bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Snacking Patterns, Diet Quality and Risk of Overweight and Abdominal Obesity in Children
Authors: Nicklas Theresa A. , O’Neil Carol E. , Fulgoni Victor L.
Published: September 2013

Snacking is very common among Americans; the impact of variety of snacking patterns on nutrient intake and weight status is unclear. This study examined the associations of snacking patterns on nutrient intake and weight in U.S. children 2-18 years (n=14,220) participating in the 2001-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Cluster analysis generated 12 distinct snacking patterns, explaining 57% of variance in total calories consumed. Only 8% of the children did not consume snacks on the day of the 24-hour recall. Cakes, cookies and pastries was the most common snacking pattern (16%) followed by miscellaneous snacks (e.g. whole milk, orange juice and meat/fish/poultry; 13%), and crackers and salty snacks (10%). Most snacking patterns resulted in higher total energy intake than the no snack pattern. After controlling for energy intake, most snacking patterns resulted in higher intakes of fiber; vitamins A, C, B12, and K; riboflavin; folate; potassium; calcium; zinc; and magnesium than the no snack pattern. However, most of the snacking patterns resulted in higher total intake of saturated fatty acids, solid fats, added sugars, and sodium (nutrients to limit). Several of the snacking patterns (i.e. cakes/cookies/pastries, crackers/salty snacks, sweets, and other grains) were associated with a reduced risk of overweight and abdominal obesity. Overall, several snacking patterns compared with non-snackers had better diet quality and were less likely to be overweight or obese and less likely to have abdominal obesity. Education is needed to improve snacking patterns in terms of nutrients to limit in the diet.
La littérature française du Moyen Âge au Québec : trente ans de recherche (1980-2012)1
Authors: Kogen Helena
Published: September 2013

Bon nombre d’universités québécoises — l’Université de Montréal, l’Université du Québec à Montréal, l’Université Laval, mais aussi l’Université McGill et l’Université Concordia — offrent des programmes d’étude et de recherche dans le domaine de la littérature du Moyen Âge français. Le présent article offre, à travers les travaux les plus importants des chercheurs, les mutations institutionnelles et les rencontres scientifiques, un regard sur l’histoire riche et mouvementée de cette discipline au Québec au cours des 30 dernières années, ainsi qu’une réflexion sur ses enjeux actuels.
Bilan des études seiziémistes au Québec
Authors: Desrosiers Diane
Published: September 2013

Trois domaines de spécialisation ont surtout retenu l’attention des seiziémistes québécois, tant anglophones que francophones. Les études rabelaisiennes et shakespeariennes ont connu un développement qui s’est accéléré depuis 1990. Analysés sous l’angle de la généricité (gender) et de leur fonctionnement rhétorique, les écrits des femmes ont suscité de nombreux travaux qui s’attachent notamment à montrer comment s’affirme la spécificité de la subjectivité féminine à travers l’écriture. Enfin, le champ de la traduction et les réflexions issues de la traductologie ont amené les chercheurs à aborder les textes renaissants dans une perspective transculturelle des plus novatrices. Ces recherches caractérisées par des collaborations interdisciplinaires et souvent internationales témoignent de l’intérêt croissant que la Renaissance française a suscité au Québec au cours des trois dernières décennies.
Visages du Moi à l’âge classique. L’apport de la recherche québécoise sur les xviie et xviiie siècles au prisme des « Collections de la République des Lettres »
Authors: Bernier Marc André , Dion Nicholas
Published: September 2013

Nous avons choisi de restreindre notre enquête de la contribution des chercheurs québécois aux études littéraires portant sur l’âge classique à l’étude d’un seul cas, celui des collections créées par le Cercle interuniversitaire d’étude sur la République des Lettres (CIERL). Si cet exemple n’offre bien sûr qu’un point de vue partiel, il en représente toutefois un témoin privilégié. De fait, à parcourir le catalogue des Collections, on s’aperçoit à quel point nombre d’auteurs et d’ouvrages se montrent sensibles à la vaste question de la genèse du sujet moderne à partir de pratiques, d’idées et de conduites nouvelles permettant au Moi de se redéfinir. Or, ce sont précisément ces nouveaux visages du Moi qui vont nous intéresser. Qu’il s’agisse d’un Moi réfléchissant sur les passions et la sensibilité, ou encore considérant la façon dont il s’inscrit dans une histoire, ou enfin explorant la voie, plus intime, du journal ou des Mémoires, chaque fois, nous verrons comment ont été problématisées, au Québec, les diverses figures qu’aura revêtues, à l’époque moderne, ce Moi protéiforme.
Les études québécoises : institutions, regroupements, programmes, avenir
Authors: Chartier Daniel
Published: September 2013

Que pouvons-nous conclure de l’évolution des études québécoises, tant à l’étranger qu’au Québec, au niveau de leur structuration, de leurs projets porteurs, de leurs professeurs et de leurs étudiants des cycles supérieurs ? Doit-on s’inquiéter, ou simplement constater des changements normaux au cours des dernières décennies, notamment en faveur d’une multiplicité des corpus étudiés et enseignés, qui incluent toutefois le Québec ? Dans cet article, l’auteur rappelle le développement institutionnel de l’étude du Canada français, puis du Québec, à compter de la Révolution tranquille, dans la foulée de celui des area studies telles qu’on les concevait alors aux États-Unis. Il présente aussi l’état de l’organisation de la recherche au Québec et quelques-uns des résultats inédits obtenus à la suite d’une étude sur la place du Québec dans les programmes universitaires. Ceci permet de constater que l’évolution récente des études sur le Québec n’indique pas leur déclin, mais au contraire une vitalité tant dans l’enseignement des disciplines que dans des projets intégrateurs interdisciplinaires.
Points tournants. Bilan et perspectives des études théâtrales au Québec
Authors: Jubinville Yves
Published: September 2013

