bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clustering of catalytic nanocompartments for enhancing an extracellular non-native cascade reaction
Authors: Maffeis Viviana , Belluati Andrea , Craciun Ioana , Wu Dalin , Novak Samantha , Schoenenberger Cora-Ann , Palivan Cornelia G.
Published: August 2021

Compartmentalization is fundamental in nature, where the spatial segregation of biochemical reactions within and between cells ensures optimal conditions for the regulation of cascade reactions.
Shear-induced gradient diffusivity of a red blood cell suspension: effects of cell dynamics from tumbling to tank-treading
Authors: Malipeddi Abhilash Reddy , Sarkar Kausik
Published: August 2021

Shear induced gradient diffusivity in an RBC suspension depends on the individual RBC dynamics.
Side chain engineering control of mixed conduction in oligoethylene glycol-substituted polythiophenes
Authors: Onorato Jonathan W. , Wang Zhongyang , Sun Yangyang , Nowak Christian , Flagg Lucas Q. , Li Ruipeng , Dong Ban Xuan , Richter Lee J. , Escobedo Fernando A. , Nealey Paul F. , Patel Shrayesh N. , Luscombe Christine K.
Published: August 2021

This work reveals the structure and sequence effects on ion and electron conductivity. Increased oxygen content leads to increased ionic and reduced electronic conductivity, and increased backbone distance increases both conductivities.
Disposable Hearing Aid Battery Management: Survey Assessment of Providers and Qualitative Interviews of Patients
Authors: Woodruff Torri Ann , DiFrancesco Jackie , Kurth Michael , Marinelli Alison , Cienkowski Kathleen M.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to better understand the behaviors that hearing aid users engage in to manage batteries.

Method

Two arms of research, a survey of audiologists (
n
= 110) and qualitative interviews with adult hearing aid users (
n
= 13), were conducted. Surveys were distributed and collected both via paper and online methods. Descriptive analyses of survey results were conducted to report on common threads. Qualitative interviews were conducted with video recording for transcription purposes. These transcripts were then coded thematically to identify shared themes across participants.

Results

Results of this study highlight the variability in behavior between provider-recommended strategies (preemptive battery management) and the reactive/delay strategies that are implemented by users. Patient reports indicate several challenges related to changing their batteries including limited information on hearing aid batteries, physical/sensory challenges to the act, and the social impact of having to change hearing aid batteries. Concurrently, patients express a wide range of strategies to address other challenges including engaging in cost-conscious behaviors when managing batteries (both purchasing and deciding to replace) and maintaining a collection of easily accessible batteries for use.

Conclusions

Hearing aid batteries are a topic that reflect social and economic factors in a patient's life. While providers may report they cover these topics sufficiently, challenges related to batteries may need specific elucidation by the clinician to ensure adherence to recommendations and functioning devices.
Perceived Listening Difficulty in the Classroom, Not Measured Noise Levels, Is Associated With Fatigue in Children With and Without Hearing Loss
Authors: Gustafson Samantha J. , Camarata Stephen , Hornsby Benjamin W. Y. , Bess Fred H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to examine if classroom noise levels and perceived listening difficulty were related to fatigue reported by children with and without hearing loss.

Method:

Measures of classroom noise and reports of classroom listening difficulty were obtained from 79 children (ages 6–12 years) at two time points on two different school days. Forty-four children had mild to moderately severe hearing loss in at least one ear. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to evaluate if measured noise levels, perceived listening difficulty, hearing status, language abilities, or grade level would predict self-reported fatigue ratings measured using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale.

Results:

Higher perceived listening difficulty was the only predictor variable that was associated with greater self-reported fatigue.

Conclusions:

Measured classroom noise levels showed no systematic relationship with fatigue ratings, suggesting that actual classroom noise levels do not contribute to increased reports of subjective fatigue. Instead, perceived challenges with listening appears to be an important factor for consideration in future work examining listening-related fatigue in children with and without hearing loss.
Creating Community Through Affinity Groups for Minority Students in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Authors: Alicea Carly C. M. , Johnson Rupert Everol
Published: August 2021

This viewpoint article describes an effective model for creating and sustaining an affinity group for undergraduate and graduate students from racial and ethnic backgrounds historically underrepresented in the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association who are enrolled in communication sciences and disorders (CSD) programs at predominantly White institutions (PWIs). The Speech-Language Therapy & Audiology Minority Program (STAMP) at Nazareth College is an affinity group and mentorship program for undergraduate and graduate students, CSD program alumni, and area professionals who identify as minorities. Affinity groups have been shown to increase the sense of belonging of minority students at PWIs. At Nazareth College, we have observed this as students who participate in STAMP have reported that the program contributes to their feeling of belonging in the CSD department and at the institution and provides them with a safe place where they can share and discuss their experiences as minorities at a PWI. Additionally, our students have reported that participating in this affinity group supports their academic and clinical success and helps them manage their stress. By sharing our model for creating an affinity group for underrepresented CSD students at a PWI, we hope to encourage the establishment and support of groups like STAMP in CSD programs across the country. Considerations for departments considering starting their own affinity groups are discussed. STAMP, and other affinity groups, have the potential to grow by facilitating constructive discussion and collective action toward issues that significantly impact students from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds.
Adherence to Home-Based Swallowing Therapy Using a Mobile System in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors
Authors: Constantinescu Gabriela , Rieger Jana , Seikaly Hadi , Eurich Dean
Published: August 2021

Purpose

A large knowledge gap related to dysphagia treatment adherence was identified by a recent systematic review: Few existing studies report on adherence, and current adherence tracking relies heavily on patient self-report. This study aimed to report weekly adherence and dysphagia-specific quality of life following home-based swallowing therapy in head and neck cancer (HNC).

