bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current-induced crystallisation in Heusler alloy films for memory potentiation in neuromorphic computation
Authors: Frost William , Elphick Kelvin , Samiepour Marjan , Hirohata Atsufumi
Published: August 2021

The current information technology has been developed based on von Neumann type computation. In order to sustain the rate of development, it is essential to investigate alternative technologies. In a next-generation computation, an important feature is memory potentiation, which has been overlooked to date. In this study, potentiation functionality is demonstrated in a giant magnetoresistive (GMR) junction consisting of a half-metallic Heusler alloy which can be a candidate of an artificial synapse while still achieving a low resistance-area product for low power consumption. Here the Heusler alloy films are grown on a (110) surface to promote layer-by-layer growth to reduce their crystallisation energy, which is comparable with Joule heating induced by a controlled current introduction. The current-induced crystallisation leads to the reduction in the corresponding resistivity, which acts as memory potentiation for an artificial GMR synaptic junction.
Whole genome sequencing reveals possible host species adaptation of Streptococcus dysgalactiae
Authors: Porcellato Davide , Smistad Marit , Skeie Siv Borghild , Jørgensen Hannah Joan , Austbø Lars , Oppegaard Oddvar
Published: August 2021

Streptococcusdysgalactiae (SD) is an emerging pathogen in human and veterinary medicine, and is associated with several host species, disease phenotypes and virulence mechanisms. SD has traditionally been divided into the subspecies dysgalactiae (SDSD) and subsp.equisimilis (SDSE), but recent molecular studies have indicated that the phylogenetic relationships are more complex. Moreover, the genetic basis for the niche versatility of SD has not been extensively investigated. To expand the knowledge about virulence factors, phylogenetic relationships and host-adaptation strategies of SD, we analyzed 78 SDSD genomes from cows and sheep, and 78 SDSE genomes from other host species. Sixty SDSD and 40 SDSE genomes were newly sequenced in this study. Phylogenetic analysis supported SDSD as a distinct taxonomic entity, presenting a mean value of the average nucleotide identity of 99%. Bovine and ovine associated SDSD isolates clustered separately on pangenome analysis, but no single gene or genetic region was uniquely associated with host species. In contrast, SDSE isolates were more heterogenous and could be delineated in accordance with host. Although phylogenetic clustering suggestive of cross species transmission was observed, we predominantly detected a host restricted distribution of the SD-lineages. Furthermore, lineage specific virulence factors were detected, several of them located in proximity to hotspots for integration of mobile genetic elements. Our study indicates that SD has evolved to adapt to several different host species and infers a potential role of horizontal genetic transfer in niche specialization.
Pulmonary function changes in older adults with and without metabolic syndrome
Authors: Brandao-Rangel Maysa Alves Rodrigues , Moraes-Ferreira Renilson , Oliveira-Junior Manoel Carneiro , Santos-Dias Alana , Bachi André Luis Lacerda , Gabriela-Pereira Giovana , de Oliveira Freitas Simone , Araújo-Rosa Amanda Cristina , Oliveira Luis Vicente Franco , Frison Claudio Ricardo , do Prado Wagner Luiz , Raju Raghavan Pillai , Balagopal P Babu , Vieira Rodolfo P
Published: August 2021

The low-grade inflammation associated with metabolic syndrome (MS) triggers functional and structural alterations in several organs. Whereas lung function impairment is well reported for older adult population, the effect of MS on functional and immunological responses in the lungs remains unclear. In this cross-sectional study we determined whether MS alters pulmonary function, and immunological responses in older adults with MS. The study sample consisted of older adults with MS (68 ± 3 years old; n = 77) and without MS (67 ± 3 years old; n = 77). Impulse oscillometry was used to evaluate airway and tissue resistance, and reactance. Biomarkers of inflammation and fibrosis were assessed in the blood and in breath condensate. The total resistance of the respiratory system (R5Hz; p < 0.009), and the resistance of the proximal (R20Hz; p < 0.001) and distal (R5Hz–R20Hz; p < 0.004) airways were higher in MS individuals compared to those without MS. Pro-inflammatory (leptin, IL-1beta, IL-8, p < 0.001; TNF-alpha, p < 0.04) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (adiponectin, IL-1ra, IL-10, p < 0.001), anti-fibrotic (relaxin 1, relaxin 3, Klotho, p < 0.001) and pro-fibrotic (VEGF, p < 0.001) factors were increased in sera and in breath condensate individuals with MS. The results show that MS adversely affect lung mechanics, function, and immunological response in older adults. The data offer a metabolic basis for the inflammaging of the lungs and suggest the lungs as a potential therapeutic target for controlling the immune response and delaying the onset of impaired lung function in older adults with MS.
Quantum private set intersection cardinality based on bloom filter
Authors: Liu Bai , Ruan Ou , Shi Runhua , Zhang Mingwu
Published: August 2021