Où en est la recherche en études théâtrales ? Dans le bilan que nous proposons, il s’agit de mettre en lumière les développements successifs d’un champ d’activité relativement nouveau au Québec en prenant en compte des questions relatives aux délimitations de l’objet d’analyse qu’est le théâtre et en dressant le paysage des savoirs spécifiques à ce domaine de recherche qui ont été élaborés sur une période de 30 ans. Cette réflexion s’intéresse également aux médiations et aux réseaux par lesquels ce savoir circule et contribue, le cas échéant, à modifier la compréhension qui se dégage des pratiques scéniques et dramaturgiques et de leur évolution dans le contexte particulier du Québec. Partant du cas de L’Annuaire théâtral, seule revue savante dans le domaine au Québec, ce bilan n’ignore pas néanmoins le cadre international de production de la recherche théâtrale québécoise. Il en sera question largement lorsqu’il s’agira d’évaluer les retombées de la recherche, d’identifier des tendances et des voies possibles de renouveau.
Livre et imprimé au Québec
Authors: Mollier Jean-Yves
Published: September 2013

Avec six volumes publiés de La vie littéraire au Québec, trois pour l’Histoire de l’édition littéraire au Québec au xxe siècle et trois autres pour l’Histoire du livre et de l’imprimé au Canada sans compter les huit tomes disponibles du Dictionnaire des oeuvres littéraires du Québec et le Dictionnaire de la censure au Québec, la production locale en matière de livre et d’imprimé est impressionnante. Organisée autour d’équipes constituées dans les grandes universités de la province, Laval, Montréal, Sherbrooke notamment, la recherche a essaimé en refusant de s’enfermer dans une définition trop exclusive de la littérature. Sensible à l’éclosion de celle-ci dans les almanachs ou dans la presse, les bibliothèques ou les cercles populaires, elle a multiplié les approches relevant de l’histoire ou de la sociologie et contribué ainsi à renouveler les études littéraires au Québec. Bien intégrés dans les réseaux de la recherche mondiale, les spécialistes du livre et de l’imprimé ont multiplié les colloques et rencontres susceptibles d’apporter un éclairage neuf aux pratiques de lecture et d’écriture. Qu’il s’agisse du roman policier ou Harlequin, des best-sellers ou du théâtre contemporain, toutes les formes de consommation culturelle ont retenu l’attention des chercheurs québécois, ce qui explique la grande diversité des travaux ici passés en revue.
Building the Women's Health Research Workforce: Fostering Interdisciplinary Research Approaches in Women's Health
Authors: Nagel Joan D. , Koch Abby , Guimond Jennifer M. , Glavin Sarah , Geller Stacie
Published: September 2013

Background:

The Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women's Health (BIRCWH) program is a mentored institutional research career development program developed to support and foster the interdisciplinary research careers of men and women junior faculty in women's health and sex/gender factors. The number of scholars who apply for and receive National Institutes of Health (NIH) research or career development grants is one proximate indicator of whether the BIRCWH program is being successful in achieving its goals.

Primary Study Objective:

To present descriptive data on one metric of scholar performance—NIH grant application and funding rates.

Methods/Design:

Grant applications were counted if the start date was 12 months or more after the scholar's BIRCWH start date. Two types of measures were used for the outcome of interest—person-based funding rates and application-based success rates.

Main Outcome Measures:

Grant application, person funding, and application success rates.

Results:

Four hundred and ninety-three scholars had participated in BIRCWH as of November 1, 2012. Seventy-nine percent of BIRCWH scholars who completed training had applied for at least one competitive NIH grant, and 64% of those who applied had received at least one grant award. Approximately 68% of completed scholars applied for at least one research grant, and about half of those who applied were successful in obtaining at least one research award. Men and women had similar person funding rates, but women had higher application success rates for R01 grants.

Limitations:

Data were calculated for all scholars across a series of years; many variables can influence person funding and application success rates beyond the BIRCWH program; and lack of an appropriate comparison group is another substantial limitation to this analysis.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that the BIRCWH program has been successful in bridging advanced training with establishing independent research careers for scholars.
Three-Year Outcomes of 6-Month Paliperidone Palmitate in Adults With Schizophrenia
Authors: Correll Christoph U. , Johnston Karen , Turkoz Ibrahim , Gray Jason , Sun Liping , Doring Monica , Sajatovic Martha
Published: July 2024

Importance

Long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics have the potential to improve adherence and symptom control in patients with schizophrenia, promoting long-term recovery. Paliperidone palmitate (PP) once every 6 months is the first and currently only LAI antipsychotic with an extended dosing interval of 6 months.

Objective

To assess long-term outcomes of PP received once every 6 months in adults with schizophrenia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In a 2-year open-label extension (OLE) study of a 1-year randomized clinical trial (RCT), eligible adults with schizophrenia could choose to continue PP every 6 months if they had not experienced relapse after receiving PP once every 3 or 6 months in the 1-year, international, multicenter, double-blind, randomized noninferiority trial. The present analysis focused on patients receiving PP every 6 months in the double-blind trial through the OLE study (November 20, 2017, to May 3, 2022).

