bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astrocyte immunosenescence and deficits in interleukin 10 signaling in the aged brain disrupt the regulation of microglia following innate immune activation
Authors: O'Neil Shane M. , Hans Emma E. , Jiang Starr , Wangler Lynde M. , Godbout Jonathan P.
Published: January 2022

Microglia, the innate immune cells of the brain, develops a pro‐inflammatory, “primed” profile with age. Using single‐cell RNA‐sequencing, we confirmed hippocampal microglia of aged mice (18 m.o.) had an amplified (4 h) and prolonged (24 h) neuroinflammatory response to peripheral lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge compared to adults (2 m.o.). Overall, there were several unique cell‐, age‐, and time‐dependent differences in the clusters of microglia identified. Analysis of upstream regulators and canonical pathways revealed impaired regulation of an activated, neuroinflammatory state within microglia. Moreover, microglia in the aged hippocampus failed to turn over during the resolving phase of neuroinflammation. Concomitantly, astrocytes in the aged hippocampus were “immunosenescent” both 4 and 24 h after LPS challenge. For example, aged astrocytes had reduced anti‐inflammatory signaling and cholesterol biosynthesis, two pathways by which astrocytes regulate the inflammatory profile of microglia. One of the pathways reduced in the aged hippocampus was interleukin (IL)‐10 signaling. This pathway increases astrocytic expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β, an anti‐inflammatory cytokine with abundant receptor expression on microglia. Therefore, transgenic astrocytic Il10raKO mice were generated to determine if impaired IL‐10R/TGFβ signaling within astrocytes caused an amplified microglial neuroinflammatory response. Astrocytic Il10raKO caused exaggerated sickness behavior and a prolonged neuroinflammatory response to peripheral LPS, including increased social avoidance with amplified microglial Il1b and Tnf mRNA expression. In summary, astrocytes had an immunosenescent profile with age and, in response to peripheral LPS, had IL‐10R signaling deficits and a lack of cholesterol biosynthesis, both leading to the inability to resolve microglial activation.
The use of consent forms in a “call from class” model of dental care for Australian Indigenous children
Authors: Stormon Nicole
Published: January 2022

Issues addressed

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent non‐communicable diseases in children. Indigenous children reported a disproportionately higher prevalence of dental disease compared to their age‐matched counterparts. To improve access to dental care a community‐controlled service provides culturally appropriate dental services on the site of an Indigenous primary and secondary school. The dental clinic utilises a “call from class” model of care. Consent forms seeking permission to undertake a dental examination without a parent/guardian present during school hours are sent home. When the forms are returned, the student is located in class and a dental examination is undertaken.

Methods

A retrospective audit of dental records from 2019 and 2020 were undertaken. The number of consent forms sent and returned were recorded.

Results

In 2019, 87% (n = 220) of the school population were sent consent forms. Of the forms issued, 70% (n = 154) were returned. Almost all students required further treatment (90%, n = 137) and were sent a treatment consent form. Of the total student population, 67% (n = 171) were not seen or had outstanding treatment from unreturned forms. Proportions of incomplete treatment and unseen students were similar in 2020 (64%, n = 173). In this model, barriers are lessened by providing a free dental service on the school site.

Conclusions

Consent is an ethical and legal necessity to undertake dental examination and treatment. Using physical forms were effective for gaining consent for most children. However, less than half of the school population's dental treatment was completed. Future studies should be conducted to explore the acceptability of using consent forms by parents/guardians and different models to gain consent for children from complex social circumstances.
Investigating electronic word‐of‐mouth on social media: An eye‐tracking approach
Authors: Yu Kang Yang Trevor , Goh Kim Huat , Kawasaki Shota
Published: January 2022

We investigate how individuals process electronic word‐of‐mouth (eWOM) about jobs and employers on social media. Employing eye‐tracking methodology, our study investigated: (1) the cognitive processing of positive and negative eWOM hosted on social media; (2) the factors influencing job seekers' cognitive processing of eWOM; and (3) the factors influencing perceptions of the credibility of eWOM as a source of employer information. Our results suggest the following. First, job seekers devote more attention to negative compared with positive eWOM. Second, existing employer knowledge in terms of familiarity and reputation influences how positive and negative eWOM are processed. Lastly, employer reputation and job search effort enhance one's perceptions of the credibility of eWOM. Overall, this research provides insights into the cognitive processing of online employer information and its implications for job search, recruitment, and employer branding.
Primary Cilia Direct Murine Articular Cartilage Tidemark Patterning Through Hedgehog Signaling and Ambulatory Load
Authors: Rux Danielle , Helbig Kimberly , Han Biao , Cortese Courtney , Koyama Eiki , Han Lin , Pacifici Maurizio
Published: January 2022

