bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amplifying organizational performance from business intelligence: Business analytics implementation in the retail industry
Authors:   DBA, LPT, PLM Business Graduate School, General Luna corner Muralla Streets, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines 1002, e-mail: eppaulino@plm.edu.ph, P. Paulino Emmanuel
Published: June 2022

PURPOSE: The concept of business analytics (BA) and business intelligence (BI) is just emerging in the Philippines. Since these are new concepts, it is important to investigate their impact on organizational performance and the performance metrics in business industry. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of business analytics generating business intelligence and how it affects organizational performance by developing a structural model. Consequently, the impact of organizational performance on other performance metrics was also established. METHODOLOGY: The partial least squares – structural equation modeling was utilized, which proposed a model that shows how business intelligence, generated by business BA, affects organizational performance, which consequently leads to improved marketing, financial, and business process performance. A survey was conducted on business analysts and executive managers of retail companies that have already been implementing BA for at least three years. FINDINGS: BA capabilities have a significant positive effect on the level of BI. BI has a significant positive effect on organizational performance. However, the result of the moderation analysis indicated that the level of readiness for BA implementation could not be considered a moderating factor on the relationship between BI and organizational performance. IMPLICATIONS: Out of the different BA capabilities, the decision support system and business process management were found to be the most beneficial functions in generating BI. BI amplifies organizational performance and consequently improves the marketing and business process performance of retail firms. However, the readiness for BA implementation does not significantly affect how BI improves organizational performance. Overall, it is recommended that in order to enhance marketing and business process performance, retail firms should focus on the BA capabilities of decision support system and business process management. ORIGINALITY AND VALUE: This would be the first empirical study in the Philippines which has assessed how business analytics and business intelligence impact organizational performance. This study is original in determining what BA capabilities generate BI, which translates to improved organizational performance. This study is also unique in defining what key performance metrics are much improved as a result of its implementation. This may serve as a viable reference for other researchers interested in business analytics and other technology about data management applied in business operations.
Stability and non-linear dynamic analysis of Kerr optical frequencycombs in dual-coupled microcavities with high-order dispersion
Authors: Xu Fan , Zhao Yan , Wu Yu-Hang , Wang Wen-Chi , Jin Xue-Ying ,   Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Measuring Theory and Precision Instrument, School of Instrument Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
Published: June 2022

We investigate the stability and nonlinear dynamics of the Kerr optical frequency comb inside a dual coupled microcavity with high-order dispersion effect based on the theoretical model of coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equation. The effects of different high-order dispersion parameters on the evolution and spectral characteristics of the optical field in the cavity are also explored. Theoretical results indicate that the addition of the third-order dispersion enlarges the stability domain of the parametric space and transforms the periodically varying soliton breathers and chaos into stable bright soliton. In order to obtain an accurate Kerr optical frequency comb spectral envelope, higher-order dispersion should be considered. Moreover, high-order dispersion terms have a significant effect on the spectral characteristics of the optical frequency comb, such as the spectral envelope frequency shift and the dispersive wave spectral position. Specifically, the third-order dispersion and positive fourth-order dispersion can broaden the spectrum and enhance the dispersive waves; while the negative fourth-order dispersion can suppress the dispersive wave generation and obtain a symmetric soliton frequency comb; the fifth-order dispersion can regulate the drift direction and speed of the optical solitons. The theoretical results are of great value for dispersion regulation and design and also for stability studies in double-coupled microcavity experiments.
Four-terminal hybrid driven refrigerator based on three coupled quantum dots
Authors: Liu Xing , Xu Shuai , Gao Jin-Zhu , He Ji-Zhou ,   Department of Physics, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a four-terminal hybrid driven refrigerator model with three capacitively coupled quantum dots is proposed, which can be driven by the energy current injected from the highest temperature thermal reservoir and the power input to achieve the refrigeration of the low temperature reservoir. Based on the master equation we derive the expressions for charge current and heat current between three quantum dots and thermal reservoirs in the weak/strong capacitive coupling case, respectively. We numerically analyze the thermodynamic performance characteristics of the refrigerator between the cooling rate and the coefficient of performance, and the main performance parameters of the refrigerator are optimized under the condition of the maximum cooling rate. Finally, we compare the performance of this refrigerator in the strong capacitive coupling case with that in the weak capacitive coupling case.
Influence of perturbation amplitude and perturbation frequency on Fermi-Pasta-Ulam-Tsingou recurrence phenomenon
Authors: Zheng Zhou , Li Jin-Hua , Ma You-Qiao , Ren Hai-Dong ,   School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China,   Jiangsu Haiwei Photoelectric Technology Co, Ltd, Nantong 226000, China
Published: June 2022

