bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimations of anthropogenic dust emissions at global scale from 2007 to 2010
Authors: Chen Siyu , Huang Jianping , Jiang Nanxuan , Zang Zhou , Guan Xiaodan , Ma Xiaojun , Jia Zhuo , Zhang Xiaorui , Zhang Yanting , Huang Kangning , Xu Xiaocong , Zhang Guolong , Li Jiming , Yang Ran , Liao Shujie
Published: December 2017

Abstract. Dust emissions refer to the spatial displacement of dust particles from wind forcing, which is a key component of dust circulation. It plays an important role in the energy, hydrological, and carbon cycles of the Earth's systems. However, most dust emission schemes only consider natural dust, neglecting anthropogenic dust induced by human activities, which led to large uncertainties in quantitative estimations of dust emissions in numerical modeling. To fully consider the mechanisms of anthropogenic dust emissions, both indirect and direct anthropogenic dust emission schemes were constructed and developed in the study. Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) retrievals were used to constrain the simulations at global scale. The results showed that the schemes reasonably reproduced the spatio-temporal distributions of anthropogenic dust from 2007 to 2010. The high centers of anthropogenic dust emission flux appeared in India, eastern China, North America, and Africa range from 0.9 to 11 μg m−2 s−1. Compared with natural dust emissions, indirect anthropogenic dust emissions have indistinctive seasonal variation, with differences less than 3.2 μg m−2 s−1. Pasturelands contribute higher anthropogenic dust emissions than croplands, with emissions of approximately 6.8 μg m−2 s−1, accounting for 60 % of indirect anthropogenic dust emissions. Moreover, average anthropogenic dust emissions in urban areas have a value of 13.5 μg m−2 s−1, which is higher than those in rural areas (7.9 μg m−2 s−1). This study demonstrates that the environmental problems caused by anthropogenic dust in urban areas cannot be ignored.
Secrecy’s Corrupting Influence on Democratic Principles and the Rule of Law
Authors: Martin Greg
Published: December 2017

Sometimes secrecy in law is required to protect vulnerable witnesses or suppress sensitive evidence. However, particularly since the terror attacks of 11 September 2001, governments in liberal democratic societies have increased secrecy and the use of clandestine procedures under the pretext of safeguarding national security. In many instances, these developments have eroded civil liberties, infringed upon constitutional guarantees, and had negative effects on due process rights. In Australia, where individual rights and freedoms have only limited constitutional expression, it is hoped the doctrine of representative and responsible government will act as sufficient protection for human rights. Conversely, drawing on examples ranging from the regulation of immigration to the control of serious organised crime, this article proposes that escalating secrecy in the current era has a corrupting effect on democratic principles and the rule of law.
Uncovering the Transnational Networks, Organisational Techniques and State-Corporate Ties Behind Grand Corruption: Building an Investigative Methodology
Authors: Lasslett Kristian
Published: December 2017

While grand corruption is a major global governance challenge, researchers notably lack a systematic methodology for conducting qualitative research into its complex forms. To address this lacuna, the following article sets out and applies the corruption investigative framework (CIF), a methodology designed to generate a systematic, transferable approach for grand corruption research. Its utility will be demonstrated employing a case study that centres on an Australian-led megaproject being built in Papua New Guinea’s capital city, Port Moresby. Unlike conventional analyses of corruption in Papua New Guinea, which emphasise its local characteristics and patrimonial qualities, application of CIF uncovered new empirical layers that centre on transnational state-corporate power, the ambiguity of civil society, and the structural inequalities that marginalise resistance movements. The important theoretical consequences of the findings and underpinning methodology are explored.
Universidades españolas en Youtube : gestión de canales institucionales y de sus contenidos
Authors: Martín-González Yolanda , Santamaría Llarena Regina
Published: December 2017

El presente estudio tiene como finalidad dar a conocer cómo se gestionan los canales institucionales que las distintas universidades españolas han desarrollado en YouTube así como definir el proceso descriptivo aplicado a los contenidos difundidos a través de dichos canales. Para la realización del estudio se eligió una técnica de investigación de tipo cuantitativo: la encuesta. De este modo, se elaboró un cuestionario que fue remitido al conjunto de universidades públicas y privadas existentes en nuestro país. Dicho cuestionario constaba de un total de veintiuna preguntas mediante las cuales se pretendía identificar la persona y/o servicio sobre el que recae la responsabilidad de gestionar el canal, qué objetivos persiguen las distintas instituciones académicas con su puesta en marcha, qué tipo de recursos se dedican al mismo, quién se ocupa de la descripción de los contenidos audiovisuales y cómo se asignan los metadatos además de si se aplican sistemas de medición de los resultados. La tasa de respuesta obtenida fue del 57%. Los datos recabados ponen de manifiesto lo siguiente: el predominio de la gestión directa por parte de las universidades españolas de su canal institucional en YouTube; la divulgación del conocimiento y la generación de una imagen de marca constituyen los fines principales de los canales institucionales; la escasez de recursos humanos y económicos destinados a su gestión; el perfil polivalente de su/s responsable/s; la elaboración de directrices para la descripción de los contenidos por parte de algunas instituciones; y la aplicación generalizada de métricas sobre los canales universitarios.
3-phase Technicium-99m bone scanning in patients with pain in the hip region after cemented total hip replacement: a multicentre series of 100 cases
Authors: Hill Daniel S , Naim Soulat , Powell Roy J , Kinsella Denis , Toms Andrew D , Howell Jonathan
Published: December 2017

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to assess the benefit of a Technetium-99M (HDP) 3-phase bone scan (TPBS) as an additional diagnostic test in the evaluation of pain in the hip region following cemented total hip replacement (THR) surgery.

