bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Natural Polymer Modified Separator as a Barrier in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries to Inhibit the Shuttle of Polysulfides
Authors: Xie Dongming , Zuo Xiaoxi , Su Zhuoying , Zhu Tianming , Liu Shuang , Xiao Xin , Nan Junmin
Published: March 2022

Lithium–sulfur batteries receive widespread attention in the past decade as a result of their high theoretical specific capacity. However, the shuttle effect of soluble polysulfides produced in the battery cycle can result in low sulfur utilization and slow reaction kinetics, which seriously hinders its practical application. Herein, a carrageenan (CG)–acetylene black (AB)‐modified separator for long‐life Li–S batteries is proposed. The batteries with modified separator exhibit excellent electrochemical performance, fast redox kinetics (733 mAh g−1 at 6 C), and a low‐capacity decay of 0.042% per cycle at 2 C. More importantly, a high reversible capacity of 805 mAh g−1 can be obtained at a high sulfur loading of 3.2 mg cm−2. The performance improvement of the separator can be attributed to the outstanding adsorbing polysulfides ability of CG and the better conductivity of AB. Combined with the natural source of CG, simple preparation process, and excellent electrochemical performance, our research results provide a kind of Li–S batteries promising modification idea.
Analysis of Main Factors Limiting the Improvement of Electrochemical Performances of Low‐Concentration Electrolyte
Authors: Li Shiyou , Quan Yin , Zhang Ningshuang , Zhao Dongni , Zhang Feilong , Wang Peng , Wang Jie , Gao Cankun
Published: March 2022

The low‐concentration electrolyte possesses the benefits of desirable wettability, low viscosity, and low cost. However, the mechanism of its poor electrochemical performance is not clear. Herein, the properties of interfacial films on the surface of LiFePO4 (LFP) cathode material formed by electrolytes with different concentrations are compared by interfacial component analysis. It is shown that moderate content of lithium fluoride increases the length of Li+–ethylene carbonate bond from 1.676 to 1.824 Å through lithium bond and then decreases the desolvation activity energy of Li+ ion, which effectively promotes the desolvation process of Li+ ion at the interface of LFP/electrolyte, and finally ensures the perfect performance of the battery. That is, the fundamental cause for the undesirable electrochemical performances of the low‐concentration electrolyte is the low content of LiF components in the interface film rather than the low ionic conductivity of the electrolyte itself. This indicates the direction of optimizing the electrochemical performance of low‐concentration electrolytes.
Understanding the Impacts of Grain Size Variation, Distribution, and Recombination Losses in Halide Perovskites: A Generalized Semi‐Analytical Model from Thin‐Film to Photovoltaics
Authors: Adhyaksa Gede W.P.
Published: March 2022

Fast crystallization growth in thin‐film photovoltaic materials, often associated with solution‐based low‐cost processing, induces crystal misorientation defects called grain boundaries. Grain boundaries are generally believed to be sources of efficiency losses in photovoltaics, but their impact in halide perovskite materials is not at all trivial. Herein, a semianalytical model is proposed that leverages the standard rate equation to elucidate the microscopic impact of grain boundaries in halide perovskites. Grain boundary and surface recombination can have different impacts up to 3 orders of magnitude to carrier lifetime and quasi‐Fermi‐level splitting. Variation in grain sizes can play a greater role than the average grain size, leading to a 2% drop in photovoltaics efficiency. Heteroscedasticity in grain variation is even more problematic for large grains, which explains why samples with small grains may perform better than larger ones. A map of the power conversion efficiency of individual grains is simulated, showing that recombination current exchange among adjacent grains reduces the overall efficiency by 4%, depending on their spatial arrangement. Although carrier transport is uniquely dictated by the characteristics of grain boundaries, the generalized scheme presented herein should be useful for accommodating more complexity beyond simply the grain size effect.
Atomic substitution effects of inorganic perovskites for optoelectronic properties modulations
Authors: Chen Baian , Sun Mingzi , Chen Rui , Huang Bolong
Published: March 2022

Inorganic perovskites exhibit impressive optoelectronic properties through experimental doping or composition modification. However, the underlying mechanism of the atomic substitution effect needs to be elucidated to guide future device optimizations. In this work, we have carried out systematic research on a series of inorganic perovskites regarding their electronic, optical, and vibrational properties. The band structures are strongly affected by the B‐sites. Meanwhile, phonon dispersions have revealed that the peculiar energy band offset is determined by the varied orbital and bonding characteristics. In addition, optical properties are directly influenced by the bond lengths between B‐sites and halogens, which are regulated by atomic substitutions. In addition, the infrared active spectrum and corresponding vibration modes indicate that the metal‐halogen octahedrons were confirmed to be the main source of these vibration modes. This work reveals the atomic substation effects of inorganic perovskites, which offer significant guidance for the design of next‐generation optoelectronic devices.
Early within‐person weight gain and variability during inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa: Age‐dependent effects on treatment outcome
Authors: Kolar David R. , Meule Adrian , Naab Silke , Voderholzer Ulrich
Published: March 2022

Objective

Early weight gain during inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa (AN) is a dynamic process characterised by within‐person variability that may be age‐dependent. We examined whether age moderates the effect of within‐person weight gain and variability on treatment outcome.