Intervention

Patients received a dorsogluteal injection of PP on day 1 and once every 6 months up to month 30.

Main Outcomes and Measures

End points included assessment of relapse and change from the double-blind trial baseline to the OLE end point in Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total and subscale, Clinical Global Impression–Severity (CGI-S) Scale, and Personal Social Performance (PSP) Scale scores. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), injection site evaluations, and laboratory tests were also assessed.

Results

Among 121 patients (83 [68.6%] male), mean (SD) age at baseline was 38.6 (11.24) years and mean (SD) duration of illness was 11.0 (9.45) years. At screening of the double-blind study, 101 patients (83.5%) were taking an oral antipsychotic and 20 (16.5%) were taking an LAI antipsychotic. Altogether, 5 of 121 patients (4.1%) experienced relapse during the 3-year follow-up; reasons for relapse were psychiatric hospitalization (2 [1.7%]), suicidal or homicidal ideation (2 [1.7%]), and deliberate self-injury (1 [0.8%]). Patients treated with PP every 6 months were clinically and functionally stable, and outcomes were well maintained, evidenced by stable scores on the PANSS (mean [SD] change, −2.6 [9.96] points), CGI-S (mean [SD] change, −0.2 [0.57] points), and PSP (mean [SD] change, 3.1 [9.14] points) scales over the 3-year period. In total, 101 patients (83.5%) completed the 2-year OLE. At least 1 TEAE was reported in 97 of 121 patients (80.2%) overall; no new safety or tolerability concerns were identified.

Conclusions and Relevance

In a 2-year OLE study of a 1-year RCT, results supported favorable long-term outcomes of PP once every 6 months for up to 3 years in adults with schizophrenia.
Martin's Sulfurane
Authors: Roden Brian A. , Gennaiou Kyriaki , Kourgiantaki Maria , Mazaraki Kalliopi , Zografos Alexandros L.
Published: July 2024

image

[

32133‐82‐7

]

C
30
H
20
F
12
O
2
S

(MW 672.57)

InChI = 
1S/C30H20F12O2S/c31‐27(32,33)25(28(34,35)36,21‐13‐5‐1‐6‐14‐21)43‐45(23‐17‐9‐3‐10‐18‐23,24‐19‐11‐4‐12‐20‐24)44‐26(29(37,38)39,30(40,41)42)22‐15‐7‐2‐8‐16‐22/h1‐20H

InChIKey = 
RMIBJVUYNZSLSD‐UHFFFAOYSA‐N

(dehydration of alcohols;

2

synthesis of epoxides and cyclic ethers;

3

cleavage of amides;

5

oxidation of amines

6

)

Physical Data
: mp 107–109 °C.

Solubility
: sol ether, benzene, acetone, alcohols.

Form Supplied in
: white crystals.

Analysis of Reagent Purity
: NMR, IR.

Preparative Method
: by the reaction of the potassium salt of 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoro‐2‐phenylisopropanol with diphenyl sulfide in the presence of chlorine in ether at −78 °C.

1

a

Handling, Storage, and Precautions
: avoid moisture; readily hydrolyzed; stable at rt; decomposes slowly at rt in solution.
Self‐Assessment in Reading
Authors: Wolsey Thomas Devere
Published: July 2024

When English language learners are taught to assess themselves against criteria they establish or are established for them, they are given control over their learning, and their learning is deeper. Metacognitive awareness is central to the success of self‐assessment practices. Self‐assessment can focus students' attention on the particular skills, strategies, or features of language they may employ as they confront various language‐learning tasks. Several suggestions to promote self‐assessment are provided.
Second Language Teacher Education and Future Directions
Authors: Farrell Thomas S. C.
Published: July 2024

As a relatively new and growing profession, second language teacher education (SLTE) has evolved greatly over the past few decades. Indeed, SLTE has taken on a more global perspective and the knowledge base of SLTE has greatly expanded to include such topics as teacher cognition, teacher identity, reflective practice, teacher research, narratives and teacher self‐development, teacher expertise, teacher emotions, and teacher immunity, to name but a few. For language teachers, SLTE serves as a bridge from what is known in the field to what is recommended that teachers implement in the classroom and it does this through candidates who are educated as second language teachers (Freeman, 2016). This updated paper outlines and discusses SLTE and some different dimensions of SLTE that include a discussion of the theory and practice disparity that exists between SLTE programs and the lived lives of language teachers in classrooms. Future directions in SLTE are also outlined and discussed.
Formative Assessment and Feedback for Language Learners
Authors: Wolsey Thomas Devere , Karkouti Ibrahim M.
Published: July 2024

Formative assessment uses evidence to help teachers and students take the next instructional steps. Feedback operationalizes formative assessment so that students can act based on the formative assessment. English language learners often make many errors, so it is especially important that feedback is focused and considerate of the learners' emotional states, language learning goals, and stage of second language development. Considerations for feedback for English learners are provided, and specific examples illustrate important principles of formative assessment and feedback for English language learners.
Reclassification of English Learners in the United States
Authors: Uysal Huseyin
Published: July 2024