Articular cartilage (AC) is essential for body movement but is highly susceptible to degenerative diseases and has poor self-repair capacity. To improve current subpar regenerative treatments, developmental mechanisms of AC should be clarified and, specifically, how its postnatal multizone organization is acquired. Primary cilia are cell surface organelles crucial for mammalian tissue morphogenesis. Although their importance for chondrocyte function is appreciated, their specific roles in postnatal AC morphogenesis remain unclear. To explore these mechanisms, we used a murine conditional loss-of-function approach (Ift88-flox) targeting joint-lineage progenitors (Gdf5Cre) and monitored postnatal knee AC development. Joint formation and growth up to juvenile stages were largely unaffected. However, mature AC (aged 2 months) exhibited disorganized extracellular matrix, decreased aggrecan and collagen II due to reduced gene expression (not increased catabolism), and marked reduction of AC modulus by 30%–50%. In addition, and unexpectedly, we discovered that tidemark patterning was severely disrupted, as was hedgehog signaling, and exhibited specificity based on regional load-bearing functions of AC. Interestingly, Prg4 expression was markedly increased in highly loaded sites in mutants. Together, our data provide evidence that primary cilia orchestrate postnatal AC morphogenesis including tidemark topography, zonal matrix composition, and ambulation load responses. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Quantum dots against SARS‐CoV‐2: diagnostic and therapeutic potentials
Authors: Rabiee Navid , Ahmadi Sepideh , Soufi Ghazaleh Jamalipour , Hekmatnia Ali , Khatami Mehrdad , Fatahi Yousef , Iravani Siavash , Varma Rajender S
Published: January 2022

The application of quantum dots (QDs) for detecting and treating various types of coronaviruses is very promising, as their low toxicity and high surface performance make them superior among other nanomaterials; in conjugation with fluorescent probes they are promising semiconductor nanomaterials for the detection of various cellular processes and viral infections. In view of the successful results for inhibiting SARS‐CoV‐2, functional QDs could serve eminent role in the growth of safe nanotherapy for the cure of viral infections in the near future; their large surface areas help bind numerous molecules post‐synthetically. Functionalized QDs with high functionality, targeted selectivity, stability and less cytotoxicity can be employed for highly sensitive co‐delivery and imaging/diagnosis. Besides, due to the importance of safety and toxicity issues, QDs prepared from plant sources (e.g. curcumin) are much more attractive, as they provide good biocompatibility and low toxicity. In this review, the recent developments pertaining to the diagnostic and inhibitory potentials of QDs against SARS‐CoV‐2 are deliberated including important challenges and future outlooks. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The role of naturally acquired antimalarial antibodies in subclinicalPlasmodiumspp. infection
Authors: O'Flaherty Katherine , Roe Merryn , Fowkes Freya JI
Published: January 2022

Undetected subclinical Plasmodium spp. infections are a significant barrier to eliminating malaria. In malaria-endemic areas, naturally acquired antimalarial antibodies develop with repeated infection. These antibodies can confer protection against the clinical manifestations of Plasmodium spp. infection in highly exposed populations, and several distinct functional antibody mechanisms have been defined in the clearance of Plasmodium parasites. However, the role of antimalarial antibodies during subclinical infection is less well defined. In this review, we examine the development and maintenance of antibody responses and the functional mechanisms associated with clinical protection, highlighted by epidemiological studies investigating the association between human immunity and detection of subclinical infection across various malaria transmission intensities. Understanding the development and role of the antimalarial antibody response during subclinical Plasmodium spp. infection will be essential to furthering novel interventions including vaccines and immunological biomarkers that can be utilized for malaria surveillance and ultimately progress malaria elimination.
Assessment of Achilles Tendon Changes After Long‐Distance Running Using Ultrashort Echo Time Magnetization Transfer MR Imaging
Authors: Fang Yijie , Zhu Dantian , Wu Wenhao , Yu Wenjun , Li Shaolin , Ma Ya‐Jun
Published: January 2022

Background

Long‐distance running is a common cause of Achilles tendinopathy. A reliable magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique to track early changes in the tendon caused by running could facilitate more effective interventions to combat progression.

Purpose

To evaluate an ultrashort echo time sequence with magnetization transfer preparation (UTE‐MT) in the detection of changes in Achilles tendons of amateur marathon runners before and after long‐distance running.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Thirty‐two runners (19 enrolled for full marathons and 13 enrolled for half‐marathons) and 5 healthy non‐runners.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T; UTE‐MT and dual‐echo UTE for T2* assessment (UTE‐T2*).

Assessment

MRI was performed 1‐week pre‐race, 2‐days post‐race, and 4‐weeks post‐race. UTE‐MT ratio (UTE‐MTR) and UTE‐T2* of tendon were measured by two independent radiologists who were blinded to the scan time point and participant data. The Achilles tendon was divided into six regions of interest (ROIs) for data analysis, namely the insertion part (INS), middle part (MID), muscle‐tendon junction (MTJ), tendon‐bone insertion (TBI), tendon‐muscle insertion (TMI), and whole tendon (bulk).