Method

Within‐person level estimates of N = 2881 underweight adolescents and adults with AN for daily average weight gain (linear slope) and variability (root mean squared errors) were obtained using random‐effects modelling. Between‐person level regression analyses were calculated to assess effects on weight, eating disorder psychopathology and attaining normal body weight (body mass index [BMI]: 18.5–25 kg/m2).

Results

Higher weight gain during first 2 weeks of inpatient treatment predicted higher weight, lower drive for thinness and lower body dissatisfaction at discharge, but not lower bulimic symptoms. Moreover, it predicted a higher probability of discharge weight within normal range. Younger age was associated with stronger effects of early weight gain on weight, drive for thinness and body dissatisfaction at discharge. Weight variability was not associated with any outcome.

Conclusions

Age moderated effects of early weight gain on treatment outcomes, with larger effects for younger patients. Weight variability alone did not influence treatment across age and should be of lesser clinical concern during early inpatient treatment.
The effect of beverage taxes on youth consumption and body mass index: Evidence from Mauritius
Authors: Cawley John , Daly Michael , Thornton Rebecca
Published: March 2022

Taxes on sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs) are relatively new and there is limited evidence about their impact on SSB consumption or body mass index (BMI) (as opposed to prices, purchases, or sales), their impact on youth (as opposed to adults), or their impact in non‐Western nations. This paper adds to the evidence across all these dimensions by estimating the effect of an SSB tax on SSB consumption and the BMI of youth in Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, which we compare to Maldives, another island nation which did not implement an SSB tax during the time of our data. Results of difference‐in‐differences models indicate that the tax in Mauritius had no detectable impact on the consumption of SSBs or the BMI of the pooled sample of boys and girls. However, models estimated separately by sex indicate that the probability that boys consumed SSBs fell by 9.4 percentage points (11%). These are among the first estimates of the effect of SSB taxes on youth consumption and contribute to the limited evidence on the impact of SSB taxes on weight, and in non‐Western countries.
Bibliometric analysis of global research trends on microfinance institutions and microfinance: Suggesting new research agendas
Authors: Ali Adnan , Ramakrishnan Suresh , Faisal Faisal , Ullah Zahir
Published: March 2022

Poverty alleviation is a global problem. To alleviate poverty, microfinancing is used through microfinance institutions. There are many publications comprising empirical and literature review articles beside others focusing on this issue. Subjectivity bias is one of the issues that is seen in the literature reviews in an area of interest. This study answers the problem based on the bibliometric analysis of microfinance, micro‐finance institutions, micro‐insurance, micro‐savings, and financial inclusion with other synonyms using the Scopus Database. This article focuses on overall historical trends, publication output, prolific authors and journals, google mapping of the world‐renowned academic institutions, and highlights the shortcoming of the Scopus database by utilizing software for the first time. We use VOSviewer, for co‐authorship analysis and our results underline the leading role of United States contribution to a greater extent, while co‐citation analysis shows emerging hotspots such as financial technology including fintech, crowdfunding, and financial literacy. We concluded limited attention from scholars towards natural‐resource revenues, financial development using fintech, and crowdfunding regarding poverty alleviation. Furthermore, for the interest of the development researchers and practitioners, we have highlighted the conceptual framework for financial development, natural resource abundance, economic growth nexus through fintech, crowdfunding, financial literacy to curb poverty as new avenues for future research agenda.
Deconstructing adolescent ethnicity: A longitudinal analysis of ethnic‐racial identity development and self‐categorization
Authors: Booth Margaret Z. , Gerard Jean M. , Deom Gina M. , Frey Christopher J.
Published: March 2022

Background

The study of adolescent perceptions of their ethnicity/race has been investigated from an ethnic‐racial identity (measurement) perspective or through an ethnic‐racial classification lens.

Aims

This study examines both, as it explores change in adolescents' ethnic‐racial self‐categorization; change in strength of ethnic‐racial identity (ERI); and the relationship between change in self‐categorization and strength of ERI. In so doing, it contributes to theorizing about the content and process of ERI formation.

Materials and Methods

The longitudinal and mixed‐methods study followed 732 middle and high school students biannually in a semi‐rural, ethnically diverse school district. All students completed the Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure (MEIM) in fall and spring each year and interviewed annually for qualitative inquiry.

Results

The four waves of data demonstrated that: (1) 22% of students changed their ethnic‐racial classification at least once; (2) Multiracial youth, boys, and 8th graders were significantly more likely to change self‐classification compared to White youth, girls, and 10 th graders; (3) strength of ERI did not change over time, however, African American and Hispanic youth had the strongest ERI over time compared to the others; (4) change in self‐classification was significantly related to change in strength of ERI, however, its direction varied by race of students.

Discussion

While adolescent ethnic‐racial identity development (ERI) appears to be related to ethnic‐racial categorization, the direction of the relationship varies depending on ethnic self‐categorization.