Methods:

A retrospective study over a 24-month period was performed comprising 100 patients investigated with a TPBS. Investigations were summarised and analysed, and were classified as entirely normal, possibly abnormal, and definitely abnormal.

Results:

45% (45) of TPBSs were reported as being entirely normal, 50% (50) as possibly abnormal, and 5% (5) as definitely abnormal. During the 24-month study period 230 revision THR procedures were performed at our institution; 10% (24) were investigated with TPBS and 90% (206) were not. 29% (7/24) of patients investigated with a TPBS that subsequently underwent revision THR surgery had an entirely normal preoperative TPBS. 84% (38) with an abnormal TPBS were managed conservatively. A TPBS had a sensitivity of 29% (95% confidence interval (CI), 13%-51%) and a specificity of 50% (95% CI, 38%-62%) in the detection of infection, or loosening with concurrent infection.

Conclusion:

A TPBS should only be considered following clinical evaluation, serological investigation, diagnostic imaging and microbiological analysis of fluid obtained from arthrocentesis by a specialist revision arthroplasty surgeon. A TPBS may be useful in the situation where abnormal serology is present, but where repeated joint aspirations samples are inconclusive.
Which is the best bearing surface for primary total hip replacement? A New Zealand Joint Registry study
Authors: Sharplin Paul , Wyatt Michael C. , Rothwell Alaistair , Frampton Chris , Hooper Gary
Published: December 2017

Introduction:

We have investigated the revision rates of all bearing surface combinations for primary total hip replacement (THR) registered on the New Zealand Joint Registry (NZJR) to determine which coupling has been the most durable and successful over the last 16 years.

Methods:

There were 106,139 primary THRs registered, resulting in 4,960 revisions for any cause. We examined all-cause revision rates, reasons for revision and performed survival analyses.

Results:

Ceramic-on-highly cross-linked polyethylene (CoPx) had the lowest all-cause revision rate of 0.54/100-component-years (cys) (95% confidence interval 0.48 to 0.61). This was superior to all other hard-on-soft bearing combinations in unadjusted analysis. Furthermore, the age of patients receiving CoPx was significantly lower than for metal-on-polyethylene (mean 62.9; standard deviation [SD] 10.1 vs. 69.1; SD 9.6; p<0.001). Acetabular loosening was the reason for revision in 14.5% of CoPx, compared to 33% of MoP THRs (p<0.001). Metal-on-metal bearings had the highest revision rate of 1.43/100 cys and were significantly inferior to CoPx (p<0.001). Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analyses were performed and we adjusted the analyses to control for age, femoral head size, surgical approach and fixation.

Conclusions:

CoPx remained the most durable and successful coupling used in primary THR in New Zealand irrespective of age, gender or size of femoral head.
Haemodialysis vascular access: current practices amongst Indian nephrologists
Authors: Bansal Dinesh , Kher Vijay , Gupta Krishan Lal , Banerjee Debasish , Jha Vivekanand
Published: December 2017

Introduction:

Despite the growing number of haemodialysis (HD) patients in India, little is known about vascular access practice. We investigated the use and cost of different vascular accesses by Indian nephrologists.

Methods:

An online survey was emailed to 920 Indian nephrologists and 388 (42.1%) responded; 98.5% of whom were responsible for managing dialysis patients, 98% in hospitals.

Results:

Sixty-four percent of patients initiated renal replacement therapy with HD, 7% with peritoneal dialysis, 10% kidney transplantation and 19% conservative care. Forty-eight percent of patients were self-paying, 26% had employee reimbursement and 23% had insurance. According to 59% of responders, more than three-quarters of patients started dialysis with uncuffed catheter, less than one-quarter started dialysis with fistula; and very few used grafts or tunnelled catheters. Among prevalent HD patients, over half were dialysing with fistula (79% nephrologists), rather than uncuffed catheters (15% nephrologists) or grafts (<1% nephrologists). Sixteen percent reported at least one catheter-related sepsis in more than half of patients. Placement of uncuffed catheters cost US$160 in 92% facilities, whereas tunnelled catheters cost US$320 in 46% of facilities. An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) could be created for US$160 in 40%, and US$320 in 90% of centres. Thirty-five percent of nephrologists reported that grafts were not placed at their institute and where they were available, the average cost was over US$480. Forty-six percent of nephrologists had access to pre-dialysis clinics, <30% to vascular access programmes, and <17% conducted regular vascular access audits.