Fermi-Pasta-Ulam-Tsingou recurrence (FPUT) phenomenon refers to the property of a multimode nonlinear system returning to the initial states after complex stages of evolution. The FPUT recurrence phenomenon closely links with modulation instability (MI) by employing the perturbed continuous waves as the initial condition. When the perturbation frequency is located inside the MI spectra, then the perturbed CWs are unstable and the perturbations will grow up with evolution. This nonlinear MI evolution results in the FPUT phenomenon. In this work, we explore in detail the effects of perturbation amplitude and perturbation frequency on the FPUT recurrence phenomena numerically, which has never been studied systematically, to the best of our knowledge. Using the results of our studies, we find that the perturbation amplitude can significantly affect the FPUT phenomenon. Firstly, the number of FPUT cycles is very sensitive to the perturbation amplitude. Large (small) perturbation amplitude can result in much more (much less) FPUT cycles. Secondly, very irregular (regular) FPUT wave evolution together with the corresponding spectra evolution can be observed at relatively large (small) values of perturbation amplitude, where the unequal (equal) distances are observed between adjacent maximum wave amplitudes spatially in the background of optical fibers. In contrast, the effects of perturbation frequency on the FPUT cycles are relatively minor, and the maximum FPUT cycles are observed at perturbation frequencies around the optimal modulation frequency generating the peak MI gain. However, the perturbation frequency can drastically affect the number of high-order sidebands excited at the distances of periodic maximum wave amplitude formation. We find that larger perturbation frequency leads to much fewer high-order sidebands. According to our studies, for observing FPUT conveniently and observing more FPUT cycles, the perturbation amplitude of the input signal should be as large as possible and the perturbation frequency should be around the optimum modulation frequency. We should also emphasize that the large perturbation amplitude results in irregular FPUT patterns with unequal distances between adjacent maximum wave amplitude formations spatially in the background of optical fibers, and large perturbation frequency results in much less high-order sidebands. Our results will provide very helpful information for the FPUT observation in experiment, and should arouse the interest of the readers in nonlinear physics.
Heavy isotope labeling and mass spectrometry reveal unexpected remodeling of bacterial cell wall expansion in response to drugs
Authors: Atze Heiner , Liang Yucheng , Hugonnet Jean-Emmanuel , Gutierrez Arnaud , Rusconi Filippo , Arthur Michel
Published: June 2022

Antibiotics of the β-lactam (penicillin) family inactivate target enzymes called D,D-transpeptidases or penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) that catalyze the last cross-linking step of peptidoglycan synthesis. The resulting net-like macromolecule is the essential component of bacterial cell walls that sustains the osmotic pressure of the cytoplasm. In Escherichia coli, bypass of PBPs by the YcbB L,D-transpeptidase leads to resistance to these drugs. We developed a new method based on heavy isotope labeling and mass spectrometry to elucidate PBP- and YcbB-mediated peptidoglycan polymerization. PBPs and YcbB similarly participated in single-strand insertion of glycan chains into the expanding bacterial side wall. This absence of any transpeptidase-specific signature suggests that the peptidoglycan expansion mode is determined by other components of polymerization complexes. YcbB did mediate β-lactam resistance by insertion of multiple strands that were exclusively cross-linked to existing tripeptide-containing acceptors. We propose that this undocumented mode of polymerization depends upon accumulation of linear glycan chains due to PBP inactivation, formation of tripeptides due to cleavage of existing cross-links by a β-lactam-insensitive endopeptidase, and concerted cross-linking by YcbB.
Pollinator identity and behavior affect pollination in kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis Planch.)
Authors: Broussard Melissa A. , Howlett Brad G. , Evans Lisa J. , McBrydie Heather , Cutting Brian T. , Read Samantha F.J. , Pattemore David E.
Published: June 2022