Conclusion

Results contribute to theory building of ERI in relation to: content and process, group consciousness, certainty and clarity, and public regard.
A regularization approach to common correlated effects estimation
Authors: Juodis Artūras
Published: March 2022

Cross‐section average‐augmented panel regressions introduced by Pesaran (2006) have been a popular empirical tool to estimate panel data models with common factors. However, the corresponding common correlated effects (CCEs) estimator can be sensitive to the number of cross‐section averages used and/or the static factor representation for observables. In this paper, we show that most of the corresponding problems documented in the literature can be solved once cross‐section averages are appropriately regularized, thus extending the applicability of the CCE setup. As the standard plug‐in variance estimators are not able to account for all sources of estimation uncertainty, we suggest the use of cross‐section bootstrap to construct confidence intervals. The proposed procedure is illustrated both using real and simulated data.
Prognostic value of albumin‐related ratios in HBV‐associated decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Zhang Tan , Ye Bin , Shen JianJiang
Published: March 2022

Background

Identification of effective and accurate prognostic biomarkers for hepatitis B virus‐associated decompensated cirrhosis (HBV‐DeCi) is challenging. This study was designed to determine and compare the prognostic value of albumin‐related ratios (blood urea nitrogen‐to‐albumin ratio [BAR], C‐reactive protein‐to‐albumin ratio [CAR], prothrombin time‐international normalized ratio‐to‐albumin ratio [PTAR], neutrophil count‐to‐albumin ratio [NAR], and D‐dimer‐to‐albumin ratio [DAR]) in HBV‐DeCi patients.

Methods

We retrospectively recruited 161 HBV‐DeCi patients. Receiver operating characteristic curve, DeLong test, and Cox regression analyses were used to estimate and compare the predictive value of these five albumin‐related ratios and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score.

Results

A total of 29 (18.0%) patients had died 30 days after admission. The prognostic roles of CAR, DAR, PTAR, NAR, and BAR in HBV‐DeCi were different. CAR, PTAR, NAR, and BAR were significantly higher in non‐survivors compared with survivors. However, DAR did not differ between the two groups. The predictive power of BAR was superior to that of the other four albumin‐related biomarkers and similar to that of MELD score. On multivariate analysis, BAR and MELD score were identified as independent prognostic factors, and the combination of BAR and MELD score may improve the prognostic accuracy in HBV‐DeCi.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest that BAR may be a simple and useful prognostic tool to predict mortality in HBV‐DeCi patients.
Drug versus non‐drug behaviors: A dual‐reward model of sex differences and neurobiological mechanisms in rats
Authors: Nall Rusty W. , Chalhoub Reda M. , Kalivas Peter W.
Published: March 2022

Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are an impactful problem characterized by chronic relapse and engagement in drug‐related behaviors at the expense of non‐drug behaviors. Brain regions implicated in drug and non‐drug‐related behaviors often overlap, complicating investigations of neurobiological mechanisms underlying SUDs. Here we presented a within‐subject model for studying self‐administration, reinforcer competition, extinction, and cued reinstatement of cocaine‐ and food‐seeking in rats. Due to differences in cocaine‐ and food‐reinforced behavior, we transformed data to proportions of baseline, revealing increased resistance to extinction and disproportionately greater cued reinstatement of cocaine seeking relative to food seeking. Consistent with previous reports, females showed greater preference for cocaine reinforcement than males, though these findings failed to reach statistical significance. To demonstrate the model's utility for investigating neurobiological mechanisms, we included proof‐of‐concept calcium imaging data demonstrating the utility of the behavioral model for detecting cellular activity patterns associated with cocaine‐ and food‐seeking behaviors. Future studies utilizing this model should improve understanding of the development and expression of pathological behaviors characteristic of SUDs in humans, sex differences in these behaviors, and their neurobiological correlates. Thus, the model has utility for improving understanding of SUDs, leading to novel treatments to reduce the pathological behaviors associated with SUDs.
A study in patient satisfaction regarding telemedicine consultations in radiation oncology
Authors: Pow Vincent , Iankov Ivan , Shierlaw Emma , Le Hien
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Telemedicine consultations can be a cost‐effective and convenient method of communication, particularly with patients living in remote areas. Given the dearth of patient‐reported satisfaction data with this form of consultation in Radiation Oncology, we surveyed patients to assess this in our department.

Methods

The study recruited patients who had experienced both a Telemedicine consultation and an in‐person consultation with the same radiation oncologist at our tertiary centre in South Australia. Eligible patients were identified from the Royal Adelaide Hospital oncology information system. The patient satisfaction questionnaire was sent via registered post with a reply‐paid envelope. The questionnaire consisted of 38 questions divided into four major categories, focusing on communication, medical care, privacy/confidentiality and convenience. Results of the survey were tabulated in an excel spreadsheet.

Results

Between 1 January 2018 and 1 January 2019, 130 eligible patients were identified. One hundred and nine patients were alive and contactable of whom 37 responded (34%). Two surveys were returned incomplete resulting in 35 patient responses available for analysis. The median age was 70 years (range 35–87); 74% were male. There was no statistically significant difference between the satisfaction scores for Telemedicine and in‐person consultations with regards to communication, privacy/confidentiality or overall satisfaction. The respondent felt it was more important to be examined when the consultation was conducted in‐person and found Telemedicine consultations more convenient in terms of cost and time.

