bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In the framework of videoconference classrooms at local learning centres in Sweden
Authors: Lögdlund Ulrik
Published: April 2011

This article explores the practice of videoconferencing and draws on interaction in class based on ethnographic ieldwork carried out at local learning centres in Sweden. The study is based on participant observations focusing on communication and the role of the teacher in a videoconferencing class. The results of the study shed light on different functions of the teachers' questions such as rhetorical, expanding and provocative. Further, talk in videoconferencing lacks systems of proper back-channel cues and communication often fails as a result of low feedback. The study also shows that there is a lack of balance in the distribution of utterances between the teacher and the students and that interaction is often one-way. The teacher becomes an actor in class reacting against low feedback. Questions and statements posed by the teacher are designed to break through the barriers of mediating technology. Also interaction patterns are impaired by misunderstandings and the practice is described as a learning space imbued with the rationale of communication technology.
Editorial: Professionalisation – the struggle within
Authors: Jütte Wolfgang , Nicoll Katherine , Salling Olesen Henning
Published: April 2011

Not Available.
Respiratory Health Symptoms among Students Exposed to Different Levels of Air Pollution in a Turkish City
Authors: Gül Hülya , Gaga Eftade O. , Döğeroğlu Tuncay , Özden Özlem , Ayvaz Özkan , Özel Sevda , Güngör Günay
Published: April 2011

In this study, we aimed to investigate the frequency of respiratory health symptoms among high school students attending schools at industrial, urban and rural areas in a Turkish city. Three schools located in different zones of the city having different pollution characteristics were chosen based on the pollutant distribution maps using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software. A cross-sectional survey was performed among 667 high school students in the schools. Outdoor and indoor nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) concentrations were also measured by passive samplers in the same schools to investigate possible routes of exposure. Chronic pulmonary disease (OR = 1.49; 95%CI: 1.11–1.99; p = 0.008), tightness in the chest (OR = 1.57; 95%CI: 1.22–2.02; p = 0.001), morning cough (OR = 1.81 95%CI: 1.19–2.75; p = 0.006) were higher among students in the industrial zone where nitrogen dioxide and ozone levels were also highest. There were no indoor sources of nitrogen dioxide and ozone exists in the schools except for the dining hall. As a conclusion, this study has noticed that air pollution and respiratory health problems among high school students are high in industrial zones and the use of passive samplers combined with GIS is an effective tool that may be used by public health researchers to identify pollutant zones and persons at risk.
An Ecological and Conservation Perspective on Advances in the Applied Virology of Zoonoses
Authors: Vandegrift Kurt J. , Wale Nina , Epstein Jonathan H.
Published: April 2011

The aim of this manuscript is to describe how modern advances in our knowledge of viruses and viral evolution can be applied to the fields of disease ecology and conservation. We review recent progress in virology and provide examples of how it is informing both empirical research in field ecology and applied conservation. We include a discussion of needed breakthroughs and ways to bridge communication gaps between the field and the lab. In an effort to foster this interdisciplinary effort, we have also included a table that lists the definitions of key terms. The importance of understanding the dynamics of zoonotic pathogens in their reservoir hosts is emphasized as a tool to both assess risk factors for spillover and to test hypotheses related to treatment and/or intervention strategies. In conclusion, we highlight the need for smart surveillance, viral discovery efforts and predictive modeling. A shift towards a predictive approach is necessary in today’s globalized society because, as the 2009 H1N1 pandemic demonstrated, identification post-emergence is often too late to prevent global spread. Integrating molecular virology and ecological techniques will allow for earlier recognition of potentially dangerous pathogens, ideally before they jump from wildlife reservoirs into human or livestock populations and cause serious public health or conservation issues.
STUDY ON NONLINEAR PAVEMENT RESPONSES OF LOW VOLUME ROADWAYS SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE WHEEL LOADS / NETIESINĖS KELIO DANGOS PRIKLAUSOMYBĖS NUO MAŽO INTENSYVUMO KELIŲ, VEIKIAMŲ DAUGKARTINĖMIS RATŲ APKROVOMIS, TYRIMAS
Authors: Kim Minkwan , Lee Joo Hyoung
Published: April 2011

This paper describes numerical analyses on low volume roads (LVRs) using a nonlinear three-dimensional (3D) finite element model (FEM). Various pavement scenarios are analyzed to investigate the effects of pavement layer thicknesses, traffic loads, and material properties on pavement responses, such as surface deflection and subgrade strain. Each scenario incorporates a different combination of wheel/axle configurations and pavement geomaterial properties to analyze the nonlinear behavior of thinly surfaced asphalt pavement. In this numerical study, nonlinear stress-dependent models are employed in the base and subgrade layers to properly characterize pavement geomaterial behavior. Finite element analysis results are then described in terms of the effects of the asphalt pavement thickness, wheel/axle configurations, and geomaterial properties on critical pavement responses. Conclusions are drawn by the comparison of the nonlinear pavement responses in the base and subgrade in association with the effects of multiple wheel/axle load interactions. Santrauka Straipsnyje aprašoma skaitinė mažo intensyvumo kelių analizė, taikant netiesinį—erdvinį baigtinių elementų modelį. Skirtingi dangų paviršiaus variantai analizuojami siekiant ištirti, kokiąįtaką kelio dangos elgsenai, t. y. poslinkiams ir kelio pagrindo deformacijoms, turi dangų sluoksnių storiai, eismo apkrovos ir medžiagų savybės. Kiekvienas kelio dangos variantas turi skirtingas ratų arba ašies ir geometrinių savybių formas, kad būtų galima išanalizuoti netiesinę plonos asfalto dangos paviršiaus elgseną. Šioje skaitinėje analizėje nagrinėjami netiesiniai įtempių modeliai, kurie buvo taikomi pagrindo sluoksniams, siekiant tinkamai apibūdinti geometrinę kelio dangos elgseną. Baigtinių elementų analizės rezultatai toliau nagrinėjami atsižvelgiant į asfalto dangos storį ar ašies formą ir geometrines savybes, priklausomai nuo kritinės kelio dangos būklės. Išvados buvo gautos lyginant netiesines kelių dangos priklausomybes pagrindo sluoksnyje, atsižvelgiant į jų sąveiką su daugkartine ratų apkrova.
FUZZY CONTROL OF PARTNERING RELATIONS OF A CONSTRUCTION ENTERPRISE / STATYBOS ĮMONĖS PARTNERYSTĖS SANTYKIŲ NEAPIBREŽTUMO KONTROLĖ
Authors: Radziszewska-Zielina Elžbieta
Published: April 2011