Many crop plants rely on insect pollination, particularly insect-pollinated crops which are functionally dioecious. These crops require insects to move pollen between separate plants which are functionally male or female. While honey bees are typically considered the most important crop pollinator species, many other insects are known to visit crops but the pollination contribution of the full diversity of these flower visitors is poorly understood. In this study, we examine the role of diverse insect pollinators for two kiwifruit cultivars as model systems for dioecious crops: Actinidia chinensis var. deliciosa ‘Hayward’ (a green-fleshed variety) and A. chinensis var. chinensis ‘Zesy002’ (a gold-fleshed variety). In our round-the-clock insect surveys, we identified that psychodid flies and mosquitoes were the second and third most frequent floral visitors after honey bees (Apis mellifera L), but further work is required to investigate their pollination efficiency. Measures of single-visit pollen deposition identified that several insects, including the bees Leioproctus spp. and Bombus spp. and the flies Helophilus hochstetteri and Eristalis tenax, deposited a similar amount of pollen on flowers as honey bees (Apis mellifera). Due to their long foraging period and high pollen deposition, we recommend the development of strategies to boost populations of Bombus spp., Eristalis tenax and other hover flies, and unmanaged bees for use as synergistic pollinators alongside honey bees.
Clinicopathological and Histomorphological Evaluation of Colorectal Cancers for Features of Microsatellite Instability
Authors: Dsouza Liza Loren , Marla Nisha Jayashankar , Shekar Jayaprakash Chandra
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the fourth most common cancer in men and third most common cancer in women. Microsatellite Instability-High (MSI-H) is a distinctive feature of Hereditary non-polyposis CRC syndrome (HNPCC) and it accounts for 15% of sporadic CRC. Identification of MSI-H colorectal tumours serves as a prognostic marker of patient outcome, as a predictive marker of response to chemotherapy and as a screening tool for HNPCC. Aim: The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical presentation and the histomorphological features of MSI. Materials and Methods: An ambispective type of validation study was carried out in Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangalore, Karnataka, India. The total duration of the study was 2.5 years. Whereas case collection was done from October 2017 to April 2019 for a period of 17 months. Surgical resection specimens of all the age groups for CRC were included in the study. Relevant patient history and clinical details were noted. Histomorphological features for MSI in CRC were noted using Revised Bethesda Guidelines. The results were analysed using Chi-square test. Results: A total of 104 cases were analysed during the study period. Majority of the patients with CRCs were in the age group of 51-60 years (30 cases, 28.84%), followed by 61-70 years age group (25 cases, 24.03%). Out of 104 cases, 72 (69.23%) of them were located in distal colon and among the various histomorphological types, adenocarcinoma accounted for 93 (89.42%) cases. Forty-nine (47.11%) of them were found to be in stage III disease. Crohn like lymphocytic reaction was a frequent histomorphological feature of MSI in about 50 (48.07%) cases of CRCs. Conclusion: The IHC test is the gold standard for MSI testing and most literature on Hospital-based study recommend IHC as the first line of testing. Identification of MSI-H by conventional histopathology by following Revised Bethesda Guidelines can be used as a screening tool for rapid selection of sporadic CRC for molecular testing, with the potential to recover a majority of MSI-H cases. MSI-H have better prognosis than stable cancers. MSI, particularly in stage II CRCs have better prognosis and do not benefit from 5FU- based adjuvant chemotherapy. Therefore, it is the most important prognostic marker in CRC and especially in stage II CRC.
Role of Impedance-Based Platelet Parameters and Related Ratios in Screening for Coronavirus Infection- An Institutional Experience
Authors: Rai Preethi A , Chandrashekar Jayaparkash
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Impedance based platelet parameters can be easily obtained from most automated haematology analysers. Few of these parameters, especially Platelet Count (PLT), Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) and Plateletcrit (PCT), have been shown to predict disease progression in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, data on usefulness of these parameters as predictors of COVID-19 infection, in suspected cases, is limited. Aim: To evaluate the role of impedance-based platelet parameters, like PLT, MPV, PCT, Platelet-Distribution Width (PDW), and related ratios, as predictors of COVID-19 infection in suspected cases, using real-time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR) as standard. Materials and Methods: Retrospective analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2020, at a teaching hospital located in Mangalore, Karnataka, India. The study parameters were retrieved and/or calculated, from the medical records of 328 patients (from July 2020 to August 2020) who had undergone COVID-19 rRT-PCR testing of their respiratory samples, comprising equal number (n=164) of patients with positive and negative test results, matched for age and sex. The data were compared and analysed. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 was used in statistical analysis of this study. The significance level (p-value) was set to 0.05. Results: Data of total 328 subjects (age range: 18-85 years, 164 COVID positive and 164 COVID negative subjects) was collected and analysed for comparison. Differences in PLT, PCT, and most of the calculated ratios were statistically significant between the two groups; however, Area Under Curve (AUC) for all were <0.7. PCT values were significantly lower in COVID-19 positive group, despite normal PLT (p-value=0.005). Conclusion: Impedance based platelet parameters have limited role as predictors of COVID-19 infection in suspected patients, despite of their established prognostic value. Decrease in PCT values possibly precedes occurrence of thrombocytopenia following COVID-19 infection.
Gaucher’s Disease with Rare Genotype- A Case Report
Authors: Londhe Mangesh M , Patil Tushar V
Published: June 2022

Gaucher’s Disease (GD) is a rare inherited Lysosomal Storage Disorder (LSD) caused by autosomal recessive inheritance of homozygous mutations in the Glucocerebrosidase (GBA) gene encoding the lysosomal enzyme acid β-glucosidase. GD is usually under-diagnosed in developing countries due to limitations in diagnostic resources for genetic evaluation. However, under such circumstances a meticulous Bone Marrow Examination (BME) and clinical correlation gives clue to the diagnosis of GD. Hence, the authors here report a case of 2-years-old male child who presented with abdominal distension and fullness with refractory anaemia for which he was transfused blood in the past. The ultrasound sonography revealed disproportionate hepatosplenomegaly. The clinical differential diagnoses were haematolymphoid malignancy and haemolytic anaemia. Haemoglobin (Hb) electrophoresis revealed no structurally abnormal Hb while the BME revealed hallmark Gaucher’s cells. To confirm the diagnosis of GD, enzymatic assay was done which revealed reduced β (beta) glucosidase and elevated plasma chitotriosidase levels followed by genetic work up which revealed a rare genotype with compound heterozygous mutation in GBA gene having uncommon variants.
DESIGUALDADE, EXPULSÕES E RESISTÊNCIAS SOCIAIS: pensando o local e o global
Authors: Goulart Menezes Roberto , Vasconcellos Patrícia Mara Cabral de , Scotelaro Marina , Mello Rafael Alexandre
Published: June 2022