Reclassification, the critical process that determines English learners (ELs)' access to mainstream classrooms in US schools, has caused some debates. One view argues that premature reclassification means putting ELs in a vulnerable position without sufficient English proficiency in English‐only classrooms. An opposing view is that remaining in ESL classrooms results in limited access to the full curriculum and college preparedness training for ELs. The debate is rooted in different conceptualizations of language development. One orientation suggests that language development and content learning should be integrated. The other orientation suggests that ELs should be placed into content classes only after achieving a certain linguistic proficiency. Thus, ELs' access to equal opportunities is the grounds for the ongoing disagreement. On the surface, the dispute revolves around the consequences of reclassification and questions its role as a gateway to educational resources. On a closer reading, the problem boils down to high‐stakes testing. Even when school districts adopt a multiple‐criteria strategy for reclassification decisions, students' scores in state‐mandated tests function as the primary criteria. Thus, state‐mandated tests remain the bedrock for reclassification.
Oxygen‐Vacancy‐Assisted Dual Functional Surface Coatings Suppressing Irreversible Phase Transition of Li‐Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Jiang Qinting , Li Xifei , Hao Youchen , Zuo Jiaxuan , Duan Ruixian , Li Jun , Cao Guiqiang , Wang Jingjing , Wang Jing , Li Ming , Yang Xuan , Li Mengjiao , Li Wenbin , Xi Yukun , Zhang Jianhua , Xiao Wei
Published: July 2024

Both lattice oxygen release and the migration of transition metal (TM) ions challenge the cyclability of Li‐rich Mn‐based layered oxide (LMO) cathodes by inducing irreversible phase transitions. In this work, the oxygen‐vacancy‐assisted dual functional surface coatings of Li‐rich layered oxide cathodes, including a spinel‐over‐phase and a Li3PO4 layer are fabricated for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The functional role of the optimized interface is mainly focused. Specifically, during the process of reorganized surface structure, the oxygen vacancies function as active sites for migrating TM ions to form the spinel over‐phase and deliver the decreased binding energy of PO43− on the LMO surface. It is found that the Li3PO4 layer increases the migration energy barrier of TM ions to 13.38 eV (7.62 eV for LMO). As a result, both the spinel over‐phase and the Li3PO4 layer synergistically inhibited the irreversible phase transitions of LMO upon cycling to boost lithium storage of the cathodes. The optimized cathode maintained higher capacity retention of 95% at 0.2 C after 200 cycles in comparison to 67% for the pristine LMO. This study provides some understanding of the functional roles of the optimized dual surface coatings in suppressing the irreversible phase transition of LMO for LIBs.
Integration of High‐Tc Superconductors with High‐Q‐Factor Oxide Mechanical Resonators
Authors: Manca Nicola , Kalaboukhov Alexei , Plaza Alejandro E. , Cichetto Leonélio , Wahlberg Eric , Bellingeri Emilio , Bisio Francesco , Lombardi Floriana , Marré Daniele , Pellegrino Luca
Published: July 2024

Micro‐mechanical resonators are building blocks of a variety of applications in basic science and consumer electronics. This device technology is mainly based on well‐established and reproducible silicon‐based fabrication processes with outstanding performances in term of mechanical Q‐factor and sensitivity to external perturbations. Broadening the functionalities of micro‐electro‐mechanical systems (MEMS) by the integration of functional materials is a key step for both applied and fundamental science. However, combining functional materials with silicon‐based devices is challenging. An alternative approach is directly fabricating MEMS based on compounds inherently showing non‐trivial functional properties, such as transition metal oxides. Here, a full‐oxide approach is reported, where a high‐ superconductor YBa2Cu3O7 (YBCO) is integrated with high Q‐factor micro‐bridge resonators made of single‐crystal LaAlO3 (LAO) thin films. LAO resonators are tensile strained, with a stress of about 350 MPa, show a Q‐factor above 200k, and have low roughness. YBCO overlayers are grown ex situ by pulsed laser deposition and YBCO/LAO bridges show zero resistance below 78 K and mechanical properties similar to those of bare LAO resonators. These results open new possibilities toward the development of advanced transducers, such as bolometers or magnetic field detectors, as well as experiments in solid state physics, material science, and quantum opto‐mechanics.
Continuous Manufacturing of Bioinspired Bone‐Periosteum Integrated Scaffold to Promote Bone Regeneration
Authors: Li Zhengwei , Li Shun , Gao Chongjian , Liu Juan , Qu Huawei , Yang Jirong , Lu William Weijia , Ruan Changshun , Niu Xufeng
Published: July 2024

The scaffold that bioinspired natural bone‐periosteum is ideal for the repair of bone defects, while the achievement of a gradient scaffold with an integrated and stable interface remains challenging. Herein, a bioinspired bone‐periosteum integrated collagen‐based scaffold is developed, in which the top layer is electrospun collagen‐dense scaffold as bioinspired periosteum (BP) to prevent invasion of reticular fiber tissue and the bottom layer is in situ mineralized collagen scaffold (IMCS) to promote osteogenic differentiation. Owing to the proposed continuous manufacturing of successive 3D printing and electrospinning, the integrated scaffold (BP‐IMCS) comprised of BP and IMCS demonstrates excellent structural stability, ten times higher than that of direct‐combination scaffolds. Besides, in vivo implantation results confirmed that BP‐IMCS significantly improves new bone formation up to 32.47%, better than an individual layer, due to its co‐work of mineral ions and bioinspired structure. Therefore, this study offers a continuous manufacturing strategy to realize the integrated and interface‐stable bone‐periosteum structure, providing new solutions for heterostructure tissue fabrication.
An Ultra‐Smooth rGO Nano‐Thin Film from a Homogeneous Thin Liquid Film Confined by a Conical Fiber Array: Toward the Highly Sensitive Pressure Sensor
Authors: Tang Zhongxue , Meng Lili , Zhang Min , Shi Zhongyu , Zhang Kejie , Qin Ji , Jiang Lei , Liu Huan
Published: July 2024