Conclusions:

The survey provides a snapshot of the current status of vascular access care in HD patients and highlights need for pre-dialysis clinics, vascular access services and registry audits.
Steinbeck's Humble Parable: “He who has ears, let him hear”
Authors: Hicks Kathleen
Published: December 2017

This article examines the implications of reading John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men as a parable. Through a comparison of the novel's character types and plot events to similar features in the parables of Christ, this article argues that the root cause of Steinbeck's characters' aching loneliness is pride, which prevents them from making meaningful connections with other human beings. The antidote to their pitiable condition, humility, seems out of reach for most of the characters who are unable to overcome their own hubris and self-love in order to establish authentic relationships with others.
Spanish wines in the US market: What attributes do US consumers look for in Spanish wines?
Authors: Areta Álvaro , Bardají Isabel , Iráizoz Belén
Published: December 2017

This paper analysed the impact of different attributes in Spanish quality wines on United States (US) demand behaviour. A hedonic price model was estimated in order to assess the values that US consumers give Spanish wines. The main results showed that the most influential factor on sale price was aging, which had a positive impact. US consumers valued the quality ratings provided by experts, especially in the upper price categories. The year of vintage and size of the winery were considered medium importance factors in decision-making, with the latest vintages and the smallest wineries receiving the highest ratings. Geographical origin (appellation) helped to explain consumer preferences. Although colour was the least important attribute in consumers’ purchase decisions, red wines were the most highly rated in this attribute.
Genotype by environment interaction in sunflower (Helianthus annus L.) to optimize trial network efficiency
Authors: Gonzalez-Barrios Pablo , Castro Marina , Pérez Osvaldo , Vilaró Diego , Gutiérrez Lucía
Published: December 2017

Modeling genotype by environment interaction (GEI) is one of the most challenging aspects of plant breeding programs. The use of efficient trial networks is an effective way to evaluate GEI to define selection strategies. Furthermore, the experimental design and the number of locations, replications, and years are crucial aspects of multi-environment trial (MET) network optimization. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and performance of a MET network of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Specifically, we evaluated GEI in the network by delineating mega-environments, estimating genotypic stability and identifying relevant environmental covariates. Additionally, we optimized the network by comparing experimental design efficiencies. We used the National Evaluation Network of Sunflower Cultivars of Uruguay (NENSU) in a period of 20 years. MET plot yield and flowering time information was used to evaluate GEI. Additionally, meteorological information was studied for each sunflower physiological stage.  An optimal network under these conditions should have three replications, two years of evaluation and at least three locations. The use of incomplete randomized block experimental design showed reasonable performance. Three mega-environments were defined, explained mainly by different management of sowing dates. Late sowings dates had the worst performance in grain yield and oil production, associated with higher temperatures before anthesis and fewer days allocated to grain filling. The optimization of MET networks through the analysis of the experimental design efficiency, the presence of GEI, and appropriate management strategies have a positive impact on the expression of yield potential and selection of superior cultivars.
Functional and oncological outcomes of salvage external beam radiotherapy following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy in a Canadian cohort
Authors: Ajib Khaled , Zanaty Marc , Alnazari Mansour , Rajih Emad , Hueber Pierre-Alain , Mansour Mila , Valdivieso Roger , Negrean Cristina , Karakiewicz Pierre I. , Taussky Daniel , Delouya Guila , El-Hakim Assaad , Zorn Kevin C.
Published: December 2017

Introduction: We sought to determine the impact of salvage radiotherapy (SRT) on oncological and functional outcomes of patients with prostate cancer after biochemical recurrence (BCR) following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).Methods: Data of 70 patients with prostate cancer treated with SRT after developing BCR were retrospectively analyzed from a prospectively collected RARP database of 740 men. Oncological (prostate- specific antigen [PSA]) and functional (pads/day, International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS], and Sexual Health Inventory for Men [SHIM]) outcomes were reported at six, 12, and 24 months after RT and adjusted for pre-SRT status.Results: Men who underwent SRT had a mean age, PSA, and time from radical prostatectomy (RP) to RT of 61.8 years (60.1‒63.6), 0.5 ng/ml (0.2‒0.8), and 458 days (307‒747), respectively. Freedom from biochemical failure (FFBF) post-SRT, defined as a PSA nadir <0.2 ng/mL, was observed in 89%, 93%, and 81%, at six, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Undetectable PSA was observed in 14%, 35%, and 40% at the same time points, respectively. There was no significant difference in urinary continence post-SRT (p=0.56). Rate of strict continence (0 pads/day) was 71% at 24 months compared to 78% pre-SRT. Mean IPSS at six, 12, and 24 months was 3.4, 3.6, and 3.6, respectively compared to pre-RT score of 3.3 (p=0.61). The mean SHIM score pre-SRT was comparable at all time points following treatment (p=0.86).Conclusions: In this unique Canadian experience, it appears that early SRT is highly effective for the treatment of BCR following RARP with little impact on urinary continence and potency outcomes.
Well-posedness for generalized variational-hemivariational inequalities with perturbations in reflexive banach spaces
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Lur Yung-Yih , Wen Ching-Feng
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we consider an extension of well-posedness for a minimization problem to a class of generalized variational-hemivariational inequalities with perturbations in reflexive Banach spaces. We establish some metric characterizations for the $\alpha$-well-posed generalized variational-hemivariational inequality and give some conditions under which the generalized variational-hemivariational inequality is strongly $\alpha$-well-posed in the generalized sense. Under some mild conditions, we also prove the equivalence between the $\alpha$-well-posedness of the generalized variational-hemivariational inequality and the $\alpha$-well-posedness of the corresponding inclusion problem.
Wave-Interference Effects on Far-Field Ship Waves in the Presence of a Shear Current
Authors: Li Yan
Published: December 2017