The author has elaborated an expert system to control partnering relations with a construction enterprise. The expert system is based on Mamdani fuzzy model. The purpose of the system is to improve the indices of assessing a construction enterprise by raising the level of partnering relations with other transactors in industry. The system indicates a recommendation supporting a decision-making system of any given construction enterprise and stating whether relations are to be preserved, changed or changed immediately to each of the fourteen relation parameters and for each of four transactors of enterprise's microenvironment. For every relation parameter, this decision is taken by the expert system with reference to the significance and assessment of this parameter identifying its influence on the success of a construction enterprise. Another task of the expert system is to select one parameter for each transactor which needs to be changed first. The process of choosing the parameter to be changed first for a given transactor is based on all input parameters. Santrauka Autorė sukūrė ekspertinę sistemą, padedančią kontroliuoti partnerystės santykius statybos įmonėje. Ekspertinė sistema pagrįsta Mamdani neapibrėžtumo modeliu. Šios sistemos tikslas—pagerinti statybos įmonės rodiklius keliant partnerystės santykių su kitais pramonės dalyviais lygį. Sprendimų paramos sistema, kuri gali būti taikoma bet kurioje statybos įmonėje, teikia rekomendacijas ir nurodo, ar partnerystės santykiai su kiekvienu iš keturių įmonės mikroaplinkos dalyvių turi būti išsaugoti, ar pakeisti, ar skubiai pakeisti, atsižvelgiant į kiekvieną iš keturiolikos santykius apibrėžiančių parametrų. Ekspertinė sistema priima sprendimus pagal kiekvieną santykius apibrėžiantį parametrą, atsižvelgiant į parametro reikšmingumą statybos įmonės veiklos sėkmei. Kitas ekspertinės sistemos uždavinys—parinkti kiekvienam dalyviui po vieną santykius apibrėžiantį parametrą, kuris turi būti pakeistas pirmiausia. Parametras, kuris turi būti pakeistas pirmiausia tam tikram dalyviui yra parenkamas atsižvelgiant į visus įvesties parametrus.
Anti-Influenza Virus Activity of Tricin, 4′,5,7-trihydroxy-3′,5′-dimethoxyflavone
Authors: Yazawa Kurumi , Kurokawa Masahiko , Obuchi Masatsugu , Li Ying , Yamada Rie , Sadanari Hidetaka , Matsubara Keiko , Watanabe Kunitomo , Koketsu Mamoru , Tuchida Yuuzo , Murayama Tsugiya
Published: April 2011

Background:

We examined the anti-influenza virus activity of tricin, 4′,5,7-trihydroxy-3′,5′-dimethoxyflavone, against five viruses: A/Solomon islands/3/2006 (H1N1), A/Hiroshima/52/2005 (H3N2), A/California/07/2009 (H1N1pdm), A/Narita/1/2009 (H1N1pdm) and B/Malaysia/2506/2004 strains in vitro and against A/PR/8/34 virus in vivo.

Methods:

The effect of tricin was studied by an infectious virus yield reduction assay. The anti-influenza virus mechanism of the tricin was examined by western blot analysis, real-time reverse transcriptase PCR analysis, haemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay and neuraminidase (NA) inhibition assay. The anti-influenza virus efficacy of tricin was further examined in a murine influenza virus infection model.

Results:

Tricin of 3.3 to 30 μM significantly reduced seasonal A (H1N1), (H3N2) viruses, novel A (H1N1pdm) virus, as well as B virus in a dose-dependent manner. The 50% effective concentrations of tricin were 3.4 μM for seasonal A (H3N2) virus, 4.9 μM for B virus and 8.2 μM for A/Narita (H1N1pdm) virus. Tricin decreased the expression of haemagglutinin (HA) protein and matrix (M) protein, and messenger RNA expression of HA and M of influenza virus in the infected cells. Tricin exhibited little or no effects on influenza virus HI and NA activities. In the mouse infection model, tricin was significantly effective in reducing body weight loss, and also effective in prolonging survival times of infected mice.