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) thin films have demonstrated various advantages in flexible electronics. So far, solution processes are widely used for making rGO thin films for their mild operation conditions and low cost. However, wrinkles are frequently formed due to the capillary contraction during drying, which severely deteriorates the conductivity and the transparency of rGO thin films. Here, an ultra‐smooth rGO nano‐thin film, featuring wrinkle‐free and a rather low surface roughness of 1.38 nm is developed, which is attributable to a steady and homogeneous thin liquid film confined by a conical fiber array. The thin liquid film facilitates both in‐plane stacking of nanosheets and reducing the buried solvent under nanosheets. Notably, with the capillary flow replenishing the tri‐phase contact line evaporation, a semi‐dry film near the tri‐phase contact line is produced, that enables the force equilibrium of multi‐directional capillary forces on dispersed nanosheets for depositing a wrinkle‐free nanofilm. The as‐prepared rGO nanofilm gives a low sheet resistance of 8.3 kΩ sq−1 and a high transmittance of 91.9%, showing better performances than other reported rGO nanofilms. On this basis, it is demonstrated that a high‐sensitive pressure sensor with a detection limit as low as 0.02 Pa, highlighting the solution‐processed innovative ultra‐smooth 2D nanomaterial thin films, and devices.
In Situ Exsolved CoFeRu Alloy Decorated Perovskite as An Anode Catalyst Layer for High‐Performance Direct‐Ammonia Protonic Ceramic Fuel Cells
Authors: Liang Mingzhuang , Song Yufei , Xiong Baocheng , Liu Dongliang , Xue Daxiang , Shen Longyun , Shi Kanghua , Song Yixiao , Li Jingwei , Niu Qiang , Xu Meigui , Ciucci Francesco , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping
Published: July 2024

Direct‐ammonia proton ceramic fuel cell (DA‐PCFC) is a promising clean energy technology because ammonia (NH3) is easier to store, transport, and handle than hydrogen. However, NH3 decomposition efficiency is unsatisfactory, and the anti‐sintering resistance of conventional Ni‐based ceramic anodes has limited the large‐scale application of DA‐PCFC technology. Herein, Pr0.6Sr0.4(Co0.2Fe0.8)0.85Ru0.15O3‐δ (PSCFR15), a novel anode catalyst layer (ACL) material is developed. PSCFR15 is treated under a reducing atmosphere to form a composite with CoFeRu alloy nanoparticles. Density functional theory simulations reveal that Ru modification in the CoFe alloy promotes nitrogen desorption during ammonia decomposition reaction, thereby boosting ammonia decomposition efficiency. As a result, DA‐PCFC with PSCFR15 ACL can achieve superior peak power density compared to bare DA‐PCFC operated with H2 and NH3 fuels. Furthermore, the ACL also reduces the direct contact between the Ni‐based ceramic anode and the NH3 fuel, then suppressing Ni sintering, and enhancing the durability of the DA‐PCFC.
Achieving γ‐Phase CsPbI3 by Reducing Underlayer Surface Roughness
Authors: Wang Xiaozheng , Ran Junhui , Peng Xinxin , Tang Xianglan , Hong Jiawang , Yuan Yongbo , Yang Bin
Published: July 2024

Cesium lead iodide (CsPbI3) exhibits great potential in developing photovoltaic cells due to suitable optical bandgap and thermal stability. However, the photoactive γ‐phase normally exists at high‐temperatures ≈180 °C, and it is challenging to obtain γ‐phase CsPbI3 at room temperature. Here, it discovers that γ‐phase CsPbI3 is achievable by reducing the underlayer surface roughness to a certain level. This method is universal as demonstrated on the surface of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), poly[bis(4‐phenyl)(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)amine] (PTAA), polystyrene (PS), and silicon substrates. Moreover, it is found that lower surface roughness resulted in smaller crystallite size in the CsPbI3 film, which is an important reason for achieving γ‐phase because the decrease in crystallite size will increase grain surface energy to suppress tilting of PbI6 octahedra and lattice distortion. This study offers a universal approach to obtain γ‐phase CsPbI3 for the development of high‐performance all‐inorganic perovskite solar cells and other optoelectronic devices.
Calixarene‐Guest Complexes: The Next Innovation in Delivery of Drugs and Biologics
Authors: Muley Sheetal , Dhila Hozefa , Gote Meghana
Published: July 2024

Calixarenes are third generation of macrocyclic molecules with excellent biocompatibility currently being researched extensively for their diverse potential as therapeutic candidates and for delivery of drugs and biologics. This review discusses the unique structural features which allow them to selectively bind to a wide variety of guest molecules within their hydrophobic cavity, as well as complex with other molecules on their upper and lower rims to enable their application for encapsulation of drugs for targeted and controlled release, molecular carriers for antigens and nucleic acids, and as biomedical sensors. The calixarenes’ unique host–guest chemistry enables encapsulation of lipophilic drugs in the latter's cavity, while the head groups and side chains on the upper and lower rim can be functionalized readily with various targeting moieties as peptides and biological ligands which specifically recognize and bind to cancer cells via surface receptors. The design of calixarene constructs help incorporation of multiple functionalities into a single platform. This active targeting approach enhances the accumulation of the drug at the tumor site while reducing its distribution in healthy tissues, thereby minimizing side effects. Ongoing research in exploration and optimization of calixarenes for application as targeted drug and gene delivery agents has been discussed.
A Formula to Customize Cathode Binder for Lithium Ion Battery
Authors: Deng Li , Liu Jun‐Ke , Wang Zhen , Lin Jin‐Xia , Liu Yi‐Xiu , Bai Gao‐Yang , Zheng Kun‐Gui , Zhou Yao , Sun Shi‐Gang , Li Jun‐Tao
Published: July 2024

