bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiphase layered transition metal oxide positive electrodes for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Gabriel Eric , Hou Dewen , Lee Eungje , Xiong Hui
Published: March 2022

Multiphase layered transition metal oxides (LTMOs) for sodium ion battery (SIB) positive electrodes with phase interfaces across multiple length scales are a promising avenue toward practical, high‐performance SIBs. Combinations of phases can complement each other's strengths and mitigate their weaknesses if their interfaces are carefully controlled. Intra‐ and interparticle phase interactions from nanoscale to macroscale must be carefully tuned to generate distinct effects on properties and performance. An informed design strategy must be paired with relevant synthesis techniques and complemented by spatially resolved characterization tools to manipulate different length scales and interfaces. This review examines the design, synthesis, and characterization strategies that have been demonstrated for the preparation of heterogeneous, multiphasic LTMOs with phase interfaces across varied length scales.
Differentiate allogenic and autogenic controls on the formation of parasequences and depositional sequences of a tide‐ and wave‐dominated carbonate platform (Lower Cretaceous, Kopet‐Dagh Basin, Iran)
Authors: Sharafi Mahmoud , Reolid Matías , Bayet‐Goll Aram , Mohamadi Maryam , Khanehbad Mohammad , Mahboubi Asadollah , Moussavi‐Harami Reza
Published: March 2022

The carbonate‐dominated successions of the Tirgan Formation (Latest Barremian‐Early Aptian) in the Kopet‐Dagh Basin (Iran) were studied to decipher the tectonic and eustatic sea‐level effects, as well as the autogenic influence on lateral and vertical facies changes, depositional environment, and sequence stratigraphy of the tide‐wave‐dominated sediments at the northern margin of the Neo‐Tethys Ocean. Fourteen facies were identified in the studied sequences, here grouped into five facies associations according to the depositional setting: tidal flat (A), lagoon (B), shoal (C), shallow open‐marine (D), and deep‐open marine (E). A third‐order depositional sequence, including a transgressive system tract (TST) and a highstand system tract (HST) was also identified, along with several medium‐ and small‐scale, thickening‐ and shallowing‐upward cycles (parasequences). The development of the depositional sequence and parasequences of the studied successions of the Tirgan Formation were controlled by interactions between allogenic (tectonic and eustasy) and autogenic factors (wave and tidal hydrodynamic regimes). The allogenic factors mainly affected the stacking pattern and parasequence development of the TST deposits in the lower part of the Tirgan Formation, characterized mainly by the deep‐open marine association. Autogenic factors display a main influence on the stacking pattern and formation of the HST deposits and related parasequences, characterized by shallow open‐marine‐lagoon–shoal associations developed in the upper part of the Tirgan Formation. The tectono‐sedimentary model for the evolution of the tide‐wave‐dominated carbonate platform represented by the Tirgan Formation may be useful for further studies on sedimentary basin evolution or palaeogeographic reconstructions of the Neo‐Tethys margin.
Design optimization of ejectors using ANN and GA
Authors: Shukla Prabhav B. , Mydur Manoj , Nayak Subhash , Krishna V. , Ponangi Babu Rao
Published: March 2022

Ejectors are devices that are based on the principle of momentum transfer. A primary fluid passes through a nozzle that is usually of converging–diverging cross‐section so that the flow reaches supersonic velocity at the exit. Consequently, a low‐pressure region is created just outside the nozzle exit. This pressure gradient draws out the secondary fluid, into the ejector through the annular space—a phenomenon known as entrainment. This paper attempts to design and optimize an ejector with 1,1‐dichloro‐1‐fluoroethane as the working fluid. The governing equations that accurately predict the behavior of the working fluid, are solved using the finite volume method after the discretization of the flow domain, using ANSYS Fluent. A database is created over 1008 similar computational fluid dynamics simulations by recording the input parameter values and the corresponding output parameter values. It is then used to define a function that can precisely predict the output for an unknown set of input parameters. This is achieved through the implementation of artificial neural networks—a surrogate modeling technique. The accuracy of the model is determined from the coefficient of correlation. The objective function thus obtained is optimized with the help of a genetic algorithm (GA)—a nature‐inspired optimization technique. The optimal design of the ejector for a set of operating conditions is obtained as the output of the GA.
Cerebral structural alterations in the patients undergoing postherpetic neuralgia: A VBM–MRI study
Authors: Niu Li , Hu Yi , Yuan Cheng‐Dong , Wu Xing‐Yan , Zheng Lei‐Lei , Zhang Yi
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to investigate the changes in gray matter (GM) volume and density in patients with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Using voxel‐based morphometry (VBM), the differences in cerebral GM volume and concentration between 25 PHN patients and 25 healthy controls with similar gender ratios, ages, and education were compared. Meanwhile, correlation analysis was performed between the value of GM volume/concentration in the brain areas with discrepancy and the visual analog scale (VAS) score/lesion duration. The global GM volume in PHN patients was lower than that of healthy controls, while the total volume of cerebrospinal fluid in PHN patients was higher than that of healthy controls. In PHN patients, the GM volume decreased in the striatum, cerebellum, precentral gyrus, middle frontal gyrus, parahippocampal gyrus, postcentral gyrus, and so forth; the GM concentration decreased in the striatum, insula, middle and posterior cingulate, and superior temporal gyrus. There was a negative correlation between GM concentration in the right parahippocampal gyrus and the VAS in patients with PHN. In PHN patients, GM volume and density in the brain regions involved in nociceptive sensation, pain perception, and integration decreased significantly. The interaction between chronic pain of PHN and alteration of the cerebral structure may contribute to the occurrence and development of PHN.
Blood myxovirus resistance protein‐1 measurement in the diagnostic work‐up of suspected COVID‐19 infection in the emergency department
Authors: Tong‐Minh Kirby , van Hooijdonk Samantha , Versnel Marjan A. , van Helden‐Meeuwsen Cornelia G. , van Hagen Petrus Martin , van Gorp Eric C. M. , Endeman Henrik , van der Does Yuri , Dalm Virgil A. S. H. , Dik Willem A
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Myxovirus resistance protein 1 (MxA) is a biomarker that is elevated in patients with viral infections. The goal of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of MxA in diagnosing COVID‐19 infections in the emergency department (ED) patients.

