bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of the single‐tube radial forearm phalloplasty technique to allow for urinary meatal reconstruction: A report of two cases
Authors: Miller Travis Joseph , Saberski Ean Richard , Safa Bauback , Watt Andrew J.
Published: August 2022

The free radial forearm flap is the gold standard technique for transgender phalloplasty due to superior complication rates compared to other methods. However, reconstruction of the urinary tract, including urethral lengthening and creation of a pars pendula urethra within the flap, carries a high rate of complications. The risk of complications and a lack of desire for standing urination are reasons patients elect for single‐tube phalloplasty. However, to date, single‐tube phalloplasties lack creation of a urinary meatus, which affects the aesthetics of the reconstruction. The purpose of this report is to describe a technique for creating an aesthetic urinary meatus in single‐tube phalloplasty. We herein describe the technique in the use of two healthy transgender males (ages 31 and 39). Both patients did not desire micturition through the neophallus, but still desired the appearance of a meatus at the tip of the neophallus. Single‐tube radial forearm phalloplasty was performed for both patients. The radial forearm flaps for each patient were 14 × 15 cm. Meatoplasty was performed at the time of flap elevation utilizing an intact 1 × 4 cm intact strip of ulnar sided skin during flap tubularization. This strip of skin was then invaginated to create a neomeatal pouch. The postoperative course was uncomplicated for both patients following at 5‐day hospital stay for flap monitoring. Follow up time was 7 and 8 months. The neomeatal pouch persisted in both patients and the patients were satisfied with the appearance of the tips of the neophalluses.
Time domain numerical modeling of wave propagation in poroelastic media with Chebyshev rational approximation of the fractional attenuation
Authors: Xie Jiangming , Li Maojun , Ou Miao‐Jung Yvonne
Published: August 2022

In this work, we investigate the poroelastic waves by solving the time‐domain Biot‐JKD equation with an efficient numerical method. The viscous dissipation occurring in the pores depends on the square root of the frequency and is described by the Johnson‐Koplik‐Dashen (JKD) dynamic tortuosity/permeability model. The temporal convolutions of order 1/2 shifted fractional derivatives are involved in the time‐domain Biot‐JKD model, causing the problem to be stiff and challenging to be implemented numerically. Based on the best relative Chebyshev approximation of the square‐root function, we design an efficient algorithm to approximate and localize the convolution kernel by introducing a finite number of auxiliary variables that satisfy a local system of ordinary differential equations. The imperfect hydraulic contact condition is used to describe the interface boundary conditions and the Runge‐Kutta discontinuous Galerkin (RKDG) method together with the splitting method is applied to compute the numerical solutions. Several numerical examples are presented to show the accuracy and efficiency of our approach.
Asymptotic expansions for the recurrence xn+1=1n∑k=1nfxkk$$ {x}_{n+1}=\frac{1}{n}\sum \limits_{k=1}^nf\left(\frac{x_k}{k}\right) $$
Authors: Popa Dumitru
Published: August 2022

Let , be a function and the sequence defined by and for every . We prove that: If is decreasing and continuous at 0 then, ; if is decreasing and differentiable at 0 then, ; if is decreasing and twice differentiable at 0 then, there exists . Moreover,where . Some concrete applications are given.
S‐band elliptical–cylindrical cavity resonator for material processing
Authors: Rodriguez Jose , Ampuero Jaime , Valderrama Waldo , Buttress Adam , Dodds Chris , Kingman Sam , Carrasco Hector
Published: August 2022

The development of an elliptical–cylindrical cavity for microwave thermal processing of materials at high electric field strengths is reported. The design methodology based on numerical modeling is validated by experimental measurements. The system can create high‐power densities in the heated phases, excellent treatment uniformity, and stable operation without degenerated modes or polarization rotation as suffered by other commonly used circular resonator cavities.
Spectral calibration of photon‐counting detectors at high photon flux
Authors: Sidky Emil Y. , Paul Emily R. , Gilat‐Schmidt Taly , Pan Xiaochuan
Published: August 2022

Background

Calibration of photon‐counting detectors (PCDs) is necessary for quantitatively accurate spectral computed tomography (CT), but the calibration process can be complicated by nonlinear flux‐dependent physical factors such as pulse pile‐up.

Purpose

This work develops a method for spectral sensitivity calibration of a PCD‐based spectral CT system that incorporates nonlinear flux dependence and can thus be employed at high photon flux.

Methods

A calibration model for the spectral response and polynomial flux dependence is proposed, which incorporates prior x‐ray source spectrum and PCD models and that has a small set of parameters for adjusting to the spectral CT system of interest. The model parameters are determined by fitting transmission data from a known object of known composition: a step‐wedge phantom composed of different thicknesses of aluminum, a bone equivalent, and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a soft‐tissue equivalent. This fitting employs Tikhonov regularization, and the regularization strength and the polynomial order for the intensity modeling are determined by bias and variance analysis. The spectral calibration and nonlinear intensity correction is validated on transmission measurements through a third material, Teflon, at different x‐ray photon flux levels.