Private Set Intersection Cardinality that enable Multi-party to privately compute the cardinality of the set intersection without disclosing their own information. It is equivalent to a secure, distributed database query and has many practical applications in privacy preserving and data sharing. In this paper, we propose a novel quantum private set intersection cardinality based on Bloom filter, which can resist the quantum attack. It is a completely novel constructive protocol for computing the intersection cardinality by using Bloom filter. The protocol uses single photons, so it only need to do some simple single-photon operations and tests. Thus it is more likely to realize through the present technologies. The validity of the protocol is verified by comparing with other protocols. The protocol implements privacy protection without increasing the computational complexity and communication complexity, which are independent with data scale. Therefore, the protocol has a good prospects in dealing with big data, privacy-protection and information-sharing, such as the patient contact for COVID-19.
Collagen V insufficiency in a mouse model for Ehlers Danlos-syndrome affects viscoelastic biomechanical properties explaining thin and brittle corneas
Authors: Kling Sabine , Torres-Netto Emilio A. , Abdshahzadeh Hormoz , Espana Edgar M. , Hafezi Farhad
Published: August 2021

Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a genetic disease leading to abnormalities in mechanical properties of different tissues. Here we quantify corneal biomechanical properties in an adult classic EDS mouse model using two different measurement approaches suited for murine corneal mechanical characterization and relate differences to stromal structure using Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) microscopy. Quasi-static Optical Coherence Elastography (OCE) was conducted non-invasively during ambient pressure modulation by − 3 mmHg. 2D-extensometry measurements was conducted invasively consisting of a pre-conditioning cycle, a stress-relaxation test and a rupture test. In a total of 28 eyes from a Col5a1+/− mouse model and wild-type C57BL/6 littermates (wt), Col5a1+/− corneas were thinner when compared to wt, (125 ± 11 vs 148 ± 10 μm, respectively, p < 0.001). Short-term elastic modulus was significantly increased in OCE (506 ± 88 vs 430 ± 103 kPa, p = 0.023), and the same trend was observed in 2D-extensometry (30.7 ± 12.1 kPa vs 21.5 ± 5.7, p = 0.057). In contrast, in stress relaxation tests, Col5a1+/− corneas experienced a stronger relaxation (55% vs 50%, p = 0.01). SHG microscopy showed differences in forward and backward scattered signal indicating abnormal collagen fibrils in Col5a1+/− corneas. We propose that disturbed collagen fibril structure in Col5a1+/− corneas affects the viscoelastic properties. Results presented here support clinical findings, in which thin corneas with global ultrastructural alterations maintain a normal corneal shape.
Posterior vitreous detachment and paravascular retinoschisis in highly myopic young patients detected by ultra-widefield OCT
Authors: Takahashi Hiroyuki , Nakao Noriko , Shinohara Kosei , Sugisawa Keigo , Uramoto Kengo , Igarashi-Yokoi Tae , Yoshida Takeshi , Ohno-Matsui Kyoko
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and retinoschisis (RS) in 73 highly myopic (HM) young patients age 16.4 ± 6.9 years and 24 non-HM children age 8.4 ± 1.5 years. The presence of the paravascular retinal abnormalities was determined in the images obtained by a ultra-widefield OCT (UWF OCT) instrument with an image field of 23 × 20 mm. The results showed that a partial PVD was detected in 15 (21%) of the HM patients, and the number increased significantly with increasing age (P = 0.02). PVDs of any type were not found in the non-HM eyes. The number of microvascular folds also increased with age in the HM patients (P = 0.03). Medium-reflective columnar tissues were present between the detached vitreous and inner retinal surface in 4 (5%) eyes of the HM patients. Myopic RS was found in 3 (4%) HM patients in the paravascular area but not in the macular area. These results suggest that early partial PVD may play a role in pathological and proliferative vitreous changes of HM eyes. An intense vitreoretinal traction with bridging tissues may cause the various paravascular retinal abnormalities. In HM eyes, paravascular RS is already present at an early age which may progress to macular RS with aging.
The reproductive success of bovine sperm after sex-sorting: a meta-analysis
Authors: Reese Sven , Pirez Miguel Camara , Steele Heather , Kölle Sabine
Published: August 2021

In the three decades since its inception, the sex-sorting technology has progressed significantly. However, field studies report conflicting findings regarding reproductive outcomes. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis of all trials published between 1999 and 2021. Non-return rates after 24 or 60 d (NRR 24/60), pregnancy, calving, abortion, and stillbirth rates were compared after AI with sex-sorted vs non-sorted sperm. Additionally, the impact of recent developments in the sex-sorting technology was assessed. Of 860 studies found, 45 studies (72 trials) provided extractable data and were included. Overall, the results of this meta-analysis provided evidence that the NRR 24/60 was diminished by 13%, pregnancy rates were reduced by 23% (25% cows, 21% heifers) and calving rates were reduced by 24% when using sex-sorted sperm. Enhancing the dosage to 4 million sex-sorted sperm/straw (including recent improvements, high vs low dose) as well as using fresh sex-sorted sperm (sorted vs non-sorted) increased pregnancy rate ratios by 7 percentage points. The refinement of the sex-sorting technology after 2015 resulted in a lowered reduction of pregnancy and calving rate of 19% and 23%, respectively. Whereas abortion rates were similar, the stillbirth of male calves was increased by 6.3%.
Impact of CBCT frequency on target coverage and dose to the organs at risk in adjuvant breast cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Borm Kai J. , Junker Yannis , Düsberg Mathias , Devečka Michal , Münch Stefan , Dapper Hendrik , Oechsner Markus , Combs Stephanie E.
Published: August 2021