Method

This was a quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design. Patients who were at least 3 months post–HNC treatment were enrolled in swallowing therapy using a mobile health (mHealth) swallowing system equipped with surface electromyography (sEMG) biofeedback. Participants completed a home dysphagia exercise program across 6 weeks, with a target of 72 swallows per day split between three different exercise types. Adherence was calculated as percent trials completed of trials prescribed. The M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) was administered before and after therapy.

Results

Twenty participants (75% male), with an average age of 61.9 years (
SD
= 8.5), completed the study. The majority had surgery ± adjuvant (chemo)radiation therapy for oral (10%), oropharyngeal (80%), or other (10%) cancers. Using an intention-to-treat analysis, adherence to the exercise regimen remained high from 84% in Week 1 to 72% in Week 6. Radiation therapy, time since cancer treatment, medical difficulties, and technical difficulties were all found to be predictive of poorer adherence at Week 6. A statistically significant improvement was found for composite, emotional, and physical MDADI subscales.

Conclusions

When using an mHealth system with sEMG biofeedback, adherence rates to home-based swallowing exercise remained at or above 72% over a 6-week treatment period. Dysphagia-specific quality of life improved following this 6-week treatment program.
Changes in the Daily Phonotrauma Index Following the Use of Voice Therapy as the Sole Treatment for Phonotraumatic Vocal Hyperfunction in Females
Authors: Van Stan Jarrad H. , Ortiz Andrew J. , Marks Katherine L. , Toles Laura E. , Mehta Daryush D. , Burns James A. , Hron Tiffiny , Stadelman-Cohen Tara , Krusemark Carol , Muise Jason , Fox Annie B. , Nudelman Charles , Zeitels Steven , Hillman Robert E.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to use the Daily Phonotrauma Index (DPI) to quantify group-based changes in the daily voice use of patients with phonotraumatic vocal hyperfunction (PVH) after receiving voice therapy as the sole treatment. This is part of an ongoing effort to validate an updated theoretical framework for PVH.

Method

A custom-designed ambulatory voice monitor was used to collect 1 week of pre- and posttreatment data from 52 female patients with PVH. Normative weeklong data were also obtained from 52 matched controls. Each week was represented by the DPI, which is a combination of neck-surface acceleration magnitude skewness and the standard deviation of the difference between the first and second harmonic magnitudes.

Results

Compared to pretreatment, the DPI statistically decreased towards normal in the patient group after treatment (Cohen's
d
= −0.25). The posttreatment patient group's DPI was still significantly higher than the control group (
d
= 0.68).

Conclusions

The DPI showed the pattern of improved ambulatory voice use in a group of patients with PVH following voice therapy that was predicted by the updated theoretical framework. Per the prediction, voice therapy was associated with a decreased potential for phonotrauma in daily voice use, but the posttreatment patient group data were still significantly different from the normative control group data. This posttreatment difference is interpreted as reflecting the impact on voice use of the persistence of phonotrauma-induced structural changes to the vocal folds. Further validation of the DPI is needed to better understand its potential clinical use.
Stability estimate for the semi-discrete linearized Benjamin-Bona-Mahony equation
Authors: Lecaros Rodrigo , Ortega Jaime H. , Pérez Ariel
Published: August 2021

In this work we study the semi-discrete linearized Benjamin-Bona-Mahony equation (BBM) which is a model for propagation of one-dimensional, unidirectional, small amplitude long waves in non-linear dispersive media. In particular, we derive a stability estimate which yields a unique continuation property. The proof is based on a Carleman estimate for a finite difference approximation of Laplace operator with boundary observation in which the large parameter is connected to the mesh size.
On the shortage control in a continuous review (Q,r) inventory policy usingαLservice-level
Authors: Escalona Pablo , Araya Diego , Simpson Enrique , Ramirez Mario , Stegmaier Raul
Published: August 2021

Popular measures of product availability in inventory systems seek to control different aspects of stock shortages. However, none of them simultaneously control all aspects of shortages, because stock shortages in inventory systems are complex random events. This paper analyzes the performance ofαLservice measure, defined as the probability that stockouts do not occur during a replenishment cycle, to cover different aspects of stock shortages when used to design an optimal continuous review (Q,r) policy. We show that explicitly controlling the frequency of replenishment cycle stockouts, using theαLservice-level, allows to implicitly control the size of the stockouts at an arbitrary time, the size of accumulated backorders at an arbitrary time, and the duration of the replenishment cycle stockouts. However, the cost of controlling the frequency of replenishment cycle stockouts is greater than the cost of controlling the size of stockouts and the duration of the replenishment cycle stockouts.
An estimation of effects of memory and learning experience on the eoq model with price dependent demand
Authors: Rahaman Mostafijur , Mondal Sankar Prasad , Alam Shariful
Published: August 2021