Methods

This was a single‐center prospective observational cohort study including patients with a suspected COVID‐19 infection. The primary outcome of this study was a confirmed COVID‐19 infection by RT‐PCR test. MxA was assessed using an enzyme immunoassay on whole blood and receiver operating chart and area under the curve (AUC) analysis was conducted. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, and positive predictive value of MxA on diagnosing COVID‐19 at the optimal cut‐off of MxA was determined.

Results

In 2021, 100 patients were included. Of these patients, 77 patients had COVID‐19 infection and 23 were non‐COVID‐19. Median MxA level was significantly higher (p < .001) in COVID‐19 patients compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients, respectively 1933 and 0.1 ng/ml. The AUC of MxA on a confirmed COVID‐19 infection was 0.941 (95% CI: 0.867–1.000). The optimal cut‐off point of MxA was 252 ng/ml. At this cut‐off point, the sensitivity of MxA on a confirmed COVID‐19 infection was 94% (95% CI: 85%–98%) and the specificity was 91% (95% CI: 72%–99%).

Conclusion

MxA accurately distinguishes COVID‐19 infections from bacterial infections and noninfectious diagnoses in the ED in patients with a suspected COVID‐19 infection. If the results can be validated, MxA could improve the diagnostic workup and patient flow in the ED.
A coaxial excitation, dual‐red‐green‐blue/near‐infrared paired imaging system toward computer‐aided detection of parathyroid glands in situ and ex vivo
Authors: Kim Yoseph , Lee Hun Chan , Kim Jongchan , Oh Eugene , Yoo Jennifer , Ning Bo , Lee Seung Yup , Ali Khalid Mohamed , Tufano Ralph P. , Russell Jonathon O. , Cha Jaepyeong
Published: March 2022

Early and precise detection of parathyroid glands (PGs) is a challenging problem in thyroidectomy due to their small size and similar appearance to surrounding tissues. Near‐infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) has stimulated interest as a method to localize PGs. However, high incidence of false positives for PGs has been reported with this technique. We introduce a prototype equipped with a coaxial excitation light (785 nm) and a dual‐sensor to address the issue of false positives with the NIRAF technique. We test the clinical feasibility of our prototype in situ and ex vivo using sterile drapes on 10 human subjects. Video data (1287 images) of detected PGs were collected to train, validate and compare the performance for PG detection. We achieved a mean average precision of 94.7% and a 19.5‐millisecond processing time/detection. This feasibility study supports the effectiveness of the optical design and may open new doors for a deep learning‐based PG detection method.
A case of ovarian Teratoma with nephroblastoma presenting abdomen metastasis
Authors: Wu Yinan , Chu Chu , Zhang Jingyuan , Nitish Beharee , Ni Jing , Xu Xinyu
Published: March 2022

Background

Teratoma with nephroblastoma (TWN) is an extremely rare condition. Since 1984, only 45 reported cases have been identified. To our knowledge, there have been only two cases of TWN of ovarian origin.

Case presentation

We described a case of ovarian TWN who presented to us with painless abdominal masses 6 months after undergoing right ovarian cystectomy. The tumor had spread to the abdomen due to spontaneous rupture of the ovarian cyst and failure to undergo chemotherapy. Microscopically, the ovarian mass exhibited the typical components of a mature cystic teratoma. The tumors found in both the ovary and abdomen contained the nephroblastoma components and were strongly positive for WT‐1. The patient was advised to undergo chemotherapy and she was lost to follow‐up.

Conclusion

A careful histological examination is necessary for an accurate diagnosis, which is based on morphology and extensive immunohistochemical studies. According to the literature, surgical excision alone seems reasonable as the prognosis of TWN is considered to be good. However, due to the spontaneous rupture of the ovarian cyst, chemotherapy of the patient after the first surgery was necessary in our case. Therefore, additional case studies are needed to clarify the standardized treatment of TWN.
What influences attitudes toward professionalism in dental students?
Authors: Shah Astha A. , Dempster Laura J. , Singhal Sonica , Quiñonez Carlos R.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To explore dental students’ attitudes toward professionalism and the environmental, institutional, and student‐related factors that may be associated with these attitudes.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey, conducted in 2020, analyzed data from a convenience sample of undergraduate dental students at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto. Attitudes toward professionalism were assessed using Likert scale statements related to the American Dental Education Association professionalism values of “Fairness,” “Responsibility,” “Respect,” and “Service‐mindedness.” Codes ranging from 1 to 5 were assigned for the different levels of agreement and an “attitudes toward professionalism score” (ATPS) was computed by summing the codes for all the statements. Greater agreement with the statements or a higher ATPS indicated more positive attitudes toward professionalism. Association of the ATPS with environmental, institutional, and student‐related factors was investigated using non‐parametric tests and linear regression.

