ORCID Profile
0000-0002-1333-9762
Current Organisations
Universita' degli Studi di Milano
,
King's College London
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Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2022
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-07-2019
Abstract: In this work, new co- and ter-polymers of methyl methacrylate (MMA), ethyl methacrylate (EMA), and N-butyl methacrylate (nBuMA), containing just 1% mol × mol−1 of a fluorinated co-monomer, 3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8-tridecafluoro-octyl methacrylate (POMA), were synthesized. After an UV accelerated aging test, the photo-chemical stability of the polymers prepared was determined by 1H NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy, size exclusion chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry and wettability measurements. The polymers were applied to Botticino tiles to achieve better performances in terms of water repellency and consequently deterioration resistance. One-year prolonged exposure to a real environment was conducted and the properties of the coated materials and their performances were studied using different surface techniques such as water contact angle (WCA) and colorimetric measurements (CIELaB), capillary absorption, permeability (RVP) tests and soluble salts determination. The effectiveness of the fluorinated methacrylic coatings was clearly demonstrated among all the resins, the co-polymer MMA_POMA seems to be the most performing one. Furthermore, both the UV photo-chemical resistance and the easiness of removal was successfully studied.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1037/A0031919
Abstract: The search for genes involved in autism spectrum conditions (ASC) may have been hindered by the assumption that the different symptoms that define the condition can be attributed to the same causal mechanism. Instead the social and nonsocial aspects of ASC may have distinct causes at genetic, cognitive, and neural levels. It has been posited that the core features of ASC can be explained by a deficit in empathizing alongside intact or superior systemizing the drive to understand and derive rules about a system. First-degree relatives also show some mild manifestations that parallel the defining features of ASC, termed the broader autism phenotype. Factor analyses were conducted to assess whether the latent structure of empathizing, systemizing, and autistic traits differs across s les with a high (in iduals on the spectrum), medium (first-degree relatives) or low (general population controls) genetic vulnerability to autism. Results highlighted a two-factor model, confirming an empathizing and a systemizing factor. The relationship between these two factors was significantly stronger in first-degree relatives and the autism group compared with controls. The same model provided the best fit among the three groups, suggesting a similar latent structure irrespective of genetic vulnerability. However, results also suggest that although these traits are relatively independent in the general population, they are substantially correlated in in iduals with ASC and their parents. This implies that there is substantially more overlap between systemizing and empathizing among in iduals with an increased genetic liability to autism. This has potential implications for the genetic, environmental, and cognitive explanations of autism spectrum conditions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Publisher: MDPI
Date: 19-05-2021
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 29-03-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-08-2010
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NANO10091735
Abstract: One of the major drawbacks in Lithium-air batteries is the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this context, better performances can be achieved by adopting a suitable electrocatalyst, such as MnO2. Herein, we tried to design nano-MnO2 tuning the final ORR electroactivity by tailoring the doping agent (Co or Fe) and its content (2% or 5% molar ratios). Staircase-linear sweep voltammetries (S-LSV) were performed to investigate the nanopowders electrocatalytic behavior in organic solvent (propylene carbonate, PC and 0.15 M LiNO3 as electrolyte). Two percent Co-doped MnO2 revealed to be the best-performing s le in terms of ORR onset shift (of ~130 mV with respect to bare glassy carbon electrode), due to its great lattice defectivity and presence of the highly electroactive γ polymorph (by X-ray diffraction analyses, XRPD and infrared spectroscopy, FTIR). 5% Co together with 2% Fe could also be promising, since they exhibited fewer diffusive limitations, mainly due to their peculiar pore distribution (by Brunauer–Emmett-Teller, BET) that disfavored the cathode clogging. Particularly, a too-high Fe content led to iron segregation (by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, EDX, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, XPS and FTIR) provoking a decrease of the electroactive sites, with negative consequences for the ORR.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2019
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2023
Abstract: A library of alkyl galactosides was synthesized to provide the “polar head” of sugar fatty acid esters to be tested as non‐ionic surfactants. The enzymatic transglycosylation of lactose resulted in alkyl β‐D‐galactopyranosides, whereas the Fischer glycosylation of galactose afforded isomeric mixtures of α‐ and β‐galactopyranosides and α‐ and β‐galactofuranosides. n ‐Butyl galactosides from either routes were enzymatically esterified with palmitic acid, used as the fatty acid “tail” of the surfactant, giving the corresponding n ‐butyl 6‐ O ‐palmitoyl‐galactosides. Measurements of interfacial tension and emulsifying properties of n ‐butyl 6‐ O ‐palmitoyl‐galactosides revealed that the esters of galactopyranosides are superior to those of galactofuranosides, and that the enantiopure n ‐butyl 6‐ O ‐palmitoyl‐β‐D‐galactoside, prepared by the fully enzymatic route, leads to the most stable emulsion. These results pave the way to the use of lactose‐rich cheese whey as raw material for the obtainment of bio‐based surfactants.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-06-2023