Wave-interference effects, in the presence of a shear current of uniform vorticity, are analyzed for the first time. An interesting similarity is found between the analysis of wave interferences when a linear shear current is present and that in finite depth water. In particular, wave-interference regimes exist in both analyses. The consideration of wave interferences in the presence of a shear current, for a 2-point wavemaker model of monohull ships, is shown to have interesting and nontrivial effects on ship waves, as also found in the analysis of wave interferences in finite water depth. The effect of shear on the far-field waves created by a 2-point wavemaker model of a monohull ship greatly depends on the shear Froude number Frs = VS/g, where V is the speed of the ship, S is the uniform vorticity of the shear, and g is the gravitational acceleration, as well as the angle between the shear current and the direction of motion of the ship. The Kelvin shear Froude numbers FrsK for which the ray angles of the highest waves are equal to the Kelvin angles are determined. The ray angles of the highest waves are considerably smaller than the Kelvin angles for Frs > FrsK. The presence of a shear current has significant effects on the wave interferences for the Froude number (Equation) (where L is the ship length). Conclusions drawn from the geometrical analysis in specific cases are confirmed by ship wakes obtained from the superposition of waves generated by the ship bow and stern modeled as a 2-point wavemaker.

1. Introduction

Waves and currents widely coexist in coastal and offshore environments, notably in the regions of tidal, ocean, fjord, and discharge currents. Significant effects of currents on water waves have been understood for a long period, including, for instance, the effects on wave steepness and dispersive properties (Peregrine 1976; Lamb 1993). In particular, the presence of a current may cause a significant difference of drag force acting on an underdesign offshore structure (Dalrymple 1973). Furthermore, wave resistance experienced by moving ships may also be noticeably affected because of a subsurface shear current (Li & Ellingsen 2016c; Li et al. 2017). Especially, an additional lateral radiation force toward the starboard of a ship—that can amount to as much as 20% of the stern-wise wave resistance—is first introduced because of the asymmetric ship wakes (Li & Ellingsen 2016c; Li et al. 2017) resulting from a shear current. It is thereby understood that studies regarding the interplays of currents and waves are of practical significance, which are, however, scarce so far.
Exploring nominalization in scientific textbooks: A cross-disciplinary study of hard and soft sciences
Authors: Jalilifar Alireza , White Peter , Malekizadeh N.
Published: December 2017

Given the importance of disciplinary specificity in terms of the potential differences in the functionality of nominalizations in scientific textbooks and the dearth of studies of this type, the current study explores the extent to which nominalization is realized across two disciplines. To this aim, eight academic textbooks from Physics and Applied Linguistics are analyzed to identify the nominal patterns and expressions and their related types. Findings indicate that, despite the similarity of the first three most prevalent patterns in the sample textbooks, the distribution of these patterns marks disciplinary distinctions. That is, Physics academic writers tend to (a) use a more complex, lexically dense style of writing and package more information into compound nominal phrases by deploying a pattern where nominals are followed by strings of prepositional phrases in comparison to writers in Applied Linguistics; and (b) express particularity using nominals preceded by classifiers more frequently than Applied Linguistics writers. Writers in Applied Linguistics, on the other hand, are found to manifest a greater tendency toward conveying generality by using a pattern where nominals are realized with few pre/post modifiers.
«Em sap greu d’insistir-hi». La preposició «de» davant d’infinitiu I: infinitiu i mode
Authors: Tordera Yllescas Juan Carlos
Published: December 2017

El present treball tracta d’abordar una qüestió complexa de la gramàtica del català com és la inserció de la preposició de davant d’algunes construccions d’infinitiu com ocorre en «Juan li va proposar d’anar al cinema». La nostra tesi és que la inserció d’aquesta preposició obeeix a factors modals que, a més a més, determinen la major o menor opcionalitat d’aquesta preposició. Amb verbs com «proposar» o «demanar», la inserció és (gairebé) obligatòria per a tots els parlants del català, mentre que amb verbs com «desitjar» o «esperar» és més aviat opcional per a alguns parlants (si no és agramatical per a altres). A partir d’una petita classificació modal, proposarem un contínuum que creiem que pot explicar aquests fets.
La implementació d’una nova gramàtica pedagògica: obstacles i oportunitats a partir de l’experiència al Quebec francòfon
Authors: Nadeau Marie
Published: December 2017

La qualitat de la llengua francesa al Quebec és un tema sensible i que està constantment d’actualitat a causa de la situació sociolingüística del francès a l’Amèrica del Nord. En aquest article, que tracta de la implementació d'una nova gramàtica a les escoles del Quebec (província francòfona del Canadà) per millorar el nivell de l’alumnat en el domini de la seva llengua, s’esbossen les dificultats inherents al sistema ortogràfic francès per explicar en quins aspectes l’ortografia requereix per part de l’escriptor el domini d’un bon nombre de nocions gramaticals simplement per dominar-la. A continuació, es defineixen les grans línies d'aquesta nova gramàtica i el que la distingeix de la gramàtica tradicional. En darrer terme, s’aborda la història del procés d’implementació de la renovació gramatical a l'escola, per mitjà de programes oficials però també a través de la seva implementació sobre el terreny, la qual cosa necessàriament condueix al problema de la formació del professorat de primària i secundària. Per últim, es presenten les possibles solucions sorgides de la recerca i alguns consells dirigits a les persones que s’interessen per la renovació pedagògica en l'ensenyament de la gramàtica.
Teodor Llorente, «Poesies i proses valencianes». Estudi introductori i edició de Rafael Roca. Modernització lingüística de J. E. Estrela i R. Roca, València, Institució Alfons el Magnànim-Centre Valencià d’Estudis i d’Investigació, 2017, 470 pp.
Authors: Zalbidea Berenguer Alaitz
Published: December 2017