Results

The survey yielded a response rate of 51.4% (n = 221). The majority of respondents agreed with all professionalism statements. Results showed that the ATPS was significantly associated with and decreased for students who viewed their future patients as consumers (β = −3.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −5.21, −1.60), experienced unprofessional faculty behavior (β = −2.45, 95% CI: −4.88, −0.01), and chose to pursue dentistry for financial benefit (β = −2.55, 95% CI: −4.63, −0.47).

Conclusion

This sample of dental students generally had positive attitudes toward professionalism and numerous factors were associated with these attitudes. Enhancing the instruction and reinforcement of professional attitudes may be important to students’ application of professionalism in decisions regarding clinical practice.
Local variability in snow concentrations of chlorinated persistent organic pollutants as a source of large uncertainty in interpreting spatial patterns at all scales
Authors: Pawlak Filip , Koziol Krystyna Anna , Kosek Klaudia , Polkowska Zaneta
Published: March 2022

Single point sampling, a widespread practice in snow studies in remote areas, due to logistical constraints, can present an unquantified error to the final study results. The low concentrations of studied chemicals, such as chlorinated persistent organic pollutants, contribute to the uncertainty. We conducted a field experiment in the Arctic to estimate the error stemming from differences in the composition of snow at short distances (1–3 m), including 13 single organochlorine pesticides and 6 polychlorinated biphenyls, thus providing the most detailed published dataset on the subject. We contrasted this variability with the uncertainty at larger spatial scales, both within one valley (regional scale, this study) and as described in the worldwide literature. The range of values for the coefficient of variation for local samples was 20–58% for single organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and 33–54% for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and for regional samples it was 21–69% for OCPs and 65–93% for PCBs. We suggest that, to observe the actual changes in the concentration of selected compounds in snow, they should vary at the level of 40–60%, depending on the compound in question. The uncertainty margin remains much smaller than the current discrepancy between observation data and atmospheric deposition models considering snow, deeming field data on snow concentrations a useful ground‐truthing dataset. However, field observations on spatial differences at all scales need to be interpreted with caution, and the dataset provided here on the local sampling uncertainty helps define the margins of such interpretations.
Evaluation of gridded precipitation datasets over Madagascar
Authors: Randriatsara Herijaona Hani‐Roge Hundilida , Hu Zhenghua , Xu Xiyan , Ayugi Brian , Sian Kenny Thiam Choy Lim Kam , Mumo Richard , Ongoma Victor
Published: March 2022

Madagascar is among the countries whose agriculture is heavily dependent on rainfall. However, the country lacks accurate and reliable early warning systems for droughts and floods, partly due to insufficient station rainfall data. The purpose of this study is to identify rainfall datasets that can complement observation data by appraising 15 datasets (gauge‐based, reanalysis, and satellite estimates). The study compares the temporal and spatial performance of datasets at annual and seasonal scales during 1983–2015. In all the analyses, CHIRPS presents lower biases, so it is chosen as the reference data in the Taylor diagram for the final evaluation analysis. Even though ranking datasets is neither possible nor appropriate since each dataset performs differently throughout each analysis, some datasets show reasonable consistency. This is the case with MSWEP, ERA5, and UDEL. On the other hand, MERRA2, CMAP, and TAMSAT are least preferred for use due to their considerable biases (specifically TAMSAT during the dry season). CRU, PRECL, ERAINT, CFSR, and JRA55 also present some degrees of deficiencies at either annual or seasonal scales. These findings are crucial for any future rainfall analysis over the country in order to minimize inaccuracy in monitoring rainfall.
Climatology of Northeast China cold vortices during the warm season: A comparison of ERA5 and MERRA‐2 reanalyses
Authors: Gong Ying , Yin Jinfang , Wang Shu , Yang Sen , Li Deqin , Pan Xiao
Published: March 2022