Conclusions:

Tricin was indicated to possess anti-influenza virus activity and to ameliorate body weight loss and survival rate of influenza-A-virus-infected mice. Tricin is a novel compound with potential anti-influenza virus activity in vitro and in vivo.
Tolerance Induction of IgG+ Memory B Cells by T Cell-Independent Type II Antigens
Authors: Haniuda Kei , Nojima Takuya , Ohyama Kyosuke , Kitamura Daisuke
Published: April 2011

Memory B cells generated during a T cell-dependent immune response rapidly respond to a secondary immunization by producing abundant IgG Abs that bind cognate Ag with high affinity. It is currently unclear whether this heightened recall response by memory B cells is due to augmented IgG-BCR signaling, which has only been demonstrated in the context of naive transgenic B cells. To address this question, we examined whether memory B cells can respond in vivo to Ags that stimulate only through BCR, namely T cell-independent type II (TI-II) Ags. In this study, we show that the TI-II Ag (4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl) acetyl (NP)-Ficoll cannot elicit the recall response in mice first immunized with the T cell-dependent Ag NP-chicken γ-globulin. Moreover, the NP-Ficoll challenge in vivo as well as in vitro significantly inhibits a subsequent recall response to NP-chicken γ-globulin in a B cell-intrinsic manner. This NP-Ficoll–mediated tolerance is caused by the preferential elimination of IgG+ memory B cells binding to NP with high affinity. These data indicate that BCR cross-linking with a TI-II Ag does not activate IgG+ memory B cells, but rather tolerizes them, identifying a terminal checkpoint of memory B cell differentiation that may prevent autoimmunity.
Limit Sets of Typical Homeomorphisms
Authors: Bernardes Nilson C.
Published: April 2011

Given an integer n ≥ 3, a metrizable compact topological n-manifold X with boundary, and a finite positive Borel measure μ on X, we prove that for the typical homeomorphism f : X → X, it is true that for μ-almost every point x in X the limit set ω( f, x) is a Cantor set of Hausdorff dimension zero, each point of ω(f, x) has a dense orbit in ω(f, x), f is non-sensitive at each point of ω(f, x), and the function a → ω(f, a) is continuous at x.
Atomic Decomposition and Boundedness of Operators on Weighted Hardy Spaces
Authors: Han Yongsheng , Lee Ming-Yi , Lin Chin-Cheng
Published: April 2011

In this article, we establish a new atomic decomposition for , where the decomposition converges in -norm rather than in the distribution sense. As applications of this decomposition, assuming that T is a linear operator bounded on and 0 < p ≤ 1, we obtain (i) if T is uniformly bounded in -norm for all w-p-atoms, then T can be extended to be bounded from to ; (ii) if T is uniformly bounded in -norm for all w-p-atoms, then T can be extended to be bounded on ; (iii) if T is bounded on , then T can be extended to be bounded from to .
Hygroscopic properties of aerosol particles at high relative humidity and their diurnal variations in the North China Plain
Authors: Liu P. F. , Zhao C. S. , Göbel T. , Hallbauer E. , Nowak A. , Ran L. , Xu W. Y. , Deng Z. Z. , Ma N. , Mildenberger K. , Henning S. , Stratmann F. , Wiedensohler A.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. The hygroscopic properties of submicron aerosol particles were determined at a suburban site (Wuqing) in the North China Plain among a cluster of cities during the period 17 July to 12 August, 2009. A High Humidity Tandem Differential Mobility Analyser (HH-TDMA) instrument was applied to measure the hygroscopic growth factor (GF) at 90%, 95% and 98.5% relative humidity (RH) for particles with dry diameters between 50 and 250 nm. The probability distribution of GF (GF-PDF) averaged over the period shows a distinct bimodal pattern, namely, a dominant more-hygroscopic (MH) group and a smaller nearly-hydrophobic (NH) group. The MH group particles were highly hygroscopic, and their GF was relatively constant during the period with average values of 1.54 ± 0.02, 1.81 ± 0.04 and 2.45 ± 0.07 at 90%, 95% and 98.5% RH (D0 = 100 nm), respectively. The NH group particles grew very slightly when exposed to high RH, with GF values of 1.08 ± 0.02, 1.13 ± 0.06 and 1.24 ± 0.13 respectively at 90%, 95% and 98.5% RH (D0 = 100 nm). The hygroscopic growth behaviours at different RHs were well represented by a single-parameter Köhler model. Thus, the calculation of GF as a function of RH and dry diameter could be facilitated by an empirical parameterization of κ as function of dry diameter. A strong diurnal pattern in number fraction of different hygroscopic groups was observed. The average number fraction of NH particles during the day was about 8%, while during the nighttime fractions up to 20% were reached. Correspondingly, the state of mixing in terms of water uptake varied significantly during a day. Simulations using a particle-resolved aerosol box model (PartMC-MOSAIC) suggest that the diurnal variations of aerosol hygroscopicity and mixing state were mainly caused by the evolution of the atmospheric mixing layer. The shallow nocturnal boundary layer during the night facilitated the accumulation of freshly emitted carbonaceous particles (mainly hydrophobic) near the surface while in the morning turbulence entrained the more aged and more hygroscopic particles from aloft and diluted the NH particles near the surface resulting in a decrease in the fraction of NH particles.
Seasonal and spatial variability of surface ozone over China: contributions from background and domestic pollution
Authors: Wang Y. , Zhang Y. , Hao J. , Luo M.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Both observations and a 3-D chemical transport model suggest that surface ozone over populated eastern China features a summertime trough and that the month when surface ozone peaks differs by latitude and region. Source-receptor analysis is used to quantify the contributions of background ozone and Chinese anthropogenic emissions on this variability. Annual mean background ozone over China shows a spatial gradient from 55 ppbv in the northwest to 20 ppbv in the southeast, corresponding with changes in topography and ozone lifetime. Pollution background ozone (annual mean of 12.6 ppbv) shows a minimum in the summer and maximum in the spring. On the monthly-mean basis, Chinese pollution ozone (CPO) has a peak of 20–25 ppbv in June north of the Yangtze River and in October south of it, which explains the peaks of surface ozone in these months. The summertime trough in surface ozone over eastern China can be explained by the decrease of background ozone from spring to summer (by −15 ppbv regionally averaged over eastern China). Tagged simulations suggest that long-range transport of ozone from northern mid-latitude continents (including Europe and North America) reaches a minimum in the summer, whereas ozone from Southeast Asia exhibits a maximum in the summer over eastern China. This contrast in seasonality provides clear evidence that the seasonal switch in monsoonal wind patterns plays a significant role in determining the seasonality of background ozone over China.
Measurements of tropospheric HO2 and RO2 by oxygen dilution modulation and chemical ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Hornbrook R. S. , Crawford J. H. , Edwards G. D. , Goyea O. , Mauldin III R. L. , Olson J. S. , Cantrell C. A.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. An improved method for the measurement of hydroperoxy radicals (HO2) and organic peroxy radicals (RO2, where R is any organic group) has been developed that combines two previous chemical conversion/chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CIMS) peroxy radical measurement techniques. Applicable to both ground-based and aircraft platforms, the method provides good separation between HO2 and RO2, and frequent measurement capability with observations of both HO2 and HO2 + RO2 amounts each minute. These improvements allow for analyses of measured [HO2]/[HO2 + RO2] ratios on timescales relevant to tropospheric photochemistry. By varying both [NO] and [O2] simultaneously in the chemical conversion region of the PeRCIMS (Peroxy Radical CIMS) inlet, the method exploits the changing conversion efficiency of RO2 to HO2 under different inlet [NO]/[O2] to selectively observe either primarily HO2 or the sum of HO2 and RO2. Two modes of operation have been established for ambient measurements: in the first half of the minute, RO2 radicals are measured at close to 100% efficiency along with HO2 radicals (low [NO]/[O2] = 2.53 × 10−5) and in the second half of the minute, HO2 is detected while the majority of ambient RO2 radicals are measured with low efficiency, approximately 15% (high [NO]/[O2] = 6.80 × 10−4). The method has been tested extensively in the laboratory under various conditions and for a variety of organic peroxy radicals relevant to the atmosphere and the results of these tests are presented. The modified PeRCIMS instrument has been deployed successfully using the new measurement technique on a number of aircraft campaigns, including on the NSF/NCAR C-130 during the MIRAGE-Mex and NASA INTEX-B field campaigns in the spring of 2006. A brief comparison of the peroxy radical measurements during these campaigns to a photochemical box model indicates good agreement under tropospheric conditions where NOx (NO + NO2) concentrations are lower than 0.5 ppbV (parts per billion by volume).
Another Aspect of Triangle Inequality
Authors: Saito Kichi-Suke , An Runling , Mizuguchi Hiroyasu , Mitani Ken-Ichi
Published: April 2011