In this article, an economic order quantity model has been studied in view of joint impacts of the memory and learning due to experiences on the decision-making process where demand is considered as price dependant function. The senses of memory and experience-based learning are accounted by the fractional calculus and dense fuzzy lock set respectively. Here, the physical scenario is mathematically captured and presented in terms of fuzzy fractional differential equation. The α-cut defuzzification technique is used for dealing with the crisp representative of the objective function. The main credit of this article is the introduction of a smart decision-making technique incorporating some advanced components like memory, self-learning and scopes for alternative decisions to be accessed simultaneously. Besides the dynamics of the EOQ model under uncertainty is described in terms of fuzzy fractional differential equation which directs toward a novel approach for dealing with the lot-sizing problem. From the comparison of the numerical results of different scenarios (as particular cases of the proposed model), it is perceived that strong memory and learning experiences with appropriate keys in the hand of the decision maker can boost up the profitability of the retailing process.
Design and analysis of disc brake system in high speed vehicles
Authors: Seelam Anil Babu , Hussain Nabil Ahmed Zakir , Hassan Krishanmurthy Sachidananda
Published: August 2021

Brakes are the most important component of any automobile. Brakes provide the ability to reduce or bring automobile to a complete stop. The process of braking is usually achieved by applying pressure to the brake discs. The main objective of this research paper is to propose an appropriate design and to perform analysis of a suitable brake rotor to enhance the performance of the high-speed car. The design of the brake disc is modelled using Solid works and the analysis is carried out using Ansys software. The analysis has been conducted by considering stainless steel and grey cast iron using same brake rotor design so that optimal choice of brake disc can be considered. The analysis considered involves static structural analysis and steady state thermal analysis considering specific parameters on brake rotor to increase the life of brake rotor. From the analysis it is found that the performance and life of disc brake depends upon heat dissipation. From the analysis results it can be concluded that grey cast iron has performed better as compared to stainless steel as this material has anti-fade properties which improves the life of the brake rotor.
Diagnosefehler oder unterlassene Befunderhebung?
Authors: Maus Christian
Published: August 2021

Die Vielschichtigkeit menschlicher Erkrankungen und ihrer Symptome schlägt sich auch in der arzthaftungsrechtlichen Judikatur nieder. Eine Diagnose ist manchmal nur schwer zu stellen, weshalb auch ein Diagnoseirrtum nur mit Zurückhaltung als ärztlicher Behandlungsfehler eingeschätzt wird. Anders hingegen wird der Befunderhebungsfehler beurteilt, der grundsätzlich zumindest als einfacher Behandlungsfehler einzuschätzen ist. Dieser Beitrag beleuchtet die rechtlichen Kriterien der Abgrenzung zwischen Diagnoseirrtum und unterlassener Befunderhebung und zeigt die Bedeutung der frühzeitigen richtigen Weichenstellung in Arzthaftungsprozessen insbesondere auf der Seite der Behandler auf.
Krisendienst in Bayern
Authors: Welschehold Michael
Published: August 2021

Seit der Psychiatrie-Enquete wird qualifizierte ambulante Soforthilfe für Menschen in seelischen Krisen und psychischen Notlagen gefordert. Auf Grundlage des Bayerischen Psychisch-Kranken-Hilfe-Gesetzes wurde dieser Forderung durch Einführung von Krisendiensten in Bayern entsprochen. Damit sind erstmals in einem Bundesland alle rechtlichen, finanziellen und strukturellen Voraussetzungen für flächendeckende Krisenhilfe geschaffen und die Versorgungslücke geschlossen worden. Um ihre Wirkung voll entfalten zu können, sind Krisendienste als neues Hilfsangebot bestmöglich in die regionalen Versorgungsstrukturen zu integrieren. Dann kann landesweit jedem in eine seelische Notlage geratenen Menschen umfassende 24/7 Soforthilfe geleistet und zugleich das Versorgungssystem gezielt entlastet werden.
Molecular Characterization Identifies Upstream Presence of ISAba1 to OXA Carbapenemase Genes in Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Gandham Nageswari , Gupta Neetu , Vyawahare Chanda , Mirza Shahzad Beg , Misra Rabindra Nath
Published: August 2021

Background Evaluating the expression pattern of oxacillinases (OXA) carbapenemases is essential to understand the prevalence and spread of carbapenem resistance Acinetobacter baumannii.

Objectives The aim of the study is to evaluate the presence of OXA carbapenemase genes and ISAba1 upstream to these genes in carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii clinical isolates.

Materials and Methods A. baumannii isolated from clinical samples were phenotypically identified and antibiotics sensitivity was performed. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect OXA51-like gene, OXA carbapenemases genes (OXA-23-like, OXA-24-like, and OXA-58-like), and ISAba1 in carbapenem-resistant isolates.