Results

The nonlinear intensity dependence is determined to be accurately accounted for with a third‐order polynomial. The calibrated spectral CT model accurately predicts Teflon transmission to within 1% for flux levels up to 50% of the detector maximum.

Conclusions

The proposed PCD calibration method enables accurate physical modeling necessary for quantitative imaging in spectral CT. Furthermore, the model applies to high flux settings so that acquisition times will not be limited by restricting the spectral CT system to low flux levels.
Systematic review of service improvements for home enteral tube feeding in adults
Authors: Amaratunga Hasini , Bostock Kimberley , Cunich Michelle , Steffens Daniel , Carey Sharon
Published: August 2022

Background

Patients receiving home enteral tube feeding (HETF) have a high risk of complications and readmission to hospital. This study aims to evaluate effectiveness of staff‐ and/or patient‐focused service‐improvement strategies on clinical, patient‐reported, and economic outcomes for patients receiving HETF across adult settings.

Methods

The search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases. Quality of studies were appraised using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment.

Results

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Pooled data found targeted HETF education with patients, carers, and staff significantly improved knowledge immediately after education and was sustained at 3–6 months. Multimodal interventions, including the formation of specialist HETF teams, significantly reduced complications such as infection, gastrostomy blockage, tube displacement, and feed intolerance but do not significantly reduce unplanned hospital encounters (outpatient clinic visits, hospitalizations, and emergency presentations). Owing to the high risk of bias in the included studies, there is low‐quality evidence to support staff training, patient education, and dedicated HETF teams.

Conclusion

This review highlights the need for further quality research to allow higher‐level evidence for determining the usefulness of interventions aimed at improving outcomes for patients receiving HETF. Future research needs to include greater assessment of quality of life, quantification of the value of interventions in economic terms, and use of translational research frameworks. However, effective staff and patient education programs, along with comprehensive multidisciplinary care, should be considered standard care until a larger research base is developed.
Skeletal dysplasia of an adult male from medieval Łekno in Poland, Central Europe
Authors: Matczak Magdalena D. , Krenz‐Niedbała Marta , Łukasik Sylwia , Buikstra Jane E. , Wyrwa Andrzej Marek , Pearson Jessica
Published: August 2022

The skeletal dysplasias are a group of more than 450 heritable disorders that affect bone and cartilage, along with muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Achondroplasia is one of the most common skeletal dysplasias in both current and past populations. It can be transmitted intergenerationally, or it can result from a mutation. This paper aims to describe the lesions visible on the skeleton of a 30–45 year old male with achondroplasia, who lived during the 9th–11th centuries AD (medieval period) in Łekno, Poland. The Łekno settlement complex (Site 3) includes a cemetery with approximately 400 burials of monks and local lay people. Macroscopic examination facilitated a differential diagnosis that identified a probable case of achondroplastic dwarfism, combined with Léri–Weill dyschondrosteosis and ulnar hemimelia. This is the first case of dwarfism in the bioarchaeological literature that had been documented and visualized using 3D modelings, which were used to show quantitative differences in articular surface areas between the achondroplastic individual and contemporaries of normal stature. Ulnar hemimelia is most commonly seen today as a component of skeletal dysplasias. The right ulna of this male was significantly shorter than the right radius and the left ulna. It is probable that he had multiple skeletal dysplasia (achondroplasia, Léri–Weill dyschondrosteosis) as well as ulnar hemimelia as a component of achondroplasia. The combination of these disorders has not been previously reported in the bioarchaeological literature, and this individual is also the first case of achondroplasia and Léri–Weill dyschondrosteosis from the medieval period in Central Europe. As such, this example is used here to provide insights on a variety of different diseases, syndromes, and conditions in Polish medieval populations and that will help in future identification of rare diseases from archaeological sites.
Determining the effects of government's perceived ecological roles on Chinese consumers' proenvironmental attitude, and green consumerism: The moderating effect of greenwashing perceptions
Authors: Okbagaber Tadesse Beyene
Published: August 2022