The binder plays a crucial role in binding the solid electrode components and fixing them to the current collector, ensuring good contact and transformation. The high‐energy‐density cathode poses several challenges for the Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) binder, such as high electrode potential, mass loading, and binding force. Although various new binders are proposed to optimize the electrochemical performance of cathode, the design focus and mechanisms often lack universality. This study introduces a design strategy for the cathode binder from the perspective of molecular structure design. The performance of the binder is optimized by adjusting the soft‐hard and hydrophilic‐hydrophobic balances of the polymer, and the effectiveness of this strategy is verified in the LiCoO2 (LCO) system. The optimized copolymer binder improves the cycling stability of the LCO electrode under high load and low binder content conditions and even achieves stable operation at a high charging voltage of 4.6 V. The mechanism for improving the performance of LCO electrodes is that the optimized binder stabilizes the electrode structure, the active material particle structure, and the active material interface. This design strategy provides a valuable reference for customizing cathode binders.
The activation of adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase inhibits the migration of tongue squamous cell carcinoma cells by targeting Claudin‐1 via epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Zhou Xin‐Yue , Liu Qiu‐Ming , Li Zhuang , Liu Xia‐Yang , Zhao Qi‐Wei , Wang Yu , Wu Feng‐Hua , Zhao Gang , Sun Rui , Guo Xiao‐Hong
Published: July 2024

Background

The role of Claudin‐1 in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) metastasis needs further clarification, particularly its impact on cell migration. Herein, our study aims to investigate the role of Claudin‐1 in TSCC cell migration and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

36 TSCC tissue samples underwent immunohistochemical staining for Claudin‐1. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses were conducted to evaluate Claudin‐1 expression and distribution in TSCC cells. Claudin‐1 knockdown cell lines were established using short hairpin RNA transfection. Migration effects were assessed through wound healing assays. Furthermore, the expression of EMT‐associated molecules was measured via western blotting.

Results

Claudin‐1 expression decreased as TSCC malignancy increased. Adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation led to increased Claudin‐1 expression and membrane translocation, inhibiting TSCC cell migration and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Conversely, Claudin‐1 knockdown reversed these inhibitory effects on migration and EMT caused by AMPK activation.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that AMPK activation suppresses TSCC cell migration by targeting Claudin‐1 and EMT pathways.
Impact of stacking sequence on the thermal and electrical properties of Poly (aryl ether ketone)/glassfiber/buckypaper composites
Authors: Gomes João Victor P. N. , Costa Michelle Leali , Thomazini Daniel , de Paula Santos Luis Felipe , Ribeiro Bruno , Botelho Edson C.
Published: July 2024

The current market's imperative demand necessitates the research and development of advanced polymer composites, especially those incorporating nanofillers. Carbon nanotubes, in particular, have attracted significant attention within research and development for their potential in creating multifunctional composites. This study aims to evaluate the impact of incorporating carbon nanotube buckypapers (BP) on the thermal and electrical properties of poly (aryl ether ketone) (PAEK)/glass fiber (GF) composites. The BP was prepared through vacuum filtration and integrated into PAEK/GF composites with varying stacking sequences, followed by hot compression processing. The degradation behavior of the laminates was investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The viscoelastic properties, evaluated by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), suggested an increase in stiffness with the inclusion of BP in two of the analyzed stacking sequences. Thermal conductivity, measured via the pulse laser method, showed results comparable to the base laminate (0.153 W/m·K). Meanwhile, electrical conductivity, assessed using the four‐point probe method in the in‐plane direction, revealed semiconductor properties, achieving a mean value of 3.162 S/cm for one of the samples, indicating electrical anisotropy within the multifunctional composite material.
Disturbance attenuation for neutral descriptor semi‐Markovian jump systems with saturation nonlinearity and time delays
Authors: Mohanapriya Saminathan , Lee Sangmoon , Sweety Charles Selvaraj Antony Crispin , Sakthivel Rathinasamy
Published: July 2024

This article examines the construction of the tracking control as well as the disturbance attenuation for a class of neutral descriptor semi‐Markovian jump systems involving input time delays. On the basis of Matausek–Micic modified Smith prediction technique, a modified equivalent‐input‐disturbance and multiperiodic modified repetitive controller has been developed for obtaining the required results. In order to reject external disturbances actively, the modified equivalent‐input‐disturbance technique is utilized. To be more explicit, the modification of the Smith predictor block and integration of the transfer function provide accurate estimate, efficient attenuation of external disturbance and proper compensation for input time delays. While constructing the controller gain matrices, the specified matrix inequalities are solved concurrently. At last, the potential and applicability of the framed control law are illustrated through the simulated findings.
From Powder to Pouch Cell: Setting up a Sodium‐Ion Battery Reference System Based on Na3V2(PO4)3/C and Hard Carbon
Authors: Stüble Pirmin , Müller Cedric , Bohn Nicole , Müller Marcus , Hofmann Andreas , Akçay Tolga , Klemens Julian , Koeppe Arnd , Kolli Satish , Rajagopal Deepalaxmi , Geßwein Holger , Schabel Wilhelm , Scharfer Philip , Selzer Michael , Binder Joachim R. , Smith Anna
Published: July 2024