Conclusion

Telemedicine used in Radiation Oncology is an effective form of consultation that is convenient, provides a similar level of patient satisfaction and maintains patient confidentiality. Telemedicine consultations should therefore be considered for all rural and remote cancer patients where feasible.
Detection of organic gunshot residues from human hands using direct sample analysis‐time of flight‐mass spectrometry
Authors: González Ricardo J. , Quispe Cristina , Santos Leonardo S. , Nachtigall Fabiane M.
Published: March 2022

The organic gunshot residues (OGSRs), specifically methyl centralite (MC; 1,3‐dimethyl‐1,3‐diphenylurea), ethyl centralite (EC; 1,3‐diethyl‐1,3‐diphenylurea), 2,4‐DNT (2,4‐dinitrotoluene), and TNT (trinitrotoluene), are characteristic compounds for which forensic analysts test determining if a person has discharged a firearm. A set of 200 samples from 50 shooters were collected as part of the validation study. Pistol 9 mm and special revolver .38 were fired at indoor and outdoor shooting ranges. The development of a methodology based on direct analysis of samples‐time of flight‐mass spectrometry (DSA‐TOF‐MS) made it possible to identify the main components of organic shot residues, which gave the possibility to introduce a new method of analysis of shot residues in the Chilean supply area. The DSA‐TOF‐MS provided extensive information on the composition of the shot residues: MC, EC, 2,4‐DNT, and TNT. Samples taken from the trigger hands required minimal sample preparation that reduced analyses time. With the implementation of new alternative analytical methodologies, a great step would be taken in the analysis of OGSRs, because now there is no such technique for its analysis in Chile, and the results would also complement the existing inorganic elemental analyses generated during a gunshot.
Sedimentary DNA identifies modern and past macrophyte diversity and its environmental drivers in high‐latitude and high‐elevation lakes in Siberia and China
Authors: Stoof‐Leichsenring Kathleen R. , Huang Sichao , Liu Sisi , Jia Weihan , Li Kai , Liu Xingqi , Pestryakova Luidmila A. , Herzschuh Ulrike
Published: March 2022

Arctic and alpine aquatic ecosystems are changing rapidly under recent global warming, threatening water resources by diminishing trophic status and changing biotic composition. Macrophytes play a key role in the ecology of freshwaters and we need to improve our understanding of long‐term macrophytes diversity and environmental change so far limited by the sporadic presence of macrofossils in sediments. In our study, we applied metabarcoding using the trnL P6 loop marker to retrieve macrophyte richness and composition from 179 surface‐sediment samples from arctic Siberian and alpine Chinese lakes and three representative lake cores. The surface‐sediment dataset suggests that macrophyte richness and composition are mostly affected by temperature and conductivity, with highest richness when mean July temperatures are higher than 12°C and conductivity ranges between 40 and 400 μS cm−1. Compositional turnover during the Late Pleistocene/Holocene is minor in Siberian cores and characterized by a less rich, but stable emergent macrophyte community. Richness decreases during the Last Glacial Maximum and rises during wetter and warmer climate in the Late‐glacial and Mid‐Holocene. In contrast, we detect a pronounced change from emergent to submerged taxa at 14 ka in the Tibetan alpine core, which can be explained by increasing temperature and conductivity due to glacial runoff and evaporation. Our study provides evidence for the suitability of the trnL marker to recover modern and past macrophyte diversity and its applicability for the response of macrophyte diversity to lake‐hydrochemical and climate variability predicting contrasting macrophyte changes in arctic and alpine lakes under intensified warming and human impact.
Organic carbon dynamics and microbial community response to oyster reef restoration
Authors: Hurst Nia R. , Locher Bryan , Steinmuller Havalend E. , Walters Linda J. , Chambers Lisa G.
Published: March 2022

Oyster reefs are often touted for their contribution to water quality improvement, shoreline protection, and habitat creation, but few studies highlight another significant ecosystem service: organic carbon (OC) storage and cycling. Although oyster reefs may not fall within the definition of “blue carbon” as a vegetated coastal ecosystem, they may store as much carbon (C) as other well‐studied coastal C sinks (e.g., mangroves, salt marshes, and sea grasses), providing an additional justification for restoration activities. Leveraging ongoing Crassostrea virginica reef restoration in Mosquito Lagoon, Florida (USA), this study employed a Before‐After‐Control‐Impact sampling design to evaluate short‐term (1 yr) changes in sediment OC storage and flux, microbial activity, and microbial community composition on degraded, natural, and restored oyster reefs. Restored reefs exhibited the greatest change in OC cycling within the study year, with increases in dissolved OC (31%), particulate OC (97%), CO2 flux (707%), and β‐glucosidase enzyme activity (467%), resulting in the highest total C and OC concentrations of the three reef types. Results demonstrate that sediment microbial community abundances are resilient and easily reinvigorated through reef restoration, while enzyme assays suggest sediment microbial activity on restored reefs may be limited by labile C availability. Overall, this study suggests restoration and oyster presence can rapidly enhance OC storage and can help offset the C flux from high calcification rates on young oyster reefs, providing an additional ecosystem service to support the importance of restoration activities.
Non‐Halogenated Solvents Processed Efficient ITO‐Free Flexible Organic Solar Cells with Upscaled Area
Authors: Zhao Feng , Zheng Xiangjun , Li Shuixing , Yan Kangrong , Fu Weifei , Zuo Lijian , Chen Hongzheng
Published: March 2022