While the normative ecological roles of a government's effect on consumers' proecological attitude and green consumerism have received less attention, greenwashing interaction effect remains unexplored. Building on the two normative theories – stakeholder theory and social contract theory, the study tests a theoretical model integrating mediating and moderating relationships using survey data from 202 consumers across China. Results show a government's normative ecological roles positively and significantly on consumers' proenvironmental attitudes and green consumerism. It also confirms the mediating roles of the proenvironment between the ecological roles of a government and green consumerism. Further, tests of greenwashing moderation effect generated mixed outcomes. Insignificant greenwashing interaction effect between proenvironment and green consumerism, but, it proved significant interaction between ecological roles of a government and green behavior. The study proposes research avenues on how researchers can step up the theme and policy implications to practitioners.
NEIL3 promotes hepatoma epithelial–mesenchymal transition by activating the BRAF/MEK/ERK/TWIST signaling pathway
Authors: Lai Hui‐Huang , Hung Liang‐Yi , Yen Chia‐Jui , Hung Hsu‐Chin , Chen Ruo‐Yu , Ku Yu‐Chao , Lo Hang‐Tat , Tsai Hung‐Wen , Lee Yun‐Ping , Yang Tz‐Hsuan , Chen Yen‐Yu , Huang Yi‐Shuian , Huang Wenya
Published: August 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most prevalent visceral neoplasms. So far, reliable biomarkers for predicting HCC recurrence in patients undergoing surgery are far from adequate. In the aim of searching for genetic biomarkers involved in HCC development, we performed analyses of cDNA microarrays and found that the DNA repair gene NEIL3 was remarkably overexpressed in tumors. NEIL3 belongs to the Fpg/Nei protein superfamily, which contains DNA glycosylase activity required for the base excision repair for DNA lesions. Notably, the other Fpg/Nei family proteins NEIL1 and NEIL2, which have the same glycosylase activity as NEIL3, were not elevated in HCC; NEIL3 was specifically induced to participate in HCC development independently of its glycosylase activity. Using RNA‐seq and invasion/migration assays, we found that NEIL3 elevated the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) factors, including the E/N‐cadherin switch and the transcription of MMP genes, and promoted the invasion, migration, and stemness phenotypes of HCC cells. Moreover, NEIL3 directly interacted with the key EMT player TWIST1 to enhance invasion and migration activities. In mouse orthotopic HCC studies, NEIL3 overexpression also caused a prominent E‐cadherin decrease, tumor volume increase, and lung metastasis, indicating that NEIL3 led to EMT and tumor metastasis in mice. We further found that NEIL3 induced the transcription of MDR1 (ABCB1) and BRAF genes through the canonical E‐box (CANNTG) promoter region, which the TWIST1 transcription factor recognizes and binds to, leading to the BRAF/MEK/ERK pathway‐mediated cell proliferation as well as anti‐cancer drug resistance, respectively. In the HCC cohort, the tumor NEIL3 level demonstrated a high positive correlation with disease‐free and overall survival after surgery. In conclusion, NEIL3 activated the BRAF/MEK/ERK/TWIST pathway‐mediated EMT and therapeutic resistances, leading to HCC progression. Targeted inhibition of NEIL3 in HCC individuals with NEIL3 induction is a promising therapeutic approach. © 2022 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Aging and neural vulnerabilities in overeating: A conceptual overview and model to guide treatment
Authors: Jack Rejeski W. , Laurienti Paul J. , Bahrami Mohsen , Fanning Jason , Simpson Sean L. , Burdette Jonathan H.
Published: August 2022

Given the vulnerability of older adults to chronic disease and physical disability, coupled with the threat that obesity poses to healthy aging, there is an urgent need to understand the causes of positive energy balance and the struggle that many older adults face with intentional weight loss. This paper focuses on neural vulnerabilities related to overeating in older adults, and moderating variables that can have either favorable or unfavorable effects on these vulnerabilities. Research from our laboratory on older adults with obesity suggests that they are prone to similar neural vulnerabilities for overeating that have been observed in younger and middle‐aged populations. In addition, following brief postabsorptive states, functional brain networks both in the resting state and in response to active imagery of desired food are associated with 6‐month weight loss. Data reviewed suggest that the sensorimotor network is a central hub in the process of valuation and underscores the central role played by habits in overeating. Finally, we demonstrate how research on the neural vulnerabilities for overeating offers a useful framework for guiding clinical decision‐making in weight management.
Characterization of N‐doped carbon quantum dots synthesized by DBD‐based cold atmospheric pressure plasma jet
Authors: Mohammadzaheri Mina , Siahpoush Vahid , Asgari Asghar
Published: August 2022

This study develops a new approach for the synthesis of fluorescent N‐doped carbon quantum dots (CQDs), using cold atmospheric pressure plasma jet. Herein, the CQDs were synthesized with two plasma exposure times of 30 and 60 min. The UV‐Vis absorption spectrum confirms the existence of carbonic core and surface functional groups. The Fourier transform infrared spectrum shows that carbonyl groups and amide groups exist on the surface of CQDs. Depending on the plasma exposure time, the mean average sizes of CQDs are 3.63 and 5.45 nm with strong photoluminescence emission. Generally, our results indicated that using different mechanisms for plasma discharge, lead to different physical and chemical properties of produced plasma and consequently of synthesized CQDs. The synthesized N‐doped CQDs exhibited strong fluorescence and higher quantum yield compared to previous reports.
Performance evaluation of safety barriers based on multidimensional deconstruction
Authors: Kang Jian , Wang Lidan , Jin Hao , Zhang Jixin , Dai Haoyuan
Published: August 2022

Due to the technological development of the petrochemical industry, the number of risk factors is increasing. Therefore, the prevention of fire accidents in the petrochemical industry is crucial. Safety barriers are used in many working environments to protect workers and mitigate or prevent accidents and directly serve the safety function. This paper presents a semi‐quantitative evaluation model for safety barriers using multidimensional deconstruction. We use different methods to evaluate the characteristics of safety barriers for classification and determine the control level of each barrier. We normalize the performance evaluation results of the barriers to determine the level acceptable to experts. A gas station is selected as a case study for the safety barrier performance evaluation. The results validate the effectiveness of the proposed model and provide an analytical approach for other industries.
Influence of Cathode Materials on the Efficiency of PTB7:PC70BM Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Mech Wojciech , Kamińska Maria , Korona Krzysztof P.
Published: August 2022