O artigo analisa o processo de desigualdades sociais do período recente do capitalismo histórico, com ênfase no acirramento da iniquidade e como ela impacta nos meios de luta dos movimentos sociais. Primeiro, apresentamos o debate teórico-metodológico sobre desigualdade, a lógica das expulsões, os novos riscos sociais e suas consequências para a democracia contemporânea. Em seguida, avaliamos como os movimentos sociais têm lutado contra a desigualdade e a retirada de direitos por meio de novas formas de articulação, manifestação e formação de movimentos antissistêmicos. Partindo do debate agência-estrutura, demonstramos como o local e o global se entrelaçam na dinâmica das desigualdades e a luta dos diferentes movimentos sociais. E, por fim, apontamos osprincipais desafios para que os movimentos recuperem sua capacidade de promover a emancipação social.
JATARISHUN: revoltas indígenas camponesas do Equador e Bem Viver
Authors: Araujo Larissa Da Silva , Reis da Silva Ana Tereza
Published: June 2022

Este artigo analisa os Movimentos Indígenas Camponeses (MICs) do Equador como força social e ator político. Ao propor uma alternativa à crise equatoriana baseada nos valores do sumak kawsay (bem viver), os MICs ampliam espaços democráticos e formulam uma acepção expandida de cidadania. Focalizam-se os acontecimentos da greve nacional de 2019 no Equador, em diálogo retrospectivo com mobilizações anteriores. O artigo se baseia nos testemunhos do povo Kayambi, coletados antes e depois da greve, em entrevistas semiestruturadas e trabalho etnográfico. Os dados evidenciam que a memória de lutas anteriores foi uma motivação essencial para a emergência das manifestações. Ademais, a unidade e a solidariedade entre atores rurais e outros setores da sociedade equatoriana foram a base do poder e da força da greve. Em diálogo com o campo das “Políticas rurais emancipadoras”, aportam-se contribuições às abordagens críticas sobre o papel dos povos indígenas camponeses nas lutas por alternativas de vida.
CARREIRAS POLÍTICAS DE MULHERES NO BRASIL: APROFUNDANDO O DEBATE A PARTIR DA NOVA BANCADA FEMININA DA CÂMARA DOS DEPUTADOS (2019-2022)
Authors: Marques Danusa , Celini Túlio Pustrelo , Santos Laura Freire dos
Published: June 2022

Nas eleições de 2018, dos 513 deputados federais eleitos, 436 são homens (85% do total), enquanto, 77 são mulheres (15% do total). Apesar do aumento de 50% no número de deputadas eleitas em relação às eleições de 2014, a desigualdade de gênero no Parlamento brasileiro é ainda um problema central do nosso sistema político. Como apontado pela literatura especializada, são diversos os fatores que obstaculizam o acesso das mulheres aos espaços de poder. Em virtude disso, o presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar panoramicamente o perfil social e de capital político das deputadas federais eleitas em 2018, comparando as representantes eleitas pela primeira vez a esta Casa com as reeleitas ou eleitas após interrupção. Em nossa análise, entendemos que o perfil social das deputadas não destoa entre “novatas” e “experientes”, mas há um ponto que pode indicar uma tendência de mudança do padrão de recrutamento político das mulheres no Brasil: a presença de capital familiar, ou seja, de parentesco com políticos/as profissionais, é menor entre “novatas” do que entre as deputadas reeleitas ou eleitas após interrupção.
Are Porous Polymers Practical to Protect Li‐Metal Anodes? ‐ Current Strategies and Future Opportunities
Authors: Gao Shilun , Li Zhenxi , Liu Nian , Liu Guoliang , Yang Huabin , Cao Peng‐Fei
Published: June 2022

The practical application of lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) is significantly hindered by the uncontrolled Li dendrite growth and unstable solid electrolyte interphase layer, which leads to low Coulombic efficiency and short cycling lifetime. Constructing protective layers on Li metal surface is demonstrated as a facile and efficient approach to tackle these issues. With superior chemical/electrochemical stability, mechanical robustness, high current density tolerance, and low cost, porous polymers are considered promising candidates as the protective layers toward practical Li‐metal battery applications. In this review, the fundamental mechanisms in stabilizing Li‐metal electrodes, design principles, scalable processing, and recent progress of porous polymers toward practical batteries are thoroughly reviewed and discussed. The purpose of the current review is to analyze whether applying porous polymers as the protective layers is a more promising option of LMBs, and it also discusses how to practically achieve low cost, high‐energy‐density, safe, and long cycle life batteries.
Stable High‐Efficiency CsPbI2Br Solar Cells by Designed Passivation Using Multifunctional 2D Perovskite
Authors: Xu Jie , Cui Jian , Yang Shaomin , Liu Zhike , Guo Xi , Che Yuhang , Xu Dongfang , Zhao Wenjing , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: June 2022