We introduce the notion of ψ-norm by considering the fact that an absolute normalized norm on C2 corresponds to a continuous convex function ψ on the unit interval [0,1] with some conditions. This is a generalization of the notion of q-norm introduced by Belbachir et al. (2006). Then we show that a ψ-norm is a norm in the usual sense.
Urachal Sinus Presenting with Abscess Formation
Authors: El Ammari Jalal Eddine , Ahallal Youness , El Yazami Adli Oussama , El Fassi Mohammed Jamal , Farih My Hassan
Published: April 2011

Urachal affections are rare. Their variable ways of presentation may represent a diagnostic challenge. Urachal sinuses are a rare type of these abnormalities. They are usually incidental findings and remain asymptomatic unless a complication (most commonly the infection) occurs. Infection of the urachal sinus would clinically present as purulent umbilical discharge, abdominal pain, and periumbilical mass. We report herein a case of infected urachal sinus in male adult. The diagnosis was suspected clinically and confirmed with ultrasonography and computed tomography scan. A preoperative cysto-fibroscopy showed normal aspect of the bladder and excluded sinus communication. An initial broad spectrum antibiotic therapy followed by complete excision of the sinus and fibrous tract without cuff of bladder has been therefore performed. The postoperative course was uneventful. No recurrence was observed after 18 months of followup. Histological examination did not reveal any sign of malignancy.
Are we under threat when we risk? Notions and terminology of risk theory due to geological hazards
Authors: Đurović Blažo , Mikoš Matjaž
Published: April 2011

Well explained terminology in the field of natural and other disasters makes possible qualitative professional discussion and full exchange of knowledge between different professionals in this interdisciplinary field. From literature we extract definitions of terms hazard, risk and disaster. Additionally, we show also the detailed meaning of a sequence of other relevant terms in the field of risk management such as vulnerability and specific risk. Unified use of the conceptual and terminological sequence “hazard-specific riskrisk” is suggested.
Adaptive event‐triggered secure control for networked control systems subject to deception and replay cyber‐attacks
Authors: Tajudeen M. Mubeen , Ali M. Syed , Rajchakit Grienggrai , Priya Bandana , Thakur Ganesh Kumar
Published: May 2024