Herein, studies on the influence of the cathode metal work function (W) on electric parameters of PEDOT:PSS/PTB7:PC70BM/metal solar cells, especially their power conversion efficiency (PCE) and open‐circuit voltage (Voc), are reported. Along with standard cathode materials, like Al and Ag, 12 more metals and metal bilayers, In, InAl, Al3004 alloy, CaAl, MgAl, ZnAl, Sn, Ti, Au, TiAu, and Ni, are checked. It is found that although the photo‐voltage is generated mainly in the active layer, the W of cathode also affects Voc and the overall efficiency. Voc increases with W and the linear coefficient is about 0.33–0.39. A similar effect is observed for solar cells with P3HT donor material. The electrical and optical properties of the cells with different cathodes just after preparation are investigated and aging measurements are also conducted. The highest PCE is obtained for InAl cathode, 4.9%, which is better than for pure Al cathode. Moreover, long‐time measurements show that the cells with InAl cathode degrade about two times slower than the cells with Al electrode. Photocurrent spectroscopy reveals a blue shift of the solar cell sensitivity spectrum with an increase of W which is probably due to state filling (Burstein–Moss effect).
The Effect of Surface Coating Treatment on the Properties of Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Copper Matrix Composites
Authors: Zhou Ting , Xu Yanjun , Lei Ming , Zhang Xu , Zhao Yiluo , Zhao Yong , Zhou Lijun
Published: August 2022

Herein, the surface of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) is treated with HNO3 oxidation to carry on oxygen‐containing functional groups. Then, the pretreatment surface of MWCNTs are plated with copper to improve the low wettability of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Finally, metal matrix composite blocks with excellent properties are prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). When the content of the reinforcing phase is 0.25 wt%, the tensile strength and hardness of Cu‐MWCNTs/Cu composite compared with pure copper are increased by 34.6% and 136.1%, respectively.
Analgesic effect of nobiletin against neuropathic pain induced by the chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve in mice
Authors: Zhu Chunhao , Tian Miaomiao , Liu Ning , Ma Lin , Lan Xiaobing , Yang Jiamei , Du Juan , Ma Hanxiang , Li Yuxiang , Zheng Ping , Yu Jianqiang , Peng Xiaodong
Published: August 2022

Neuropathic pain is chronic pain resulting from central or peripheral nerve damage that remains difficult to treat. Current evidence suggests that nobiletin, isolated from Citrus reticulata Blanco, possesses analgesic and neuroprotective effects. However, its effect on neuropathic pain has not been reported. This study evaluated the analgesic effect of nobiletin on neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) in mice. In vivo, mice were intragastrically administered with nobiletin (30, 60, 120 mg/kg) for eight consecutive days, respectively. Our study indicated that nobiletin ameliorated mechanical allodynia, cold allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia on CCI mice at doses that do not induce significant sedation. Moreover, nobiletin could ameliorate axonal and myelin injury of the sciatic nerve and further restore abnormal sciatic nerve electrical activity on CCI mice. In vitro studies indicated that nobiletin could suppress the proteins and mRNA expression of the IRF5/P2X4R/BDNF signalling pathway in fibronectin‐induced BV2 cells. Overall, our results indicated that nobiletin might exert an analgesic effect on CCI‐induced neuropathic pain in mice by inhibiting the IRF5/P2X4R/BDNF signalling pathway in spinal microglia. This study provided a novel potential therapeutic drug for neuropathic pain and new insights into the pharmacological action of nobiletin.
Framework for robust parameter design and optimization of reliability characteristics
Authors: Lv Shanshan , Li Sen , Zhao Yichen , Wang Guodong
Published: August 2022

To achieve better product quality, the dual‐response surface has been widely used to simultaneously achieve targets for the mean and reduced variance. The general assumption is that the experimental data are normally distributed without censoring. However, reliability data are usually non‐normally distributed and censored. Consequently, the classical dual‐response surface method may not be suitable for handling reliability data. This study proposed a dual‐response surface method based on robust parameter design (RPD) for reliability data. First, a percentile lifetime and an interquartile range (IQR) were used for the location and dispersion effects, respectively. A two‐stage method was then developed to identify the effects of significant factors. During the first stage, the Boruta algorithm was employed for factor effect selection, and during the second stage, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) dimension reduction method was used to determine the final significant factor effects. Finally, a modified standard particle swarm optimization (SPSO) algorithm was adopted to determine the optimal solution. The proposed method was demonstrated using an industrial thermostat experiment. Compared with other methods, the proposed method performed better over various warranty periods, particularly for the 10th percentile.
On analysis of entropy measures for titanium dioxide via rational curve fitting methods
Authors: Li Cheng‐Peng , Siddiqui Muhammad Kamran , Ali Parvez , Javed Sana , Hussain Mazhar , Khalid Sadia
Published: August 2022