CsPbI2Br perovskite is known for its advantages over its organic‐inorganic hybrid counterpart including better thermal stability and appropriate bandgap for the front sub‐cell of tandem solar cell. However, its lower‐than‐satisfactory efficiency, problematic phase stability and sensitivity to moisture hinder its further advancement. Here, three kinds of glycine halides (Gly‐X: X = Cl, Br, and I) are strategically deigned to improve the performance of CsPbI2Br perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Systematic experimental and calculated results prove that a 2D/3D hybrid structure is formed, wherein the Gly‐X‐based 2D perovskite is mainly located at the CsPbI2Br grain boundaries, and the A‐sites of the 2D perovskite form strong bonds with the 3D perovskite to suppress ion migration by increasing its activation energy. As a result, a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 17.26% was obtained with an open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.33 V, which is among the best PCE values for the CsPbI2Br PSCs. In addition, the efficiency of encapsulated device decrease only by 14.1% after 340 h continuous illumination in ambient conditions, representing one of the most‐stable inorganic PSCs reported so far. This work provides important insights into designing passivating agents to address the issue of phase segregation for the development of highly stable perovskite optoelectronic devices.
Cobalt–Nickel Double Hydroxide toward Mild Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Meng Jianming , Song Yu , Qin Zengming , Wang Zhihui , Mu Xinjian , Wang Jing , Liu Xiao‐Xia
Published: June 2022

Transition metal layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are widely used as high‐performance cathode materials for aqueous alkaline zinc (Zn) batteries. Yet, the strongly alkaline electrolytes may lead to undesirable rechargeability of the alkaline devices and environmental issues. Herein, as a research prototype, CoNi LDH material is designed with abundant H vacancies using electrochemical methods (denoted as CoNi LDH(v)). As a Zn‐ion battery cathode, CoNi LDH(v) exhibits promising electrochemical performances in mild ZnSO4 electrolyte, such as a good specific capacity of 185 mAh g−1 at the current density of 1.2 A g−1, a high average discharge potential of 1.6 V versus Zn2+/Zn, and a large energy density of 296.2 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 1894 W kg−1, outperforming most of the cathode materials for aqueous Zn‐ion batteries. Experimental and computational results indicate that the introduced H vacancies in the double hydroxide matrix induce the improved electronic conductivity and cation adsorption thermodynamics, endowing the double hydroxides with good electrochemical activity for reversible cation insertion. Structural and spectroscopy studies identify that CoNi LDH(v) experiences reversible H+/Zn2+ co‐intercalation mechanism in an aqueous ZnSO4 electrolyte. As far as it is known, it is the first report on transition‐metal‐based double hydroxides used for mild aqueous Zn‐ion batteries.
Microfluidics Fabrication of Micrometer‐Sized Hydrogels with Precisely Controlled Geometries for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Wei Zhenyang , Wang Shiqi , Hirvonen Jouni , Santos Hélder A. , Li Wei
Published: June 2022

Micrometer‐sized hydrogels are cross‐linked three‐dimensional network matrices with high‐water contents and dimensions ranging from several to hundreds of micrometers. Due to their excellent biocompatibility and capability to mimic physiological microenvironments in vivo, micrometer‐sized hydrogels have attracted much attention in the biomedical engineering field. Their biological properties and applications are primarily influenced by their chemical compositions and geometries. However, inhomogeneous morphologies and uncontrollable geometries limit traditional micrometer‐sized hydrogels obtained by bulk mixing. In contrast, microfluidic technology holds great potential for the fabrication of micrometer‐sized hydrogels since their geometries, sizes, structures, compositions, and physicochemical properties can be precisely manipulated on demand based on the excellent control over fluids. Therefore, micrometer‐sized hydrogels fabricated by microfluidic technology have been applied in the biomedical field, including drug encapsulation, cell encapsulation, and tissue engineering. This review introduces micrometer‐sized hydrogels with various geometries synthesized by different microfluidic devices, highlighting their advantages in various biomedical applications over those from traditional approaches. Overall, emerging microfluidic technologies enrich the geometries and morphologies of hydrogels and accelerate translation for industrial production and clinical applications.
Integrating SEI into Layered Conductive Polymer Coatings for Ultrastable Silicon Anodes
Authors: Pan Siyuan , Han Junwei , Wang Yiqiao , Li Zhenshen , Chen Fanqi , Guo Yong , Han Zishan , Xiao Kefeng , Yu Zhichun , Yu Mengying , Wu Shichao , Wang Da‐Wei , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: June 2022

Tackling the huge volume expansion of silicon (Si) anode desires a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) to prohibit the interfacial side reactions. Here, a layered conductive polyaniline (LCP) coating is built on Si nanoparticles to achieve high areal capacity and long lifespan. The conformal LCP coating stores electrolyte in interlamination spaces and directs an in situ formation of LCP‐integrated hybrid SEI skin with uniform distribution of organic and inorganic components, enhancing the flexibility of the SEI to buffer the volume changes and maintaining homogeneous ion transport during cycling. As a result, the Si anode shows a remarkable cycling stability under high areal capacity (≈3 mAh cm−2) after 150 cycles and good rate performance of 942 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1. This work demonstrates the great potential of regulating the SEI properties by a layered polymer‐directing SEI formation for the mechanical and electrochemical stabilization of Si anodes.
Dot‐Product Operation in Crossbar Array Using a Self‐Rectifying Resistive Device
Authors: Jeon Kanghyeok , Ryu Jin Joo , Jeong Doo Seok , Kim Gun Hwan
Published: June 2022