Ressenya sobre el llibre de Teodor Llorente, Poesies i proses valencianes. Estudi introductori i edició de Rafael Roca. Modernització lingüística de J. E. Estrela i R. Roca, València, Institució Alfons el Magnànim-Centre Valencià d’Estudis i d’Investigació, 2017, 470 pp., ISBN: 978-84-7822-697-9.
Francesc Montero i Aulet, «Manuel Brunet. El periodisme d’idees a l’ull de l’huracà», Catarroja/Barcelona, Editorial Afers, 2016, 368 pp.
Authors: Vallés i Casanoves Santi
Published: December 2017

Ressenya sobre el llibre de Francesc Montero i Aulet, Manuel Brunet. El periodisme d’idees a l’ull de l’huracà, Catarroja/Barcelona, Editorial Afers, 2016, 368 pp., ISBN: 978-84-16260-21-8.
Adjectives of completeness as maximizers of event nominalizations
Authors: Masià Melania S.
Published: December 2017

Aspectual modifiers that have adverbial and adjectival counterparts are an important source of information for researching lexical aspect in the nominal domain. One class of such modifiers are adverbs of completeness (completamente 'completely', totalmente 'totally'), which are maximizers when modify adjectives, and their correspondent adjectives (completo 'complete', total 'total'). This paper addresses the inheritance of aspectual features and its relation to degree in event nominalizations of incremental theme verbs (traduccción 'translation', destrucción 'destruction') through the analysis modification by adjectives of completeness in Spanish. The proposal combines a syntactic account of deverbal nominalizations with a scalar approach to aspect. Adjectives of completeness are argued to be aspectual modifiers, with a contribution equivalent to that of their adverbial counterparts both in the verbal and in the adjectival domain, establishing thus a parallelism between degree modification of adjectives, verbs and nominals.
ZIF‐67/ZIF‐8 and its Derivatives for Lithium Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang , Sun Bowen , Xue Jiaojiao , He Jinhai , Zhao Ruizheng , Chen Zhonghui , Sun Zixu , Liu Hua Kun , Dou Shi Xue
Published: October 2024

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs), renowned for their superior energy density and the plentiful availability of sulfur resources, are progressively emerging as the focal point of forthcoming energy storage technology. Nevertheless, they presently confront fundamental challenges including insulation of sulfur and its discharge product, the lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) shuttle phenomenon, and the growth of lithium dendrites. Zeolite imidazole framework materials (ZIFs), particularly ZIF‐8 and ZIF‐67, are significant members of the metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) family. Owing to their high porosity, exceptional adsorption capacity, high structural tunability, and straightforward synthesis process, these materials have demonstrated unique application potential in the field of LSBs. This review initially provides a comprehensive summary of the developmental status and challenges associated with LSBs. Subsequently, it delves into an in‐depth analysis of the distinctive properties and synthesis strategies of ZIFs, with a particular emphasis on ZIF‐8 and ZIF‐67, as well as their composites and derivatives. The review systematically categorizes innovative application examples of these materials in the design of cathode structures and optimization of separators in LSBs. It also presents a forward‐looking perspective and insights on the potential future trajectory of ZIF‐67 materials, informed by the latest research advancements in the field.
Designing Bilayer Heterostructure Functional Polymer Electrolytes with Interfacial Engineering Strategy for High‐Performance Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Ma Longli , Tan Jian , Ren Zhouhong , Feng Bingjian , Liu Zhu , Yi Pengshu , Cao Shaochong , Lu Wenyi , Liu Yongshuai , Ye Chuming , Ye Mingxin , Fang Huayi , Shen Jianfeng
Published: October 2024

The uncontrollable lithium (Li) dendrites growth and complex electrode/electrolyte interface (EEI) problems are hindering the further application of high energy density lithium metal batteries (LMBs) in practice. Herein, a bilayer heterostructure gel polymer electrolyte (BGPE) is designed by directly curing functional boron‐containing monomers on the electrode surface to ensure excellent conductivity while solving the interface problems, achieving durable high voltage resistance and Li dendrites suppression. The unoccupied p‐orbital boron moiety of the 3D crosslinked network in BGPE not only improves the Li+ transference number (0.78), but also enhances the interfacial stability of the Li metal and inhibits the dendrites growth by anchoring PF6− anions and regulating the uniform Li deposition, thus ensuring a long cycle for Li/BGPE/Li cells. In addition, the functional additives tris(trimethylsilyl) phosphite and tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane can preferentially oxidize and decompose to form stable B, F, and Si‐rich EEIs, and effectively regulate the uniform growth of EEI. Thus, the LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2/BGPE/Li and LiFePO4/BGPE/Li full cells exhibit stable cycling and excellent rate performance. This work provides a guiding design direction to address the EEI problems for high energy density LMBs.
Low‐Cost Hyperelastic Fuller‐Dome‐Structured Nanocellulose Aerogels by Dual Templates for Personal Thermal Management
Authors: Wang Guang , Feng Jiabing , Zhou Zhezhe , Liu Zheng , Wu Jianpeng , Li Jingchao , Gao Qiang , Lynch Mark , Li Jianzhang , Song Pingan
Published: October 2024