Statistical Tests

Analysis of variance and Friedman's rank tests were used to evaluate changes in UTE‐MTR and UTE‐T2* between time points. Tukey test and Bonferroni method were used for further comparisons. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The UTE‐MTR values of most tendon ROIs changed significantly between the measured time points, except for the INS region (P = 0.1977). Conversely, the UTE‐T2* values only showed significant changes in the MID and TBI regions. Paired comparisons showed that the UTE‐MTR decreases in the MTJ, MID, TMI, and bulk regions at 2‐days post‐race were significant compared to measures taken pre‐race and 4‐weeks post‐race. For UTE‐T2* measurements, significant differences were observed only for the MID region between pre‐race and 2‐days post‐race (P = 0.0408, 95% CI: 0.0061, 0.1973), and for the TBI region between pre‐race and 4‐weeks post‐race (P = 0.0473, 95% CI: 0.0013, 0.1766).

Data Conclusion

The UTE‐MT sequence is able to detect biochemical changes in the Achilles tendon after long‐distance running.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Unconnected to global network: Infrastructural deficit in Africa
Authors: Ifere Simeon E. , Nyuur Richard B. , Amankwah‐Amoah Joseph , Ochie Chinedu
Published: January 2022

Small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) are constrained and hindered from connecting to the global value chain. Specifically, we examine how domestic firms mobilize their innovative capabilities to respond to firm‐level and market constraints. Drawing on a sample of 29 managers and owners of manufacturing SMEs in Nigeria, we uncovered that frequent power outages impose difficult additional cost and operational challenges, impeding their operational competitiveness for regional and global competition. We shed light on how resource‐deficits and infrastructural impediments impact SMEs' operational activities and curtail their market competitiveness on the global stage. Further theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Foam‐based cleaning of surfaces contaminated with mixtures of oil and soot
Authors: Schad Tamara , Preisig Natalie , Drenckhan Wiebke , Stubenrauch Cosima
Published: January 2022

Liquid foams of intermediate stability have been shown to be very efficient in the cleaning of sensitive surfaces because of the synergy between imbibition and foam decay. While we quantified these mechanisms for contaminations with liquid oils in our previous work, we show here their extension to oils containing soot particles in an effort to simulate increasingly realistic contaminations. Using foams with a wide range of liquid fractions and with different stabilities, we show that the main cleaning mechanisms remain very similar, with the oil entraining the soot particles. However, we find much less efficient soot removal when the liquid channels of the foams are small enough to hinder efficient transport of the soot particles.
Clinical Diagnostic Application of Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound in Focal Lesions of the Salivary Glands
Authors: Wang Yanqing , Nie Fang , Wang Peihua
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical diagnostic value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for focal benign and malignant lesions of the salivary glands, as well as for common benign lesions.

Methods

A total of 91 patients with focal lesions of the salivary glands were included in this study. In this study, CEUS was used to study the differential diagnosis of focal benign and malignant lesions of the salivary gland and the most common benign tumors, that is, pleomorphic adenoma (PA) and adenolymphoma.

Results

The differences between focal benign and malignant lesions in the salivary glands were statistically significant (P < .05) in terms of qualitative CEUS indicators, enhancement pattern, enhancement homogeneity, enhancement margin, and enhanced lesion size, whereas the differences were not statistically significant (P > .05) in terms of wash‐in and wash‐out pattern, enhancement degree. Blurred margins and increased size of the lesion after enhancement are two CEUS features independently associated with focal malignant lesions of the salivary gland. The differences between salivary gland PA and adenolymphoma were statistically significant (P < .05) in terms of wash‐in pattern, enhancement degree, enhancement homogeneity, and enhancement pattern, but not in terms of wash‐out pattern, enhancement margin, and enhanced lesion size (P > .05).

Conclusions

As an economical, convenient, and safe imaging method, CEUS has important clinical value in distinguishing benign and malignant salivary glands.
Etiology of Small Echogenic Renal Masses
Authors: Kwong Austin , Mitchell Ana , Wang Danielle , McGahan John P.
Published: January 2022

Objectives

There has been controversy on how frequently small echogenic masses are angiomyolipomas (AMLs) versus renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and how best to manage these echogenic masses. We performed this study to determine the etiologies of echogenic renal masses and compare them with prior publications to reach possible management decisions.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review of all consecutive renal ultrasound examinations performed at our institution between January 2015 and December 2016, with an ultrasound report finding containing the wording “echogenic” and “mass.” This yielded 6462 total examinations. A total of 107 echogenic lesions met inclusion and exclusion criteria with correlative computed tomography, pathology, or long‐term (>5 years) follow‐up ultrasound. These lesions were stratified into those that were ≤2 cm and those that were >2 cm.

Results

Almost all masses were benign, with the majority (79/107) being AMLs (73.8%); 64 of the 79 (81%) of the AMLs were in female patients. Two of the 107 masses were RCCs, and 1 mass was an oncocytic neoplasm. There were 77 of the masses that were ≤2 cm and these masses were benign except for one lesion of an oncocytic neoplasm. There were 30 of the 107 masses >2 cm, with 2 of the 30 (6.7%) being RCCs.