Reducing computational complexity is essential in future computing systems for processing a large amount of unstructured data simultaneously. Dot‐product operations using crossbar array devices have attracted considerable attention owing to their simple device structure, intuitive operation scheme, and high computational efficiency of parallel operation. The resistive switching device is considered a promising candidate as the main data storage in the crossbar array owing to its highly reliable performance. In this study, a tri‐layer TaOx/Al2O3/Ti:SiOx‐based resistive switching device is proposed. The proposed device exhibits a high electrical selectivity of 2.5 × 105 based on the optimized biasing scheme, a stable non‐volatility, and reliable read disturbance characteristic of up to 108. Additionally, the device achieves high reading current of 1 µA and a low off‐leakage current of 1 pA, which favors the reliable characteristics in the data writing sequence and the dot‐product operation in the crossbar array device. Furthermore, the resistive switching mechanism based on the material and electrical conduction characteristics is analyzed. Lastly, the dot‐product operation in an 8 × 8 crossbar array is performed. As a result, the calculated and measured signal values in each column in the crossbar array of the device are found to be in good agreement.
Blocking the Energy Loss of Dexter Energy Transfer in Hyperfluorescence OLEDs Via One‐Step Phenyl‐Fluorene Substitution of TADF Assistant Host
Authors: Xie Wentao , Peng Xiaomeng , Li Mengke , Qiu Weidong , Li Wei , Gu Qing , Jiao Yihang , Chen Zijian , Gan Yiyang , Liu Kun kun , Su Shi‐Jian
Published: June 2022

Generally, the charge transfer character of thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials results in a long excitonic lifetime and broad‐band emission. With the combination of unity exciton utilization of TADF material and high radiative rate and narrow‐band emission of conventional fluorescence (CF) dopant, hyperfluorescence organic light‐emitting diodes (HF‐OLEDs) attract extensive attention in industry and academia recently. Till now, Dexter energy transfer (DET) from the triplet state of TADF assistant host to the dark triplet state of CF guest is the top‐drawer energy loss issue root in HF‐OLEDs. Herein, the energy loss of DET is blocked through one‐step substitution of TADF assistant host by electronically inert phenyl‐fluorene terminal for the first time. The blocking effect on DET process in HF‐OLEDs is investigated by means of photophysical characterization, theoretical calculation, device fabrication, and Monte Carlo simulation. The maximum external quantum efficiency of 18.1% with Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage coordinates of (0.61, 0.38) is achieved, which is on par with the state‐of‐the‐art efficiency for red HF‐OLEDs. This work presents a feasible design strategy for TADF assistant host aimed at achieving highly efficient HF‐OLEDs with narrow‐band emission.
Reactive Inhibition Strategy for Triple‐cation Mixed‐halide Perovskite Ink with Prolonged Shelf‐life
Authors: Li Zongcai , Xing Zhi , Peng Haibin , Meng Xiangchuan , Li Dengxue , Huang Lu , Hu Xiaotian , Hu Ting , Chen Yiwang
Published: June 2022

Solution processing of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is highly promising for the high‐throughput production of cost‐effective devices. Although PSCs have achieved great advances in power conversion efficiency, challenges still remain in the reproducibility of high‐quality perovskite thin film with simultaneously improved precursor solution stability. Here, a reactive inhibition strategy by introducing diethyl (hydroxymethyl) phosphonate (DHP) in perovskite precursor solution is successfully employed to improve the stability of precursor solution and the performance of corresponding device. DHP inhibits the reactivity of the iodide and formamidinium ions through multiple chemical bonds, ensuring the stability of the precursor solution. In addition, due to chelation interaction of Pb2+ with the oxygen of PO in DHP, the DHP in the perovskite film improves the film quality with desired stoichiometry by reducing the defects and the content of lead iodide. The DHP‐doped precursor solution and corresponding devices show excellent performance reproducibility and super stability under ambient conditions for more than 50 days, which illustrates the commercial feasibility for scalable fabrication.
Dynamic plastid and mitochondrial genomes in Chaetopeltidales (Chlorophyceae) and characterization of a new chlorophyte taxon
Authors: Robison Tanner , Nelson Jessica M. , Hauser Duncan A. , Lewis Louise A. , Li Fay‐Wei
Published: June 2022

Premise

Chaetopeltidales is a poorly characterized order in the Chlorophyceae, with only two plastid and no mitochondrial genomes published. Here we describe a new taxon in Chaetopeltidales, Gormaniella terricola gen. et sp. nov. and characterize both of its organellar genomes.

Methods

Gormaniella terricola was inadvertently isolated from a surface‐sterilized hornwort thallus. Light microscopy was used to characterize its vegetative morphology. Organellar genomes were assembled, annotated, and analyzed using a variety of software packages.

Results

The mitochondrial genome (66,927 bp) represents the first complete mitochondrial genome published for Chaetopeltidales. The chloroplast genome, measuring 428,981 bp, is one of the largest plastid genomes published to date and shares this large size and an incredible number of short, dispersed repeats with the other sequenced chloroplast genomes in Chaetopeltidales. Despite these shared features, the chloroplast genomes of Chaetopeltidales appear to be highly rearranged when compared to one another, with numerous inversions, translocations, and duplications, suggesting a particularly dynamic chloroplast genome. Both the chloroplast and mitochondrial genomes of G. terricola contain a number of mobile group I and group II introns, which appear to have invaded separately. Three of the introns within the mitochondrial genome encode homing endonucleases that are phylogenetically nested within those found in fungi, rather than algae, suggesting a possible case of horizontal gene transfer.