Results Out of 55 Acinetobacter isolates, 54 were confirmed as A. baumannii by PCR. Bla
OXA-23-like gene was observed in 51 isolates of A. baumannii and none of the isolates showed the presence of bla
OXA-24-like and bla
OXA-58-like genes. Presence of ISAba1 upstream to OXA-23-like gene, OXA-51-like gene, and both OXA-51-like/OXA-23-like genes was observed in 51, 7, and 4 A. baumannii isolates, respectively.

Conclusion The genetic pattern of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii isolated in this study was unique, which should be factored for clinical protocols to manage infections caused by emerging resistant strains of A. baumannii.
Origin of enhanced water oxidation activity in an iridium single atom anchored on NiFe oxyhydroxide catalyst
Authors: Zheng Xueli , Tang Jing , Gallo Alessandro , Garrido Torres Jose A. , Yu Xiaoyun , Athanitis Constantine J. , Been Emily May , Ercius Peter , Mao Haiyan , Fakra Sirine C. , Song Chengyu , Davis Ryan C. , Reimer Jeffrey A. , Vinson John , Bajdich Michal , Cui Yi
Published: August 2021

Significance

The efficiency with which renewable fuels and feedstocks are synthesized from electrical sources is largely limited by the sluggish water oxidation reaction. We show that the optimal water oxidation catalyst could be achieved by systematically modulating the coordination of the Ir active sites using an in situ cryogenic–photochemical reduction synthesis method. We achieved a highly oxidized Ir single site (Ir
+5.3
) in the best atom utilization by single-atom catalysts on electrochemically stable supports. The origin of water oxidation activity in an Ir single-atom catalyst is revealed experimentally and theoretically. The concept and strategy of this work are expected to pioneer novel approaches to engineer single-atom catalysts.
Molecular mechanism of capsid disassembly in hepatitis B virus
Authors: Ghaemi Zhaleh , Gruebele Martin , Tajkhorshid Emad
Published: August 2021

Significance

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a DNA virus that is 100 times more infectious than HIV. Despite the availability of a vaccine, the chronic infection rate of this virus is still over 250 million people globally. HBV chronic infection, for which no cure is currently available, can lead to liver cancer. Therefore, there is an unmet need to investigate the infection cycle of the virus. One of the most crucial steps in the virus-replication cycle is the release of its genetic material to the nucleus. During this step, the viral capsid enclosing the genetic material disassembles. However, its mechanism is unknown. Here, we utilize molecular simulations to shed light on the events leading to the capsid disassembly with atomistic detail.
Short-range exposure to airborne virus transmission and current guidelines
Authors: Wang Jietuo , Alipour Mobin , Soligo Giovanni , Roccon Alessio , De Paoli Marco , Picano Francesco , Soldati Alfredo
Published: August 2021

Significance

Violent expiratory events like coughs and sneezes represent an important route for the spread of respiratory viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. We use finely resolved experiments and simulations to quantify how the turbulent cloud of moist air exhaled during a sneeze largely increases the airborne time and the lifespan of virus-loaded droplets. By providing visualizations of the spatial distribution of the virus copies, we highlight the high infection risk associated with droplets that remain airborne in the near proximity of an infected individual. The present study aims at raising awareness among public health authorities about this infection risk, which is grossly underestimated by current guidelines.
RNA-bound PGC-1α controls gene expression in liquid-like nuclear condensates
Authors: Pérez-Schindler Joaquín , Kohl Bastian , Schneider-Heieck Konstantin , Leuchtmann Aurel B. , Henríquez-Olguín Carlos , Adak Volkan , Maier Geraldine , Delezie Julien , Sakoparnig Thomas , Vargas-Fernández Elyzabeth , Karrer-Cardel Bettina , Ritz Danilo , Schmidt Alexander , Hondele Maria , Jensen Thomas E. , Hiller Sebastian , Handschin Christoph
Published: August 2021