Abstract: Graphene oxide (GO) with different oxidation degrees is prepared by a modified Hummers’ method varying KMnO 4 amount from 0.5 to 6.0 g. X‐ray powder diffraction (XRPD), micro–Raman, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray photoeelectron spectroscopy, Boehm titrations, high–resolution transmission electron microscopy, and, finally, positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) are exploited to assess the properties of GO. Results show that increasing oxidant species can tune the interlayer gap between GO sheets up to a maximum value in the case of 4.0 g KMnO 4 content. Moreover, these results validate the two‐component‐based model of GO in which, at low oxidation degree, there are unsplit/isolated graphene planes, instead at higher oxidant amounts, a five‐layer sandwiched configuration occurs comprising graphene planes having functional groups decorating the edges (bwGO), hydrated oxidative debris (OD) and “empty” spaces (revealed by PALS as the distance between (bwGO + OD) two‐component layers). In addition, by XRPD analysis, the total gap between two sheets is easily computed. In order to correlate these findings to pollutant removal capability, planar o ‐toluidine adsorption is studied. Since this molecule diffuses in an aqueous environment, the obtained adsorption percentages are compared to the thickness of the hydrated OD grafted onto bwGO. A strict connection between the pollutant removal efficacy and the variation of the hydrated interlayer distance is found.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-08-2018
DOI: 10.3390/NANO8090643
Abstract: This work highlights the importance of the hydrophilicity of a catalyst’s active sites on an oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) through an electrochemical and physico-chemical study on catalysts based on nitrogen-modified carbon doped with different metals (Fe, Cu, and a mixture of them). BET, X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD), micro-Raman, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), and hydrophilicity measurements were performed. All synthesized catalysts are characterized not only by a porous structure, with the porosity distribution centered in the mesoporosity range, but also by the presence of carbon nanostructures. In iron-doped materials, these nanostructures are bamboo-like structures typical of nitrogen carbon nanotubes, which are better organized, in a larger amount, and longer than those in the copper-doped material. Electrochemical ORR results highlight that the presence of iron and nitrogen carbon nanotubes is beneficial to the electroactivity of these materials, but also that the hydrophilicity of the active site is an important parameter affecting electrocatalytic properties. The most active material contains a mixture of Fe and Cu.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-05-2022
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.13539
Abstract: Empowerment of families raising children with developmental disabilities (DDs) is essential to achieving rights‐based service development. In this qualitative study, we investigated stakeholder perceptions on the role of advocacy and empowerment in developing caregiver interventions for families of children with DDs in a global context. Participants had experience with at least one intervention, namely the Caregiver Skills Training developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Participants were clinicians, caregivers and researchers representing five continents, and representatives of WHO and Autism Speaks. Two focus group discussions and 25 in idual interviews were conducted. Data were analysed thematically. Three themes were developed: empowerment as independence and as a right the role and practices of advocacy and using evidence to drive advocacy. Many professional participants defined empowerment within the realms of their expertise, focusing on caregivers' in idual skills and self‐confidence. Caregivers expressed that this expert‐oriented view fails to acknowledge their intuitive knowledge and the need for community‐level empowerment. Participants discussed the challenges of advocacy in light of competing health priorities. The gap between the rights of caregivers and the availability of services, for ex le, evidence‐based interventions, was highlighted as problematic. Scientific evidence was identified as a key for advocacy. Rights‐orientated empowerment of caregivers and advocacy may make vital contributions to service development for children with DDs in contexts worldwide. Research questions were revised based on views presented during focus group discussions. Participant feedback on preliminary themes informed the development of the interview guides.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-09-2018
DOI: 10.3390/NANO8090686
Abstract: TiO2-based photocatalysis under visible light is an attractive way to abate air pollutants. Moreover, developing photocatalytic materials on a large-scale requires safe and low-cost precursors. Both high-performance TiO2 nanopowders and visible-light active noble metals do not match these requirements. Here, we report the design of novel Mn-decorated micrometric TiO2 particles. Pigmentary TiO2 replaced unsafe nano-TiO2 and firmly supported MnOx particles. Mn replaced noble metals such as Au or Ag, opening the way for the development of lower cost catalysts. Varying Mn loading or pH during the impregnation affected the final activity, thus giving important information to optimize the synthesis. Photocatalytic activity screening occurred on the gas-phase degradation of ethanol as a reference molecule, both under ultraviolet (UV) (6 h) and Light Emitting Diode (LED) (24 h) irradiation. Mn-doped TiO2 reached a maximum ethanol degradation of 35% under visible light after 24 h for the s le containing 20% of Mn. Also, we found that an acidic pH increased both ethanol degradation and mineralization to CO2, while an alkaline pH drastically slowed down the reaction. A strict correlation between photocatalytic results and physico-chemical characterizations of the synthesized powders were drawn.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-07-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NANO10081485
Abstract: Nowadays, the detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at trace levels (down to ppb) is feasible by exploiting ultra-sensitive and highly selective chemoresistors, especially in the field of medical diagnosis. By coupling metal oxide semiconductors (MOS e.g., SnO2, ZnO, WO3, CuO, TiO2 and Fe2O3) with innovative carbon-based materials (graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, single-wall and multi-wall carbon nanotubes), outstanding performances in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, limits of detection, response and recovery times towards specific gaseous targets (such as ethanol, acetone, formaldehyde and aromatic compounds) can be easily achieved. Notably, carbonaceous species, highly interconnected to MOS nanoparticles, enhance the sensor responses by (i) increasing the surface area and the pore content, (ii) favoring the electron migration, the transfer efficiency (spillover effect) and gas diffusion rate, (iii) promoting the active sites concomitantly limiting the nanopowders agglomeration and (iv) forming nano-heterojunctions. Herein, the aim of the present review is to highlight the above-mentioned hybrid features in order to engineer novel flexible, miniaturized and low working temperature sensors, able to detect specific VOC biomarkers of a human’s disease.