The Northeast China cold vortex (NCCV) is an important type of synoptic scale system, which often induces local torrential rainfall events, strong winds, and lightning during warm seasons (May–September). By using an automatic identification method that involves a three‐step algorithm, NCCVs during warm seasons of 1980–2018 were identified based on ERA5 and MERRA‐2, the latest generation of reanalysis. Employing this recognition result and intensive surface observations, climatology of the NCCV was analysed. With respect to average climatic characteristics, the results indicate that the NCCV is most frequently located from the east of the Yablonov Mountains to the west of the Xiao Hinggan Mountains. The average rain belt and cold tongues resulting from NCCVs both mainly fall within Northeast China, Japan, Southeast Russia, and the Korean Peninsula, causing precipitation and temperature anomalies there, especially in Northeast China. Regarding interannual variation, the number of NCCV‐occurrence hours varies at a cycle of about 3 years, and has increased in the last 10 years compared to 1999–2008. The intensity of the NCCV also fluctuates in a cycle of approximately 3 years and shows a weakening trend, particularly from July to September. As for life characteristics, NCCVs usually form at the border area between China, Mongolia, and Russia, then develop and move eastwards, and finally disappear in areas of Heilongjiang in China, southeastern Russia, and the Okhotsk Sea. The NCCV moves in complex paths; among all 55 types of routes that occurred in warm seasons of 1980–2018, the most favoured paths are east, southeast, northeast, southeast‐to‐northeast, and circular. The above results based on the up‐to‐date reanalysis datasets with high resolutions are updates and supplements to previous studies, further improving our understanding of the NCCV in aspects of its cooling effects, weakening trends, and crucially, paths of movement and their occurrence frequency.
Ultra‐fast screening of free fatty acids in human plasma using ion mobility mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Yinghao , Zhang Xianxie , Hu Wenya , Dong Chenglong , Fu Dali , Habtegabir Sara Girmay , Han Yehua
Published: March 2022

Free fatty acids are involved in many metabolic regulations in the human body. In this work, an ultra‐fast screening method was developed for the analysis of free fatty acids using trapped ion mobility spectrometry coupled with mass spectrometry. Thirty‐three free fatty acids possessing different unsaturation degrees and different carbon chain lengths were baseline separated and characterized within milliseconds. Saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated free fatty acids showed different linearities between collision cross‐section values and m/z. The establishment of correlations between structures and collision cross‐section values provided additional qualitative information and made it possible to determine free fatty acids which were out of the standards pool but possessed the confirmed linearity. The gas‐phase separation made the quantitative analysis reliable and repeatable at a much lower time cost than chromatographic methods. The sensitivity was comparable to and even better than the reported results. The method was validated and applied to profiling free fatty acids in human plasma. Saturated free fatty acids abundance in the fasting state was found to be lower than that in the postprandial state, while unsaturated species abundance was found higher. The method was fast and robust with minimum sample pretreatment, so it was promising in the high‐throughput screening of free fatty acids.
What happens to species at the rear‐edge of their distribution in arid regions? The case of Juniperus thurifera L. in the Aurès Mountains (Algeria)
Authors: Kafi Imen , Calvão Teresa , Yahi Nassima
Published: March 2022

Algerian populations of Juniperus thurifera are the most restricted in terms of distribution and the least studied among all populations of the entire range of the species in the western Mediterranean region. Although this species is regarded as being of least concern according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), many studies have pointed to the need for its conservation, especially in North Africa, where populations are fragmented and the potential for regeneration is reduced. Understanding the current range of distribution of J. thurifera in Algeria and the environmental factors responsible for this is of key importance for the protection and restoration of these populations. In the present study, a maximum entropy approach (MaxEnt) was used to model the distribution of J. thurifera. Thirty occurrence records were analyzed in combination with climatic, topographic, and anthropogenic predictors at two different spatial resolutions (900 m and 30 m). The best‐performing model included climatic, topographic, and anthropogenic predictors, suggesting that the distribution of the species is influenced by a combination of factors, while the performance of climatic and topographic models was similar. The most important predictors of the occurrence of Algerian J. thurifera are water‐related factors. However, when considering only topographic variables, altitude has a huge impact. Finally, using improved resolution for modeling distribution enhanced the prediction capability of the model (AUC = 0.942). The findings of the present study confirmed the resilience of J. thurifera, and highlighted the tolerance to drought of Algerian populations.
Lending relationships and a corporate liquidity shortage: Evidence from the COVID‐19 shock in Japan
Authors: Tsuruta Daisuke
Published: March 2022

We investigate the effects of lending relationships between banks and borrowers on loan supply during the economic shock caused by the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic. Using bank–firm matched data for Japan to control for several firm‐ and bank‐specific unobserved effects, we show that banks with close relationships with borrowing firms offer more bank loans to these firms during the COVID‐19 shock. This effect is larger if the borrowing firms' cash flows decrease substantially during the shock. These results imply that banks acted as liquidity providers for borrowers during sudden and unpredictable shocks if their relationships with firms were close.
On the minimality of quasi‐sum production models in microeconomics
Authors: Du Yawei , Fu Yu , Wang Xiaoshu
Published: March 2022

Historically, the minimality of surfaces is extremely important in mathematics, and the study of minimal surfaces is a central problem, which has been widely concerned by mathematicians. Meanwhile, the study of the shape and the properties of the production models is a great interest subject in economic analysis. The aim of this paper is to study the minimality of quasi‐sum production functions as graphs in a Euclidean space. We obtain minimal characterizations of quasi‐sum production functions with two or three factors as hypersurfaces in Euclidean spaces. As a result, our results also give a classification of minimal quasi‐sum hypersurfaces in dimensions two and three.
Analysis of wave scattering on piezoelectric surface with flexoelectric effect
Authors: Mondal Sonali , Sahu Sanjeev A. , Nirwal Sonal
Published: March 2022