The current study aims to assess the effect of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) frequency during adjuvant breast cancer radiotherapy with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) on target volume coverage and dose to the organs at risk (OAR). 50 breast cancer patients receiving either non-hypofractionated or hypofractionated radiotherapy after lumpectomy including a SIB to the tumor bed were selected for this study. All patients were treated in volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique and underwent daily CBCT imaging. In order to estimate the delivered dose during the treatment, the applied fraction doses were recalculated on daily CBCT scans and accumulated using deformable image registration. Based on a total of 2440 dose recalculations, dose coverage in the clinical target volumes (CTV) and OAR was compared depending on the CBCT frequency. The estimated delivered dose (V95%) for breast-CTV and SIB-CTV was significantly lower than the planned dose distribution, irrespective of the CBCT-frequency. Between daily CBCT and CBCT on alternate days, no significant dose differences were found regarding V95% for both, breast-CTV and SIB-CTV. Dose distribution in the OAR was similar for both imaging protocols. Weekly CBCT though led to a significant decrease in dose coverage compared to daily CBCT and a small but significant dose increase in most OAR. Daily CBCT imaging might not be necessary to ensure adequate dose coverage in the target volumes while efficiently sparing the OAR during adjuvant breast cancer radiotherapy with SIB.
Study on the vertical bearing performance of pile across cave and sensitivity of three parameters
Authors: Chen Hui Yun , Feng Zhong Ju , Li Tie , Bai Shao Fen , Zhang Cong
Published: August 2021

A new method was used to study the performance of pile across cave. This paper investigated the vertical bearing characteristics of piles cross caves using centrifugal model tests and a theoretical model of sensitivity. Twelve pile scenarios were selected, the first was a conventional pile, 24 cm long and 2.5 cm in diameter, with no karst cave as a control. In the other eleven scenarios the piles passed through karst caves of four different heights, of four different spans, and three different numbers of caves. The results reveal that increasing the height, span, and number of caves all are negative for vertical ultimate bearing capacity of piles. The axial force and unit shaft resistance of piles are great different. According to the ratios of the tip and shaft resistance, caves change the type of piles. The sensitivity of vertical ultimate bearing capacity to these factors from high to low is height, number, and span of caves. Importantly, the bearing characteristics of piles decrease faster once the height of the prototype karst cave is higher than 9 m, but decreases slowly when the cave’s span is greater than 9 m × 9 m.
Health-seeking and diagnosis delay and its associated factors: a case study on COVID-19 infections in Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Zheng Wenyuan , Kämpfen Fabrice , Huang Zhiyong
Published: August 2021

This time-to-event study examines social factors associated with health-seeking and diagnosis of 165 COVID-19 cases in response to the pandemic spread in Shaanxi Province, China. In particular, we investigate the differential access to healthcare in terms of delayed time from symptom onset to first medical visit and subsequently to diagnosis by factors such as sex, age, travel history, and type of healthcare utilization. We show that it takes more time for patients older than 60 (against those under 30) to seek healthcare after developing symptoms (+ 2.5 days, $$p<0.01$$

p
<
0.01

), surveillance on people with living or travel history to Wuhan helps shorten the time to the first doctor visit (− 0.8 days) and diagnosis (− 2.2 days, $$p<0.01$$

p
<
0.01

). A delay cut is associated with the adoption of intermediary and large hospitals rather than community-based care as primary care choices (− 1.6 days, $$p<0.1$$

p
<
0.1

and − 2.2 days, $$p<0.05$$

p
<
0.05

). One unit increase of healthcare workers per 1000 people saves patients 0.5 days ($$p<0.1$$

p
<
0.1

) for diagnosis from the first doctor visit and 0.6 days ($$p<0.05$$

p
<
0.05

) in total. Our analysis of factors associated with the time delay for diagnosis may provide a better understanding of the health-seeking behaviors of patients and the diagnosis capacity of healthcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The evolution of indirect reciprocity under action and assessment generosity
Authors: Schmid Laura , Shati Pouya , Hilbe Christian , Chatterjee Krishnendu
Published: August 2021

Indirect reciprocity is a mechanism for the evolution of cooperation based on social norms. This mechanism requires that individuals in a population observe and judge each other’s behaviors. Individuals with a good reputation are more likely to receive help from others. Previous work suggests that indirect reciprocity is only effective when all relevant information is reliable and publicly available. Otherwise, individuals may disagree on how to assess others, even if they all apply the same social norm. Such disagreements can lead to a breakdown of cooperation. Here we explore whether the predominantly studied ‘leading eight’ social norms of indirect reciprocity can be made more robust by equipping them with an element of generosity. To this end, we distinguish between two kinds of generosity. According to assessment generosity, individuals occasionally assign a good reputation to group members who would usually be regarded as bad. According to action generosity, individuals occasionally cooperate with group members with whom they would usually defect. Using individual-based simulations, we show that the two kinds of generosity have a very different effect on the resulting reputation dynamics. Assessment generosity tends to add to the overall noise and allows defectors to invade. In contrast, a limited amount of action generosity can be beneficial in a few cases. However, even when action generosity is beneficial, the respective simulations do not result in full cooperation. Our results suggest that while generosity can favor cooperation when individuals use the most simple strategies of reciprocity, it is disadvantageous when individuals use more complex social norms.
Establishment of sex difference in circulating uric acid is associated with higher testosterone and lower sex hormone-binding globulin in adolescent boys
Authors: Wang Yutang , Charchar Fadi J.
Published: August 2021