It is critically important to maintain the body's thermal comfort for human beings in extremely cold environments. Cellulose nanofibers (CNF)‐based aerogels represent a promising sustainable material for body's heat retention because of their renewability and low thermal conductivity. However, CNF‐based aerogels often suffer high production costs due to expensive CNF, poor elasticity and/or unsatisfactory thermal insulation owing to improper microstructure design. Here, a facile dual‐template strategy is reported to prepare a low‐cost, hyperelastic, superhydrophobic Fuller‐dome‐structured CNF aerogel (CNF@PU) with low thermal conductivity. The combination of air template by foaming process and ice template enables the formation of a dome‐like microstructure of CNF@PU aerogel, in which CNF serves as rope bars while inexpensive polyurethane (PU) acts as joints. The aerogel combines ultra‐elasticity, low thermal conductivity (24 mW m−1 K−1), and low costs. The as‐prepared CNF@PU aerogel demonstrates much better heat retention than commercial thermal retention fillers (e.g., Flannelette and goose down), promising its great commercial potential for massively producing warming garments. This work provides a facile approach for creating high‐performance aerogels with tailored microstructure for effective personal thermal management.
Unveiling Mechanism of Temperature‐Dependent Self‐Trapped Exciton Emission in 1D Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Tin Halide for Advanced Thermography
Authors: He Yanmei , Cai Xinyi , Wang Xiaochen , Liisberg Mikkel Baldtzer , Dostál Jakub , Zhang Muyi , Kloz Miroslav , Gao Feng , Pullerits Tönu , Chen Junsheng
Published: October 2024

Lead‐free hybrid metal halide phosphors/crystals showing self‐trapped exciton (STE) emission have been recently explored for thermography due to the strong temperature dependence of their photoluminescence (PL) lifetime (τ). However, realizing high‐spatial‐resolution thermography using polycrystalline powders or crystals presents a challenge. Moreover, the underlying mechanism of temperature‐dependent STE remains elusive. Herein, a homogeneous 1D ODASn2I6 (ODA, 1,8‐octanediamine) nm‐scale thin film exhibiting efficient STE emission is investigated. The PL decay shows a strong temperature dependence from 275 K (τ ≈ 1.31 µs) to 350 K (τ ≈ 0.65 µs) yielding a thermal sensitivity of 0.014 K−1. By employing temperature‐dependent transient absorption spectroscopy, detailed information is obtained about the relaxation processes prior to the STE formation. Simultaneous analyses of steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopies lead to a self‐consistent model where the thermally activated phonon‐assisted nonradiative pathway explains the temperature dependence of the PL lifetime via a conical intersection between the ground state and STE potential energy surfaces. Finally, a discernible 50 ns variation in PL lifetimes across different heated regimes over a distance of 1.15 mm is successfully demonstrated with fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, underscoring the substantial potential of ODASn2I6 thin film for high‐spatial‐resolution thermography.
All‐Electronic Memristor Based on Charge Carrier Confinement in Bulk Semiconductor of Metal–Semiconductor–Metal Structure
Authors: Mahmoodpoor Abolfazl , Marunchenko Alexandr , Makarov Sergey
Published: October 2024

Memristors have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential applications in computing and memory technology by offering higher performance, lower power consumption, and increased storage capacity. In this paper, a new type of volatile memristor is presented by analyzing the dynamic behavior of charge carriers within a metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM) structure. It is shown that an all‐electronic memristor is achieved through the confinement of majority charge carriers within the bulk semiconductor by the favor of high barrier Schottky contacts. The findings reveal a remarkable current offset between forward and backward scans, along with exceptional current pulse consistency with a tunable current level using pulse frequency. These characteristics greatly simplify the process of designing electrical circuits incorporating this memristor variant. Furthermore, this research paves the way for the development of crystalline semiconductor‐based memristors. While various semiconductors with controllable doping densities can be considered as potential candidates for this type of memristor, the calculations using silicon demonstrate the integration of this semiconductor with the current technology holds significant promise for two terminal memristors.
How is therapeutic residential care constructed within key policy documents ?
Authors: McPherson Lynne , Canosa Antonia , Gatwiri Kathomi , Anderson Donnah , Day Kylie , Gilligan Robbie , Graham Anne , Mitchell Janise , Moore Tim , Vosz Meaghan
Published: October 2024