In chemical graph theory, graph entropy is an essential parameter. It measures chemical graphs and complicated networks. In discrete mathematics, biology, and chemistry, graph entropy measures have specialized chemical uses. The purpose of this paper is to discuss graph entropies and the structure of Titanium dioxide (). We developed a new idea of computing entropies of titanium dioxide based on the degree of end vertices. Moreover, we have computed graph entropy indices for real systems, and made correlations with thermodynamic quantities like heat of formation and (thermodynamic) entropy. Also, curves have been fitted between entropy indices and thermodynamics properties (entropy, enthalpy) rational method using MATLAB.
Geometric evolution, electronic structure, and vibrational properties of ScGen− (n = 6–17) anion clusters: A DFT insight
Authors: Wang Haibo , Yang Jucai , Lin Lin
Published: August 2022

A comparison of theoretical and experimental properties is the most effective strategy for determining the global minimum (GM) because there is no experimental method to directly test the GM structure of clusters by now. The molecular and electronic structures and properties of Sc‐doped germanium anion clusters were explored via quantum chemistry calculations using mPW2PLYP scheme and unprejudiced structural searching technique ABCluster. Isomers are determined by ABCluster structural searches, followed by reoptimization of a great number of candidate geometries. The simulated photoelectron spectra for the GM structures match with those measured in experiment, suggesting that the current most stable structures are existence in the experiment. The molecular structural evolution modes appear as follows: as the cluster size n increases, the growth patterns are from the Sc‐linked geometry (n = 10, 11) in which the Sc atom acts as a linker (Sc atom connects two Ge sub‐clusters) to the Sc‐encapsulated form (n = 13–17) in which the Sc atom is settled in the core of the Ge‐cage framework. Besides, the properties including stability, HOMO‐LUMO gap, charge transfer, IR, Raman, and UV–Vis spectra were calculated. The Raman spectra are red‐shifted from the Sc‐linked to Sc‐encapsulated configurations. The analyses of stability, HOMO‐LUMO gap, and UV–Vis spectra revealed that the ScGe16− nanocluster could be the most suitable building block for further development as potential optoelectronic materials such as solar cell.
Strategies of Anode Design for Seawater Electrolysis: Recent Development and Future Perspective
Authors: Haq Tanveer ul , Haik Yousef
Published: August 2022

Compared with freshwater splitting, seawater electrolysis has more spaces to be explored, which is primarily attributed to the additional critical catalytic challenges of the competition between anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and chlorine chemistry, deep corrosion, and site blocking due to the presence of chloride ions and insoluble particulate in seawater. However, if direct seawater electrolysis can be realized, it would revolutionize the energy and environmental sectors. In this review, the current effective strategies are summarized, including electronic modulation, oxygen vacancies creation, amorphous and porous structure design, corrosion‐resistant passive layer decoration, and creating strong catalyst–support interactions. The review also provides insights for seawater electrolysis on rational design of the OER catalyst with high selectivity, activity, corrosion resistance, chemical, and mechanical durability. Beyond the progress made to date, a perspective in the fabrication of high‐performance anodes for direct seawater electrolysis is also proposed. Collectively, this review will shed light on the rational design of a viable anode for massive and sustainable hydrogen fuel production from immense seawater.
Intensity Modulated Photocurrent Microspectrosopy for Next Generation Photovoltaics
Authors: Laird Jamie S. , Ravishankar Sandheep , Rietwyk Kevin J. , Mao Wenxin , Bach Udo , Smith Trevor A.
Published: August 2022

In this report, a large‐area laser beam induced current microscope that has been adapted to perform intensity modulated photocurrent spectroscopy (IMPS) in an imaging mode is described. Microscopy‐based IMPS method provides a spatial resolution of the frequency domain response of the solar cell, allowing correlation of the optoelectronic response with a particular interface, bulk material, specific transport layer, or transport parameter. The system is applied to study degradation effects in back‐contact perovskite cells where it is found to readily differentiate areas based on their markedly different frequency response. Using the diffusion‐recombination model, the IMPS response is modeled for a sandwich structure and extended for the special case of lateral diffusion in a back‐contact cell. In the low‐frequency limit, the model is used to calculate spatial maps of the carrier ambipolar diffusion length. The observed frequency response of IMPS images is then discussed.
Perovskite‐Based Electron‐Selective Contacts for Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Guangyi , Yue Zongyi , Liu Wenzhu , Huang Zengguang , Zhong Sihua
Published: August 2022

Currently, considerable efforts are devoted to developing dopant‐free carrier‐selective contacts to replace heavily doped silicon layers in crystalline silicon (c‐Si) solar cells, aiming to reduce parasitic absorption and simplify fabrication process. Herein, a thermally evaporated perovskite material, ZnTiO3, is demonstrated to be an excellent and highly stable dopant‐free electron‐selective contact for c‐Si solar cells. It has a low work function (4 eV), a small conduction band offset, and a large valance band offset with c‐Si. Therefore, an ohmic contact with extremely low contact resistivity (<10 mΩ cm2) is achieved in the contact of c‐Si/ZnTiO3/Al. As a result, a power conversion efficiency over 20% is demonstrated in the c‐Si solar cell featuring ZnTiO3/Al as electron‐selective contacts and without advanced passivation technique, which is significantly improved compared with its counterpart (without ZnTiO3interlayer). Moreover, the ZnTiO3‐based electron‐selective contacts exhibit exceptional long‐term stability by the test at 100 °C for 1000 h. Herein, a new cooperation mode for perovskite and c‐Si is demonstrated and a path toward developing efficient and stable c‐Si solar cells with dopant‐free electron‐selective contacts in a simple way is shown.
Suppressing Bulk and Interfacial Recombination Losses in Sn–Pb Perovskites for Efficient Printable Low‐Bandgap Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Lai Hongwei , Hu Jinlong , Zhou Xinming , Cai Linliang , He Qingchen , Chen Chaoran , Xu Zhenhua , Xiao Xiudi , Lan Donghui , Mai Yaohua , Guo Fei
Published: August 2022