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 08-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-05-2020
DOI: 10.1002/AUR.2315
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-06-2012
DOI: 10.1007/S10803-011-1302-1
Abstract: We tested for differences in the prevalence of autism spectrum conditions (ASC) in school-aged children in three geographical regions in the Netherlands. Schools were asked to provide the number of children enrolled, the number having a clinical diagnosis of ASC and/or two control neurodevelopmental conditions. Prevalence was evaluated by negative binomial regression and adjustments were made for non-response and size of the schools. The prevalence estimates of ASC in Eindhoven was 229 per 10,000, significantly higher than in Haarlem (84 per 10,000) and Utrecht (57 per 10,000), whilst the prevalence for the control conditions were similar in all regions. Phase two is planned to validate school-reported cases using standardized diagnostic methods and to explore the possible causes for these differences.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-04-2021
DOI: 10.3390/NANO11040980
Abstract: The synthesis of highly concentrated aqueous silver nanoparticles (NPs), exploiting different types of polymeric stabilizing agents, has been extensively investigated, especially for the stabilization of spherical yellow nanoparticles. In this context, here, a successful and easy wet chemical method was adopted to synthesize concentrated primary colored (yellow, red, blue and green) sols. The influence of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in affecting the final stability was finely investigating via UV/Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, TEM and colorimetric analysis. The next step consisted on the deposition of obtained sols onto a crown-treated polyethylene terephthalate (PET) support to obtain transparent colored micrometric homogeneous films. The fabricated PVP-based Ag films were revealed to be outstandingly UV-stable, contrarily to PVA-based films, probably due to the degradation of the polymer itself. Indeed, after UV aging tests, the PVA macromolecules could be broken and chemically modified (demonstrated by FT-IR analyses). This resulted in there being insufficient macromolecules to efficiently cover the surface of the nanoparticles, meaning that the nanoparticles tended to aggregate with each other, destabilizing the system itself. Hence, the obtained colored films described herein could represent a promising tool for different applications, from color shifting to optoelectronic devices.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 22-07-2020
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-01-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-11-2022
DOI: 10.1007/S10803-021-05342-9
Abstract: Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed globally, but recognition, interpretation and reporting may vary across cultures. To compare autism across cultures it is important to investigate whether the tools used are conceptually equivalent across cultures. This study evaluated the factor structure of the parent-reported Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form in autistic children from China (n = 327 3 to 17 years) and the Netherlands (n = 694 6 to 16 years). Confirmatory factor analysis did not support the two-factor hierarchical model previously identified. Exploratory factor analysis indicated culturally variant factor structures between China and the Netherlands, which may h er cross-cultural comparisons. Several items loaded onto different factors in the two s les, indicating substantial variation in parent-reported autistic traits between China and the Netherlands.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 18-03-2020
Abstract: In polymer processing, the formation of undesired fouling hinders the plastic manufacturing processes. Hence, the use of emulsions as releasing agents is mandatory and their affinity to the mold substrates plays a crucial role. Therefore, this research work has been focused on the wetting properties of commercial water-based release agents (namely Marbocote® W2140, EP, EV-333) towards different Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) nitride coatings (AlTiN, NbN, ZrN and TiN), usually adopted in the industrial manufacture of Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (HNBR). The investigated solid substrates were characterized by means of profilometry, SEM/EDX and Surface Free Energy (SFE) analyses, whereas, tensiometric determinations were acquired on the commercial pure and diluted emulsions. The release agents/mold substrates wettability features were studied by means of the work of adhesion and the spreading coefficient. Finally, nitride-coated mold seals were directly tested in an industrial plant with the most performing release agent in terms of adhesive features for the first time, a deep correlation between the service life, in terms of number of molded seals, and surface (contact angles, work of adhesion and spreading coefficient)/electrochemical (OCP) features was drawn.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-01-2021
Abstract: The Cultural Heritage deterioration is a spontaneous decay process due to water percolation and air pollutant deposition. In this context, novel acrylic (Twinswet, TW) and siloxane-based (Alpha®SI30) resins were exploited starting from commercial products and then modified by adding either a commercial polysiloxane-based additive (TegoPhobe 1500N) or a precursor of SiO2 nanoparticles (Tetraethyl ortosilicate, TEOS) to improve the Vicenza stone surface hydrophobicity. Properties of the coated materials were studied using different techniques such as water contact angle (WCA), capillary absorption, colorimetric and water vapor permeability measurements. Accelerated UV aging and eight-month outdoor exposure tests (at Milan University c us) were also performed to determine the coatings durability. Notably, the addition of both additives slightly enhanced the surface hydrophobicity resulting in WCAs of about 140°, and decreased the water absorption especially for Alpha-based resins. Conversely, a reduction of water vapor permeability was observed, even if within the threshold value of 50%. Concerning the color variation, Alpha®SI30 preserved the stone external aspect instead, TW smoothly modified the surface color. All of the studied coatings were stable to both UV aging and outdoor exposure. Hence, the present modified commercial coatings revealed to be very promising for the protection of historical monuments.