Conclusions

These results help to shed light on a poorly understood group of algae and their unusual organellar genomes, raising additional questions about the unique patterns of genome evolution within Chaetopeltidales.
Understanding barriers to diagnosis in a rare, genetic disease: Delays and errors in diagnosing schwannomatosis
Authors: Merker Vanessa L. , Slobogean Bronwyn , Jordan Justin T. , Langmead Shannon , Meterko Mark , Charns Martin P. , Elwy A. Rani , Blakeley Jaishri O. , Plotkin Scott R.
Published: June 2022

Diagnosis of rare, genetic diseases is challenging, but conceptual frameworks of the diagnostic process can guide quality improvement initiatives. Using the National Academy of Medicine diagnostic framework, we assessed the extent of, and reasons for diagnostic delays and diagnostic errors in schwannomatosis, a neurogenetic syndrome characterized by nerve sheath tumors and chronic pain. We reviewed the medical records of 97 people with confirmed or probable schwannomatosis seen in two US tertiary care clinics. Time‐to‐event analysis revealed a median time from first symptom to diagnosis of 16.7 years (95% CI, 7.5–26.0 years) and median time from first medical consultation to diagnosis of 9.8 years (95% CI, 3.5–16.2 years). Factors associated with longer times to diagnosis included initial signs/symptoms that were intermittent, non‐specific, or occurred at younger ages (p < 0.05). Thirty‐six percent of patients were misdiagnosed; misdiagnoses were of underlying genetic condition (18.6%), pain etiology (16.5%), and nerve sheath tumor presence/pathology (11.3%) (non‐mutually exclusive categories). One‐fifth (19.6%) of patients had a clear missed opportunity for genetics workup that could have led to an earlier schwannomatosis diagnosis. These results suggest that interventions in clinician education, genetic testing availability, expert review of pathology findings, and automatic triggers for genetics referrals may improve diagnosis of schwannomatosis.
Rapid Synthesis of Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds by Iodocyclization of Ynamides
Authors: Okitsu Takashi , Itoh Maho , Inui Ayaka , Muta Emiko , Nakamoto Ryota , Adachi Yuta , Wada Akimori , Hatano Manabu
Published: June 2022

Ynamides are recognized as electron‐rich π‐components and show high reactivity toward electrophiles such as iodonium salts. Here we report the iodocyclization of ene‐ynamides and arene‐ynamides leading to naphthalenes and phenanthrenes. We found these reactions were completed within 3 seconds by using I(coll)2PF6 as an iodonium reagent, and cyclized products were obtained in good to high yields. To the best of our knowledge, this method is the most rapid synthesis known to date of polycyclic aromatic compounds.
Recent trends and advancements in synthesis and applications of plant‐based green metal nanoparticles: A critical review
Authors: Guleria Anjali , Sachdeva Harshita , Saini Kirti , Gupta Komal , Mathur Jaya
Published: June 2022

Metal nanoparticles have emerged as immensely desired materials because of their wide array of applications as antimicrobial agents, catalysts, nanomagnets, biosensors, environmental remediating agents, and so forth, but the problem lies with the traditional methods of their synthesis. These methods of synthesis are expensive, complex, less efficient, and hazardous to the environment. Thus, it calls for the development of greener and environmentally benign methods of their synthesis. Researchers worldwide have been vigorously trying to develop safer, simple, efficient, scalable, and eco‐friendly methods to synthesize different metal nanoparticles. For this, various green protocols using diversified species of plants, algae, fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms have been successfully developed.

The purpose of this study is to give a detailed account of recent trends in synthesis and diverse applications of plant‐based green metal nanoparticles.

Plant‐mediated synthesis of nanoparticles has emerged as the most sought‐after route since it is economical, convenient, rapid, reliable, stable, and can be used for large‐scale productions. The plant‐based nanoparticles have also exhibited a broad spectrum of applications in the fields of biomedicine, chemistry, physics, and environmental sciences.

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in plant‐mediated green synthesis of metal nanoparticles, their plausible synthetic mechanism, characterization techniques, and factors affecting their synthesis. This article also provides insights into the diverse applications exhibited by the nanoparticles covering their mechanistic aspects.
Improvement of fouling resistance and mechanical reinforcement of polyacrylonitrile membranes by amino‐functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes for membrane bioreactors applications
Authors: Iranpoury Amin , Mehrnia Mohammad Reza , Jafari Seyed Hassan , Najmi Mahnoush
Published: June 2022