Thin films of tin–lead alloyed perovskites are drawing growing attention, mainly owing to their tunable bandgaps in delivering efficient single‐ and multi‐junction photovoltaic devices. The rapid efficiency advancement of Sn–Pb perovskite devices has been dependent primarily on improving the crystal quality of perovskite films via retarding oxidation of Sn2+. Herein, it is demonstrated that in addition to obtaining high‐quality Sn–Pb perovskite thin films, reducing nonradiative recombination losses at interfaces is equally important for realizing efficient solar cells. An aromatic amine is first introduced to passivate the grain boundary in printed Sn–Pb perovskite films, which boosts the open‐circuit voltage (V
OC) of the solar devices from 700 to 766 mV. Further enhancement of the V
OC to 814 mV and finally to 837 mV is realized by forming a 2D/3D‐layered heterojunction and doping the hole extraction layer with a polyelectrolyte, respectively, benefiting from the largely suppressed nonradiative recombination losses at interfaces. Eventually, the mixed Sn–Pb perovskite devices with a bandgap of ≈1.27 eV yield a high efficiency of 19.06% and in parallel show improved shelf and light‐soaking stability.
Marc Biguenets Beitrag zur Berechnung der Seilnetztragwerke für die Olympischen Spiele 1972
Authors: Gade Jan , Ramm Ekkehard , Kurrer Karl‐Eugen , Bischoff Manfred
Published: August 2022

Bei der Berechnung der Seilnetztragwerke für die Überdachungen der Sportstätten für die Olympischen Spiele 1972 in München spielte ein bislang unveröffentlichtes und auch in Fachkreisen bislang weithin unbekanntes Manuskript des französischen Bauingenieurs Marc Biguenet, damals Mitarbeiter von Jörg Schlaich im Ingenieurbüro Leonhardt und Andrä, eine wesentliche Rolle. Es wird in zwei Veröffentlichungen von Klaus Linkwitz und Hans‐Jörg Schek aus 1971 zur Berechnung und Formfindung von Seilnetztragwerken erwähnt und liefert wichtige Vorarbeiten. Das Manuskript war in Archiven und Bibliotheken allerdings nicht aufzufinden und wurde dem ersten Autor nach intensiven Recherchen schließlich von Marc Biguenet persönlich zur Verfügung gestellt. Im Rahmen dieses Berichts wird der Inhalt des Manuskripts mit dem Ziel der Quellen‐ und Wissenssicherung erstmals veröffentlicht, vergleichend kommentiert und in den technikhistorischen Kontext eingebettet. Die logisch‐historischen Wurzeln der Berechnung von Seilnetztragwerken stehen im Zusammenhang mit der Entwicklungsgeschichte nichtlinearer baustatischer Theorien, dem Bau weitgespannter Hängebrücken sowie der Herausbildung computergestützter Berechnungsmethoden.
Impact of amyloid PET in the clinical care of veterans in a tertiary memory disorders clinic
Authors: Vives‐Rodriguez Ana Laura , Schiloski Kylie A. , Marin Anna , Wang Ryan , Hajos Gabor P. , Powsner Rachel , DeCaro Renée , Budson Andrew E. , Turk Katherine W.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

We aimed to characterize the clinical impact of amyloid PET (APET) in a veteran population with cognitive decline by comparing differences in management between those who did and did not have an APET.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study. Poisson regressions and logistic regression were used for comparisons.

Results

Out of 565 veterans, 197 underwent APET; positivity rate was 36.55%. Having an APET was associated with longer follow‐up, and increased diagnostic variability; it was not associated with number of additional studies, cholinesterase inhibitors prescription, or referrals to research. A positive APET was associated with less diagnostic variability, fewer additional tests, greater cholinesterase inhibitor prescriptions, and more research referrals.

Discussion

In a medically complex, real‐world population, APET yielded lower positivity rates and was not associated with classical clinical utility variables when comparing patients with and without an APET. APET may be used more to “rule out” rather than to confirm Alzheimer's disease.

Highlights

Amyloid PET was associated with longer follow‐up, and higher diagnostic variability.

No association was seen with cholinesterase inhibitors prescription, or referrals to research.

In complex patients, expected amyloid PET positivity rates are lower than previously described.