Men have higher circulating levels of uric acid than women. This sex difference is suspected to be a result of suppressive effects of estradiol on uric acid. If so, estradiol would be inversely associated with circulating uric acid. This study aimed to test this hypothesis. This cross-sectional study included 9472 participants (weighted sample size of 184,342,210) aged 12–80 years from the 2013 to 2016 US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Associations of sex hormones with uric acid were analyzed using weighted least squares regression, adjusting for demographic characteristics, lifestyle risk factors, and comorbidities. Neither free nor bioavailable estradiol was inversely associated with circulating uric acid in adolescent boys or girls, or adult men or women, or perimenopausal women after full adjustment. The sex difference in uric acid was established during adolescence as a result of a dramatic increase in uric acid in adolescent boys. During adolescence, the increase in estradiol in girls over time was accompanied by a relatively unchanged level of uric acid. All three fractions of estradiol (free, bioavailable, and total) were positively associated with uric acid in adolescent boys and girls after full adjustment. In adolescent boys, all three fractions of testosterone were positively associated with serum uric acid, and sex hormone-binding globulin was inversely associated with uric acid after full adjustment. These results suggest that estradiol is not inversely associated with circulating uric acid in adolescents and the establishment of sex difference in circulating uric acid during adolescence is associated with higher testosterone and lower sex hormone-binding globulin in adolescent boys.
Author Correction: Quantum tunneling theory of Cooper pairs as bosonic particles
Authors: Patiño Edgar J. , Lozano‑Gómez Daniel
Published: August 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin is a novel biomarker for arterial stiffness as the criterion for vascular failure in a cross-sectional study
Authors: Koyama Teruhide , Kuriyama Nagato , Suzuki Yosuke , Saito Satoshi , Tanaka Ryota , Iwao Motoshi , Tanaka Megumu , Maki Takakuni , Itoh Hiroki , Ihara Masafumi , Shindo Takayuki , Uehara Ritei
Published: August 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Superior improvement in dynamic response of liquid crystal lens using organic and inorganic nanocomposite
Authors: Hsu Che Ju , Singh Bhupendra Pratap , Selvaraj Pravinraj , Antony Mareena , Manohar Rajiv , Huang Chi Yen
Published: August 2021

In this study, the response time of a 4 mm-aperture hole-patterned liquid crystal (HLC) lens has been significantly improved with doping of N-benzyl-2-methyl-4-nitroaniline (BNA) and rutile titanium dioxide nanoparticle (TiO2 NP) nanocomposite. The proposed HLC lens provides the focus and defocus times that are 8.5× and 14× faster than the pristine HLC lens, respectively. Meanwhile, the focus and defocus times of the proposed HLC lens reach the order of millisecond. Result shows that the synergistic effect of BNA and TiO2 NP induces a 78% decrement in the viscosity of pristine LC mixture that significantly shortens the focus and defocus times of HLC lens. The remarkable decrement in viscosity is mainly attributed to spontaneous polarization electric fields from the permanent dipole moments of the additives. Besides, the strengthened electric field surrounding TiO2 NP assists in decreasing the focus time of HLC lens. The focus and defocus times of HLC lens are related to the wavefront (or phase profile) bending speed. The time-dependent phase profiles of the HLC lenses with various viscosities are calculated. This result shows the decrease in wavefront bending time is not simply proportional to viscosity decrement. Furthermore, the proposed HLC lens emerges a larger tunable focus capability within smaller voltage interval than the pristine HLC lens.
Improvement of biomolecular analysis in thin films using in situ matrix enhanced secondary ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Moshkunov Konstantin , Tomasetti Benjamin , Daphnis Thomas , Delmez Vincent , Vanvarenberg Kevin , Préat Véronique , Lorenz Matthias , Quanico Jusal , Baggerman Geert , Lemiere Filip , Dupont Christine , Delcorte Arnaud
Published: August 2021

In situ matrix-enhanced SIMS provides sensitivity improvement for bio-sample molecular analysis and imaging.
Inertial microfluidics for high-throughput cell analysis and detection: a review
Authors: Zhou Zheng , Chen Yao , Zhu Shu , Liu Linbo , Ni Zhonghua , Xiang Nan
Published: August 2021

In this review, recent advances on the application of inertial microfluidics for cell analysis and detection are summarized.
Identification of full-length circular nucleic acids using long-read sequencing technologies
Authors: Lu Wenxiang , Yu Kequan , Li Xiaohan , Ge Qinyu , Liang Geyu , Bai Yunfei
Published: August 2021

In this review, we focus on the detection methods of full-length circular nucleic acids based on long-read sequencing technologies and the latest progress therein.
The role of high-density and low-density amorphous ice on biomolecules at cryogenic temperatures: a case study with polyalanine
Authors: Eltareb Ali , Lopez Gustavo E. , Giovambattista Nicolas
Published: August 2021