Organic solar cells (OSCs) show the potential to harness solar energy at a lower cost and in a greener way with the merits of mechanical flexibility and potential low‐cost upscaling production with solution processing. Meanwhile, the common use of toxic halogenated solvents causes pollution to the natural environment, and thus, needs to be avoided. Following the authors' previous work on the design of top‐illuminated ultrathin Ag‐based device structure highlighting most merits of OSC, herein non‐halogen solvent and additive processing OSCs are presented, which exhibit high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 17.64%, close to the best PCE with the commonly used halogen solvent. Interestingly, it is observed that the additive and the multicomponent strategy (blending third component BTP‐S2 into PM6:L8‐BO binary blend) synergistically affect the optimal morphology and device performance. Finally, OSC devices featuring green solvent processing, indium tin oxide‐free, flexibility, and upscaling merits are fabricated and exhibit the best PCE of 13.76% with high mechanical robustness and good stability against heat or light illumination. This work provides a prospective potential for manufacturing the OSC toward practical applications.
Do institutional framework and its threshold matter in the sensitivity of CEO pay to firm performance? Fresh insights from an emerging market economy
Authors: Olaniyi Clement Olalekan , Young Ademola Obafemi , Vo Xuan Vinh , Al‐Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh
Published: March 2022

This study examines the role of institutional quality and its threshold in the sensitivity of CEO pay to firm performance in an emerging market economy, using a generalized method of moments, Driscoll and Kraay's nonparametric covariance matrix estimator, and robust dynamic panel threshold. Bureaucratic quality and corruption control weaken performance‐based pay for CEOs, while law and order strengthen it. The overall institutions allow boardroom backscratching which biases executive compensation contracts. The study shows that the country operates below the institutional quality threshold values required to spur performance‐based pay for CEOs. The study concludes that institutions matter in CEO pay‐firm performance nexus.
The arterialised saphenous venous flow‐through flap for managing the radial forearm free flap donor site
Authors: Hughes Kimberley R. , Fong Alisha , Rozen Warren M. , Leong James C. S.
Published: March 2022

Background

The radial forearm fasciocutaneous flap (RFFF) is a workhorse flap, however concerns with donor site morbidity include tendon exposure, delayed wound healing, impaired sensitivity, and poor cosmesis, have seen it fall out of favor. We present a method of using an arterialised saphenous flow through flap to reconstruct the RFFF donor site.

Method

A cohort study of six patients (five male, one female; mean age 59 [range 19–90]) who had their RFFF donor site reconstructed with an arterialised saphenous flow through flap is presented. The use of multiple peripheral efferent venous anastomoses, flap rotation 180 degrees prior to inset, and the ligation of intra‐flap connecting veins were three modifications employed. Primary outcomes include complication rates. Secondary outcomes were patient reported outcome measures via the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire, and patency and flow through the flap.

Results

In all six cases, there was flap survival. RFFF dimensions ranging from lengths of 6–15 cm (mean 11.5 cm) and widths of 4–6 cm (mean 5.3 cm), with an average flap area of 58 cm2 (range 24–90). There were no total flap losses, one partial superficial flap loss and one minor donor site delayed healing, over a mean follow‐up of 6 months (4–24 months). The average overall patient satisfaction was 91 on Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire. Pain was well tolerated with a low average pain score of 15.

Conclusion

The modified arterialised saphenous flow through flap is a useful option for reconstructing the soft tissue defect and reconstituting the radial artery after RFFF harvest.
gcCov: Linked open data for global coronavirus studies
Authors: Shi Wenyu , Fan Guomei , Shen Zhihong , Hu Chuan , Ma Juncai , Zhou Yuanchun , Meng Zhen , Hu Songnian , Bi Yuhai , Wang Liang , Yu Haiying , Lin Siru , Sun Xiuqiang , Zhang Xinjiao , Liu Dongmei , Sun Qinlan , Wu Linhuan
Published: March 2022

Impact statement

We present a method of mapping data from publicly available genomics and publication resources to the Resource Description Framework (RDF) and implement a server to publish linked open data (LOD). As one of the largest and most comprehensive semantic databases about coronaviruses, the resulted gcCov database demonstrates the capability of using data in the LOD framework to promote correlations between genotypes and phenotypes. These correlations will be helpful for future research on fundamental viral mechanisms and drug and vaccine designs. These LOD with 62,168,127 semantic triplets and their visualizations are freely accessible through gcCov at https://nmdc.cn/gccov/.
Augmented T1‐weighted steady state magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Ye Yongquan , Lyu Jingyuan , Hu Yichen , Zhang Zhongqi , Xu Jian , Zhang Weiguo , Yuan Jianmin , Zhou Chao , Fan Wei , Zhang Xu
Published: March 2022