An adaptive event‐triggered scheme is considered for networked control systems subject to deception and reply cyber attacks. In particular, the adaptive event‐triggered mechanism is used in the closed‐loop controller design to reduce signal transmission and communication burden. The attacker destroys the system's performance by employing deception attacks on sensor‐to‐controller communication channels and replay attacks on controller‐to‐actuator communication channels, respectively. By utilizing the Lyapunov stability approach, the closed‐loop system guarantees mean square stability and ensure security. The adaptive event‐triggered controller gains are presented by solving a set of matrix inequalities. Finally, a simulation result including the model of a batch reactor is presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the methods proposed.
In Situ Colonization of Trojan‐Yeast for Targeted Glucose Starvation and Reconstruction of Tumor Immune Environment
Authors: Cheng Qian , Quan Xingping , Luo Ruifeng , Yang Zhiqing , Li Junyan , Wang Ziyi , Zhao Yonghua , Fan Chunhai , Wang Ruibing
Published: May 2024

Glucose is an important energy source for living cells. Particularly, most tumor cells use glycolysis to harness energy for their fast growth, invasion and metastasis even under aerobic conditions. Thus, reduction of the glucose level in cancer can lead to suppression of tumor growth. Here, macrophage membrane dressed yeast, Trojan M‐yeast, is developed, via coating the surface of yeast with macrophage membrane, for targeted accumulation and suppression of tumor by glucose starvation. Due to the inflammatory homing effects of macrophage membrane, M‐yeast efficiently target and colonize in the inflammatory tumor site, where they compete with tumor cells for glucose consumption, thereby disrupting glycolysis of cancer cells, resulting in the reduction of lactate accumulation and reversal of the acidosis of tumor microenvironment. Subsequently, the apoptotic tumor cells and yeast promote dendritic cell maturation, increase tumor‐infiltrating cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Meanwhile, ethanol and acetaldehyde produced by yeast metabolism of glucose can re‐polarize tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) to the anti‐tumor phenotype (M1), thus reprogramming the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment, leading to synergistic tumor suppression together with glucose starvation, which is different from traditional chemotherapy and immunotherapy. M‐yeast exhibits promising targeted cancer therapy with a decent safety profile. This work may provide new insights as well as a new paradigm for yeast‐based cancer therapy.
A Processing Route to Chalcogenide Perovskites Alloys with Tunable Band Gap via Anion Exchange
Authors: Ye Kevin , Sadeghi Ida , Xu Michael , Van Sambeek Jack , Cai Tao , Dong Jessica , Kothari Rishabh , LeBeau James M. , Jaramillo R.
Published: May 2024

The synthesis of BaZr(S,Se)3 chalcogenide perovskite alloys is demonstrated by selenization of BaZrS3 thin films. The anion‐exchange process produces films with tunable composition and band gap without changing the orthorhombic perovskite crystal structure or the film microstructure. The direct band gap is tunable between 1.5 and 1.9 eV. The alloy films made in this way feature one‐hundred‐times stronger photoconductive response and a lower density of extended defects, compared to alloy films made by direct growth. The perovskite structure is stable in high‐selenium‐content thin films with and without epitaxy. The manufacturing‐compatible process of selenization in H2Se gas may spur the development of chalcogenide perovskite solar cell technology.
Balancing Polarization and Breakdown for High Capacitive Energy Storage by Microstructure Design
Authors: Yang Bingbing , Liu Yiqian , Li Wei , Lan Shun , Dou Lvye , Zhu Xuebin , Li Qian , Nan Ce‐Wen , Lin Yuan‐Hua
Published: May 2024

The compromise of contradictive parameters, polarization, and breakdown strength, is necessary to achieve a high energy storage performance. The two can be tuned, regardless of material types, by controlling microstructures: amorphous states possess higher breakdown strength, while crystalline states have larger polarization. However, how to achieve a balance of amorphous and crystalline phases requires systematic and quantitative investigations. Herein, the trade‐off between polarization and breakdown field is comprehensively evaluated with the evolution of microstructure, i.e., grain size and crystallinity, by phase‐field simulations. The results indicate small grain size (≈10–35 nm) with moderate crystallinity (≈60–80%) is more beneficial to maintain relatively high polarization and breakdown field simultaneously, consequently contributing to a high overall energy storage performance. Experimentally, therefore an ultrahigh energy density of 131 J cm−3 is achieved with a high efficiency of 81.6% in the microcrystal‐amorphous dual‐phase Bi3NdTi4O12 films. This work provides a guidance to substantially enhance dielectric energy storage by a simple and effective microstructure design.
Reinforced Interfacial Cd─Se Bond Coupling Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution with Pyruvic Acid Synthesis
Authors: Guo Yuchen , Sun Jiaming , Geng Zikang , Zhang Junying , Tan Xin , Ye Jinhua , Yu Tao
Published: May 2024

Maximizing the utilization of photogenerated electrons and holes to drive the coupling reaction of hydrogen evolution with selective value‐added organic synthesis holds great potential for more efficient exploitation of solar energy. Herein, the interstitial boron‐doped CdS is synthesized by taking SiO2 as a template as well as the adsorption sites of boric acid, which contributes to the boron doping and induces the reinforced Cd─Se bonding for enhancing the interfacial interaction with co‐catalyst MoSe2. Thus, the interfacial Cd─Se bond with more electron localization provides rapid channels at the atomic level for accelerating the charge transfer with a lower energy barrier, achieving the efficient hydrogen evolution and high selectivity pyruvic acid synthesis concurrently. This work provides a new perspective in avoiding the use of sacrificial agents uneconomically and producing green hydrogen with high‐value‐added chemicals simultaneously.
Integrating Aperiodic 3D Porous Electrodes into 3D Batteries through Spray‐Deposited Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Liu Yibo , Zhang Qingxu , Zhou Shengzhuang , Li Xiangyu , Yi Bing , Liu Yiming , Liu Xizheng , Ding Yi
Published: May 2024