Significance

The function of tissues is controlled by complex biological processes, in which transcriptional mechanisms play a fundamental role. The transcriptional coactivator PGC-1α is a prototypical regulator of adaptive responses evoked by environmental and internal cues (e.g. exercise-adaptation in skeletal muscle). Here, we found that PGC-1α-RNA–binding is central to assemble multiprotein complexes controlling gene transcription. Interestingly, PGC-1α-RNA–binding also regulates chromatin recruitment in transcriptionally active liquid-like nuclear condensates. Collectively, our findings unravel mechanistic insights into the regulation of complex transcriptional networks by PGC-1α, which we demonstrate to be essential to enhance the expression of key genes controlling skeletal muscle oxidative metabolism.
Direct visualization of superselective colloid-surface binding mediated by multivalent interactions
Authors: Linne Christine , Visco Daniele , Angioletti-Uberti Stefano , Laan Liedewij , Kraft Daniela J.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Multivalent interactions are an ensemble of multiple weak bonds that in a concerted effort can create a strong bond. Multivalent interactions often mediate adhesion in biological systems, where receptors and ligands are typically integrated in a fluidic membrane and thus laterally mobile on the surface. A characteristic property of multivalency is superselectivity: the ability to distinguish between surfaces based on receptor density. The results shown in this study provide quantitative insight into superselective binding of surface mobile receptors and ligands, important for adhesion to biological interfaces and applications, such as the design of drug delivery platforms.
Wildfire smoke impacts on indoor air quality assessed using crowdsourced data in California
Authors: Liang Yutong , Sengupta Deep , Campmier Mark J. , Lunderberg David M. , Apte Joshua S. , Goldstein Allen H.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Wildfires are an increasingly large source of particulate matter (PM
2.5
) in the western United States. Previous characterizations of exposure to wildfire smoke particles were based mainly on outdoor concentrations of PM
2.5
. Since people mainly shelter indoors during smoke events, the infiltration of wildfire PM
2.5
into buildings determines exposure. We present analysis of infiltration of wildfire PM
2.5
into more than 1,400 buildings in California using more than 2.4 million sensor hours of data from the PurpleAir sensor network. Our study reveals that infiltration of PM
2.5
during wildfire days was substantially reduced compared with non-fire days, due to people’s behavioral changes. These results improve understanding of exposure to wildfire particles and facilitate informing the public about effective ways to reduce their exposure.
Multiple roles for PARP1 in ALC1-dependent nucleosome remodeling
Authors: Ooi Soon-Keat , Sato Shigeo , Tomomori-Sato Chieri , Zhang Ying , Wen Zhihui , Banks Charles A. S. , Washburn Michael P. , Unruh Jay R. , Florens Laurence , Conaway Ronald C. , Conaway Joan W.
Published: August 2021

Significance

SNF2 family member ALC1 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase PARP1 work together in a coupled enzyme system to remodel chromatin in DNA repair and other nuclear processes. ALC1 is overexpressed in many cancers and can render tumors resistant to PARP inhibitors. Illuminating the function of the ALC1-PARP1 pathway will be important for understanding its role in tumorigenesis. Here, we define multiple contributions of PARP1 to ALC1–PARP1-mediated chromatin remodeling.
Navigating the complex social ecology of screen-based activity in video-mediated interaction
Authors: Balaman Ufuk , Pekarek Doehler Simona
Published: August 2021

Task-oriented video-mediated interaction takes place within a complex digital-social ecology which presents, to
participants, a practical problem of social coordination: How to navigate, in mutually accountable ways, between interacting with
the remote co-participants and scrutinizing one’s own screen –which suspends interaction–, for instance when searching for
information on a search engine. Using conversation analysis for the examination of screen-recorded dyadic interactions, this study
identifies a range of practices participants draw on to alert co-participants to incipient suspensions of talk. By accounting for
such suspensions as being task-related through verbal alerts, typically in the form let me/let’s X, participants
successfully ‘buy time’, which allows them to fully concentrate on their screen activity and thereby ensure the progression of
task accomplishment. We discuss how these findings contribute to our understanding of the complex ecologies of technology-mediated
interactions.
Sex differences in neck strength and head impact kinematics in university rugby union players
Authors: Williams Elisabeth M. P. , Petrie Freja J. , Pennington Thomas N. , Powell David R. L. , Arora Hari , Mackintosh Kelly A. , Greybe Desney G.
Published: August 2021

Globally, over three million women participate in rugby union, yet injury prevention and training strategies are predominantly based on androcentric data. These strategies may have limited generalisability to females, given the cervical spine is more susceptible to whiplash and less adept at resisting inertial loading. A total of 53 university rugby union players (25 female, 28 male, 20.7 ± 1.8 years) had their isometric neck strength measured. Bespoke instrumented mouthguards were used to record the magnitude of head impact events in six female and seven male competitive matches. Mean female maximal isometric neck strength was 47% lower than male. Independent samples Mann–Whitney U tests showed no significant differences for peak linear head acceleration (female: median 11.7 g, IQR 7.9 g; male: median 12.5 g, IQR 7.0 g p=.23) or peak rotational head acceleration (female: median 800.2 rad·s−2, IQR 677.7 rad·s−2; male: median 849.4 rad·s−2, IQR 479.8 rad·s−2; p=.76), despite the mean male body mass being 24% greater than female. Coded video analysis revealed substantial differences in head‐impact mechanisms; uncontrolled whiplash dominated >50% of all recorded female impact events and <0.5% in males. Direct head‐to‐ground impacts comprised 26.1% of female and 9.7% of male impacts, with whiplash occurring in 78.0% and 0.5%, respectively. Overall, the data provided in this study do not support the generalisation of male‐derived training and injury‐prevention data to female rugby athletes. These results suggest a considerable research effort is required to identify specific weakness of female rugby players and derive appropriate training, injury prevention and return to play protocols.

Highlights

Video analysis revealed substantial differences in head‐impact mechanisms, with uncontrolled whiplash dominating >50% of all recorded female impact events but rarely in males.

Isometric neck strength was 47% lower in female players than males.