T1 contrasts obtained using short‐TR incoherent steady state gradient echo (GRE) methods are generally suboptimal, to which non‐T1 factors in the signals play a major part. In this work, we proposed an augmented T1‐weighted (aT1W) method to extract the signal ratio between routine GRE T1W and proton density‐weighted signals that effectively removes the non‐T1 effects from the original T1W signals, including proton density, T2* decay, and coil sensitivity. A recently proposed multidimensional integration (MDI) technique was incorporated in the aT1W calculation for better signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) performance. For comparison between aT1W and T1W results, Monte Carlo noise analysis was performed via simulation and on scanned data, and region‐of‐interest (ROI) analysis and comparison was performed on the system phantom. For brain scans, the image contrast, noise behavior, and SNR of aT1W images were compared with routine GRE and inversion‐recovery–based T1W images. The proposed aT1W method yielded saliently improved T1 contrasts (potentially > 30% higher contrast‐to‐noise ratio [CNR]) than routine GRE T1W images. Good spatial homogeneity and signal consistency as well as high SNR/CNR were achieved in aT1W images using the MDI technique. For contrast‐enhanced (CE) imaging, aT1W offered stronger post‐CE contrast and better boundary delineation than T1 MPRAGE images while using a shorter scan time.
Multiple sclerosis cortical lesion detection with deep learning at ultra‐high‐field MRI
Authors: La Rosa Francesco , Beck Erin S. , Maranzano Josefina , Todea Ramona‐Alexandra , van Gelderen Peter , de Zwart Jacco A. , Luciano Nicholas J. , Duyn Jeff H. , Thiran Jean‐Philippe , Granziera Cristina , Reich Daniel S. , Sati Pascal , Bach Cuadra Meritxell
Published: March 2022

Manually segmenting multiple sclerosis (MS) cortical lesions (CLs) is extremely time consuming, and past studies have shown only moderate inter‐rater reliability. To accelerate this task, we developed a deep‐learning‐based framework (CLAIMS: Cortical Lesion AI‐Based Assessment in Multiple Sclerosis) for the automated detection and classification of MS CLs with 7 T MRI. Two 7 T datasets, acquired at different sites, were considered. The first consisted of 60 scans that include 0.5 mm isotropic MP2RAGE acquired four times (MP2RAGE×4), 0.7 mm MP2RAGE, 0.5 mm T2*‐weighted GRE, and 0.5 mm T2*‐weighted EPI. The second dataset consisted of 20 scans including only 0.75 × 0.75 × 0.9 mm3 MP2RAGE. CLAIMS was first evaluated using sixfold cross‐validation with single and multi‐contrast 0.5 mm MRI input. Second, the performance of the model was tested on 0.7 mm MP2RAGE images after training with either 0.5 mm MP2RAGE×4, 0.7 mm MP2RAGE, or alternating the two. Third, its generalizability was evaluated on the second external dataset and compared with a state‐of‐the‐art technique based on partial volume estimation and topological constraints (MSLAST). CLAIMS trained only with MP2RAGE×4 achieved results comparable to those of the multi‐contrast model, reaching a CL true positive rate of 74% with a false positive rate of 30%. Detection rate was excellent for leukocortical and subpial lesions (83%, and 70%, respectively), whereas it reached 53% for intracortical lesions. The correlation between disability measures and CL count was similar for manual and CLAIMS lesion counts. Applying a domain‐scanner adaptation approach and testing CLAIMS on the second dataset, the performance was superior to MSLAST when considering a minimum lesion volume of 6 μL (lesion‐wise detection rate of 71% versus 48%). The proposed framework outperforms previous state‐of‐the‐art methods for automated CL detection across scanners and protocols. In the future, CLAIMS may be useful to support clinical decisions at 7 T MRI, especially in the field of diagnosis and differential diagnosis of MS patients.
Higher strength carbon fiber lithium‐ion polymer battery embedded multifunctional composites for structural applications
Authors: Biswas Pias Kumar , Liyanage Asel Ananda Habarakada , Jadhav Mayur , Agarwal Mangilal , Dalir Hamid
Published: March 2022

This study proposes and evaluates the structural integrity of a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite containing encapsulated lithium‐ion polymer (Li‐Po) batteries. A comparison of various composite structures made of CFRP having the core of lithium‐ion batteries is conducted. Electrospinning is globally recognized as a flexible and cost‐effective method for generating continuous nanofilaments. In this study, epoxy‐multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNT/epoxy) were electrospun onto CFRP layers, which improved interfacial bonding and strong adhesion between the layers which ultimately worked as an effective packaging for Li‐ion batteries. This composite structure showed enhanced mechanical strength compared to the standard CFRP laminate structure due to incorporating electrospun CNT/epoxy nanofibers in between the layers. An alternate method was proposed for comparison where CNT/epoxy was air sprayed onto the CFRP layers. CFRP structure containing airsprayed CNT/epoxy was found to be stronger than standard CFRP laminate structure, although not as strong as electrospun CNT/epoxy enhanced CFRP laminates. Finally, the design validation, manufacturing method, and electromechanical characterization of multifunctional energy storage composites (MESCs) were examined and compared. Electrochemical characterization showed that MESCs with electrospun CNT/epoxy nanofibers enhanced CFRP laminate under loading conditions had similar performance to the standard lithium‐ion pouch cells without any loading. The mechanical robustness of the proposed CFRP composite structures enables their manufacturing as multifunctional energy‐storage devices for electric vehicles and other structural applications.
Two‐Color Passively Q‐Switched Raman Microchip Laser with Tunable Power Intensity Ratio and Elliptical Polarization
Authors: Yang Haolin , An Yinming , Chen Dimeng , Dong Jun
Published: March 2022