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 17-06-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2022
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-05-2021
Abstract: This work reports the electroreduction of a volatile organic halide (trichloromethane) from an airborn stream. In the past years, we highlighted the role of polycrystalline silver as powerful electrocatalyst for the electroreductive hydrodehalogenation of volatile organic halides (VOH) in water/organic solvent mixtures, from 0 to 100 % of the aqueous component. The successful conversion of trichloromethane and 1,1,1‐trichloethane to the relevant dehalogenated compounds, methane and ethane have prompted us to extend the investigations to the treatment of gaseous effluents, adopting a silver Gas Diffusion Electrode (Ag‐GDE) and the appropriate cell design. In the field of electroreduction processes the possibility of using GDE to treat gaseous effluents for the removal of volatile organic pollutants represents an electrochemical challenge, and the treatment of N 2 /CHCl 3 gas mixtures fed into the cathodic Ag‐GDE compartment demonstrates the feasibility of the electroreductive detoxification process. Our results will be presented and discussed in terms of CHCl 3 removal efficiency, selectivity and energy consumption in preparative electrolyses.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 16-08-2022
DOI: 10.1155/2022/6723296
Abstract: Fossil fuel depletion, increasing demands of energy, and harmful emission production led to do research on biofuels. In this research, biodiesel is developed by blending of Jatropha and Pongamia oil with the help of magnetic stirrer-assisted transesterification process. Heterogeneous copper-doped titanium oxide catalyst was synthesized by wet impregnation method. The developed catalyst is characterized through XRD and HRTEM analyses and used to enrich the biodiesel yield and fuel properties, viz., viscosity, flashpoint, and fire point. The maximum yield of 90.2% is obtained with catalyst concentration of 3 wt%, reaction time of 3 hrs, temperature of 60°C, and methanol to oil molar ratio of 20 : 1.
Publisher: The Royal Society
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1098/RSOS.181662
Abstract: TiO 2 /SnO 2 composites have attracted considerable attention for their application in photocatalysis, fuel cells and sensors. Structural, morphological, optical and surface features play a pivotal role in photoelectrochemical applications and are critically related to the synthetic route. Most of the reported synthetic procedures require high-temperature treatments in order to tailor the s le crystallinity, usually at the expense of surface hydroxylation and morphology. In this work, we investigate the role of a treatment in an autoclave at a low temperature (100°C) on the s le properties and photocatalytic performance. With respect to s les calcined at 400°C, the milder crystallization treatment promotes anatase phase, mesoporosity and water chemi hysisorption, while reducing the incorporation of heteroatoms within the TiO 2 lattice. The role of Sn content was also investigated, showing a marked influence, especially on the structural properties. Notably, at a high content, Sn favours the formation of rutile TiO 2 at very low reaction temperatures (100°C), thanks to the structural compatibility with cassiterite SnO 2 . Selected s les were tested towards the photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline in water under UV light. Overall, the low-temperature treatment enables to tune the TiO 2 phase composition while maintaining its surface hydrophilicity and gives rise to well-dispersed SnO 2 at the TiO 2 surface.