Conclusions

Incidental echogenic renal masses are most commonly AMLs. However, some masses may be RCCs. In comparing our results with the prior literature, we feel that small echogenic renal masses ≤1 cm usually require no further evaluation, while masses greater than that size require other imaging.
Procedure and results on lower face and neck rejuvenation using a temperature‐controlled bipolar fractional radiofrequency microneedling device
Authors: Benítez‐Roig Virginia , Trelles Mario A.
Published: January 2022

Background and Objective

Radiofrequency (RF) devices which are under ongoing technological development, are being increasingly used for minimally invasive rejuvenation procedures. The objective is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a procedure that uses bipolar RF microneedles for rejuvenation of the lower face and neck.

Study Design and Methods

A prospective clinical and histological study, with a blind evaluation of the results by independent evaluators. Twenty‐four women over 40 years of age were evaluated, who were treated with bipolar RF equipment (Profound™; Candela Medical) during a single session. Biopsy samples were taken from 12 patients. Microscopy images related to the immediate effects of RF and the changes observed 4 months after treatment were examined. The clinical results were established through questionnaires and by comparing before and after photographs. Mean (m), range (R), and percentage (%) values were calculated.

Results

Immediate lysis of adipocytes in submental fat was observed, as well as an increase in the density and compaction of elastin and collagen fibers 4 months later. The average percentage of reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, furrows, and folds was around 30%, while the average improvement of the neck silhouette was around 20%. Photographic signs of aging improved significantly, both in the face (p = 0.0007) and the neck (p = 0.002). Patient and therapist satisfaction with the results was 8.3/10 (R = 3–10) and 9.3/10 (R = 8–10), respectively. The adverse effects were mild and temporary and no complications were observed.

Conclusion

The procedure is safe, clinically effective, and satisfactory for patients.
Degradation of Incoloy‐800HT in molten FLiNaK salt at high temperatures
Authors: Harinath Yadavalli V. , Chandramohan P. , Anandkumar B. , Mohan T. V. Krishna , Rangarajan S. , Albert Shaju K.
Published: January 2022

Many studies have revealed that Hastelloy‐N is the most suitable material for molten FLiNaK salt application. However, due to the nonavailability and high cost of Hastelloy‐N, Incoloy‐800HT is being considered as an alternate material. Corrosion studies were carried out on Incoloy‐800HT in vacuum‐dried molten FLiNaK salt at 650°C and 750°C for 100, 250, 500 and 1000 h. The exposed specimens were examined for weight loss and subjected to surface analysis using techniques like metallography, confocal laser scanning microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and laser Raman spectroscopy. The results revealed that the weight loss and depth of attack are less in specimens exposed to 650°C than those exposed to 750°C, and there is no evidence of any localised attack at both the temperatures. Chemical analysis of the used salt showed higher Cr and Fe contents than that in fresh salt, indicating dealloying of elements like Cr and Fe from Incoloy‐800HT specimens during exposure to molten FLiNaK salt. Oxides rich in Fe and Cr with spinel‐type crystal structures were identified on the exposed surfaces. From the results, it could be concluded that though there was considerable corrosion of Incoloy‐800HT, the material may be used in static molten FLiNaK salt systems with limited design life restricted to a temperature of 650°C by giving appropriate corrosion allowance.
The superhydrophobic coating with low‐temperature dew point corrosion resistance on an acid‐resistant steel substrate prepared by the electrodeposition method
Authors: Shi Biao , Shen Xixun , Liang Gaofei , Zhu Yanshaozuo , Xu Qunjie
Published: January 2022

The acid‐resistant steel represented by 09CrCuSb (ND) steel that is widely used in flue gas treatment systems is easily prone to mixed‐acid dew point corrosion in the low‐temperature flue gas environment. To improve the corrosion resistance of ND steel in a low‐temperature dew point corrosion environment, here, a chromium–myristate hybrid (CMH) superhydrophobic coating is proposed as a low‐temperature dew point corrosion protective coating for the ND steel substrate. This superhydrophobic coating is deposited on the ND steel substrate (preplated dark nickel as a transition layer) by one‐step direct current electrodeposition. The electrochemical analysis from potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and the immersion test show that the CMH superhydrophobic coating can significantly improve the corrosion resistance of the ND substrate. Therefore, the present study provides a feasible strategy for preventing the mixed‐acid dew point corrosion of ND steel in the low‐temperature zone.
EMAR monitoring system applied to the thickness reduction of carbon steel in a corrosive environment
Authors: Diguet Gildas , Miyauchi Hina , Takeda Sho , Uchimoto Tetsuya , Mary Nicolas , Takagi Toshiyuki , Abe Hiroshi
Published: January 2022

Nondestructive techniques are one viable solution to monitor structure health in material science. Among available solutions, the electromagnetic acoustic transducer is a contactless method allowing access to the thickness of a material. This study aims to apply and validate its measurement accuracy on a carbon steel plate submitted to corrosion in an acid solution. Steel thickness reduction is estimated from either electrochemical or electromagnetic acoustic resonance (EMAR) tests along the immersion period. These values are then compared to ex situ profilometry measurements. On the one hand, the results show the underestimation of the material loss from the electrochemical measurements because of the reactivity modification induced by the precipitation of an oxide layer. On the other hand, EMAR and profilometry measurements are in good agreement indicating that EMAR provides reliable information on material thickness reduction.
The effect of temperature and UV irradiation on corrosion behavior of 304 stainless steel exposed to a simulated marine atmosphere
Authors: Guo Mingxiao , Tang Junrong , Pan Chen , Wang Zhenyao
Published: January 2022