In this work we perform classical molecular dynamics simulations to study the effects of LDA, HDA, and the LDA–HDA transformation on the structure and hydration of a small peptide, polyalanine.
Potassium-incorporated manganese oxide enhances the activity and durability of platinum catalysts for low-temperature CO oxidation
Authors: Yan Xuelan , Gan Tao , Shi Shaozhen , Du Juan , Xu Guohao , Zhang Wenxiang , Yan Wenfu , Zou Yongcun , Liu Gang
Published: August 2021

Potassium-incorporated manganese oxide is demonstrated as an efficient support for fabricating highly active and stable Pt catalysts for low-temperature CO oxidation.
FeVO4-supported Mn–Ce oxides for the low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of NOx by NH3
Authors: Zhao Shuqi , Shi Jian-Wen , Niu Cihang , Wang Baorui , He Chi , Liu Wei , Xiao Lei , Ma Dandan , Wang Hongkang , Cheng Yonghong
Published: August 2021

Iron vanadate (FeVO4) nanorods are used as a carrier to support manganese (Mn) and cerium (Ce) oxides for the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of nitrogen oxides (NOx) with NH3 for the first time.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity and easy recovery of visible light active MoSe2/BiVO4 heterojunction immobilized on Luffa cylindrica – experimental and DFT study
Authors: Chawla Harshita , Saha Meghna , Upadhyay Sumant , Rohilla Jyoti , Ingole Pravin Popinand , Sapi Andras , Szenti Imre , Yadav Mohit , Lebedev Vasily T. , Chandra Amrish , Garg Seema
Published: August 2021

Fabrication of 0.15MoSe2@BiVO4 by hydrothermal method and its immobilization on Luffa cylindrica. Morphology of 0.15MoSe2@BiVO4–Luffa revealed by SEM image.
Impact of licochalcone A on the progression of diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus of C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Luo Zhonghua , Li Tao , Gao Qingqing , Chen Yu , Su Guangyue , Zhao Yuqing
Published: August 2021

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the most common chronic microvascular complication of diabetes.
Over a century since ephedrine discovery: an updated revisit to its pharmacological aspects, functionality and toxicity in comparison to its herbal extracts
Authors: Gad Mohamed Z. , Azab Samar S. , Khattab Amira R. , Farag Mohamed A.
Published: August 2021

Overview of the covered topics: action mechanisms for ephedrine stimulation of α and β adrenoceptor, impact of processing and combination on the pharmacokinetics of its ephedrine content, and key players in pharmacokinetics.
Effects of long-term consumption of sucralose associated with high-fat diet in male mice
Authors: Santos Paola Sousa , Ruy Caio Cesar , Rabelo Paiva Caria Cintia , Gambero Alessandra
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of sucralose (0.03%) in drinking water on male Swiss mice fed a normal or high-fat diet for an extended period (16 weeks).
Wide and continuous dynamic tuning of period, modulation depth and duty cycle of a laminar-flow-based microfluidic grating
Authors: Chen Lin , Liu Liying , Xu Lei
Published: August 2021

A laminar-flow-based all-liquid grating whose period, modulation depth and duty cycle can be dynamically and continuously tuned in a wide range.
Deep-learning on-chip light-sheet microscopy enabling video-rate volumetric imaging of dynamic biological specimens
Authors: Chen Xiaopeng , Ping Junyu , Sun Yixuan , Yi Chengqiang , Liu Sijian , Gong Zhefeng , Fei Peng
Published: August 2021

A deep learning-enhanced light-sheet microscopy add-on in conjunction with a microfluidic chip allows a conventional 2D inverted microscope to implement video-rate 3D isotropic imaging of live biological specimens.
Development of 4,4′-bibenzo[c]thiophene fluorophores with substituents on the thiophene rings
Authors: Obayashi Kotaro , Miho Saori , Yasui Masataka , Imato Keiichi , Akiyama Seiji , Ishida Mio , Ooyama Yousuke
Published: August 2021

We provide a facile synthetic method of 1,1′-disubstituted 4,4′-bibenzo[c]thiophene fluorescent dyes from 1,1′,3,3′-tetrahydro-[4,4′-bibenzo[c]thiophene] 2,2′-dioxide.
Unprecedented neptunyl(v) cation-directed structural variations in Np2Oxcompounds
Authors: Xu Zhong-Fei , Zhang Wen-Jing , Zhang Ping , Hu Shu-Xian
Published: August 2021

Global minimum searching on Np2Ox (x= 1–7) clusters and computational studies on their chemical bonding, suggests that the Np(v) could act as structural directing role, leading to a mixed-valent Np(iii/v) in Np2O4accessible.
Synthesis of a bead-like multicyclic polymer by UV-induced coupling of an anthracene-telechelic monocyclic precursor and its reversible topological conversion
Authors: Zhang Hua-long , Xu Wen , Liu Chao , Hong Chun-yan
Published: August 2021

In this study, a bead-like multicyclic polymer was synthesized by the UV-induced coupling reaction of an anthracene-telechelic monocyclic precursor and the reversible topological transformation between the monocyclic polymer and the multicyclic polymer was realized.
Enhancement of the mechanical properties of lysine-containing peptide-based supramolecular hydrogels by chemical cross-linking
Authors: Marshall Libby J. , Matsarskaia Olga , Schweins Ralf , Adams Dave J.
Published: August 2021

