bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jumping over baselines with new methods to predict activation maps from resting-state fMRI
Authors: Lacosse Eric , Scheffler Klaus , Lohmann Gabriele , Martius Georg
Published: February 2021

Cognitive fMRI research primarily relies on task-averaged responses over many subjects to describe general principles of brain function. Nonetheless, there exists a large variability between subjects that is also reflected in spontaneous brain activity as measured by resting state fMRI (rsfMRI). Leveraging this fact, several recent studies have therefore aimed at predicting task activation from rsfMRI using various machine learning methods within a growing literature on ‘connectome fingerprinting’. In reviewing these results, we found lack of an evaluation against robust baselines that reliably supports a novelty of predictions for this task. On closer examination to reported methods, we found most underperform against trivial baseline model performances based on massive group averaging when whole-cortex prediction is considered. Here we present a modification to published methods that remedies this problem to large extent. Our proposed modification is based on a single-vertex approach that replaces commonly used brain parcellations. We further provide a summary of this model evaluation by characterizing empirical properties of where prediction for this task appears possible, explaining why some predictions largely fail for certain targets. Finally, with these empirical observations we investigate whether individual prediction scores explain individual behavioral differences in a task.
Structured team-oriented program to follow patients after vena cava filter placement: a step forward in improving quality for filter retrieval
Authors: Qanadli Salah D. , Rezaei-Kalantari Kiara , Crivelli Laurence , Doenz Francesco , Jouannic Anne-Marie , Rotzinger David C.
Published: February 2021

To reduce inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) related complications, retrieval is recommended whenever possible. Nevertheless, IVCF retrieval rates remain lower than expected, likely due to insufficient follow-up after placement. We evaluated the value of a structured program designed to follow patients by the interventional radiology team up to 5 months after IVCF placement. We prospectively enrolled 366 consecutive patients (mean age 64 ± 17 years; 201 men and 165 women) who benefited from IVCF between March 2015 and February 2020. The program consisted of advising the patient and clinicians to consider IVCF retrieval as soon as possible (standard workflow) and systematically planning an additional follow-up visit at 5-month. Clinical and technical eligibility, as well as technical success for retrieval (TSR) were evaluated. At 5-months, 38 (10.4%) patients were lost to follow-up, and 47 (12.8%) had died. Among survivors, the overall retrieval rate was 58%. The retrieval rates were 83% and 97% for the clinically eligible and technically eligible patients for retrieval, respectively. The 5-month visit enabled 89 additional retrievals (47.8%) compared to the standard workflow. No significant difference was seen in TSR before and after 5 months (p = 0.95). Improved patient tracking with a dedicated IVCF program results in an effective process to identify suitable patients for retrieval and drastically improves retrieval rates in eligible patients. Involving interventionalists in the process improved IVCF patient management.
TRPV1 feed-forward sensitisation depends on COX2 upregulation in primary sensory neurons
Authors: Li Tianci , Wang Gaoge , Hui Vivian Chin Chin , Saad Daniel , de Sousa Valente Joao , La Montanara Paolo , Nagy Istvan
Published: February 2021

Increased activity and excitability (sensitisation) of a series of molecules including the transient receptor potential ion channel, vanilloid subfamily, member 1 (TRPV1) in pain-sensing (nociceptive) primary sensory neurons are pivotal for developing pathological pain experiences in tissue injuries. TRPV1 sensitisation is induced and maintained by two major mechanisms; post-translational and transcriptional changes in TRPV1 induced by inflammatory mediators produced and accumulated in injured tissues, and TRPV1 activation-induced feed-forward signalling. The latter mechanism includes synthesis of TRPV1 agonists within minutes, and upregulation of various receptors functionally linked to TRPV1 within a few hours, in nociceptive primary sensory neurons. Here, we report that a novel mechanism, which contributes to TRPV1 activation-induced TRPV1-sensitisation within ~ 30 min in at least ~ 30% of TRPV1-expressing cultured murine primary sensory neurons, is mediated through upregulation in cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expression and increased synthesis of a series of COX2 products. These findings highlight the importance of feed-forward signalling in sensitisation, and the value of inhibiting COX2 activity to control pain, in nociceptive primary sensory neurons in tissue injuries.
Morphometry of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 particles in ultrathin plastic sections of infected Vero cell cultures
Authors: Laue Michael , Kauter Anne , Hoffmann Tobias , Möller Lars , Michel Janine , Nitsche Andreas
Published: February 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is the causative of the COVID-19 disease, which has spread pandemically around the globe within a few months. It is therefore necessary to collect fundamental information about the disease, its epidemiology and treatment, as well as about the virus itself. While the virus has been identified rapidly, detailed ultrastructural analysis of virus cell biology and architecture is still in its infancy. We therefore studied the virus morphology and morphometry of SARS-CoV-2 in comparison to SARS-CoV as it appears in Vero cell cultures by using conventional thin section electron microscopy and electron tomography. Both virus isolates, SARS-CoV Frankfurt 1 and SARS-CoV-2 Italy-INMI1, were virtually identical at the ultrastructural level and revealed a very similar particle size distribution with a median of about 100 nm without spikes. Maximal spike length of both viruses was 23 nm. The number of spikes per virus particle was about 30% higher in the SARS-CoV than in the SARS-CoV-2 isolate. This result complements a previous qualitative finding, which was related to a lower productivity of SARS-CoV-2 in cell culture in comparison to SARS-CoV.
Role of IgG against N-protein of SARS-CoV2 in COVID19 clinical outcomes
Authors: Batra Mayank , Tian Runxia , Zhang Chongxu , Clarence Emile , Sacher Camila Sofia , Miranda Justin Nestor , De La Fuente Justin Rafa O. , Mathew Megan , Green Desmond , Patel Sayari , Bastidas Maria Virginia Perez , Haddadi Sara , Murthi Mukunthan , Gonzalez Miguel Santiago , Kambali Shweta , Santos Kayo H. M. , Asif Huda , Modarresi Farzaneh , Faghihi Mohammad , Mirsaeidi Mehdi
Published: February 2021