Due to their exceptional energy and power densities, 3D micro‐batteries emerge as highly promising candidates for miniaturized power sources. However, fabricating a complete and uniform electrolyte/separator membrane to separate 3D electrodes in assembled 3D batteries remains a significant challenge. Herein, the study presents a straightforward approach to preparing 3D electrolyte membranes via a modified spray‐deposition method. This 3D electrolyte membrane effectively isolates the 3D porous LiFePO4 cathode from the Li anode with a ionic conductivity of 9.6 × 10−4 S cm−1, facilitating the creation of an integrated aperiodic 3D battery. The 3D battery exhibits a specific capacity of up to 8.8 mAh cm−2 (29.1 mWh cm−2) and attains a maximum power density of 12.7 mW cm−2. The characteristic time is 0.17 s for 3D battery while 0.73 s for traditional 2D batteries. The enhanced rate performance with thick electrode is primarily attributed to the reduced ionic diffusion pathway. These results represent the highest peak power and energy density among all reported aperiodic 3D batteries. The utilization of spray‐deposited electrolytes for 3D electrode separation promises significant advancements in developing 3D batteries and demonstrates great potentials for practical applications.
Photocatalytic Decarboxylative Functionalization of Cyclopropenes via Cyclopropenium Cation Intermediates
Authors: Smyrnov Vladyslav , Waser Jerome
Published: May 2024

A photocatalytic decarboxylative functionalization of cyclopropenes is reported. Starting from a broad range of redox‐active ester‐substituted cyclopropenes, cyclopropenylphthalimides can be synthesized in the absence of a nucleophile. Alternatively, different carbon and heteroatom nucleophiles can be introduced. The transformation proceeds most probably through the formation of an aromatic cyclopropenium cation, followed by trapping with the nucleophiles.
How does the shape of the wing and hindlimb bones of aquatic birds relate to their locomotor abilities?
Authors: Segesdi Martin , Brabant Delphine , Cornette Raphaël , Houssaye Alexandra
Published: May 2024

Aquatic birds represent diverse ecologies and locomotion types. Some became flightless or lost the ability for effective terrestrial locomotion, yet, certain species excel in water, on land, and in air, despite differing physical characteristics associated with each medium. In this exploratory study, we intend to quantitatively analyze the morphological variety of multiple limb bones of aquatic birds using 3D geometric morphometrics. Morphological variation is mainly driven by phylogeny, which also affects size and locomotion. However, the shape of the ulna, including the proportion and orientation of the epiphyses is influenced by size and aquatic propulsive techniques even when phylogeny is taken into consideration. Certain trends, possibly linked to functions, can be observed too in other bones, notably in cases where phylogenetic and functional signals are probably mixed when some taxa only englobe species with similar functional requirements: penguins exhibit the most distinctive wing bone morphologies, highly adapted to wing‐propulsion; advanced foot‐propellers exhibit femur morphology that reduces proximal mobility but supports stability; knee structures, like cnemial crests of varied sizes and orientations, are crucial for muscle attachments and efficient movement in water and on land; taxa relying on their feet in water but retaining terrestrial abilities share features enabling swimming and walking postures. Size‐linked changes distinguish the wing bones of non‐wing‐propelled taxa. For hindlimbs, larger size relates to robust bones probably linked to terrestrial abilities, but robustness in femora can be connected to foot‐propulsion. These results help us better understand birds' skeletal adaptation and can be useful inferring extinct species' ecology.
Profiles of minimally verbal autistic children: Illuminating the neglected end of the spectrum
Authors: Pizzano Maria , Shire Stephanie , Shih Wendy , Levato Lynne , Landa Rebecca , Lord Catherine , Smith Tristram , Kasari Connie
Published: May 2024

Heterogeneity among individuals on the autism spectrum is widely acknowledged as a barrier to develop effective interventions. Overcoming this challenge requires characterization of individual differences, especially for children that are minimally verbal and often excluded from research studies. Most studies that describe autistic subgroups identify a single minimally verbal verbal group based on a single identifying measure (e.g., ADOS module one or single item indicating absence of phrase speech). Determining personalized courses of intervention requires a more detailed understanding since a single intervention will not be effective for all who are minimally verbal. The present study identified comprehensive profiles of cognitive, language, and social communication skills within a large, diverse, group of minimally verbal children with autism. The analysis combined baseline data from two studies to yield a sample of 344 participants, who were 3 to 8 years old at the time of study onset, with 60% who identified as having a race/ethnicity other than White. Via latent profile analysis (LPA), a three‐group model was identified as best fit to the data. Profile identification was dependent on a participant's combination of cognitive, expressive, and social communication characteristics, rather than a single domain. One group (n = 206) had global delays, while the other two groups (n = 95 and n = 43) had variable strengths in cognition and communication. Findings suggest that low‐frequency/minimally verbal communicators with autism have heterogeneous characteristics that can be systematically organized.
Understanding the Ageing Processes of Electrolytes in Aqueous Magnesium Batteries Using Radiation Chemistry
Authors: Paillot Malaurie , Wong Alan , Denisov Sergey A. , Dognon Jean‐Pierre , Mostafavi Mehran , Gauthier Magali , Le Caër Sophie
Published: May 2024