Cross-linking lysine-containing peptide-based gelators with glutaraldehyde allows tuning of the final gel mechanical properties.
Copper-assisted growth of high-purity carbon nanofiber networks with controllably tunable wettabilities
Authors: Zhao Xianglong , Meng Guowen , Wang Ping , Pan Qijun , Chen Bin , Zhang Haimin , Baek Jong-Beom
Published: August 2021

High-purity carbon nanofiber networks were grown on surfaces of ceramic boats via Cu-assisted CVD. After peeling off and selective plasma treatment, the invisible hydrophobic patterns on both their obverse and reverse surfaces were obtained.
Element substitution of a spinel LiMn2O4cathode
Authors: Zhang Shu , Deng Wentao , Momen Roya , Yin Shouyi , Chen Jun , Massoudi Abouzar , Zou Guoqiang , Hou Hongshuai , Deng Weina , Ji Xiaobo
Published: August 2021

Three influence principles of element substitution involving phase evolution, solid solution strengthening and Li+diffusion kinetics boosting.
Acenaphthylene as a building block for π-electron functional materials
Authors: Liu Ying-Hsuan , Perepichka Dmitrii F.
Published: August 2021

The paper reviews synthetic design and optoelectronic properties of π-conjugated molecules and polymers based on the acenaphthylene building block.
Visual Modeling: A Socialization-Based Intervention to Improve Nutritional Intake Among Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Burdick Ryan , Lin Ting-fen , Shune Samantha E.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Malnutrition is a widespread, dangerous, and costly condition among institutionalized older adults and can be both a contributor to and consequence of dysphagia for individuals with cognitive impairment. However, interventions to maximize intake in individuals with dementia are limited and frequently problematic, with negative implications for independence and quality of life. The goal of this study was to examine a novel, socialization-grounded intervention based on visual modeling, utilizing the theoretical underpinnings of motor resonance and mimicry.

Method

To examine the impact of environment on intake, data were collected from four nursing home residents (
M
age
= 83.5 years,
SD
= 4.2; three women) with dementia. Weight of food and liquid intake was measured across 15 meals and three different mealtime conditions: the “baseline condition” in which the individual ate alone, the “watch condition” in which the individual ate in the company of a “mealtime buddy,” and the “eat” condition in which the individual consumed a meal while the “mealtime buddy” did the same.

Results

Data visualization supported a weak functional relation between eating environment and amount of intake consumed across participants. Log response ratio estimates suggested a trend for increased weight of food consumed during the eat condition as compared to baseline and the eat condition as compared to the watch condition for some participants.

Conclusions

These results preliminarily support the benefit of a visual model for increased consumption in some individuals with dementia. The presence and magnitude of the effect across conditions varied based on individual-level factors, such as cognitive status, which has implications for implementation. Overall, this study provides initial proof of concept regarding the use of visual modeling as an intervention approach, laying the foundation for larger scale future studies.
Quasi-optimal adaptive hybridized mixed finite element methods for linear elasticity
Authors: Li Yuwen
Published: August 2021

For the planar Navier–Lamé equation in mixed form with symmetric stress tensors, we prove the uniform quasi-optimal convergence of an adaptive method based on the hybridized mixed finite element proposed in Gong et al. [Numer. Math. 141 (2019) 569–604]. The main ingredients in the analysis consist of a discrete a posteriori upper bound and a quasi-orthogonality result for the stress field under the mixed boundary condition. Compared with existing adaptive methods, the proposed adaptive algorithm could be directly applied to the traction boundary condition and be easily implemented.
Bi-level optimization approach for robust mean-variance problems
Authors: Swain Pulak , Ojha Akshay Kumar
Published: August 2021

Portfolio Optimization is based on the efficient allocation of several assets, which can get heavily affected by the uncertainty in input parameters. So we must look for such solutions which can give us steady results in uncertain conditions too. Recently, the uncertainty based optimization problems are being dealt with robust optimization approach. With this development, the interest of researchers has been shifted toward the robust portfolio optimization. In this paper, we study the robust counterparts of the uncertain mean-variance problems under box and ellipsoidal uncertainties. We convert those uncertain problems into bi-level optimization models and then derive their robust counterparts. We also solve a problem using this methodology and compared the optimal results of box and ellipsoidal uncertainty models with the nominal model.
Directional scale elasticity considering the management preference of decision-makers
Authors: Ren Tiantian , Zhou Zhongbao , Li Ruiyang , Liu Wenbin
Published: August 2021

Most data envelopment analysis (DEA) studies on scale elasticity (SE) and returns to scale (RTS) of efficient units arise from the traditional definitions of them in economics, which is based on measuring radial changes in outputs caused by the simultaneous change in all inputs. In actual multiple inputs/outputs activities, the goals of expanding inputs are not only to obtain increases in outputs, but also to expect the proportions of such increases consistent with the management preference of decision-makers. However, the management preference is usually not radial changes in outputs. With the latter goal into consideration, this paper proposes the directional SE and RTS in a general formula for multi-output activities, and offers a DEA-based model for the formula of directional SE at any point on the DEA frontier, which is straightforward and requires no simplifying assumptions. Finally, the empirical part employs the data of 16 basic research institutions in Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) to illustrate the superiority of the proposed theories and methods.
Bei der Begutachtung oft nicht bedacht: Unfallpatienten und Patienten nach einem Lärmtrauma – Eine patientenzugewandte, komplementäre Sichtweise
Authors: Schaaf Helmut , Kastellis G. , Hesse G.
Published: August 2021