At the research level, novel active materials for batteries are synthesised on a small scale, fabricated into electrodes and electrochemically characterised using each group's established process due to the lack of standards. Recently, eminent researchers have criticised the implementation of e. g. low active material contents/electrode loadings, the use of research‐type battery cell constructions, or the lack of statistically relevant data, resulting in overstated data and thus giving misleading predictions of the key performance indicators of new battery technologies. Here, we report on the establishment of a reference system for the development of sodium‐ion batteries. Electrodes are fabricated under relevant conditions using 9.5 mg/cm2 self‐synthesised Na3V2(PO4)3/C cathode active material and 3.6 mg/cm2 commercially available hard carbon anode active material. It is found that different types of battery cells are more or less suitable for half‐ and/or full‐cell testing, resulting in ir/reproducible or underestimated active material capacities. Furthermore, the influence of electrode overhang, which is relevant for upscaling, is evaluated. The demonstrator cell (TRL 4–5) has been further characterised providing measured data on the power/energy density and thermal behaviour during rate testing up to 15 C and projections are made for its practical limits.
Digital Capital and Cultural Capital in education: Unravelling intersections and distinctions that shape social differentiation
Authors: Pitzalis Marco , Porcu Mariano
Published: July 2024

This article seeks to provide a clearer understanding of Digital Capital in education. It introduces a comprehensive analytical framework that explores the relationship between Digital Capital and Bourdieu's Cultural Capital Theory. Instead of treating digital skills and resources as separate entities, it integrates them into Cultural Capital Theory as complementary elements. This approach helps shed light on the disparities in ICT usage. Data from the 2018 OECD‐PISA survey conducted in Italy are analysed to assess whether Digital Capital can be considered a component of Cultural Capital. The findings indicate that differences in Cultural Capital do not significantly impact the possession and usage of digital assets. Instead, distinctions become apparent through students’ behaviours within the school environment. This underscores the connection between digital competencies and various dimensions of cultural and educational capital. The article posits that status and cultural disparities stem not solely from digital competencies but also from their interplay with social and cultural resources. This offers deeper insights into how the digital divide intersects with broader societal power dynamics.
Impact of an instructional team's feedback on an instructor's teaching practices in a Biology of Cancer course
Authors: Moreira Patricia , Rezende Lisa , Goodell Ashton , Blowers Paul , Elfring Lisa , Talanquer Vicente
Published: July 2024

The effective implementation of evidence‐based teaching (EBT) in large college courses benefits from the successful use of instructional teams. An instructional team's feedback allows instructors to act based on evidence of student learning, addressing students' needs. This feedback may be particularly important for novice instructors or experienced instructors teaching a class for the first time. This study sought to characterize the nature of an instructional team's feedback as well as its influence on the decisions and actions of a seasoned instructor teaching a new class. Instructional team members provided feedback in the form of anticipations, noticings, and suggestions. Anticipations and suggestions seemed to have the largest impact on the instructor's decisions and actions, while noticings, despite providing insights into student thinking, had a smaller effect. Our findings indicate that an instructional team can provide valuable feedback to instructors when team members have an opportunity to meaningfully participate in the planning and teaching processes.
Intra‐lymph node crosslinking of antigen‐bearing polymers enhances humoral immunity and dendritic cell activation
Authors: Euliano Erin M. , Agrawal Anushka , Yu Marina H. , Graf Tyler P. , Henrich Emily M. , Kunkel Alyssa A. , Hsu Chia‐Chien , Baryakova Tsvetelina , McHugh Kevin J.
Published: July 2024

Lymph node (LN)‐resident dendritic cells (DCs) are a promising target for vaccination given their professional antigen‐presenting capabilities and proximity to a high concentration of immune cells. Direct intra‐LN injection has been shown to greatly enhance the immune response to vaccine antigens compared to traditional intramuscular injection, but it is infeasible to implement clinically in a vaccination campaign context. Employing the passive lymphatic flow of antigens to target LNs has been shown to increase total antigen uptake by DCs more than inflammatory adjuvants, which recruit peripheral DCs. Herein, we describe a novel vaccination platform in which two complementary multi‐arm poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) polymers—one covalently bound to the model antigen ovalbumin (OVA)—are injected subcutaneously into two distinct sites. These materials then drain to the same LN through different lymphatic vessels and, upon meeting in the LN, rapidly crosslink. This system improves OVA delivery to, and residence time within, the draining LN compared to all control groups. The crosslinking of the two PEG components also improves humoral immunity without the need for any pathogen‐mimicking adjuvants. Further, we observed a significant increase in non‐B/T lymphocytes in LNs cross‐presenting the OVA peptide SIINFEKL on MHC I over a dose‐matched control containing alum, the most common clinical adjuvant, as well as an increase in DC activation in the LN. These data suggest that this platform can be used to deliver antigens to LN‐resident immune cells to produce a stronger humoral and cellular immune response over materials‐matched controls without the use of traditional adjuvants.
Creating a metaverse‐me: Exploring the consumer avatar creation process
Authors: Taylor Alex , Hook Margurite , Carlyle Tanya , Carlson Jamie
Published: July 2024