Manufacturing aqueous batteries based on the magnesium cations is an important step towards more sustainable and safer energy storage solutions. Thus, it is important to understand how these systems age and which species are formed throughout numerous charge/discharge cycles. To this end, we have used radiolysis to induce accelerated ageing in concentrated aqueous solutions of magnesium bistriflimide Mg(TFSI)2 (also called “water‐in‐salt electrolytes” or WISEs). We demonstrate in this work that the degradation products formed, whether in the gas or liquid phase, are very similar to those formed in concentrated LiTFSI aqueous solutions. In fact, the behavior under ionizing radiation is driven by the anion/water molar ratio regardless of whether the cation is Li+ or Mg2+. This is because both cations are non‐reactive, and the bond strengths in the TFSI− anion do not vary with the nature of the cation. Reaction mechanisms are proposed to explain the formation of several species under ionizing radiation.
Conformational and Substitution Effects on the Donor and Reducing Strength of Tin(II) Porphyrinogens
Authors: Ruppert Heiko , Meister Arne , Janßen Paul , Greb Lutz
Published: May 2024

Meso‐octaalkylcalix[4]pyrrolates are a class of redox‐active porphyrinogen ligands. They have been well established in d‐ and f‐block chemistry for over three decades but have only recently been introduced as ligands for p‐block elements. Here, we present a study on the influence of meso‐substituents on the redox chemistry of calix[4]pyrrolato stannate(II) dianions [2R]2− (R=Me, Et). Expansion of the normal‐mode structural decomposition (NSD) method, well known for porphyrin chemistry, provides insights into the ligand conformation of a calix[4]pyrrolato p‐block complex. Combined with the results of spectroscopic donor scaling, electrochemical studies, and quantum mechanical bond analysis tools, subtle but significant substitution and conformational effects on the electronic structure are revealed. Exploiting this knowledge rationalizes the role of this class of tin(II) dianions to act as potent reducing agents, but can also be expanded for other central elements. Photoexcitation boosts this reactivity further, allowing for the reduction of even challenging chlorobenzene.
Research on multi‐mechanism synergistic effects of gas cross‐scale percolation in tight gas reservoirs of Yanchang oilfield
Authors: Gao Lijun , Bai Ning , Qiao Linsheng , Ji Wei , Miao Tao
Published: May 2024

Revealing the gas transport patterns at the microscale and nanoscale is of great scientific and engineering significance for unconventional oil and gas exploration and development. This paper first systematically analyzes the properties of gas transport mechanism under different Knudsen number conditions. Second, the coupling modes of the cross‐scale multi‐drive mechanism are systematically categorized, and three typical coupling calculation methods are pointed out. Again, the rationality of the cross‐scale multi‐agency coupling is quantitatively calculated. The results show that (a) Under the influence of Fick's diffusion equation, when Knr > 0, the coupled ‘slip flow–Fick diffusion–Knudsen diffusion’ equation does not converge to the Knudson diffusion equation. (b) The ‘Fick diffusion–Knudsen diffusion’ coupled equation is calculated to be more than 102 times as large as the Knudsen diffusion equation.
Relevance of individual bronchial symptoms for asthma diagnosis and control in patients with rhinitis: A MASK‐air study
Authors: Sousa‐Pinto Bernardo , Louis Gilles , Vieira Rafael J. , Czarlewski Wienczyslawa , Anto Josep M. , Amaral Rita , Sá‐Sousa Ana , Brussino Luisa , Canonica G. Walter , Loureiro Claudia Chaves , Cruz Alvaro A. , Gemicioglu Bilun , Haahtela Tari , Kupczyk Maciej , Kvedariene Violeta , Larenas‐Linnemann Desirée E. , Pham‐Thi Nhân , Puggioni Francesca , Regateiro Frederico S. , Romantowski Jan , Sastre Joaquin , Scichilone Nicola , Taborda‐Barata Luis , Ventura Maria Teresa , Agache Ioana , Bedbrook Anna , Benfante Alida , Bergmann Karl C. , Bosnic‐Anticevich Sinthia , Bonini Matteo , Boulet Louis‐Philippe , Brusselle Guy , Buhl Roland , Cecchi Lorenzo , Charpin Denis , Costa Elisio M. , Del Giacco Stefano , Jutel Marek , Klimek Ludger , Kuna Piotr , Laune Daniel , Makela Mika , Morais‐Almeida Mario , Nadif Rachel , Niedoszytko Marek , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Papi Alberto , Pfaar Oliver , Rivero‐Yeverino Daniela , Roche Nicolas , Samolinski Boleslaw , Shamji Mohamed H. , Sheikh Aziz , Ulrik Charlotte Suppli , Usmani Omar S. , Valiulis Arunas , Yorgancioglu Arzu , Zuberbier Torsten , Fonseca Joao A. , Pétré Benoit , Louis Renaud , Bousquet Jean ,   MASK‐air think tank
Published: May 2024

Rationale

It is unclear how each individual asthma symptom is associated with asthma diagnosis or control.

Objectives

To assess the performance of individual asthma symptoms in the identification of patients with asthma and their association with asthma control.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we assessed real‐world data using the MASK‐air® app. We compared the frequency of occurrence of five asthma symptoms (dyspnea, wheezing, chest tightness, fatigue and night symptoms, as assessed by the Control of Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma Test [CARAT] questionnaire) in patients with probable, possible or no current asthma. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of each symptom, and assessed the association between each symptom and asthma control (measured using the e‐DASTHMA score). Results were validated in a sample of patients with a physician‐established diagnosis of asthma.