Elliptically polarized high peak power two‐color lasers have potential applications on material science, biology, optical detection, and terahertz wave generation. Two‐color pulsed lasers with flexible power intensity ratio are essential for analyzing material properties, however, control of power ratio between two lasers is a challenge for developing compact passively Q‐switched (PQS) solid‐state laser. Here, taking advantage of Nd:YAG/Cr4+:YAG composite crystal and a‐cut YVO4 crystal, a PQS Raman microchip laser is developed for generating a two‐color Raman laser with tunable power intensity ratio between two Raman lasers and elliptical polarization. Power intensity ratio tuned from 1 to 0 between 1166 nm Raman laser and 1166/1176 nm two‐color laser is achieved by adjusting a‐cut YVO4 crystalline orientation. State of polarization of Raman laser is elliptical polarization. The ellipticity is flexibly tuned from 0.3 to 0.91 by adjusting pump power and a‐cut YVO4 crystalline orientation. The Raman laser pulses with peak power of 6.4 kW and pulse width of 1.5 ns are obtained. The synchronized Raman laser pulse repetition rate is 14.3 kHz. This work enables development of a compact high peak power two‐color Raman laser with flexible control of power intensity ratio between two color lasers in a diode pumped PQS Raman microchip laser.
Vaporization and thermodynamic properties of the SrO‐Al2O3 system studied by Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry
Authors: Lopatin Sergey I. , Shugurov Sergey M. , Tyurnina Natalia G. , Tyurnina Zoya G. , Polyakova Irina G. , Balabanova Ekaterina A.
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Strontium aluminates can be used as refractory construction materials at temperatures up to 2000°С or as the materials for immobilization of long‐lived radioactive waste. The SrО‐Al2O3 system is one of the more complicated oxide systems used for the creation of new radio‐transparent materials. The exploitation of such materials at high temperatures demands the knowledge of the thermal stability of the compounds and solid solutions formed in the SrО‐Al2O3 system.

Methods

The synthesis of the samples in the SrO‐Al2O3 system was carried out by a ceramic method at 1250°C. The characterization of the samples was accomplished with the use of X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The vaporization of the samples under study was performed from a twin tungsten effusion cell using the Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry method.

Results

The temperature dependences of partial pressures of vapor species over 4SrO·Al2O3, 3SrO·Al2O3, SrO·Al2O3, SrO·2Al2O3 and SrO·6Al2O3 in a wide range of temperatures were determined. The component activities, the Gibbs energies of mixing and the standard enthalpies of individual strontium aluminates were obtained.

Conclusions

The thermodynamic properties of the SrO‐Al2O3 system at high temperatures are characterized by negative deviation from ideality. The vaporization processes and thermodynamic properties of the SrO‐Al2O3 system were obtained for the first time.
Conceptual frameworks in indicator‐based assessments of urban sustainability—An analysis based on 67 initiatives
Authors: Halla Pekka , Merino‐Saum Albert
Published: March 2022

Urban sustainability is today commonly considered to be a crucial determinant of global sustainable development, and indicator‐based assessments represent a popular means of operationalizing this complex concept. An important aspect of these assessments concerns the elaboration of accompanying conceptual frameworks. Despite the pivotal role of such frameworks, they are often developed in an unstructured manner, without consideration of their potential purposes and impacts, and without awareness and evaluation of available options. Here, we discuss this topic based on both theoretical considerations and the analysis of the conceptual frameworks of 67 urban sustainability indicator initiatives. The discussion makes two contributions: First, we provide guidance for assessment developers for leveraging the potential of conceptual frameworks. Second, considering the analyzed frameworks as de facto definitions of urban sustainability allows us to advance understanding of the meaning of this complex concept, and to critically discuss the conceptual shortcomings that remain in current assessment practice.
Characterization of a heavily corroded bronze statue from Pharaonic Egypt
Authors: Salem Yussri
Published: March 2022

The current study aims to characterize a heavily corroded bronze statue from Pharaonic Egypt, in terms of the morphology and mechanism of corrosion. The characterization was carried out by a combination of methods, including the scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), USB digital microscope, X‐ray micro‐diffraction, and Raman micro‐spectroscopy. Insights into the morphology and corrosion mechanisms of two corrosion stages are presented. Specifically, the metallic‐wall layer was first converted into grayish‐brown corrosion mottled with green and gray spots in the central part, in which a greenish‐white corrosion phase was formed in the second stage. The EDS analysis of the greenish‐white phase revealed the predominance of tin, copper, oxygen, and carbon and a low chlorine content. The greenish‐white phase consisted of four corrosion products: romarchite, cassiterite, malachite, and a small amount of atacamite. The morphology developed upon corrosion was attributed to the selective dissolution and depletion of copper in the central layer, internal oxidation of tin, and conversion of cuprite into malachite. Moreover, the usual bronze corrosion products were formed as a superficial layer on the statue.
Quantiles based personalized treatment selection for multivariate outcomes and multiple treatments
Authors: Kulasekera Karunarathna B. , Siriwardhana Chathura
Published: March 2022