In this paper, a mathematical study is carried out to investigate the reflection phenomenon of plane QP waves at mechanically traction‐free and dielectrically charge‐free boundary surface of a pre‐stressed rotating piezoelectric half‐space. The microstructure effect (flexoelectric effect) is considered in the piezoelectric half‐space along with micro‐inertial effect as well as strain gradient effect. Due to the reflection phenomenon at the free surface, five kinds of coupled elastic waves are generated. The reflection coefficients are evaluated numerically. Graphs are plotted, and detailed discussion is presented to elaborate the effects of initial stresses, rotation, and flexoelectric coefficient on the reflection coefficients. It is observed that aforementioned parameters have remarkable influence upon the reflection coefficients of the reflected waves.
Loss analysis and theoretical efficiency limit of monolithic cell
Authors: Xue Shujian , Goryll Michael , Bowden Stuart G.
Published: March 2022

Solar cells industries have a trend of making larger wafers, which leads to larger ohmic loss. Halved and shingling cells possess advantages, such as lower ohmic and shading loss, which gives them an advantage over normal solar cells. Monolithic cell resembles halved and shingling cells but without the necessity to cut original cells into strings of smaller cells. The monolithic cell has multiple string cells on the same wafer interconnected with fingers front‐to‐front and back‐to‐back. As a result, the monolithic cell possesses the same advantages while eliminating the cutting‐edge recombination loss. The disadvantage of the monolithic cell is the extra loss caused by the unseparated base region of string cells. In previous studies, efforts have been devoted to reducing this loss by increasing the internal resistance between string cells. In this paper, a quantitative analysis is proposed. It provides means to calculate the effect of different parameters on the extra power loss. Under this guideline, the theoretical minimum extra efficiency loss can also be obtained through directional optimization. As a result, the loss due to the interconnected base region can be further reduced from 1.5% absolute (1.5%abs) to less than 0.6%abs.
Robust optimization of composite cylindrical shell by a trigonometric mixed response surface method
Authors: Zheng Guanchao , Mohd Ariffin Mohd Khairol Anuar Bin , Ahmad Siti Azfanizam Binti , Abdul Aziz Nuraini Binti , Xu Wen
Published: March 2022

The response surface method (RSM) as a popular fitting method has been applied to numerous engineering issues. However, the existing RSM models cannot satisfy the analysis of complex nonconvex structure problems, especially in composite cylindrical shells. Thus a trigonometric mixed response surface method (TMRSM) is suggested to improve the accuracy and the fitting performance combing optimal Latin hypercube design (LHD), the moving least square method and the trigonometric functions. An improved robust design optimization (RDO) process is performed based on the weighted norm method and reliable constraints using the above TMRSM model to obtain more robust optimal design results. Three example functions and a composite cylindrical pressure shell are given to verify the effectiveness of the TMRSM model. This pressure shell design can check the robustness of the improved RDO process.
An experimental investigation into the mechanical behavior of UHMWPE and basalt polyetherimide bonded composites at high strain rates
Authors: Prasad Sanjay , Chouhan Hemant , Singh Kalyan K. , Kartikeya Kartikeya , Ram Khushi , Ahmed Aisha , Bhatnagar Naresh
Published: March 2022

Material systems capable of handling both the ballistic impact and blast waves are necessary for security forces. In this study, the high strain rate performance of monolithic and bonded ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) with high‐temperature resistant basalt/polyetherimide (B/PEI) composite is presented. Individual composite laminates were fabricated using vacuum‐assisted compression molding. Subsequently, cylindrical test coupons were cut using a high‐pressure waterjet. A suitable adhesive grade was used for the bonding of two different composite types. The dynamic compression studies were conducted on a split‐Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB). For identical incident energies, the range of strain rates attained by monolithic UHMWPE, B/PEI and bonded composites differed significantly. Monolithic UHMWPE achieved the highest rates of loading, whereas higher stresses were recorded for the B/PEI composite. Yet, monolithic UHMWPE, owing to higher constant stress plastic flow, results in higher toughness. Bonded composites revealed hybrid properties with delamination of UHMWPE as the primary failure mode. High‐speed imaging exposed severe deformation of UHMWPE during dynamic compression. SEM micrographs revealed fiber pull‐out and deforming behavior of UHMWPE and brittle failure of B/PEI composite. B/PEI in a bonded composite system never failed under dynamic compression within the experimental range, thus providing a window of opportunity to tailor‐make better ballistic and blast protection materials.
Generalized Multidentate Ligand Chelating‐Grafting Strategy for Construction of Amorphous Metal Oxides Based Triple‐Layered Nanotubes
Authors: Yang Kang-Xin , Zhou Bing-Xin , Wang Xiao-Rui , Li Bo , Shi Jing-Hui , Lian Ji-Chun , Huang Gui-Fang , Pan Anlian , Huang Wei-Qing
Published: March 2022