Measurement and Main Results

We included 951 patients (2153 CARAT assessments), with 468 having probable asthma, 166 possible asthma and 317 no evidence of asthma. Wheezing displayed the highest specificity (90.5%) and positive predictive value (90.8%). In patients with probable asthma, dyspnea and chest tightness were more strongly associated with asthma control than other symptoms. Dyspnea was the symptom with the highest sensitivity (76.1%) and the one consistently associated with the control of asthma as assessed by e‐DASTHMA. Consistent results were observed when assessing patients with a physician‐made diagnosis of asthma.

Conclusions

Wheezing and chest tightness were the asthma symptoms with the highest specificity for asthma diagnosis, while dyspnea displayed the highest sensitivity and strongest association with asthma control.
Results of ponatinib as frontline therapy for chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase
Authors: Haddad Fadi G. , Sasaki Koji , Nasr Lewis , Short Nicholas J. , Kadia Tapan , Dellasala Sara , Cortes Jorge , Nicolini Franck E. , Issa Ghayas C. , Jabbour Elias , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: May 2024

Background

Ponatinib is a third‐generation BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) with robust activity in Philadelphia chromosome–positive leukemias. Herein, we report the long‐term follow‐up of the phase 2 trial of ponatinib in chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase.

Methods

Patients received ponatinib 30 to 45 mg/day. The primary end point was the rate of 6‐month complete cytogenetic response (CCyR). The study was held in June 2014 because of the risk of cardiovascular toxicity, requiring patients to change TKI.

Results

Fifty‐one patients were treated with ponatinib (median dose, 45 mg/day). Median age was 48 years (range, 21–75); 30 (59%) had baseline cardiovascular comorbidities. Median treatment duration was 13 months (range, 2–25). Fourteen patients (28%) discontinued ponatinib because of toxicities, 36 (71%) after the Food and Drug Administration warning/study closure, and one for noncompliance. Dasatinib was the most frequently chosen second‐line TKI (n = 34; 66%). Among 46 patients evaluable at 6 months, 44 (96%) achieved CCyR, 37 (80%) major molecular response, 28 (61%) MR4, and 21 (46%) MR4.5. The cumulative 6‐month rates of CCyR, major molecular response, MR4, and MR4.5 were 96%, 78%, 50%, and 36%, respectively. Durable MR4 ≥24 or ≥60 months was observed in 67% and 51% of patients, respectively. The 24‐month event‐free survival rate was 97%. After a median follow‐up of 128 months, the 10‐year overall survival rate was 90%. Eight patients (16%) had serious grade 2 to 3 cardiovascular adverse events, leading to permanent discontinuation in five (10%).

Conclusion

Ponatinib yielded high cytogenetic and molecular responses in newly diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase. Its use in the frontline setting is hindered by arterio‐/vaso‐occlusive and other severe toxicities.
Corporate biodiversity disclosure: The role of institutional factors and corporate governance
Authors: Hambali Ahmad , Adhariani Desi
Published: May 2024

Extensive environmental degradation also has a negative impact on biodiversity, which plays a crucial role in both human survival and economic development. This condition has prompted various parties, including companies, to provide their contributions in preventing further severe damage. This study aims to examine the role of institutional factors, namely environmental performance and governance at the national level, as well as the role of corporate governance factors represented by board size, the proportion of independent directors, board diversity, and the presence of sustainability committees, in the corporate disclosure of biodiversity initiatives. The sample of this study comprises companies from 37 countries during the period 2016–2020. The study adopts a quantitative approach and utilizes analytical methods such as logistic regression and fixed‐effect panel data analysis. Research findings indicate that the national environmental performance as an institutional factor, board size, and the existence of sustainability committees as representatives of corporate governance mechanisms are positively associated with corporate biodiversity disclosure. Meanwhile, the national governance index and the proportion of independent directors have a negative impact. Lastly, in general, the proportion of female board members does not significantly affect biodiversity disclosure. However, additional tests reveal its significance in companies operating in the environmentally‐sensitive industries.
Conceptualizing avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder via an executive functioning lens
Authors: Richson Brianne N. , Abber Sophie R. , Wierenga Christina E.
Published: May 2024

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a heterogeneous disorder wherein restrictive eating is primarily attributed to non‐shape/weight‐based reasons (e.g., sensory sensitivity) that empirical research continues to explore. Mounting evidence suggests that ARFID often presents alongside neurodevelopmental diagnoses (NDs) or divergent neurodevelopment broadly. Executive functioning (EF) differences often characterize divergent neurodevelopmental trajectories. Additionally, restrictive eating in anorexia nervosa has been conceptualized as related to EF factors (e.g., set shifting). Given the neurodevelopmental phenotype that may be associated with ARFID and the role of EF in anorexia nervosa, this paper proposes EF as a potentially important, yet understudied factor in ARFID pathology. We posit that various observed ARFID behavioral/cognitive tendencies can be conceptualized in relation to EF differences. We contextualize commonly observed ARFID presentations within “core” EF components (i.e., cognitive flexibility, working memory, inhibitory control), leading to hypotheses about EF in ARFID. Finally, we offer additional considerations/directions for future research on EF in ARFID. Increased research on EF in ARFID is needed to consider this potential common factor in the etiology and maintenance of this heterogeneous disorder. We aim to promote further consideration of EF in ARFID etiology, maintenance, and treatment‐outcome research.

Public Significance

This article proposes that aspects of executive functioning (EF) may play a role in the onset and maintenance of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), although this notion is largely untested by existing research. Further research on the role of EF in ARFID may assist with refining models and treatments for this heterogeneous disorder.