The effect of temperature and UV irradiation on the corrosion behavior of 304 stainless steel exposed to a simulated marine atmosphere was studied. The corroded samples were analyzed in detail through potentiodynamic polarization, in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Mott–Schottky measurements, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results showed that the corrosion rate of 304 SS was significantly inhibited by UV irradiation, and the inhibition effect increased at a higher temperature. The UV irradiation not only changed the corrosion products morphologies formed on the 304 SS surface but also the relative content of the corrosion products was changed. In particular, UV irradiation can promote the formation of Cr2O3 in corrosion products, especially at a higher temperature, thus improving the corrosion resistance of 304 SS.
Factors Affecting Spatiotemporal Variation in Survival of Endangered Winter-Run Chinook Salmon Out-migrating from the Sacramento River
Authors: Hassrick Jason L. , Ammann Arnold J. , Perry Russell W. , John Sara N. , Daniels Miles E.
Published: January 2022

Among four extant and declining runs of Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha in California’s Central Valley, none has declined as precipitously as the Sacramento River winter run. Migratory winter-run Chinook Salmon employ a life history strategy to reside and feed in stopover habitats on their way from freshwaters to the ocean. Migratory winter run, on their way from freshwaters to the ocean, employ a life history strategy to reside and feed in stopover habitats that have been affected by anthropogenic disturbance. Using acoustic telemetry, we examined conditions that influenced reach-specific movement and survival of out-migrating juveniles during a prolonged, multi-year drought from 2013 to 2016, followed by one of the wettest years on record (2017). We modeled how time-varying individual riverine covariates and reach-specific habitat features influenced smolt survival. Model selection favored a model with mean annual flow, intra-annual deviations from the mean flow at the reach scale, reach-specific channel characteristics, and travel time. Mean annual flow had the strongest positive effect on survival. A negative interaction between mean annual flow and intra-annual reach flow indicated that within-year deviations at the reach scale from annual mean flow had larger effects on survival in low-flow years. These factors resulted in higher survival during years with pulse flows or high flows. Changes in movement behavior in response to small-scale changes in velocity were negatively associated with survival. Covariates of revetment and wooded bank habitat were positively associated with survival, but the effect of these fixed habitat features changed depending on whether they were situated in the upper or lower part of the river. Fish exhibited density-dependent stopover behavior, with slowed downstream migration in the upper river in the wet years and extending to the lower river in the most critically dry year. This paper contributes two key findings for natural resource managers interested in flow management and targeted habitat restoration. The first is new insight into how the magnitude of pulse flows in dry and wet years affects survival of winter-run fish. The second is that density dependence influences where stopover habitat is used. Despite this, we identified an area of the river where fish consistently exhibited stopover behavior in all years.
Shear strain dependent amplification function of earth dam‐flexible canyon system by the hybrid FEM‐SBFEM technique
Authors: Yaseri Alireza , Konrad Jean‐Marie
Published: January 2022

The finite element method (FEM) is a powerful tool for the nonlinear modeling of dynamic problems. In the present work, the equivalent linear method (EQL) has been implemented into the FEM. For stratifying the radiation damping condition and rigorously modeling canyon as an elastic unbounded domain, the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) was utilized. The FEM‐SBFEM technique, wherein FEM is coupled with SBFEM, has been extended to take into consideration the effect of earth dam material nonlinear behavior. It was observed that the nonlinear behavior greatly affects the natural frequency, the amplification function (AF), and peak crest acceleration of the earth dam located in canyons. The effects of canyon geometry and flexibility on the nonlinear behavior were examined, and it was seen that by increasing the flexibility of the canyon, the effect of nonlinearity was decreased. The El Infiernillo dam was modeled by 3D proposed technique, and a comparison of the crest AF obtained by the proposed method with the recorded data shows the accuracy of the methodology.
Learning under stress: The moderating role of future time perspective
Authors: Andre Lucija , Koene Saar , Jansen in de Wal Joost , Schuitema Jaap A. , Peetsma Thea T. D.
Published: January 2022

We investigated the relationship between students' perceived stress and investment in learning and tested the role of future time perspective (FTP) as a moderator. We expected that FTP would serve as a protective factor in the association between students' perceived stress and investment in learning. Perceived stress was gauged by assessing students' mathematics anxiety related to class, learning, and tests, and investment in learning was gauged by measuring investment in learning with respect to mathematics. To measure FTP, we focused on the FTP in school and professional career. A total of N = 349 secondary school students from the Netherlands participated in this study. Results revealed negative associations between students' investment in learning and their anxiety in class, during learning, and while taking tests. The moderating effects of FTP were also found to be significant. Contrary to our expectations, higher levels of FTP were associated with a stronger negative relationship between anxiety and investment in learning. Moreover, we found negative associations between FTP and class anxiety and learning anxiety and a positive association between FTP and investment in learning. Overall, our results may suggest that FTP motivates students to learn, but students' anxiety weakens the motivating effect of FTP.
An adaptive design for early clinical development including interim decision for single‐arm trial with external controls or randomized trial
Authors: Götte Heiko , Kirchner Marietta , Krisam Johannes , Allignol Arthur , Lamy Francois‐Xavier , Schüler Armin , Kieser Meinhard
Published: January 2022