Therapeutic residential care (TRC) is a mode of delivering out‐of‐home care (OOHC) that can help meet the needs of some of Australia's most vulnerable young people and their families. TRC programmes aim to support young people to develop positive relationship experiences in a safe and stable environment. Given that TRC is a relatively new model of intervention, to date, the alignment between its aspirational aims and the existing and evolving policy environment in which it is located has not been analysed in any depth. This paper reports on a national policy analysis exploring how TRC is constructed in policy documents. One hundred and thirty‐two relevant policy documents were analysed to identify the practices and the conditions that facilitate the development of relationships and connections. The aims of the policies underpinning TRC were consistent with the literature outlining promising trauma‐informed approaches. Findings show how the policies support the development of beneficial relationships for children and young people; however, there were also several discrepancies and silences identified, including a limited conceptualisation of children's participation.
Nationally representative estimates of food insecurity during COVID‐19: An investigation of the Food Insecurity Experience Scale in Australia
Authors: Temple Jeromey B. , Grossman Irina , Pollard Christina , Kleve Sue , Booth Sue , Fry Jane
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this paper was to measure the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) in Australia during the COVID‐19 pandemic using the 8‐item Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). Employing the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, Rasch models alongside a discrete method were used to investigate the severity of FI and robustness of the 8‐item FIES during 2020–2021. Our results indicate that during 2020–2021, 6.47% of Australians experienced moderate or severe FI and 2.93% experienced severe FI. Validation tests following United Nations guidelines show similar weighted and unweighted results and consistency with the discrete method. Infit and outfit metrics, alongside measures of reliability and residual correlations, were all within the expected range. We conclude that the FIES administered as part of Wave 20 of the HILDA survey was a suitable instrument for measuring the prevalence of FI at a representative population level. Although Australia has been measuring FI for 40 years, it has been characterised by measurement inconsistency, inadequacy and infrequency, resulting in insufficient data for policymaking. Reliable representative population estimates of the extent of FI in Australia provides critical intelligence for an effective policy response.
CO Oxidation Catalyzed by Perovskites: The Role of Crystallographic Distortions Highlighted by Systematic Experiments and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Bellini Giulia , Koch Gregor , Girgsdies Frank , Dong Jinhu , Carey Spencer J. , Timpe Olaf , Auffermann Gudrun , Scheffler Matthias , Schlögl Robert , Foppa Lucas , Trunschke Annette
Published: October 2024

The identification of key materials’ parameters correlated with the performance can accelerate the development of heterogeneous catalysts and unveil the relevant underlying physical processes. However, the analysis of correlations is often hindered by inconsistent data. Besides, nontrivial, yet unknown relationships may be important, and the intricacy of the various processes may be significant. Here, we tackle these challenges for the CO oxidation catalyzed by perovskites using a combination of rigorous experiments and artificial intelligence. A series of 13 ABO3 (A=La, Pr, Nd, Sm; B=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co) perovskites was synthesized, characterized, and tested in catalysis. To the resulting dataset, we applied the symbolic‐regression SISSO approach. We identified an analytical expression correlated with the activity that contains the normalized unit‐cell volume, the Pauling electronegativity of the elements A and B, and the ionization energy of the element B. Therefore, the activity is described by crystallographic distortions and by the chemical nature of A and B elements. The generalizability of the identified descriptor is confirmed by the good quality of the predictions for 3 additional ABO3 and 16 chemically more complex AMn(1‐x)B’xO3 (A=La, Pr, Nd; B’=Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn) perovskites.
Synthesis of gold nanoparticles using soybean byproducts: applications in catalysis
Authors: Setien Evangelina , Ponzio Lucas , Acevedo Diego F. , Moyano Fernando
Published: October 2024

This study demonstrates the feasibility of extracting lecithin from oil industry byproducts in an eco‐friendly manner, with minimal use of water and without harmful chemicals. Liposomes can be generated directly from this extracted lecithin, enhancing the value of these byproducts and enabling the production of catalytic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Thin‐layer chromatography of the extracted lecithin revealed a phospholipid composition primarily consisting of phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine, and surface tension studies demonstrated similar behavior between the extracted and commercial lecithin. Liposome formation using sustainable lecithin (LPn) resulted in structures that were stable for at least 10 days, exhibiting a low polydispersity index (0.395) and uniform size (approximately 214 ± 7 nm). Gold nanoparticles were synthesized successfully in LPn loaded with [HAuCl4] by using different photoreduction methods: ultraviolet (UV) lamp, pulsed laser 355 nm, and sunlight irradiation. The AuNPs exhibited characteristic sizes (ranging from 5.03 to 6.78 nm) and optical properties typical of nanoparticles, including a distinct surface plasmon resonance. As a proof of concept, we also demonstrated that the synthesized AuNPs exhibited catalytic activity in UV‐induced cis‐trans isomerization reactions. Overall, the study highlights the potential of sustainable soy lecithin extraction for diverse applications, including nanoparticle synthesis and catalysis.
Auswirkungen von Verkehrserschütterungen auf jungen Beton: Teil 2
Authors: Gasser Christian , Vorwagner Alois , Manninger Tanja , Klackl Stefanie , Krispel Stefan , Stadler Christian , Kleiser Michael
Published: October 2024

Im Forschungsprojekt COUNT (COncreting UNder Traffic) wurden die Auswirkungen von Verkehrserschütterungen auf jungen Beton umfangreich untersucht. Diese Fragestellung hat in letzter Zeit an Relevanz gewonnen, denn bei Erneuerungs‐ oder Erweiterungsarbeiten an Brücken werden oft Verkehrssperren verhängt, da man fürchtet, dass die vom Verkehr verursachten Erschütterungen den jungen Beton schädigen könnten. COUNT zielte darauf ab, kritische Erschütterungswerte und zugrundeliegende Schädigungsmechanismen anhand von drei Versuchsserien zu ermitteln. Im bereits veröffentlichten 1. Teil des Aufsatzes wurde über die ersten beiden Serien berichtet, bei welchen unbewehrter Beton bzw. der Beton‐Stahl‐Verbund untersucht wurde. Der vorliegende 2. Teil des Aufsatzes handelt vorwiegend von der dritten Serie, bei welcher Versuche in großem realitätsnahem Maßstab durchgeführt wurden. Es wurden Platten aus Beton hergestellt, die in direktem Kontakt zu einer schwingenden vorgefertigten Betonplatte standen. Mögliche Schäden wurden später anhand von Rissmessungen, Biegeversuchen und Permeabilitätstests untersucht. Am Ende werden Empfehlungen für die Praxis gegeben, wobei auch Erkenntnisse fremder Forschungsarbeiten berücksichtigt werden.
Advisory Board members discuss all things NIL
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: October 2024