Amyloid PETs were used to “rule out” AD than to confirm the diagnosis of AD.
Amyloid PET ordering practices in a memory disorders clinic
Authors: Turk Katherine W. , Vives‐Rodriguez Ana , Schiloski Kylie A. , Marin Anna , Wang Ryan , Singh Prabhjyot , Hajos Gabor P. , Powsner Rachel , DeCaro Renée , Budson Andrew E.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

This study assessed the ordering of amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) scans in a Veterans Affairs (VA) memory disorders clinic as part of routine clinical care, with possible implications for the extent to which ordering may occur outside of the VA in the future if covered by insurance.

Methods

Clinical features predictive of ordering amyloid PET scans were retrospectively assessed; the percentage of patients who met appropriate use criteria were evaluated.

Results

Among 565 veterans, 34.9% of received an amyloid PET scan and 98.0% of these were consistent with appropriate use criteria. Patients with a PET were younger and more likely to have an initial diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Of patients without an amyloid PET scan ordered, 64.4% would have met appropriate use criteria for amyloid PET.

Discussion

The majority of scans ordered were consistent with appropriate use criteria and more patients were eligible than received a scan. The current study's findings that approximately one‐third of patients in a memory disorders clinic received an amyloid PET scan has implications for memory disorders clinics inside and outside of the US Veterans Health Administration.
Introduction: Regions of Memory in Theory
Authors: Lewis Simon , Wawrzyniak Joanna
Published: August 2022

Setting the agenda for the chapters to come, the volume editors lay out in this chapter the importance of moving beyond the nation state in memory studies, arguing that a narrower and more specific framework than the global/universal needs to be developed. This is why they propose an alternative unit of analysis on the medium scale: the memory region, which allows for a more nuanced and accurate approach to memory processes and dynamics in various parts of the world. They emphasize connectivities between memories across national borders and cross-national orientation points in forming memories, as much as agency and subjectivity of memory actors in the construction and reconstruction of memory reference points and frameworks across borders. The authors discuss memory regions in reference to such concepts as: regimes of memory, geography of memory, area studies, and travels of memory.
Climate Change, Impacts, Adaptation and Risk Management
Authors: Venäläinen Ari , Ruosteenoja Kimmo , Lehtonen Ilari , Laapas Mikko , Tikkanen Olli-Pekka , Peltola Heli
Published: August 2022

Under the moderate future greenhouse gas emissions scenario (RCP4.5), climate model simulations project that the annual mean temperature will increase in Europe by up to 2–3 °C by the middle of this century, compared to the end of the nineteenth century. The temperature increase is projected to be larger in Northern Europe than in Central and Southern Europe. The annual precipitation is projected to decrease in Southern Europe and increase in Northern and Central Europe. The projected changes in temperature and precipitation are expected to be higher in the winter than in the summer months. In Northern Europe, forest growth is generally projected to increase due to warmer and longer growing seasons. In southern Europe in particular, warmer and dryer summers are projected to decrease forest growth. Climate change is expected also to expose forests and forestry to multiple abiotic and biotic risks throughout Europe. The greatest abiotic risks to forests are caused by windstorms, drought, forest fires and extreme snow loading on trees. The warmer climate will also increase biotic risks to forests, such as damage caused by European spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus) outbreaks in Norway spruce (Picea abies) forests and wood decay by Heterobasidion spp. root rot in Norway spruce and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) forests. Different adaptation and risk management actions may be needed, depending on geographical region and time span, in order to maintain forest resilience, which is also important for climate change mitigation.
Outlook for the Forest-Based Bioeconomy
Authors: Hurmekoski Elias , Hetemäki Lauri , Jänis Janne
Published: August 2022

The state of the world’s managed forests is determined by the societal demands for wood resources and other ecosystem services. The forest-based sector is experiencing a number of structural changes, which makes the task of looking ahead important, but challenging. One of the main trends in the forest-based industries is diversification. On one hand, this refers to the emergence of new factors influencing the demand for forest-based products, which leads to substitution between forest-based products and alternative products. On the other hand, it refers to new market opportunities for forest-based industries in, for example, the construction, textiles, packaging, biochemicals and biofuels markets. As the importance of some of the traditional forest-based industries, such as communication papers, is declining, and new opportunities are simultaneously emerging, the sector will not necessarily be dominated by single sectors in the long term. However, research illuminating the possible impacts of the expected structural changes of the forest-based sector remains scarce. The uncertainties in the future outlook of the forest-based sector also imply great uncertainties in the demand for roundwood globally, and by extension, the extent of trade-offs between different ecosystem services and land uses.
Climate-Smart Forestry Approach
Authors: Hetemäki Lauri , Verkerk Hans
Published: August 2022

The climate-smart forestry approach was pioneered in 2015 and has been generating increasing interest since then. It was developed as a response to the often very narrow and partial perspective on how forests and the forest-based sector can contribute to climate-change mitigation. Moreover, its basis is the understanding that, in order to effectively enhance climate mitigation, efforts should be made to find synergies and minimise trade-offs with the other ecosystem services forests provide, such as biodiversity, wood production and recreation. By doing this, greater support can be generated for climate mitigation measures. The approach acknowledges that there is no one-size-fits-all toolkit to cover all circumstances, but rather measures have to be tailored according to regional characteristics and institutions. In summary, climate-smart forestry is a holistic approach to how forests and the forest-based sector can contribute to climate-change mitigation that considers the need to adapt to climate change, while taking into account specific regional settings.
Datensouveränität als informationelle Freiheitsgestaltung
Authors: Hummel Patrik , Braun Matthias , Augsberg Steffen , Ulmenstein Ulrich von , Dabrock Peter
Published: August 2022

