blocking glioma cells in G0/G1 phase. Rescue experiments also indicated that microRNA‐433‐3p suppressed glioma malignant progression via inhibiting NR5A2.

Conclusion

MicroRNA‐433‐3p which is significantly poorly expressed in glioma targets NR5A2 to suppress glioma malignant progression and enhance chemosensitivity to cisplatin.
A 2D equivalent mechanical model of the whole pelvic floor and impairment simulation
Authors: Xie Jiachen , Li Song , Yao Tingqiang , Shen Jihong
Published: October 2022

We developed a complete 2D equivalent mechanical model of the pelvic floor based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images of a 35‐year‐old healthy woman. This model can simulate anterior vaginal prolapse (AVP) due to soft tissue impairment. Thus, we can study the mechanism of prolapse formation from a mechanical perspective and improve the assessment and treatment of the condition in clinical practice. Based on 2D MRI image parameter measurements and computer‐aided design methods, the 2D equivalent mechanical model of the whole pelvic floor in the sagittal plane was accurately reconstructed, which includes all necessary tissues of the pelvic floor system. Material parameters were mainly from the literature. We simulated the impairment by reducing the tissue's mechanical properties, and numerical simulations predicted the mechanical response and morphological changes of the healthy and impaired pelvic floor in different states. In six intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) states (8.4–208.9 cmH2O), the maximum cervical descent in the impaired pelvic floor was 0.3–18.521 mm, which was much greater than that in the healthy pelvic floor (0.14–6.55 mm). Once the impairment occurred (0%–25%), there was a significant increase in maximum displacement, stress, and cervical descent (30.9–36.5 mm, 0.56–1.12 MPa, 4.6–12.1 mm), and a clinically similar prolapse shape occurred. Simple supine and standing will not cause prolapse. The formation of prolapse is closely related to vaginal tissue impairment. In the standing position, the main forces on the healthy pelvic floor system are distributed horizontally posteriorly and inferiorly, reducing the burden in the vertically downward direction.