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 12-2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 02-11-2017
Abstract: Research has highlighted potential differences in the phenotypic and clinical presentation of autism spectrum conditions across sex. Furthermore, the measures utilised to evaluate autism spectrum conditions may be biased towards the male autism phenotype. It is important to determine whether these instruments measure the autism phenotype consistently in autistic men and women. This study evaluated the factor structure of the Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form in a large s le of autistic adults. It also systematically explored specific sex differences at the item level, to determine whether the scale assesses the autism phenotype equivalently across males and females. Factor analyses were conducted among 265 males and 285 females. A two-factor structure consisting of a social behaviour and numbers and patterns factor was consistent across groups, indicating that the latent autism phenotype is similar among both autistic men and women. Subtle differences were observed on two social behaviour item thresholds of the Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form, with women reporting scores more in line with the scores expected in autism on these items than men. However, these differences were not substantial. This study showed that the Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form detects autistic traits equivalently in males and females and is not biased towards the male autism phenotype.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2018
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 04-2022
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 06-01-2016
DOI: 10.3390/NANO6010010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S13229-019-0297-X
Abstract: In recent years, the universal right to education has been emphasised by the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. In this paper, we mapped policies relevant to special education needs and parental involvement of children with autism at an international level and in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. A policy path analysis was performed using a scoping review as an underlying methodological framework. This allowed for a rapid gathering of available data from which a timeline of adopted policies was derived. Internationally, the universal right to education has been reinforced repeatedly and the values of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights have been reiterated with every reinforcement. Also, the additional support that a child with special education needs requires is acknowledged and measures are taken to facilitate access to any education for all children. There are slight cross-country differences between the countries under study, attributable to differences in national regulation of education. However, all countries have progressed to a state where the right to education for all children is integrated on a policy level and measures are taken to enable children with special needs to participate in education. Recently, an attempt to implement a form of inclusive education was made as a form of special needs provision. Nevertheless, nowhere has this been implemented successfully yet. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a critical juncture in international policy and created an environment where the universal right to education has been implemented for all children in the countries under study.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 05-08-2022
DOI: 10.3390/NANO12152696
Abstract: Sensitivity and selectivity are the two major parameters that should be optimized in chemiresistive devices with boosted performances towards Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Notwithstanding a plethora of metal oxides/VOCs combinations that have been investigated so far, a close inspection based on theoretical models to provide guidelines to enhance sensors features has been scarcely explored. In this work, we measured experimentally the sensor response of a WO3 chemiresistor towards gaseous acetone and toluene, observing a two orders of magnitude higher signal for the former. In order to gain insight on the observed selectivity, Density Functional Theory was then adopted to elucidate how acetone and toluene molecules adsorption may perturb the electronic structure of WO3 due to electrostatic interactions with the surface and hybridization with its electronic structure. The results of acetone adsorption suggest the activation of the carbonyl group for reactions, while an overall lower charge redistribution on the surface and the molecule was observed for toluene. This, combined with acetone’s higher binding energy, justifies the difference in the final responses. Notably, the presence of surface oxygen vacancies, characterizing the nanostructure of the oxide, influences the sensing performances.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-10-2016
DOI: 10.1002/AUR.1560
Abstract: Clinical observations and first person accounts of living with autism suggest that in iduals with autism are highly motivated to engage in special interests, and that these interests remain important throughout life. Previous research assessing special interests has mainly focused on parental reports of children with autism spectrum conditions (ASC). To better understand the significance of and motivations for engaging in special interests it is essential to use self-report ratings. This paper aims to systematically explore the motivations for engagement in special interests, and whether these differ in adults with ASC, first-degree relatives and general population controls. The Special Interest Motivation Scale (SIMS) was developed to assess motivation to engage in special interests. The internal structure of this scale was evaluated using factor analysis, and mean scores on the SIMS factors were subsequently compared across in iduals with autism, parents and general population controls. Factor analysis indicated a 20-item SIMS containing five factors assessing Personal life values and goals Intrinsic interest and knowledge Prestige Engagement and "flow" and Achievement. In iduals with autism were more motivated by Intrinsic interest and knowledge and by Engagement and flow than controls. The 20-item SIMS is a quick to administer measure that provides a reliable description of motivation to engage in special interests. This study indicates that in iduals with ASC are highly motivated to engage in their special interest, and are more motivated than controls by intrinsic motivational factors, some of which are associated with positive affect. This has implications for research and clinical practice. Autism Res 2016, 9: 677-688. © 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-07-2021
DOI: 10.1007/S11356-021-15515-9