The metaverse is emerging as a focal point for technological advancement, social interaction, and commerce. Despite brands' enthusiasm for establishing a presence in the metaverse, consumer adoption remains modest, with the initial hurdle being avatar creation. To better understand why consumers are hesitant to engage in the metaverse, this study focuses on avatars as virtual representations of self, particularly during the stage of avatar creation. Drawing on theories of self‐presentation and identity formation, this research investigates how users conceptualise and express their virtual avatars. Through a series of in‐depth semi‐structured interviews, we propose an integrated framework that illustrates how consumers engage in a complex avatar creation process consisting of consolidation, exploration, affirmation, and aspiration. Further, our insights show that avatars serve as extensions of real‐world identities, as well as how this impacts consumption behaviour. These insights are valuable for marketers aiming to develop actionable consumer‐centric metaverse strategies, and researchers investigating consumer behaviour within immersive consumption environments.
Changes in ROS/RNS Levels in Endothelial Cells in Experimental Bacteremia
Authors: Pleskova Svetlana N. , Vaneev Alexander N. , Bezrukov Nikolay A. , Erofeev Alexander S. , Bobyk Sergey Z. , Kolmogorov Vasilii S. , Gorelkin Petr V. , Mamed‐Nabizade Vugara V. , Gorshkova Ekaterina N.
Published: July 2024

A high‐precision system was developed for the quantification of biological analytes in single cells (reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS)) based on the electrochemical amperometric method. The efficacy of this system was evaluated using an experimental bacteremia model. Endothelial cells exhibited increased ROS/RNS production when stimulated by Staphylococcus aureus. However, they remained inactive when exposed to either unprimed or primed neutrophils that had been pre‐incubated with bacteria. It is noteworthy that the sequential stimulation of endothelial cells with bacteria followed by neutrophils resulted in a significant increase in the ROS/RNS level, which demonstrated a correlation with the number of neutrophils in contact with the endothelial cells. These results highlight the potential of our system to quantitatively assess ROS/RNS dynamics in complex biological systems. They also offer insights into the interplay between various cellular components in experimental bacteremia.
Synthesis of Chiral 3H‐Pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles Via Organocatalytic Enantioselective Addition of Alkynyl Biphenyl Quinone Methides
Authors: Pan Sheng , Wang Xing , Liu Meiwen , Fang Fang , Xia Yan , Li Pengfei , Li Wenjun
Published: July 2024

An organocatalytic enantioselective reaction utilizing α‐[4‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)phenyl]propargyl alcohols and 3‐substituted indoles has been successfully established for the synthesis of chiral 3H‐pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles. Through the assistance of an appropriate chiral phosphoric acid, a cascade sequence is facilitated, beginning with the dehydration of α‐[4‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)phenyl]propargyl alcohols to form alkynyl 4,4’‐biphenyl quinone methides (4,4’‐BQMs). Subsequently, 1,12‐addition of 3H‐pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles to these alkynyl 4,4’‐BQMs results in the formation of allenes, which are then protonated and regenerate 4,4’‐BQMs. Finally, an enantioselective intramolecular annulation of 4,4’‐BQMs occurs smoothly, leading to the production of a range of 3H‐pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles with high efficiency and asymmetric induction.
Post‐Synthetic Modification of Calix[4]arene Framework by Iridium–Mediated Alkyne Insertion into an Inert C−C Bond: A Novel Strategy for Unsymmetrical Macrocycles
Authors: Iwamoto Takahiro , Hasegawa Hibiki , Mori Daiki , Yamazaki Takuya , Fujinuki Kanako , Ishii Youichi
Published: July 2024

As a novel synthetic method for unsymmetrical macrocycles, we herein developed a post‐synthetic modification of calix[4]arenes by insertion of a terminal alkyne into an inert C(methylene)−C(aryl) bond of the macrocyclic framework. In this transformation, C‐iridated calix[4]arenes, readily synthesized through C−H bond activation of the parent calix[4]arene, undergoes C(methylene)−C(aryl) bond cleavage followed by insertion of an alkyne to provide a ring‐expanded calix[4]arene complex. Removal of the iridium metal from the resulting complex was readily accomplished by a simple treatment with an acid. The developed sequential method affords novel unsymmetrical, monofunctionalized macrocyclic compounds via 3 steps from the parent calix[4]arene in good yield. The unique unsymmetrical structures of the alkyne–inserted macrocycles were evaluated by X‐ray single crystal analyses. On the basis of theoretical calculations, we propose a reaction mechanism involving an uncommon C−C bond cleavage step through δ‐carbon elimination for the ring enlargement process.
Concentration Fluctuations in Steel Mill Gases: Analytics as Key to Develop Steel Off‐Gas Purification
Authors: Markert Clara , Pollok Corina H. , Haakmann Florian , Ruland Holger
Published: July 2024

The Carbon2Chem® project utilizes steel production gases to synthesize methanol, urea, and other commodity chemicals. The complex process involves CO2 capture and hydrogen production and synthesis, requiring precise analysis due to the diverse components in steel mill flue gases. As some of these components could harm the employed catalysts, the analytics needs to ensure the quality of the purification unit and enhance the understanding of transportation effects and performance in gas cleaning and methanol synthesis. An already established method, proton transfer reaction‐mass spectrometry (PTR‐MS), was employed to assess the gas quality.