For some college student‐athletes, name, image, and likeness deals have given them the opportunity to earn big money. And for some schools, NIL has given them bigger bargaining chips to attract student‐athletes. But NIL doesn’t benefit everyone, and it complicates other areas such as compliance, transfers, and eligibility.
Did court find NCAA had duty to protect?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: October 2024

A group of current and former University of San Francisco baseball players filed a lawsuit against the NCAA, alleging that the organization was responsible for the sexual harassment they suffered from one of their coaches due to the NCAA's failure to establish appropriate policies.
Research Progress on Clay‐Based Materials for Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Qian Binbin , Zhang Ruiqian , Said Amir , Xu Ke , Komarneni Sridhar , Xue Dongfeng
Published: October 2024

Clay‐based materials are an emerging family of earth‐abundant and low‐cost inorganic functional materials with an modifiable layered‐structure mode similar to hydroxides. They are considered as competitive electrocatalysts for water splitting due to their variable intra‐layer ions, exchangeable interlayer molecules/ions, and large reaction surfaces, which demonstrate fascinating engineering opportunities at the microscale, mesoscale, and macroscale levels. We systematically summarized the research progress of clay‐based materials by classifying clay‐like compounds, clay‐based composites, and clay‐based derivatives, from the viewpoint of structural geometries towards optimizing functionalities. The design strategies for regulating and optimizing clay‐based materials to meet the requirements of electrocatalysts with excellent activity and stability were outlined through representative examples. In addition, the hydrogen production applications of these clay‐based materials were discussed reasonably including recent advances. Finally, the future perspectives of clay‐based materials for electrocatalytic water splitting were demonstrated.
A Quantum Mechanical Approach to The Mechanism of Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Amine by Imine Reductase from Stackebrandtia Nassauensis
Authors: Kopar Merve , Senyurt Tuzun Nurcan
Published: October 2024

The asymmetric synthesis of tetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQs) has gained importance in recent years due to their significant potential in drug development studies. In this study, the conversion of 1‐methyl‐3,4‐dihydroisoquinoline substrate to a chiral amine, 1‐methyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinoline, under the catalysis of the stereoselective imine reductase enzyme from Stackebrandtia nassauensis (SnIR) was investigated in detail to elucidate the mechanism and explain the experimental enantioselectivity. The results were found to be in agreement with the experimental data. To elucidate the reaction mechanism, quantum mechanical calculations were performed by considering a large cluster of the active site of the enzyme. In this regard, possible reaction pathways leading to both R‐ and S‐products with the corresponding intermediates and the transition states for the hydride transfer from the cofactor to the substrate were considered by density functional theory (DFT) calculations, and the factors contributing to the observed stereoselectivity were sought. The calculations supported a stepwise mechanism rather than the concerted protonation and the hydride transfer steps. The stereoselectivity in the hydride transfer was found to be due not only to the stability of the enzyme‐subtrate complex but also to the corresponding reaction barriers. The calculations were performed at the wB97XD/6‐311+G(2df,2p)//B3LYP/6‐31G(d,p) level of theory using the PCM approach.
Doing good with flow: Unlocking brand passion through virtual CSR co‐creation participation and immersive experiences
Authors: Suo Danni , Dai Jiatong , Gong Siyu
Published: October 2024

Advancements in social media technology have empowered brands to engage in virtual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) co‐creation activities, which are crucial for CSR success and sustainability. Employing four scenario‐based experimental studies (1049 samples in total) alongside analyses of variance (ANOVA) and regression methodologies, we investigate how virtual CSR co‐creation activities impact consumer emotional reactions and branding behaviors. The SPSS software and the Process macro were used for data analysis. The results reveal that higher persistence (Study 1) and deeper participation (Study 2) in virtual CSR co‐creation are more likely to enhance brand passion. Flow experience mediates the above positive relationship between virtual CSR co‐creation and brand passion. Furthermore, when virtual CSR co‐creation activities take place in private settings rather than public settings, the positive effects of consumers' participation persistence and depth on brand passion will be attenuated. This work advances the theoretical understanding of brand passion within the domain of virtual CSR co‐creation. It provides new perspectives and practical implications for enhancing consumer‐brand relationships through virtual CSR co‐creation activities.
Perylene Based Twisted Emissive Curved Nanographene Synthesis through Scholl Reaction
Authors: Samanta Siddhartha , Khatun Sahina , Maity Sanhita , Pradhan Anirban
Published: October 2024

A twisted chiral nanographene (NG) surrounded by eight bulky tert‐butyl groups fused with emissive chromophore perylene was synthesized by highly regioselective cyclodehydrogenation strategy in which a double [6]helicene was formed simultaneously. The twisted 4‐meso was unambiguously confirmed by single crystal X‐ray analysis. The NG showed an excellent photoluminescence quantum yield (ϕf) of 55 %, indicating its great potential for chiral optoelectronics.