Abstract: Atmospheric pollutants, such as NO x , SO 2 , and particulate matter, together with water percolation inside the stone pores, represent the main causes of cultural heritage decay. In order to avoid these undesired phenomena, the application of protective coatings represents a reliable solution. In this context, the present study focused on the synthesis of low-fluorine content methacrylic-based (MMA) polymeric resins characterized by seven F atoms (namely F7 monomer) in the lateral chains. Four different percentages (1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0%) of the present monomer were adopted to obtain a final polymeric structure showing the desired hydrophobicity, processability, and structural and thermal stability (even after accelerated UV aging tests). MMA_F7(1.0) seemed to be the optimal one therefore, it was further applied onto Candoglia marble. Specifically, the treated substrates showed good surface hydrophobicity, water repellency, and water vapor transpirability. No color variation was observed even after a 1.5-year exposure in a real polluted environment (Monza Cathedral). Interestingly, the application of this coating hindered the atmospheric nitrates penetration inside the stones and, at the same time, it limited the sulfates (gypsum) formation, thus revealing a very promising marbles protection resin.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-07-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S11356-015-4962-0
Abstract: In order to avoid both natural and artificial stone decay, mainly due to the interaction with atmospheric pollutants (both gases such as NOx and SO2 and particulate matter), polymeric materials have been widely studied as protective coatings enable to limit the penetration of fluids into the bulk material. In the current work, an air hardening calcic lime mortar (ALM) and a natural hydraulic lime mortar (HLM) were used as substrates, and commercially available Si-based resins (Alpha®SI30 and Silres®BS16) were adopted as protective agents to give hydrophobicity features to the artificial stones. Surface properties of coatings and their performance as hydrophobic agents were studied using different techniques such as contact angle measurements, capillary absorption test, mercury intrusion porosimetry, surface free energy, colorimetric measurements and water vapour permeability tests. Finally, some exposure tests to UV radiation and to real polluted atmospheric environments (a city centre and an urban background site) were carried out during a wintertime period (when the concentrations of the main atmospheric pollutants are higher) in order to study the durability of the coating systems applied. The effectiveness of the two commercial resins in reducing salt formation (sulphate and nitrate), induced by the interaction of the mortars with the atmospheric pollutants, was demonstrated in the case of the HLM mortar. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2018
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-09-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0272077
Abstract: There are increasing efforts to scale up services globally for families raising children with developmental disabilities (DDs). Existing interventions, often developed in high income, Western settings, need substantial adaptation before they can be implemented in different contexts. The aim of this study was to explore perspectives on the role that context plays in the adaptation and implementation of interventions targeting caregivers of children with DDs across settings. The study question was applied to the Caregiver Skills Training (CST) programme of the World Health Organization specifically, as well as to stakeholder experiences with caregiver interventions more broadly. Two focus group discussions (FGDs n = 15 participants) and 25 in idual semi-structured interviews were conducted. Participants were caregivers of children with DDs and professionals involved in adapting or implementing the CST across five continents and different income settings. Data were analysed thematically. Four main themes were developed: 1) Setting the scene for adaptations 2) Integrating an intervention into local public services 3) Understanding the reality of caregivers 4) Challenges of sustaining an intervention. Informants thought that contextual adaptations were key for the intervention to fit in locally, even more so than cultural factors. The socio-economic context of caregivers, including poverty, was highlighted as heavily affecting service access and engagement with the intervention. Competing health priorities other than DDs, financial constraints, and management of long-term collaborations were identified as barriers. This study validates the notion that attention to contextual factors is an essential part of the adaptation of caregiver interventions for children with DDs, by providing perspectives from different geographical regions. We recommend a stronger policy and research focus on contextual adaptations of interventions and addressing unmet socio-economic needs of caregivers.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-02-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S11356-017-8430-X
Abstract: The photodegradation of the highly toxic o-toluidine pollutant was deeply investigated both under UV and solar irradiations by using three different semiconductors: pure ZnO, Bi-impregnated ZnO, and Bi
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 02-07-2020
Abstract: Autism spectrum disorder and anxiety are highly comorbid conditions. Understanding the underlying traits of anxiety in autism spectrum disorder is crucial to prevent and treat it efficiently. Hence, this study determined whether social communication difficulties or restricted repetitive behaviors are stronger risk factors for anxiety symptoms in autistic adults in a large cohort. Data on 742 autistic adults from the Netherlands Autism Register were included in the study. Hierarchical regression was implemented to evaluate whether social communication difficulties (Autism-Spectrum Quotient social behavior factor) and restricted repetitive behaviors (Adult Routines Inventory) were predictive of anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) controlling for age and sex. When considered together, restricted repetitive behaviors stood out as significant positive predictors of anxiety symptoms (lower-order restricted repetitive behaviors, β = 0.32, p 0.001 higher-order restricted repetitive behaviors, β = 0.15, p = 0.001), whereas social communication difficulties did not ( β = 0.06, p = 0.11). Sex did not moderate these associations ( p 0.05). Non-social autistic traits are stronger predictors of anxiety symptoms than social traits in autistic adults. Increased attention to restricted repetitive behaviors should be given to improve current support programs for autistic adults with anxiety and to identify autistic in iduals at risk.