In early clinical development, randomized controlled trials (RCT) or single‐arm trials with external controls (SATwEC) are design options, which allow adjustment for confounding: RCT via design, SATwEC via analysis using propensity score methods. SATwEC requires less investment than RCT. However, if the confounder space substantially differs between the experimental and external control group, the SATwEC might lead to inappropriate decisions for further development. We develop an adaptive two‐stage design (ATD) for early clinical development that reduces the risk of unreliable decision‐making at the end of a SATwEC. In Stage I, subjects are solely assigned to the experimental group. If at the interim the propensity score distributions of internal and external data are comparable based on the preference score, the subjects in stage II will again be solely assigned to the experimental arm; if not, a randomized stage II will be conducted. In a simulation study guided by a motivating example, data is generated using a time‐to‐event model with observable and unobservable confounders. The confounder space is varied to investigate the impact on false go/stop probabilities as well as a loss function, which reflects the quality of treatment effect estimates and decision‐making. The proposed ATD provides a compromise between optimizing quality (as expressed by false go/stop probabilities and the loss function) and investment (defined by sample size and trial duration).
Robust nonlinear model predictive control based on nominal predictions with piecewise constant references and bounded disturbances
Authors: Cunha Victor M. , Santos Tito L. M.
Published: January 2022

This article presents a robust nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) strategy for constrained systems with piecewise constant references and bounded disturbances based on nominal predictions. An artificial target is employed to avoid feasibility loss due to target change and to provide a potentially enlarged domain of attraction. Recursive feasibility and input‐to‐state stability are ensured. Recursive feasibility is guaranteed due to the tighter constraints that are recursively computed offline based on the disturbance reachable sets. The zonotopic approach from the mean‐value theorem extension is applied to compute these tighter constraints. In the presence of stochastic disturbances with known distribution, individual chance constraints can be considered in the proposed NMPC algorithm. Furthermore, simplified stabilizing ingredients are proposed in order that the robust assumptions hold based on standard algorithms. Case studies based on the continuous stirred tank reactor and buck‐boost control benchmarks are presented to illustrate the main properties of the proposed approach.
Composite adaptive backstepping controller for variable speed rotating scan optical spacecraft
Authors: Zhao Xian , Geng Yunhai , Yi Tao , Wu Baolin , Liu Weixing
Published: January 2022

In this article, a rotating speed varying scanning strategy for multibody rotating scan optical spacecraft connected with active magnetic bearing (AMB) is introduced. This strategy can increase the imaging efficiency of the high‐resolution observation mission by speeding up the rotation in the nonimaging phase. Then, to address the lack of time delay margin problem brought by variable rotational speed, a composite adaptive backstepping controller (CABC) which composed of two controllers is derived via the Lyapunov theory to guarantee the stability of the closed‐loop system. In the system, two control methods switch for different phases. When the optical payload is working, the rotational speed of optical payload is decreased to achieve the high pointing precision. The high precision adaptive backstepping controller (HPABC) is used in this phase. When the optical payload stops working, the rotational speed is high and the high rotating speed adaptive backstepping controller (HRSABC) is designed to guarantee the stability of the system. Then, to give the time delay margin of two controllers and prove that the time delay margin of HRSABC is higher than the HPABC, the reference value, which represents the system stabilization and time delay margin and angular velocity margin, is derived using the discretization and linearization method. Finally, a series of numerical simulations have been performed and the simulation results indicated the new control method can effectively address the control problem brought by rotating speed varying.
Causal inference methods for vaccine sieve analysis with effect modification
Authors: Yang Guandong , Balzer Laura B. , Benkeser David
Published: January 2022

The protective effects of vaccines may vary depending on individual characteristics, such as age. Traditionally, such effect modification has been examined with subgroup analyses or inclusion of cross‐product terms in regression frameworks. However, in many vaccine settings, effect modification may also depend on the infecting pathogen's characteristics, which are measured postrandomization. Sieve analysis examines whether such effects are present by combining pathogen genetic sequence information with individual‐level data and can generate new hypotheses on the pathways whereby vaccines provide protection. In this article, we develop a causal framework for evaluating effect modification in the context of sieve analysis. Our approach can be used to assess the magnitude of sieve effects and, in particular, whether these effects are modified by individual‐level characteristics. Our method accounts for difficulties occurring in real‐world data analysis, such as competing risks, nonrandomized treatments, and differential dropout. Our approach also integrates modern machine learning techniques. We demonstrate the validity and efficiency of our approach in simulation studies and apply the methodology to a malaria vaccine study.
Toward Highly Stable Anode for Secondary Batteries: Employing TiO2 Shell as Elastic Buffering Marix for FeOx Nanoparticles
Authors: Luo Rui , Hu Xin , Zhang Nanxiang , Li Li , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: January 2022