Direct head‐to‐ground impacts accounted for 26.1% and 9.7% of female and male impacts, with whiplash occurring in 78.0% and 0.5%, respectively.
Erratum to “Simultaneous effects of magnetic field and space porosity on compressible Maxwell fluid transport induced by a surface acoustic wave in a microchannel”
Authors: Mekheimer Khaled S. , Komy Soliman R. , Abdelsalam Sara I.
Published: August 2021

We would like to acknowledge the misprinted terms in our published paper “Simultaneous effects of magnetic field and space porosity on compressible Maxwell fluid transport induced by a surface acoustic wave in a microchannel” [Chin. Phys. B
22 124702 (2013)]. Since only two misprints exist and the main results of the published paper are correct, we present the correct equations in this erratum.
Mechanical properties study of polycarbonate and other thermoplastic polymers
Authors: Hafad Sanaa A , Hamood Abdalkhalaq F , AlSalihi Hind A , Ibrahim Slafa I , Abdullah Awfa A , Radhi Amera A , Al-Ghezi Moafaq K , Alogaidi Bashar R
Published: August 2021

The polymeric materials in this study underwent mechanical tests (tensile test, impact resistance and hardness), which explained the use of polymeric materials in engineering and industrial applications that need good mechanical properties compared to metals, ceramic materials and woods, and this is a good thing because it is characterized by low cost and high efficiency with application performance In this study, the polycarbonate polymer was characterized by its high tensile strength in the event of breakage, but the elongation values decreased compared with the polypropylene and polyethylene polymers, which were characterized by high elongation at the expense of tensile strength, as the polycarbonate polymer acted as a brittle material as for resistance to shock, which reflected the amount of energy absorbed From the striking hammer, the impact resistance of high-density polyethylene increased compared to other polymers, as well as the hardness whose values were close to the three types of polymers used, which confirms the importance of these types in the application used in engineering.
Modern Strategy with Risk Mitigation of Future Renewable Energy in Iraq
Authors: Allw Ali Sabri , Wasan Zaki Mohammad A.L , Mustafa Al-Attar Falah Ibrahim
Published: August 2021

Iraq suffers from electricity shortages, through the local market and government institutions, has preliminary and applied information in the field of renewable energies, represented by solar energy, wind energy and bio-energy, at a simple level and small capacities, and in the near future it will rise to the levels of high energy stations. Note that the National Energy Strategy has set the percentage of renewable energy participation from total electric energy to reach 5%, about 2 Gigawatt by the year 2030. The plan includes several interval times, including the introduction of renewable energy in the agricultural sector to withdraw and pump water in drip irrigation systems, and the use of solar water heaters and heating systems and lighting systems operating with photovoltaic solar energy, as well as manufacturing all solar energy supplies and systems such as batteries, inverters, electric charger, solar heaters and solar panels, the effect of education and rationalization of consumption, increasing the efficiency of the use of electric energy, recycling waste to get rid of environmental pollution and producing biogas by Medium and large entrepreneurial systems in Iraqi cities. As well as the introduction of green building techniques in building homes, buildings and residential complexes to reduce electrical energy consumption with the introduction of solar-powered air conditioning systems. Reducing risks in renewable energy projects depends on several factors, including technology risks, monetary currency, natural resources, electrical grid risks, political risks, and the most dangerous are the risks resulting from terrorism and thefts at present in Iraq and requires an advanced and secure security system. Based on public datasets and reasonable assumptions, the provisional results obtained suggest the following; solar PV zones are located in the western region of Al-Anbar along the Jordanian Border. Despite the large capacities of these clusters, they are located at more than 300 km from Baghdad; wind zones are spread across the north-western area of Al-Anbar and south-eastern region, from Baghdad to Al-Basrah governorates.
The Best Practices in Delay and disruption analysis in Iraq’s construction sector
Authors: Shakir Layth Qasim , Mohammed Sawsan Rasheed
Published: August 2021

Delay and disturbance analysis (DD) is a significant cause of claims and conflicts in the Iraqi building industry, frequently resulting in time and expense overruns. The extent to which each contracting party is responsible for the postponed job execution and additional expenses incurred is often at the heart of the dispute. Various methodologies have been developed over time to answer this question. This research was undertaken using a mixed-method approach, which involved a detailed examination of the related literature first. Due to programming and record-keeping shortcomings, the primary finding is that DD testing methodologies with major defects in the literature were the most widely found in use. To encourage the use of more efficient methodologies that ensure greater efficiency, a scheme integrating best practice recommendations for promoting better record-keeping and programming practice has been established efficient claims settlement with fewer chances of conflicts.
A review on Supercapacitors: types and components
Authors: Jalal Noor I. , Ibrahim Raheek I. , Oudah Manal K.
Published: August 2021

The importance of Super-capacitors (SCs) stems from their distinctive properties including long cycle life, high strength and environment friendly, they are sharing similar fundamental equations as the traditional capacitors; for attaining high capacitances SC using electrodes materials with thinner dielectrics and high specific surface area. In this review paper, all types of SCs were covered, depending on the energy storage mechanism; a brief overview of the materials and technologies used for SCs is presented. The major concentration is on materials like the metal oxides, carbon materials, conducting polymers along with their composites. The composites’ performance was examined via parameters like capacitance, energy, cyclic performance power and the rate capability also presents details regarding the electrolyte materials.
Mathematical model of the sensor for controling the condition of the track section with an adaptive receiver at the free condition of the controlled section
Authors: Aliev Ravshan M. , Aliev Marat M.
Published: August 2021

One of the promising areas of improvement of sensors for monitoring the condition of track sections is the development of controlling sensors, which are less dependent on changes in ballast resistance, longitudinal asymmetry and standard value of shunt sensitivity, such a direction is the development of adaptive track circuits [1-5]. The article proposes a control sensor with an adaptive receiver, principle of operation of which is that monitoring the state of the track section depends on the parameters of adjacent monitoring sensors, included in the common controlled zone CZ.