Intricate hollow transition‐metal oxides (TMOs)‐based hetero‐nanostructures demonstrate intriguing applications in electronics, energy storage, and catalysis owing to their exotic electronic features and geometric complexity; however, manipulating their topological features and interfacial interactions of different subunits, is a grand challenge because most TMOs are intrinsic non‐layered crystals. Herein, a generalized multidentate ligand chelating‐grafting strategy for creating various amorphous TMOs‐based triple‐layered hetero‐nanotubes with face‐to‐face contact is demonstrated, by taking ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelating agent and melamine‐cyanuric acid (M‐CA) supramolecular complex‐polymer as a proof‐of‐concept. This strategy primarily depends on controlling the chelation of coordinated covalent bonds and grafting of hydrogen bonds, in which EDTA is utilized to chelate metal ions, and subsequently grafted to M‐CA supramolecular surface, followed by annealing treatment. Merited by the optimized structure in three natures of nanotubes‐interface‐heterolayers, the obtained hollow nanostructure possesses superior photocatalytic performance: the optimized a‐ZnO/C/CN hetero‐nanotube exhibits high hydrogen evolution rate of 400.01 μmol h−1 g−1, outperforming the bulk CN by about 14.29‐fold. The synthesis of various a‐TMOs‐based complex hollow nanostructures and the demonstration of high catalytic activity are expected to enable fundamental studies of cavity, hereto‐interface, and dimensionality effects on their properties and facilitate their use in catalysis and other applications.
Bank re‐erosion action to promote sediment supply and channel diversification: Feedback from a restoration test on the Rhine
Authors: Chardon Valentin , Schmitt Laurent , Clutier Anne
Published: March 2022

River regulation alters hydrological and sediment regimes and consequently affects habitat complexity and dynamics, biodiversity and ecosystem services. Although channel bank erosion is a key geomorphological process supplying alluvial channels with coarse sediments and diversifying aquatic and riparian habitats, banks have often been stabilized to limit erosion risk to human activities and facilities. The objective of this paper is to assess the effects, and their sustainability, of bank protection removal on a 300‐m long reach of the Old Rhine (France/Germany) to promote sediment supply, channel diversification and a rehabilitation of fluvial morpho‐sedimentary processes. This action was combined with the construction of two island groynes to locally increase bank erosion processes. Yearly detailed monitoring was implemented over 6 years, including classical bathymetric surveys, airborne topo‐bathymetric and terrestrial LiDAR, and bed grain‐size and bedload tracking. Following a Q15 flood, the restoration induced a weak sediment supply. The restoration diversified habitats due to the implementation of the two island groynes, inducing bank scouring and the creation of new macroforms, as well as local bed grain‐size diversification and fining. The cross‐sectional diversity of the restored water channel was close to the regularization engineering phase. Channel bedform diversification persisted 6 years due to the persistence of the two island groynes. The action induced the rehabilitation of fluvial forms, in a static manner, rather than the rehabilitation of fluvial morpho‐sedimentary processes, which raises questions about the sustainability of the benefits of such management actions in terms of fluvial functionality and naturality.
Stable and Highly Dispersed Nickel Catalysts on Ce‐Zr‐O Solid Solutions for CO2Methanation
Authors: Sun Huayu , Wang Hong , Liu Xuemei , Zhang Ziyang , Zhang Siran , Wang Xitao , Liu Yuan
Published: March 2022

To improve the low‐temperature activity and anti‐sintering ability of Ni‐based catalyst for CO2methanation, nickel catalysts supported on ZrO2, CeO2and Ce−Zr−O solid solutions are prepared via citrate complexation‐impregnation method, and characterized by BET, TPR, CO2‐TPD, H2‐TPD, XRD, XPS, TEM and ICP. The relationship between the structure and catalytic performance is also investigated systematically. The results show that Ni/Ce0.2Zr0.8O2catalyst exhibits the highest CO2conversion of 71 % at 250 °C and the highest stability, which is mainly attributed to the high dispersion of active metal nickel and its small particle size. The optimized interaction between Ce−Zr−O solid solution and Ni is in favor of the high dispersion and the stability of Ni nanoparticles on the surface, and enhances the sintering resistance of Ni catalyst. In addition, the similar TOF values of catalysts in different supports indicate that for improving low‐temperature activity of this system, the dispersion of Ni NPs is critical.
Bandgap Engineering and Oxygen Vacancies of NixV2O5+x (x = 1, 2, 3) for Efficient Visible Light‐Driven CO2 to CO with Nearly 100% Selectivity
Authors: Chen Yong , Zhang Yuanming , Wang Wenjing , Xu Xiaoming , Li Yang , Du Mengyang , Li Zhaosheng , Zou Zhigang
Published: March 2022

It is difficult to design a new single‐component photocatalyst to simultaneously possess a bandgap small enough to absorb most of sunlight and strong redox ability to reduce CO2 into value‐added chemical fuels. Herein, bandgap engineering of nickel vanadate compounds (NixV2O5+x, x = 1, 2, 3) is rationally designed to overcome the above challenge. Through changing the Ni:V ratio, the bandgap and band edge positions of nickel vanadates can be regulated, enabling Ni2V2O7 and Ni3V2O8 to reduce CO2 in the presence of water under visible light irradiation that do not exist in NiV2O6. Ni 3d orbitals of Ni2V2O7 and Ni3V2O8 replace V 3d orbitals of NiV2O6 and hybridize with O 2p orbitals to form the valence band maximums, resulting in their negative shifts. Meanwhile, the relatively weaker effect of the crystal field in VO4 tetrahedron over Ni2V2O7 and Ni3V2O8 results in less V 3d split, thus making the conduction band edges to shift upward. In addition, higher concentration of oxygen vacancies over Ni2V2O7 can further enhance its photocatalytic activity for CO2 conversion into CO with nearly 100% selectivity by prolonging the lifetime of photogenerated carriers and improving the chemisorption of CO2.
Ni Foam Supported TiO2 Nanorod Arrays with CdS Branches: Type II and Z‐Scheme Mechanisms Coexisted Monolithic Catalyst Film for Improved Photocatalytic H2 Production
Authors: Li Mingli , Wei Meng , Xie Xiaoer , Dong Qianwen , Gao Qiongzhi , Cai Xin , Zhang Shengsen , Peng Feng , Fang Yueping , Yang Siyuan
Published: March 2022