Transition metal oxides are considered promising anode materials for next‐generation lithium‐ion and sodium‐ion batteries (LIBs and SIBs) because of their high theoretical capacities; however, their practical application is limited by the detrimental large volume expansion that occurs upon cycling. In this work, a rationally designed TiO2@Fe@FeOx nanocomposite encapsulated by a TiO2 shell with unique core–shell structure is synthesized and exhibits outstanding electrochemical performance as an anode in LIBs and SIBs. The nanocomposite exhibits a reversible capacity of 619.2 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 with a coulombic efficiency over 99.5% after 1000 cycles when used as a LIB anode. The nanocomposite also exhibits superior sodium storage performance (267 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1, capacity retention of 65.4% after 1000 cycles at 200 mA g−1). The TiO2 shell serves as a strong conformal layer and soft matrix that can tolerate the volume expansion and maintain the structural integrity of the anode during discharging and charging. Moreover, the open active diffusion channels of the shell contribute to high ion diffusivity and improved ionic, and electronic diffusion. These findings indicate that adoption of TiO2 coating is an effective strategy to optimize the electrochemical performance of transition metal oxide anode materials.
Single‐Crystal LiNixMnyCo1−x−yO2 Cathodes for Extreme Fast Charging
Authors: Lu Yanying , Zhu Tianyu , McShane Eric , McCloskey Bryan D. , Chen Guoying
Published: January 2022

Ni‐rich layered LiNixMnyCo1−x−yO2 (NMCs, x ≥ 0.8) are poised to be the dominating cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries for the foreseeable future. Conventional polycrystalline NMCs, however, suffer from severe cracking along the grain boundaries of primary particles and capacity loss under high charge and/or discharge rates, hindering their implementation in fast‐charging electric vehicular (EV) batteries. Single‐crystal (SC) NMCs are attractive alternatives as they eliminate intergranular cracking and allow for grain‐level surface optimization for fast Li transport. In the present study, the authors report synthetic approaches to produce SC LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NMC811) samples with different morphologies: Oct‐SC811 with predominating (012)‐family surface and Poly‐SC811 with predominating (104)‐family surface. Poly‐SC811, representing the first experimentally synthesized NMC811 single crystals with (104) surface, delivers superior performance even at the ultra‐high rate of 6 C. Through detailed X‐ray analysis and electron microscopy characterization, it is shown that the enhanced performance originates from better chemical and structural stabilities, faster Li+ diffusion kinetics, suppressed side reactions with electrolyte, and excellent cracking resistance. These insights provide important design guidelines in the future development of fast‐charging NMC‐type cathode materials.
Visible Light Driven Ultrasensitive and Selective NO2 Detection in Tin Oxide Nanoparticles with Sulfur Doping Assisted by l‐Cysteine
Authors: Eom Tae Hoon , Cho Sung Hwan , Suh Jun Min , Kim Taehoon , Yang Jin Wook , Lee Tae Hyung , Jun Sang Eon , Kim Seung Ju , Lee Jongwon , Hong Seong‐Hyeon , Jang Ho Won
Published: January 2022

In the pandemic era, the development of high‐performance indoor air quality monitoring sensors has become more critical than ever. NO2 is one of the most toxic gases in daily life, which induces severe respiratory diseases. Thus, the real‐time monitoring of low concentrations of NO2 is highly required. Herein, a visible light‐driven ultrasensitive and selective chemoresistive NO2 sensor is presented based on sulfur‐doped SnO2 nanoparticles. Sulfur‐doped SnO2 nanoparticles are synthesized by incorporating l‐cysteine as a sulfur doping agent, which also increases the surface area. The cationic and anionic doping of sulfur induces the formation of intermediate states in the band gap, highly contributing to the substantial enhancement of gas sensing performance under visible light illumination. Extraordinary gas sensing performances such as the gas response of 418 to 5 ppm of NO2 and a detection limit of 0.9 ppt are achieved under blue light illumination. Even under red light illumination, sulfur‐doped SnO2 nanoparticles exhibit stable gas sensing. The endurance to humidity and long‐term stability of the sensor are outstanding, which amplify the capability as an indoor air quality monitoring sensor. Overall, this study suggests an innovative strategy for developing the next generation of electronic noses.
On the three‐parameter infiltration equation of Parlange et al. (1982): Numerical solution, experimental design, and parameter estimation
Authors: Vrugt Jasper A. , Gao Yifu
Published: January 2022