Patienten, die einen Tinnitus im Rahmen eines Unfallgeschehens, eines Lärmtraumas oder anderer externer Einflüsse erworben haben, weisen in der Behandlung wichtige Besonderheiten auf. Obwohl ihr Leiden meist ohne eigene Schuld durch äußere Umstände oder andere Menschen ausgelöst wurde, ist für sie ein von außen schwer erkennbarer dauerhafter Schaden entstanden, für den sie selbst ihre verbliebenen Ressourcen aufbieten müssen, um mit einem Leiden am Tinnitus und meist auch dem Hörschaden adäquat umgehen zu können. Ungünstig und aufrechterhaltend können sich dabei Rechtsstreitigkeiten und die in diesem Rahmen notwendigen Begutachtungsprozesse auswirken. Deren Einflüsse und Rezeption bei den Patienten sollen hier verdeutlicht werden.
Facile and Straightforward Synthesis of Racemic Version of Substituted 3-[3-(2-Hydroxyphenyl)-3-oxo-1-arylpropyl]-4-hydroxycoumarins: Easy Access to a Series of Biorelevant Warfarin Analogues
Authors: Brahmachari Goutam , Mandal Mullicka , Karmakar Indrajit
Published: August 2021

The present communication deals with a straightforward, efficient, and green synthesis of a series of racemic version of 3-[3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-oxo-1-arylpropyl]-4-hydroxycoumarins as biologically interesting warfarin analogues upon decarboxylative hydrolysis of bis-coumarin derivatives in aqueous potassium hydroxide solution. The salient features of this practical method are operational simplicity, avoidance of any organic solvents and tedious column chromatographic purification, clean reaction profiles, excellent yields, and gram-scale synthetic applicability.
Effectiveness of Dry Needling in Bothersome Chronic Tinnitus in Patients with Myofascial Trigger Points
Authors: Campagna Carla Alexandra , Anauate Juliana , Vasconœlos Laura Garcia E. , Oiticica Jeanne
Published: August 2021

Introduction Therapeutic dry needling (DN) is effective in reducing the discomfort of chronic somatosensory tinnitus in patients with myofascial trigger points (MTP)s.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of DN in chronic somatosensory tinnitus discomfort in patients with MTP.

Methods Placebo-controlled paired trial that included 16 patients with a diagnosis of somatosensory chronic tinnitus and with the presence of at least one active or latent MTP. Treatment was performed in two phases: (1) four sessions (one session per week for four consecutive weeks) of placebo DN and (2) four sessions of therapeutic DN with a gap (washout) of 15 days between these phases.

Results The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) variable and its emotional domain had a statistically significant reduction in therapeutic DN when compared with placebo DN (p = 0.024 and p = 0.011, respectively).

The tinnitus visual analogic scale (VAS) signaled a reduction in tinnitus discomfort when compared with moments before and after therapeutic DN (p < 0.05).

Conclusion The therapeutic DN technique for MTP in patients with chronic tinnitus of somatosensory origin proved effective in reducing symptom discomfort, as measured by the THI (total score) and its emotional domain when compared with placebo DN.
Effectiveness of Counseling Based on Functional Analytic Psychotherapy with Enhanced Cognitive Therapy on the Sexual Quality of Life of Married Adolescent Women
Authors: Gholami Maryam , Ahmadi Atefeh , Taebi Mozhgan , Jahani Yunes , Alidousti Katayoun
Published: August 2021

Objective Early marriage has many deleterious effects on the health of girls, such as sexual dissatisfaction, an inevitable result of the lack of sufficient knowledge about sexual issues at the time of the marriage. The goal of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of counseling based on functional analytic psychotherapy with enhanced cognitive therapy (FECT) on the sexual quality of life of married adolescent women.

Methods This clinical trial was conducted between July and October 2019 on 150 married adolescent women who met the inclusion criteria. In the intervention group, FECT was conducted in sixteen 90-minute sessions twice a week. The Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire was used. When the study ended, the control group was given the choice of receiving the same intervention as the intervention group.

Results The paired t-test showed a significant difference between the mean score of sexual quality of life before (52.33 ± 23.09) and after (88.08 ± 10.51) counseling in the intervention group (p < 0.0001). According to the analysis of covariance, there was a significant difference between the score on sexual quality after counseling between the intervention (88.08 ± 10.51) and control (60.32 ± 23.73) groups (p < 0.0001). There was also a significant difference between the mean score on the four dimensions of sexual quality of life in the intervention group (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion The results showed that counseling based on FECT improved the sexual quality of life in all dimensions in married adolescent women.
Factors Associated with Abortion Complications after the Implementation of a Surveillance Network (MUSA Network) in a University Hospital
Authors: Cavalari Camila Ayume Amano , Veiga-Junior Nelio Neves , Kajiura Beatriz Deguti , Eugeni Caroline , Tavares Barbara Virgínia Gonçalves , Baccaro Luiz Francisco
Published: August 2021

Objective To evaluate the factors associated with abortion complications following the implementation of the good-practice surveillance network Mujeres en Situación de Aborto (Women Undergoing Abortion, MUSA, in Spanish).