TiO2 has garnered a flourish of interest in the field of energy storage and energy conversion. Herein, a new generation of 3D Ni foam supported in situ grown 1D TiO2 nanoarray (Ni/TiO2) is successfully prepared, through an easy solution‐phase hydrothermal process, and then CdS nanorods branched Ni/TiO2 nanoarrays are fabricated (Ni/TiO2@CdS). Their formation parameters and growth mechanism are carefully studied. Both Ni/TiO2 and Ni/TiO2@CdS monolithic catalysts exhibit advantaged photocatalytic (PC) and photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) water splitting properties compared with that of most previously reported TiO2‐based film photocatalysts. Mechanism investigation reveals that both type II and Z‐scheme charge transport mechanisms coexist in Ni/TiO2@CdS sample, and an additional Z‐scheme charge transfer effect accelerates the photogenerated charge separation and transport efficiency. This study may open a new avenue for the utilization of TiO2‐based film catalysts in a broader field of energy and environmental catalysis areas.
Insights into the glycerol transport of Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Erian Anna M. , Egermeier Michael , Marx Hans , Sauer Michael
Published: March 2022

Cellular membranes separate cells from the environment and hence, from molecules essential for their survival. To overcome this hurdle, cells developed specialized transport proteins for the transfer of metabolites across these membranes. Crucial metabolites that need to cross the membrane of each living organism, are the carbon sources. While many organisms prefer glucose as a carbon source, the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica seems to favor glycerol over glucose. The fast growth of Y. lipolytica on glycerol and its flexible metabolism renders this yeast a fascinating organism to study the glycerol metabolism. Based on sequence similarities to the known fungal glycerol transporter ScStl1p and glycerol channel ScFps1p, ten proteins of Y. lipolytica were found that are potentially involved in glycerol uptake. To evaluate, which of these proteins is able to transport glycerol in vivo, a complementation assay with a glycerol transport‐deficient strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was performed. Six of the ten putative transporters enabled the growth of S. cerevisiae stl1Δ on glycerol and thus, were confirmed as glycerol transporting proteins. Disruption of the transporters in Y. lipolytica abolished its growth on 25 g/L glycerol, but the individual expression of five of the identified glycerol transporters restored growth. Surprisingly, the transporter‐disrupted Y. lipolytica strain retained its ability to grow on high glycerol concentrations. This study provides insight into the glycerol uptake of Y. lipolytica at low glycerol concentrations through the characterization of six glycerol transporters and indicates the existence of further mechanisms active at high glycerol concentrations.
Non-relativistic conformal field theory in the presence of boundary
Authors: Gupta Rajesh Kumar , Singh Ramanpreet
Published: March 2022

Abstract

We study non-relativistic conformal field theory on a flat space in the presence of a planar boundary. We compute correlation functions of primary operators and obtain the expression for the boundary conformal block. We also discuss the non-relativistic conformal field theory on a general curved background in the presence of a boundary. As an example, we discuss the spectrum of boundary primary operator and compute scaling dimensions in a fermionic theory near one and three spatial dimensions.
Exact solution of the quantum integrable model associated with the twisted $$ {\mathrm{D}}_3^{(2)} $$ algebra
Authors: Li Guang-Liang , Xu Xiaotian , Hao Kun , Sun Pei , Cao Junpeng , Yang Wen-Li , Shi Kang jie , Wang Yupeng
Published: March 2022

Abstract

We generalize the nested off-diagonal Bethe ansatz method to study the quantum chain associated with the twisted $$ {D}_3^{(2)} $$

D
3

2

algebra (or the $$ {D}_3^{(2)} $$

D
3

2

model) with either periodic or integrable open boundary conditions. We obtain the intrinsic operator product identities among the fused transfer matrices and find a way to close the recursive fusion relations, which makes it possible to determinate eigenvalues of transfer matrices with an arbitrary anisotropic parameter η. Based on them, and the asymptotic behaviors and values at certain points, we construct eigenvalues of transfer matrices in terms of homogeneous T − Q relations for the periodic case and inhomogeneous ones for the open case with some off-diagonal boundary reflections. The associated Bethe ansatz equations are also given. The method and results in this paper can be generalized to the $$ {D}_{n+1}^{(2)} $$

D

n
+
1

2

model and other high rank integrable models.
Improved Monochromatic Double Stars in Edge Colorings
Authors: Sárközy Gábor N.
Published: March 2022

We give a slight improvement on the size of a monochromatic double star we can guarantee in every r-coloring of the edges of $$K_n$$

K
n

.
Klimaschutz i.w.S. nach dem Ampel-Koalitionsvertrag
Authors: Frenz Walter
Published: March 2022