Soil water infiltration is central to hydrologic studies and lends itself for detailed experimentation and mathematical–physical modeling. The most rigorous of these approaches numerically solve Richards’ equation, possibly coupled through a heterogeneous soil to a surface water routine and groundwater model. This approach is computationally expensive and prone to mass balance errors and overparameterization. Analytic solutions of the infiltration process obviate the need for specification of hydraulic functions and simplify computation and inverse determination of soil properties. This paper investigates the usefulness of Parlange's three‐parameter infiltration equation for forward and inverse modeling of vertical infiltration experiments. This quasi‐exact implicit solution of Richards’ equation, also credited to Haverkamp and coworkers in recent literature, is valid for the entire infiltration event, matches cumulative infiltration data from different soils and its (super‐)parameters, S, Ks, and β, exhibit a solid mathematical–physical underpinning. Nonetheless, Parlange's equation has not entered mainstream use for infiltration simulation and data analysis in the absence of a robust, exact and efficient numerical solution. This paper builds upon the recent work of Jaiswal et al. and presents theory, algorithms, and source codes of two numerical procedures for forward and inverse modeling of Parlange's infiltration equation. We illustrate the procedures using measured infiltration data from the Soil Water Infiltration Global (SWIG) database. Our findings highlight the potential of Parlange's equation for infiltration modeling and hydraulic characterization of the soil sorptivity, S [L T−1/2], saturated hydraulic conductivity, Ks [L T−1], and unitless coefficient, β. Parlange's infiltration equation provides a powerful alternative to mathematically more convenient explicit infiltration equations that suffer physical underpinning and/or a limited time validity.
A pilot study to assess the influence of infiltrated stormwater on groundwater: Hydrology and trace organic contaminants
Authors: Elliott Sarah M. , Kiesling Richard L. , Berg Andrew M. , Schoenfuss Heiko L.
Published: January 2022

Underground infiltration basins (UIBs) mimic the natural hydrologic cycle by allowing stormwater to recharge local groundwater aquifers. However, little is known about the potential transport of organic contaminants to receiving groundwater. We conducted a pilot study in which we collected paired grab samples of stormwater runoff flowing into two UIBs (inflow) and shallow groundwater adjacent to the UIBs. Samples were collected coincident with three rain events and analyzed for volatile organic compounds, semi‐volatile organic compounds, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. Few contaminants were detected in groundwater, compared with inflow, and groundwater concentrations were typically an order of magnitude less. With one exception (trichloroethene), all groundwater concentrations were at least two orders of magnitude below available guidance or screening values. This short communication highlights information gaps in understanding the hydrologic connectivity between UIBs and receiving groundwater and potential consequent contaminant transport to the subsurface from varying climatic conditions.

Practitioner Points

Urban stormwater contains organic contaminants including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and semi‐volatile organic compounds that may be transported to groundwater via infiltration.

In general, fewer contaminants were detected in groundwater and at lower concentrations, compared with urban stormwater runoff.

Trace organic contaminant concentrations in groundwater were much lower than drinking water guidance/screening values.
Deep Learning Based Anomaly Detection for Muti-dimensional Time Series: A Survey
Authors: Chen Zhipeng , Peng Zhang , Zou Xueqiang , Sun Haoqi
Published: January 2022

Multi-dimensional time series are multiple sets of variables collected in chronological order, which are the results of observing a certain potential process according to a given sampling rate. It also has the ability to describe space and time and is widely used in many fields such as system state anomaly detection. However, multi-dimensional time series have problems such as dimensional explosion and data sparseness, as well as complex pattern features such as periods and trends. Such characteristics lead to rule-based anomaly detection methods suffer from poor detection effects. In the big data scenario, deep learning method begins to be applied to anomaly detection tasks for multi-dimensional time series due to its wide coverage and strong learning ability. This work first summarizes the definitions of anomaly detection for multi-dimensional time series and the challenges it faces. Related methods are sorted out, and then the deep learning-based method is emphasized. The existing work and its advantages and disadvantages are summarized. Finally, the shortcomings of the existing algorithms are clarified and the future research direction is explored.
On the relationships between philosophy of technology, cybernetics, and aesthetics with their impacts on Latin America
Authors: Leopold Cornelie
Published: January 2022

There had been interesting interactions between philosophical reflections, technical developments and the work of artists, poets and designers, starting especially in the 1950s and 1960s with a stimulating cell in Stuttgart and Ulm in Germany spreading mutual international interactions. The paper aims to describe the philosophical background of Max Bense with his research on the intellectual history of mathematics and the upcoming studies on technology and cybernetics. Together with communication theories and semiotics, new aesthetics such as cybernetic aesthetics had been worked out, based on the notions of information and sign. This background stimulated international students, artists and researchers from different creative disciplines for methodical approaches leading to first computer art experiments. The interrelations in these fields with Latin America are in the focus of these studies. Students, artists, and poets from Latin America, especially Brazil, came to Germany for studies and exhibitions in the creative scientific cell around Max Bense. Some of them stayed in Europe, but the exchange developed also in the opposite direction, traveling to and working in Latin America. Some of those fruitful international interrelations will be described and reflected.
A refined derived Torelli theorem for enriques surfaces, II: the non-generic case
Authors: Li Chunyi , Stellari Paolo , Zhao Xiaolei
Published: January 2022

We prove that two Enriques surfaces defined over an algebraically closed field of characteristic different from 2 are isomorphic if their Kuznetsov components are equivalent. This improves and completes our previous result joint with Nuer where the same statement is proved for generic Enriques surfaces.