Publisher: The Chemical Society of Japan
Date: 05-03-2018
DOI: 10.1246/CL.171020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2021
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 10-07-2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 21-12-2012
DOI: 10.1017/S0033291712002863
Abstract: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and autistic traits often occur together. The pattern and etiology of co-occurrence are largely unknown, particularly in adults. This study investigated the co-occurrence between both traits in detail, and subsequently examined the etiology of the co-occurrence, using two independent adult population s les. Data on ADHD traits (Inattention and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity) were collected in a population s le (S1, n = 559) of unrelated in iduals. Data on Attention Problems (AP) were collected in a population-based family s le of twins and siblings (S2, n = 560). In both s les five dimensions of autistic traits were assessed (social skills, routine, attentional switching, imagination, patterns). Hyperactive traits (S1) did not correlate substantially with the autistic trait dimensions. For Inattention (S1) and AP (S2), the correlations with the autistic trait dimensions were low, apart from a prominent correlation with the attentional switching scale (0.47 and 0.32 respectively). Analyses in the genetically informative S2 revealed that this association could be explained by a shared genetic factor. Our findings suggest that the co-occurrence of ADHD traits and autistic traits in adults is not determined by problems with hyperactivity, social skills, imagination or routine preferences. Instead, the association between those traits is due primarily to shared attention-related problems (inattention and attentional switching capacity). As the etiology of this association is purely genetic, biological pathways involving attentional control could be a promising focus of future studies aimed at unraveling the genetic causes of these disorders.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 10-2023
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 06-03-2021
Abstract: Despite the poor photochemical stability of capsules walls, polyacrylate is one of the most successful polymers for microencapsulation. To improve polyacrylate performance, the combined use of different acrylate-based polymers could be exploited. Herein butyl methacrylate (BUMA)-based lattices were obtained via free radical polymerization in water by adding (i) methacrylic acid (MA)/methyl methacrylate (MMA) and (ii) methacrylamide (MAC) respectively, as an aqueous phase in Pickering emulsions, thanks to both the excellent polymer shells’ stability and the high encapsulation efficiency. A series of BUMA_MA_MMA terpolymers with complex macromolecular structures and BUMA_MAC linear copolymers were synthesized and used as dispersing media of an active material. Rate and yield of encapsulation, active substance adsorption onto the polymer wall, capsule morphology, shelf-life and controlled release were investigated. The effectiveness of the prepared BUMA-based microcapsules was demonstrated: BUMA-based terpolymers together with the modified ones (BUMA_MAC) led to slow (within ca. 60 h) and fast (in around 10 h) releasing microcapsules, respectively.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-02-2018
DOI: 10.1002/AUR.1931
Abstract: Special interests form part of the core features of autism. However, to date there has been limited research focusing on the role of special interests in the lives of autistic adults. This study surveyed autistic adults on their special interest topics, intensity, and motivation. It also assessed the relationship between special interests and a range of quality of life measures including subjective wellbeing and domain specific life satisfaction. About two thirds of the s le reported having a special interest, with relatively more males reporting a special interest than females. Special interest topics included computers, autism, music, nature and gardening. Most autistic adults engaged in more than one special interest, highlighting that these interests may not be as narrow as previously described. There were no differences in subjective wellbeing between autistic adults with and without special interests. However, for autistic adults who did have special interests, motivation for engaging in special interests was associated with increased subjective wellbeing. This indicates that motivation may play an important role in our understanding of special interests in autism. Special interests had a positive impact on autistic adults and were associated with higher subjective wellbeing and satisfaction across specific life domains including social contact and leisure. However, a very high intensity of engagement with special interests was negatively related to wellbeing. Combined, these findings have important implications for the role of special interests in the lives of autistic adults. Autism Res 2018, 11: 766-775. © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autistic adults reported having special interests in a range of topics, including computers, music, autism, nature and gardening. Special interests were associated with a number of positive outcomes for autistic adults. They were also related to subjective wellbeing and satisfaction across specific life domains including social contact and leisure. Very high intensity of engagement with special interests was related to lower levels of wellbeing. This highlights the important role that special interests play in the lives of autistic adults.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-03-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S13229-020-00401-X
Abstract: The social domain of autism has been studied in depth, but the relationship between the non-social traits of autism has received less attention. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) outlines four criteria that make up the non-social domain including repetitive motor movements, insistence on sameness, restricted interests and sensory sensitivity. There is a lack of research into the relationship between these four criteria. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the non-social traits of autism in a large s le of autistic adults. It explored whether these traits are best conceptualised as four distinct factors, or exist along a single dimension. Participants included autistic adults from the Netherlands Autism Register. The four components identified within the DSM-5 non-social domain were measured by items from the Adult Routines Inventory, the Autism Spectrum Quotient short and the Sensory Perception Quotient short. Confirmatory factor analysis, as well as exploratory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modelling, was implemented to examine the relationship between these four criteria. Results indicated that a four-factor model provided the best fit, mapping onto the DSM-5 criteria. These four factors were moderately correlated, suggesting that four distinct, yet related factors best describe the non-social domain of autism. The one-factor model did not provide a good fit, highlighting that the non-social domain of autism is not a unitary construct. The study included autistic adults who were cognitively able to complete the self-report measures. This may limit the generalisability of the findings to those who are less able to do so. This study provided evidence for the multidimensional nature of the non-social domain of autism. Given only two of the four criteria within the non-social domain need to be endorsed for a diagnosis of autism, there is room for substantial variation across in iduals, who will have a unique profile within the non-social domain. The results have implications for our understanding of the heterogeneous nature of autistic traits, as well as for how we conceptualise autism as a diagnostic category. This is important for the provision of diagnosis and support within research and clinical practice.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCIS.2022.07.129
Abstract: Oxide-stabilized emulsions generally require a surface functionalization step to tune the oxide wettability, often involving hazardous hydrophobizing agents. Here, we propose the in situ functionalization of ZnO in vegetable oils without the addition of any modifier, resulting in the one-step formation of highly stable Pickering emulsions. The role of ZnO surface features was studied by modifying the particles' wettability through surface functionalization and by comparing different oil phases. The emulsion stability was assessed through aging tests, multiple hot-and-cold cycles, centrifugation, and addition of multiple electrolytes. While the wetting features of the functionalized oxide play a crucial role when the oil phase is methyl octanoate, emulsions based on vegetable oils form also using hydrophilic ZnO. During the emulsification, an in situ functionalization of bare ZnO particles takes place due to the fatty acids present in vegetable oil. These in situ-generated systems lead to stable emulsions showing < 2 μm-diameter oil droplets. The resulting emulsions display excellent stability over time (over seven months) and against temperature variations, mechanical stress and increased ionic strength. Finally, we demonstrate that this approach can be extended to a variety of vegetable oils and oxides with different morphologies.