Mathematical model and analytical expressions have been developed taking into account the resistance of the rails and the resistance of the insulation being carried out [6]. Proposed the coefficients of a rail fourpole with one of the choke-transformer, powered with one side. The calculated expressions of the fourpole and the criteria for the sensitivity of the rail circuit when one line is broken are presented and derived, and also the minimum transmission resistance [6].
The Effect of Construction Joint on Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Dapped End Beam
Authors: Hussain Hussain Ali , Shadhan Khalid K.
Published: August 2021

This research aims to investigate experimentally the attitude and performance of hybrid reinforced concrete Dapped End Beams. The study consists of testing thirteen specimens, all of which have similar dimensions (1000 * 120 * 250 mm). Three specimens were considered as control specimens (non-hybrid concrete) and the other specimens were strengthened in (nib and D-region) by using two types of concrete (high-strength concrete, steel fiber reinforced concrete) and with construction joint. The experimental results showed that the presence of the construction joint in the reentrant corner of specimens with non-hybrid normal concrete and specimens with non-hybrid high strength concrete leads to a decrease in strength of about (33%) and (6%), respectively and does not lead to a decrease in strength in the concrete specimens reinforced with steel fibers. Also, the presence of the construction joint in the D- region in normal non-hybrid concrete specimens and non-hybrid high strength concrete specimens as well as non-hybrid steel reinforced concrete specimens leads to an increase in the strength of about (0.5%), (10%) and (1%), respectively.
Medical Image Encryption Based on Hybrid AES with Chaotic Map
Authors: Hashim Ashwaq T. , Jabbar Amira K. , Hassan Qussay F.
Published: August 2021

Patient privacy and image protection is an obligation. Data privacy, data protection, and security must be provided by using encryption to ensure confidentiality. Currently, there are numerous standard traditional encryption algorithms. Most of these are suitable for a text file. It is challenging to employ these algorithms for images or videos directly because of strong adjacent pixels correlations. Decreasing the correlation among the surrounding pixels reduces the detail. An algorithm based on a quadratic map is applied as a preprocessing step to nullify the relationship between pixels and reduce the entropy. The AES image encryption is performed for confusion and diffusion, which are necessary for confidentiality. The security analysis findings indicate that the sensitive encryption and decryption techniques are highly dependent on any improvement in the key. The encryption solution is broad enough to avoid brute-force attacks. Thus, during the transfer of medical images over the network, protection can become an issue.
A Novel Design Reconfigurable Antenna Based on the Metamaterial for Wearable Applications
Authors: Gburi Mohaimen Al , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: August 2021

A novel design of wearable antenna depending on metamaterials inspired-fractal Minkowski-shaped for industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) applications is presented. The antenna consists of a conventional monopole and a Chebyshev transformer coupled with a unit cell of a fractal Minkowski curve to obtain three bands covering the ISM and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) applications. To enhance the antenna performance, the authors proposed the Electromagnetic Band Gap (EBG) layer of 3×4 array is introduced into the design structure. The authors used material FR4 dielectric as a substrate to design the antenna with dimensions of 51mm x 45mm x 1.6mm and fed by a 50 Ω port. The Antenna performance is analyzed numerically using CST Microwave Studio (CSTMWS) depending the Finite Integral Technique (FIT). Various investigation analyses have carried out to verify optimum antenna performance. The proposed antenna realizes reconfiguration by using the PIN diode. In both cases (switching= ON, OFF) the antenna achieves good bandwidth, |S11|<-10dB, and excellent impedance matching.
Engine performance and PM concentrations from the combustion of Iraqi sunflower oil biodiesel under variable diesel engine operating conditions
Authors: Fayad Mohammed A. , Chaichan Miqdam T. , Dhahad Hayder A.
Published: August 2021

The most desirable alternative fuels are biodiesel among several of alternative fuels to use in diesel engines. The biodiesel used in this study is sunflowers oil which derived from local renewable sources. Also, biodiesel considered a best alternative to conventional diesel because it clean and environment friendly. The experimental results shown that the biodiesel blends (B20, B50, and B100) increased the brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) compared with pure diesel fuel. According to the results, it is indicated that the biodiesel blends reduced the brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and exhaust gas temperatures (EGT) during the combustion of B20, B50, and B100 for all engine operating conditions. The exhaust gas temperature and BSFC increased with increase the operating conditions of engine loads and speeds. The data indicated that PM concentrations reduced with biodiesel blends combustion compared with diesel under variable engine loads and speeds. Besides that the concentrations of PM reduced by 16.847, 28, and 43.34% combustion of B20, B50, and B100, when compared with petroleum diesel under the same conditions of engine loads and speeds. The results give insight that the oxygen content in the biodiesel has favourable effect on reducing the PM concentrations.
Highway route selection using GIS and analytical hierarchy process case study Ramadi Heet rural highway
Authors: Sameer Yasmeen Mohammed , Abed Adil N. , Sayl Khamis Naba
Published: August 2021