In this work, we propose a method for individualized treatment selection when there are correlated multiple responses for the treatment () scenario. Here we use ranks of quantiles of outcome variables for each treatment conditional on patient‐specific scores constructed from collected covariate measurements. Our method covers any number of treatments and outcome variables using any number of quantiles and it can be applied for a broad set of models. We propose a rank aggregation technique for combining several lists of ranks where both these lists and elements within each list can be correlated. The method has the flexibility to incorporate patient and clinician preferences into the optimal treatment decision on an individual case basis. A simulation study demonstrates the performance of the proposed method in finite samples. We also present illustrations using two different datasets from diabetes and HIV‐1 clinical trials to show the applicability of the proposed procedure for real data.
A Case of Methotrexate-Associated Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Mucocutaneous Ulcer
Authors: Sakamoto Keiko , Baba Takeshi , Takatori Hiroaki , Nagao Keisuke , Misawa Junko , Honda Tetsuya
Published: March 2022

Epstein-Barr virus-positive mucocutaneous ulcer (EBVMCU) is a B-cell proliferative disorder that has been designated as a provisional entity in the 2017 World Health Organization classification for lymphoid neoplasms. While EBVMCU may contain varying numbers of cells with Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg cells-like morphology, the clinical course is benign and must be distinguished from lymphomas. Patients who develop EBVMCU are commonly immunocompromised, with methotrexate (MTX) as the leading cause. Most previously reported cases of EBVMCU describe mucosal ulcers with very little documentation on skin lesions and its course. Here, we report a case of MTX-associated EBVMCU of the lower leg that underwent spontaneous regression after MTX withdrawal, during which negative conversion of local Epstein-Barr virus activation was confirmed.
Understanding the Experiences of Anger in the Onset and Progression of Psoriasis: A Thematic Analysis
Authors: Hughes Olivia , Hunter Rachael
Published: March 2022

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition, which can be affected by stress. Living with psoriasis can trigger negative emotions, which may influence quality of life. The present study explored the lived experiences of people with psoriasis with attention to the potential role of anger in the onset and progression of the chronic skin condition. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 participants (n = 5 females, n = 7 males) recruited from an advert on a patient charity social media platform. Data were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Four key themes were identified: (1) anger at the self and others, (2) the impact of anger on psoriasis: angry skin, (3) shared experiences of distress and (4) moving past anger to affirmation. Findings suggest that anger can have a perceived impact on psoriasis through contributing to sensory symptoms and unhelpful coping cycles, and points to a need for enhanced treatment with more psychological support. The findings also highlight the continued stigma which exists for those living with visible skin conditions and how this may sustain anger for those individuals. Future research could usefully focus on developing targeted psychosocial interventions to promote healthy emotional coping.
Synthesis of Quinolines by the Skraup Reaction: Hierarchical Zeolites vs Microporous Zeolites
Authors: Grigorieva Nellya G. , Bayburtli Alsu V. , Travkina Olga S. , Bubennov Sergey V. , Kuvatova Rezeda Z. , Artem'eva Anna S. , Kutepov Boris I.
Published: March 2022

The activity, selectivity, and stability of microporous highly dispersed zeolites (H‐Y, H‐ZSM‐5) and granulated hierarchical zeolites (H‐Yh and H‐ZSM‐5h) were studied in the synthesis of quinolines by the Skraup reaction. Texture, porous structure, morphology of crystals, acidic properties were characterized by XRD, XRF, N2 adsorption‐desorption, SEM, NH3‐TPD methods. It was found that quinoline, 2‐ and 4‐methylquinolines are the main products in the reaction of aniline with glycerol in the presence of the studied catalysts. H‐ZSM‐5h and H‐Yh catalysts are more efficient than catalysts H‐ZSM‐5 and HY and provide a yield of quinolines to 72.4 (H‐ZSM‐5h) and 60.2 % (H‐Yh) at 450 °C, 0.2 h−1, the molar ratio of aniline:glycerol=1 : 3. The high activity and selectivity of hierarchical zeolites are due to the presence of meso‐ and macropores, as well as nanocrystals of 15–100 nm size. It was reported that hierarchical catalysts exhibit higher stability in the reaction compared with microporous zeolites.
Highly Efficient Multi‐Tasking Porphyrin‐Based Chemosensor for Mercury Ions
Authors: Singha Jyotirlata , Patra Diptendu , Kumar Pawan , Shunmugam Raja
Published: March 2022

Porphyrin‐based monomeric and polymeric sensors are emerging as a desirable alternative to efficient sensors due to their unique optical properties and biocompatibility. An efficient new sensor Acpmono and Acppoly were designed and synthesized for selective and efficient mercury detection at ppm‐level. UV‐visible and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques were studied for the sensing performance of both the monomeric and the polymeric sensors. Mechanism of interaction between sensors was confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) titration, Ultraviolet‐visible and fluorescence spectroscopic titration, mass spectrometry, time‐correlated single‐photon count (TCSPC) study. Furthermore, a “turn‐off” mode has been established to detect noble heavy metal mercury (Hg2+) by quenching the red fluorescence of sensor molecules. The real‐time application of Acpmono and Acppoly were studied by preparing paper strips and detecting Hg2+ from beauty products in a facile way. Cell viability was evaluated for sensors Acpmono and Acppoly to living HeLa cells using the MTT assay technique to investigate the applicability of the sensors in a biological medium. Based on the MTT assay data of both monomeric and polymeric sensors, the cell imaging of endogenous Hg2+ ions was explored in living HeLa cells.