Methods A cross-sectional study with women who underwent abortion due to any cause and in any age group at UNICAMP Women's Hospital (part of MUSA network), Campinas, Brazil, between July 2017 and Agust 2019. The dependent variable was the presence of any abortion-related complications during hospitalization. The independent variables were clinical and sociodemographic data. The Chi-square test, the Mann–Whitney test, and multiple logistic regression were used for the statistical analysis.

Results Overall, 305 women were enrolled (mean ± standard deviation [SD] for age: 29.79 ± 7.54 years). The mean gestational age was 11.17 (±3.63) weeks. Accidental pregnancy occurred in 196 (64.5%) cases, 91 (29.8%) due to contraception failure. At least 1 complication was observed in 23 (7.54%) women, and 8 (34.8%) of them had more than 1. The most frequent complications were excessive bleeding and infection. The factors independently associated with a higher prevalence of complications were higher gestational ages (odds ratio [OR]: 1.22; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.09 to 1.37) and contraceptive failure (OR: 3.4; 95%CI: 1.32 to 8.71).

Conclusion Higher gestational age and contraceptive failure were associated with a higher prevalence of complications. This information obtained through the surveillance network can be used to improve care, particularly in women more susceptible to unfavorable outcomes.
An Analysis on the Implementation of the Evidence-based PCOS Lifestyle Guideline: Recommendations from Women with PCOS
Authors: Lim Siew , Wright Breanna , Savaglio Melissa , Goodwin Denise , Pirotta Stephanie , Moran Lisa
Published: August 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinological disorder affecting women of reproductive age, affecting 8–13% in this group. Women with PCOS are more likely to have excess BMI, which in turn exacerbates the symptoms of PCOS in these women. The latest evidence-based guideline recommends lifestyle management as the first-line treatment for PCOS. However, the implementation of this recommendation through health services faces a significant challenge. As part of the mapping of the implementation plan for lifestyle management in PCOS, citizen panels and semi-structured interviews were conducted to capture the voices of consumers. Women with PCOS expressed the need for multidisciplinary, integrated care as a recurrent theme. Other important considerations included health professionals who listen and are open to learning about PCOS, the empowerment of women to self-manage PCOS and the provision of peer support. Women with PCOS also expressed the key recommendation of focusing on practical skills when providing lifestyle advice. Within that, both individual and group lifestyle sessions were valued for privacy and peer support respectively and delivery by a dietitian is preferred. These recommendations by women with PCOS should be considered when developing the implementation plan for the PCOS lifestyle guideline.
A compact 1200 V, 700 A, IGBT-based pulse generator for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in vivo laboratory experiments on small animals
Authors: Senda Daniel , Strong Haley , Hines Dustin , Hines Rochelle , Baker R. Jacob
Published: August 2021

An insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) pulse generator for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation used for in vivo laboratory experiments on small animals, such as mice, is reported. The pulse generator is based upon an IGBT that can switch 700 A of current for 1 ms and that has a DC breakdown voltage of 1200 V. The duration of the design’s output pulse is controlled by, and follows, an input trigger pulse. The voltage amplitude of the output pulses is determined by an external high-voltage power supply and the energy stored in a 330 µF capacitor bank. The approach enables the amplitude of the voltage applied across the coil, the length of time the voltage is applied, and the number of times the voltage pulses are applied all to be controlled and adjusted to facilitate a wide range of experimental options. This paper provides a detailed schematic of the design, design discussions, and some representative experimental results. Additionally, the reported design can be scaled to higher currents by using an IGBT with a higher current rating.
Divergent predictive states: The statistical complexity dimension of stationary, ergodic hidden Markov processes
Authors: Jurgens Alexandra M. , Crutchfield James P.
Published: August 2021

Even simply defined, finite-state generators produce stochastic processes that require tracking an uncountable infinity of probabilistic features for optimal prediction. For processes generated by hidden Markov chains, the consequences are dramatic. Their predictive models are generically infinite state. Until recently, one could determine neither their intrinsic randomness nor structural complexity. The prequel to this work introduced methods to accurately calculate the Shannon entropy rate (randomness) and to constructively determine their minimal (though, infinite) set of predictive features. Leveraging this, we address the complementary challenge of determining how structured hidden Markov processes are by calculating their statistical complexity dimension—the information dimension of the minimal set of predictive features. This tracks the divergence rate of the minimal memory resources required to optimally predict a broad class of truly complex processes.
Generation of tunable terajet via a dielectric rod covered with Dirac semimetal
Authors: Yahyapour B. , Rezaei B.
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we investigate the formation of a photonic terajet and tune its optical properties using the high-resolution finite-difference time-domain method. A Dirac semimetal is coated onto the surface of a dielectric rod and illuminated with an incident plane wave. The refractive index of the Dirac semimetal can be modulated by changing its Fermi energy. It was demonstrated that the presence of the Dirac semimetal layer can significantly affect the characteristics of the photonic terajet, such as focal distance, intensity, full-width at half maximum, and length.