Der Ampel-Koalitionsvertrag behandelt Klimaschutz umfassend und regelt zahlreiche dafür mittelbare
sehr wichtige Felder, so Umwelt- und Naturschutz, Bodenschutz sowie die Landwirtschaft.
Recent progress of fiber-based transistors: materials, structures and applications
Authors: Zhang Haozhe , Wang Zhe , Wang Zhixun , He Bing , Chen Mengxiao , Qi Miao , Liu Yanting , Xin Jiwu , Wei Lei
Published: March 2022

Wearable electronics on fibers or fabrics assembled with electronic functions provide a platform for sensors, displays, circuitry, and computation. These new conceptual devices are human-friendly and programmable, which makes them indispensable for modern electronics. Their unique properties such as being adaptable in daily life, as well as being lightweight and flexible, have enabled many promising applications in robotics, healthcare, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Transistors, one of the fundamental blocks in electronic systems, allow for signal processing and computing. Therefore, study leading to integration of transistors with fabrics has become intensive. Here, several aspects of fiber-based transistors are addressed, including materials, system structures, and their functional devices such as sensory, logical circuitry, memory devices as well as neuromorphic computation. Recently reported advances in development and challenges to realizing fully integrated electronic textile (e-textile) systems are also discussed.

Graphical Abstract
From epistemology to policy: reorienting philosophy courses for science students
Authors: Young Mark Thomas
Published: March 2022

Philosophy of science has traditionally focused on the epistemological dimensions of scientific practice at the expense of the ethical and political questions scientists encounter when addressing questions of policy in advisory contexts. In this article, I will explore how an exclusive focus on epistemology and theoretical reason can function to reinforce common, yet flawed assumptions concerning the role of scientific knowledge in policy decision making when reproduced in philosophy courses for science students. In order to address this concern, I will argue that such courses should supplement the traditional focus on theoretical reason with an analysis of the practical reasoning employed by scientists in advisory contexts. Later sections of this paper outline a teaching strategy by which this can be achieved that consists of two steps: the first examines idealized examples of scientific advising in order to highlight the irreducible role played by moral reasoning in justifying policy recommendations. The second employs argument analysis to reveal implicit moral assumptions in actual advisory reports that form the basis for class discussion. This paper concludes by examining some of the wider benefits that can be expected from adopting such an approach.
Interdisciplinarity for social justice enterprise: intersecting education, industry and community arts perspectives
Authors: Wise Kit , MacDonald Abbey , Badham Marnie , Brown Natalie , Rankin Scott
Published: March 2022

The role of interdisciplinarity in achieving authentic and transformative learning outcomes is both contested and complex. At the same time, traditional disciplinary ways of being, doing and knowing have been further tested by the impact of COVID-19 on students, schools and communities. In Tasmania, already experiencing amongst the lowest levels of educational attainment in Australia, the educational implications of COVID-19 have been polarising. Preliminary reports have employed interdisciplinary perspectives to understand how the situation is unfolding. Extremes of privilege and poverty have intensified, with accentuated disadvantage experienced by already vulnerable groups, whilst ingenuity, adaptability and innovation have flourished elsewhere. The spectrum and range of this polarisation yield compelling evidence for the inadequate address of complex societal problems through singular disciplines or institutions. This article explores storied data generated from the intersections of interdisciplinary strategy enacted across three settings: education, creative industries and community-based arts practice. The data derive from two Tasmanian case studies where interdisciplinary collaboration between the education sector, creative industries and community is well established. In subsequent discussion, the multidisciplinary authorship team make and offer meaning from participatory lived experiences of pursuing social justice outcomes prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. From this, we posit how lived experiences of interdisciplinarity impact social justice enterprise in times of increasingly complex socio-economic challenge. In addressing these concerns, we elucidate the role interdisciplinarity plays in both enabling and inhibiting social justice imperatives shared across education, creative industry and community-based arts practice immediately prior to and during a global pandemic. In so doing, we elicit the ways interdisciplinary practices, partnerships and priorities recalibrate in response to global challenges.
Rhinitis allergica in storage mite allergy
Authors: Cuevas Mandy , Polk Marie-Luise , Becker Sven , Huppertz Tilman , Hagemann Jan , Bergmann Christoph , Wrede Holger , Schlenter Wolfgang , Haxel Boris , Bergmann Karl-Christian , Klimek Ludger
Published: March 2022

Background

Storage mites are frequently found in our daily environment. Nevertheless, storage mite allergy is often neglected in allergological diagnostics and possible allergies requiring therapy are thus overlooked.

Methods

Recommendations for action are made based on a literature review from March 2021 to August 2021 in PubMed, Medline, and GoogleScholar.

Results

This review article provides an overview of the species of storage mites, sensitization rates in different countries and occupations, and co-sensitization rates to house dust mite. Recommendations for diagnosis as well as therapy are given. The importance of provocation testing as well as causal therapy by allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is presented.

Conclusion

The position paper gives recommendations for the diagnosis and therapy of allergic rhinitis in case of storage mite allergy. AIT is recommended in symptomatic allergy and proven storage mite allergy. Reliable detection by provocation testing is advised in this persistent allergy. The therapy should be carried out independently of the treatment of a possible house dust mite allergy.