An appropriate road network imposes on planners take into account factors such as land use, slope, soil type, hydrology, and agricultural area. Due to various considerations and desires, the planning process is difficult hence there may be confusion in interest in the decision-making process. The use of a geographic information system (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) assist planners in achieving more detailed and desirable results. Thus, reducing the complexity of the planning process and helping various stakeholders for drawing to general conclusion. The study site was chosen on an area between the cities of Ramadi and Heet in Anbar Province, western Iraq, where it suffers from congestion and traffic accidents. This research aims to integrate a set of evaluation criteria using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and a spatial multicriteria model to find the optimal path in the study area. In this study, two alternate paths were proposed and compared with the current path to find the best path. Finally, the results indicated that the first alternative is 36% better. This research succeeded in proving that it is possible to decide a rural highway route between two cities using GIS and MCDA.
The dielectricpropertiesof (PVA-PVP-CdS)Nanocomposites for gamma shielding Application
Authors: Hadi Araa Hassan , Habeeb Majeed Ali
Published: August 2021

NanocompositesMethod prepared by casting with variousPreventatives’ of cadmium sulfide (0,1,2,3, and4) wt%. Dielectric constant increases with increasing frequency and filler concentration. dielectric loss decreases as frequencyincreases, whereas it increases as Cadmium Sulfide concentration increases. The electrical A.C conductance of (PVA- PVP- CdS) Increased composites as the filler and TheFrequency are increased. Electron Scanning microscopy shows morphological the surface of (PVA-PVP- CdS)Numerous composites films or pieces allocated random distribution of particles on the top surface, homogeneous and coherent. in (PVA-PVP) blend and with different wt.% of Cadmium sulfide films have good linear attenuation coefficients for gamma-ray radiation.
Numerical Study on Nonlinear Behavior of RC Continuous Deep Beams
Authors: Sabre Ahmed Bashar M. , Al-Sulayfani Bayar J. , Mohammad Khalaf I.
Published: August 2021

The aim of the study is to demonstrate the extent of the effect that occurs to continuous reinforced deep beams when performing a parametric study in terms of support settlement and different support conditions for dual span continuous deep beams (CDBs), in terms of failure load and failure mode, using the ANSYS 2020 nonlinear finite element program. As the parametric study relied on the laboratory study conducted by Yang et al. [8]. Six samples were taken from continuous reinforced concrete beams with two spans with the extension of the shear to the depth ratios (0.5, 1). This was done to ensure that the form was handled appropriately. The pre-owned model to research the behavior of deep RC girders under static support conditions with different beam heights. Whereas, it was observed that there is a marked variation in the value of the failure load under the influence of different support conditions and the support settlement that occurs in them. This inspection is characterized by real, conceivable results of support conditions and support settlement in presenting two span continuous reinforced concrete deep beams.
Growth Of ZnO Nanostructured Thin Films By Non Conventional Sol-Gel Method And The Effect Of Annealing Temperature On Its Properties
Authors: Alrefaee M , Singh U P , Das S K
Published: August 2021

The present work demonstrates the growth of Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films from its powder precursor by using non-conventional sol-gel technique. The structural, morphological and optical properties of obtained thin films were studied under different annealing temperatures. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed hexagonal wurtzite structures for both annealed and pristine thin films. The crystallite size was found between 14 and 16 nm. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) images showed that the films have approximately uniform morphologies, consisting in several flower-like aggregates with nanosized multi petals. From the optical properties it was found that with the increase in the annealing temperature there is an increase in the absorption coefficient in the visible wavelength range. It was also noticed that the increase in annealing temperature caused a decrease in bandgap (Eg) and increase in Extinction coefficient. Urbach energy decreased with the increase annealing temperature up to 250°C, afterwards the Urbach energy increased with the increase in the annealing temperature. The causes for these observations are discussed.
Impact of Substrate Temperatures On the Properties of V2O5 Thin Films Deposited by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Farhan Mansour S. , Salim ALRikabi Haider TH. , Abed Faisal Theyab
Published: August 2021

Vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) thin films were fabricated by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) on fused silica substrate at temperatures (Ts) ranged from ambient temperature up to 300°C. UV-VIS-NIR spectral measurements, X-ray diffraction (XRD) X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were made to understand the influence of substrate temperature on optical, structural, and compositional properties. The substrate temperature displayed a robust effect on the construction and visual characteristics. The photosensitive band gap of PLD V2O5 films was powerfully dependent on the substrate temperature and was reduced from 2.36 eV to 2.08 eV with the growth of substrate temperature from ambient temperature to 300°C. However, the refractive index showed an increase from 2.28 to 2.69 for the same temperature range. V2O5 films grown at Ts = 300°C exhibited a crystalline nature as evidenced by XRD and SEM studies. The chemical composition of V2O5 films has been studied by XPS and the data revealed pure V2O5 compound was formed.