Publisher: Royal College of Psychiatrists
Date: 11-2015
DOI: 10.1192/BJP.BP.114.155101
Abstract: Autism research has previously focused on either identifying a latent dimension or searching for subgroups. Research assessing the concurrently categorical and dimensional nature of autism is needed. To investigate the latent structure of autism and identify meaningful subgroups in a s le spanning the full spectrum of genetic vulnerability. Factor mixture models were applied to data on empathy, systemising and autistic traits from in iduals on the autism spectrum, parents and general population controls. A two-factor three-class model was identified, with two factors measuring empathy and systemising. Class one had high systemising and low empathy scores and primarily consisted of in iduals with autism. Mainly comprising controls and parents, class three displayed high empathy scores and lower systemising scores, and class two showed balanced scores on both measures of systemising and empathy. Autism is best understood as a dimensional construct, but meaningful subgroups can be identified based on empathy, systemising and autistic traits.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-04-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NANO10040761
Abstract: The major drawback of oxide-based sensors is the lack of selectivity. In this context, SnxTi1−xO2/graphene oxide (GO)-based materials were synthesized via a simple hydrothermal route, varying the titanium content in the tin dioxide matrix. Then, toluene and acetone gas sensing performances of the as-prepared sensors were systematically investigated. Specifically, by using 32:1 SnO2/GO and 32:1 TiO2/GO, a greater selectivity towards acetone analyte, also at room temperature, was obtained even at ppb level. However, solid solutions possessing a higher content of tin relative to titanium (as 32:1 Sn0.55Ti0.45O2/GO) exhibited higher selectivity towards bigger and non-polar molecules (such as toluene) at 350 °C, rather than acetone. A deep experimental investigation of structural (XRPD and Raman), morphological (SEM, TEM, BET surface area and pores volume) and surface (XPS analyses) properties allowed us to give a feasible explanation of the different selectivity. Moreover, by exploiting the UV light, the lowest operating temperature to obtain a significant and reliable signal was 250 °C, keeping the greater selectivity to the toluene analyte. Hence, the feasibility of tuning the chemical selectivity by engineering the relative amount of SnO2 and TiO2 is a promising feature that may guide the future development of miniaturized chemoresistors.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1039/C9NR08901B
Abstract: The rapid development of smart wearable electronics is driving the engineering of novel miniaturized sensing materials that can rapidly respond to very small changes in the concentration of biomarkers at room temperature. Carbon-based nanomaterials offer numerous attractive properties such as low resistivity, good mechanical robustness and integration potential, but lack a strong detection and transduction mechanism for the measurement of chemical molecules or photons. Here, we present a three-dimensional nanostructured architecture comprising optimally integrated graphene oxide (GO)-ZnO heterojunctions for the room temperature sensing of volatile biomarkers. We show that this layout also provides excellent response to UV light showcasing its applicability as a visible-blind photodetector. Notably, the optimal integration of well-dispersed GO nanodomains in a 3D ZnO network significantly enhances the room-temperature chemical sensitivity and light responsivity, while higher GO contents drastically worsen the material performance. This is attributed to the different roles of GO at low and high contents. Small amounts of GO lead to the formation of electron depleted nano-heterojunctions with excellent electron-hole separation efficiency. In contrast, large amounts of GO form a percolating electrical network that inhibits the light and chemical-sensing properties of the ZnO nanoparticles. Our optimal GO-ZnO demonstrates 33 A W
Publisher: MDPI
Date: 30-06-2021
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
No related grants have been discovered for Rosa Hoekstra.