In den vergangenen Jahren tritt Souveränität als Leitkonzept im Kontext der Digitalisierung immer häufiger in Erscheinung. Im Folgenden werden wir einen spezifischen Fall von Datensouveränität in den Blick nehmen und entfalten: die Datensouveränität von Patientinnen im deutschen Gesundheitswesen. Wir argumentieren, dass Datensouveränität mindestens zwei Aspekte umfasst. Zum einen hat Datensouveränität eine abwehrrechtliche Dimension, die primär den Schutz von Persönlichkeitsrechten und die Bewahrung von Freiheitsvollzügen betrifft. Zum anderen ist mit Datensouveränität der Anspruch verknüpft, Daten verfügbar machen zu können. Für beide Aspekte ist die Kontrollierbarkeit von Daten zentrale Voraussetzung.
The 2PM Hamiltonian for binary Kerr to quartic in spin
Authors: Chen Wei-Ming , Chung Ming-Zhi , Huang Yu-tin , Kim Jung-Wook
Published: August 2022

Abstract

From the S-matrix of spinning particles, we extract the 2 PM conservative potential for binary spinning black holes up to quartic order in spin operators. An important ingredient is the exponentiated gravitational Compton amplitude in the classical spin-limit for all graviton helicity sectors. The validity of the resulting Hamiltonian is verified by matching to known lower spin order results, as well as direct computation of the 2PM impulse and spin kicks from the eikonal phase and that from the test black hole scattering based on Mathisson-Papapetrou-Dixon equations.
Finite temperature corrections to black hole quasinormal modes from 2D CFT
Authors: Pal Sanchari
Published: August 2022

Abstract

We revisit the holographic calculation of the decay modes of the BTZ blackhole perturbed by a scalar probe. We carry out a finite temperature expansion of the torus two point function of large central charge (c) CFTs in order to obtain the corrections to blackhole quasinormal modes. We take the contribution of the lightest primary above the vacuum, with dimension ∆χ and upper bound of c/6, in the torus two point function. We exploit the modular properties of 2D CFT on the torus to connect the expression of thermal two point function at high temperature with the same at low temperature. The correction term can be expressed as a four point function on the Riemann sphere. In the dual bulk theory the corrections are expected to arise due to the presence of a light matter field in the spacetime along with gravity. In the holographic limit the effects of this correction term is encoded in the change in blackhole temperature. This leads to new quasinormal modes and modification of thermalization time scale.
Long-Term Biodistribution and Safety of Human Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric Cell Therapy After Systemic-Intraosseous Administration to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Model
Authors: Siemionow Maria , Brodowska Sonia , Langa Paulina , Zalants Kristina , Kozlowska Katarzyna , Grau-Kazmierczak Wictoria , Heydemann Ahlke
Published: August 2022

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal disease caused by X-linked mutations in the dystrophin gene. Dystrophin deficiency results in progressive degeneration of cardiac, respiratory and skeletal muscles leading to premature death due to cardiopulmonary complications. Currently, no cure exists for DMD. Based on our previous reports confirming a protective effect of human dystrophin expressing chimeric (DEC) cell therapy on cardiac, respiratory, and skeletal muscle function after intraosseous administration, now we assessed long-term safety and biodistribution of human DEC therapy for potential clinical applications in DMD patients. Safety of different DEC doses (1 × 106 and 5 × 106) was assessed at 180 days after systemic-intraosseous administration to mdx/scid mice, a model of DMD. Assessments included: single cell gel electrophoresis assay (COMET assay) to confirm lack of genetic toxicology, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for tumorigenicity, and body, muscle and organ weights. Human DEC biodistribution to the target (heart, diaphragm, gastrocnemius muscle) and non-target (blood, bone marrow, lung, liver, spleen) organs was detected by flow cytometry assessment of HLA-ABC markers. Human origin of dystrophin was verified by co-localization of dystrophin and human spectrin by immunofluorescence. No complications were observed after intraosseous transplant of human DEC. COMET assay of donors and fused DEC cells confirmed lack of DNA damage. Biodistribution analysis of HLA-ABC expression revealed dose-dependent presence of human DEC cells in target organs, whereas negligible presence was detected in non-target organs. Human origin of dystrophin in the heart, diaphragm and gastrocnemius muscle was confirmed by co-localization of dystrophin expression with human spectrin. MRI revealed no evidence of tumor formation. Body mass and muscle and organ weights were stable and comparable to vehicle controls, further confirming DEC safety at 180 days post- transplant. This preclinical study confirmed long-term local and systemic safety of human DEC therapy at 180 days after intraosseous administration. Thus, DEC can be considered as a novel myoblast based advanced therapy medicinal product for DMD patients.