The goal of the current research is to simultaneously improve the fouling resistance and mechanical properties of polyacrylonitrile ultrafiltration membrane for membrane bioreactors (MBR) applications by a relatively easy method. For this purpose, amino‐functionalized carbon nanotubes (NH2‐MWCNTs) were employed, which have exceptional mechanical properties, hydrophilic functions, and good interaction with polyacrylonitrile. It was used to fabricate nanocomposite membranes with different MWCNTs contents. The rheological and thermodynamical aspects of the phase separation process were investigated to understand the mechanism of the membrane formation. The related characteristics including morphological, mechanical, and chemical properties of the membrane as well as its performance were studied. In the end, the synthesized membranes were used in an MBR setup for further investigations. The Pure water flux data shows considerable improvement from 810 LMH for the neat membrane to 1055 LMH for the 0.3 wt% NH2‐MWCNTs nanocomposite membrane. Mechanical enhancement was confirmed with about a 24% increase in the tensile strength and 61% for elongation at break. The membrane with 0.3 wt% NH2‐MWCNTs revealed the best porosity, fouling resistance, and performance in MBR with 95% flux recovery ratio and 64% improvement in permeated flux compared to the neat membrane.
Klimaschutz im Verkehrswegebau – Ausbau der Infrastruktur in Deutschland
Authors: Leucker Roland
Published: June 2022

Der CO2‐Ausstoß ist zum entscheidenden Maßstab geworden. Die neue Bundesregierung betont, dass Zukunftsinvestitionen sich daran messen lassen müssen, wie klima‐ und umweltfreundlich sie sind. Das betrifft alle Bereiche von Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft – gerade auch den Verkehrssektor. Bund und Länder sind sich hier einig, dass es neben einer reinen Antriebswende – hin zur Elektromobilität auf Schiene und Straße – vor allem auch einen Mobilitätswandel braucht, mit einem deutlich stärkeren Bahnsystem gerade dort, wo der ÖPNV bislang noch nicht ausreichend stark war. Für einen effizienten ÖPNV braucht es mancherorts auch neue U‐Bahn‐, Stadt‐ und Straßenbahnlinien, ergänzende Gleise, längere Bahnsteige etc. – und damit auch neue Schienenbauwerke, wie Brücken, Tunnel etc. Grundsatz muss hierbei sein, dass Verkehrsbauten zwar einerseits so effizient und emissionsfrei wie möglich hergestellt, aber andererseits auch nicht durch ausufernde Kosten verhindert werden. Eine nahezu emissionsfreie Bauweise ist dabei eher langfristig zu erwarten. Entscheidend ist, dass jedes Jahr relevante Mengen an CO2 eingespart werden.
Exploring the Q‐markers of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels of anti‐platelet aggregation activity based on spectrum–effect relationships
Authors: Zhang Kaixue , Shen Xue , Yang Li , Chen Qin , Wang Ningning , Li Yimeng , Song Pingshun , Jiang Min , Bai Gang , Yang Pingrong , Yang Zhigang
Published: June 2022

The radix of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (RAS) is widely used in medicinal and dietary applications in China, and has the function for replenishing and invigorating the blood, stopping pain and moistening the intestines. In this study, RAS from the main geoherb regions showed better efficacy in inhibiting Adenosine diphosphate‐ or arachidonic acid‐induced platelet aggregation than those from non‐geoherb regions. In addition, the HPLC fingerprints of 30 batches of RAS, as part of the comprehensive evaluation of RAS, were established and used for spectral efficiency to screen the quality markers for anti‐platelet aggregation activities. Five compounds in RAS—senkyunolide I, uridine, guanine, ferulic acid and adenosine—were demonstrated to contribute significantly to the anti‐platelet aggregation activity. These bioactive compounds, especially senkyunolide I and ferulic acid with stronger activities, could be used as quality markers of RAS for quality control of RAS.
Reexperiencing and anxious arousal symptoms in relation to volumes of thalamus nuclei in posttraumatic stress spectrum adults
Authors: Casteen Emily J. , Nielsen Sienna R. , Olson Elizabeth A. , Frederiks Kevin , Rosso Isabelle M.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Trauma reexperiencing is dominated by recollection of sensory‐perceptual elements of the trauma, pointing to involvement of the sensory thalamus. This study examined posttraumatic stress symptoms in relation to volumes of thalamic nuclei that were grouped based on their predominant functions. We hypothesized that reexperiencing, controlling for other symptom dimensions, would correlate with volumes of thalamic nuclei involved in primary and higher‐order sensory processing.

Methods

Seventy‐two trauma‐exposed adults were interviewed with the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM‐IV and underwent 3T magnetic resonance imaging. Scores were derived for reexperiencing, anxious arousal, dysphoric arousal, emotional numbing, and avoidance symptoms. These were entered as simultaneous predictors in five separate regression analyses, with age, sex, and total thalamus volume as covariates, predicting volumesf of five thalamus nuclear groupings corrected for intracranial volume: Specific sensory, associative‐sensory, associative‐cognitive, intralaminar, and motor groupings.

Results

Reexperiencing symptoms were significantly positively correlated with volumes of the motor thalamic grouping, which included the ventral anterior, ventral lateral, and ventromedial nuclei. Anxious arousal was significantly negatively correlated with volumes of all five thalamic groupings.

Conclusions

Reexperiencing symptoms were correlated with volumes of the motor thalamus, while anxious arousal symptoms were related to all thalamic subregion volumes. Thalamic nuclei involved in motor functions, including oculomotor control and motor planning, may be implicated in posttraumatic reexperiencing symptoms.