The Nucleocapsid Protein (N Protein) of severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) is located in the viral core. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) targeting N protein is detectable in the serum of infected patients. The effect of high titers of IgG against N-protein on clinical outcomes of SARS-CoV2 disease has not been described. We studied 400 RT-PCR confirmed SARS-CoV2 patients to determine independent factors associated with poor outcomes, including Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) admission, prolonged MICU stay and hospital admissions, and in-hospital mortality. We also measured serum IgG against the N protein and correlated its concentrations with clinical outcomes. We found that several factors, including Charlson comorbidity Index (CCI), high levels of IL6, and presentation with dyspnea were associated with poor clinical outcomes. It was shown that higher CCI and higher IL6 levels were independently associated with in-hospital mortality. Anti-N protein IgG was detected in the serum of 55 (55%) patients at the time of admission. A high concentration of antibodies, defined as signal to cut off ratio (S/Co) > 1.5 (75 percentile of all measurements), was found in 25 (25%) patients. The multivariable logistic regression models showed that between being an African American, higher CCI, lymphocyte counts, and S/Co ratio > 1.5, only S/Co ratio were independently associated with MICU admission and longer length of stay in hospital. This study recommends that titers of IgG targeting N-protein of SARS-CoV2 at admission is a prognostic factor for the clinical course of disease and should be measured in all patients with SARS-CoV2 infection.
Energetics of mesoscale cell turbulence in two-dimensional monolayers
Authors: Lin Shao-Zhen , Zhang Wu-Yang , Bi Dapeng , Li Bo , Feng Xi-Qiao
Published: February 2021

Investigation of energy mechanisms at the collective cell scale is a challenge for understanding various biological processes, such as embryonic development and tumor metastasis. Here we investigate the energetics of self-sustained mesoscale turbulence in confluent two-dimensional (2D) cell monolayers. We find that the kinetic energy and enstrophy of collective cell flows in both epithelial and non-epithelial cell monolayers collapse to a family of probability density functions, which follow the q-Gaussian distribution rather than the Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution. The enstrophy scales linearly with the kinetic energy as the monolayer matures. The energy spectra exhibit a power-decaying law at large wavenumbers, with a scaling exponent markedly different from that in the classical 2D Kolmogorov–Kraichnan turbulence. These energetic features are demonstrated to be common for all cell types on various substrates with a wide range of stiffness. This study provides unique clues to understand active natures of cell population and tissues.
Quantitative detection of dithiocarbamate pesticides by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy combined with an exhaustive peak-seeking method
Authors: Wei Qiaoling , Zhang Liangdong , Song Chunfeng , Yuan Hongfu , Li Xiaoyu
Published: February 2021

A surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) detection method for dithiocarbamate (DTC) with good signal repeatability and a wide linear quantitative range is developed combined with an exhaustive peak-seeking method.
Cis,cis,trans-[PtIVCl2(NH3)2(perillato)2], a dual-action prodrug with excellent cytotoxic and antimetastatic activity
Authors: Ravera Mauro , Gabano Elisabetta , Zanellato Ilaria , Rangone Beatrice , Perin Elena , Ferrari Beatrice , Bottone Maria Grazia , Osella Domenico
Published: February 2021

The insertion of perillic acid in cisplatin-based antitumor Pt(iv) prodrugs confers them antimetastatic properties.
Compressible and flexible PPy@MoS2/C microwave absorption foam with strong dielectric polarization from 2D semiconductor intermediate sandwich structure
Authors: Yang Ziqi , Guo Huiqiao , You Wenbin , Wu Zhengchen , Yang Liting , Wang Min , Che Renchao
Published: February 2021

In this work, we shed novel light on the construction of advanced carbon-supported composites and 2D materials used in devices, with peculiarities of lightweight, high microwave absorption performance, flexibility, and compressibility.
An effective dual-modification strategy to enhance the performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathode for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Liang , Liang Jiashun , Zhang Xiaoyu , Li Shenzhou , Wang Tanyuan , Ma Feng , Han Jiantao , Huang Yunhui , Li Qing
Published: February 2021

The dual-modification strategy of NCM622 cathode for Li-ion batteries could effectively relieve the interfacial instability and bulk structure degradation.
The prospects of developing a highly energy-efficient water electrolyser by eliminating or mitigating bubble effects
Authors: Swiegers Gerhard F. , Terrett Richard N. L. , Tsekouras George , Tsuzuki Takuya , Pace Ronald J. , Stranger Robert
Published: February 2021

This work considers the prospects of developing a commercially-feasible water electrolyser with 95–100% energy efficiency (relative to the Higher Heating Value, HHV, of hydrogen) at the cells in the near future.
Correction: Using high-throughput virtual screening to explore the optoelectronic property space of organic dyes; finding diketopyrrolopyrrole dyes for dye-sensitized water splitting and solar cells
Authors: Heath-Apostolopoulos Isabelle , Vargas-Ortiz Diego , Wilbraham Liam , Jelfs Kim E. , Zwijnenburg Martijn A.
Published: February 2021

Correction for ‘Using high-throughput virtual screening to explore the optoelectronic property space of organic dyes; finding diketopyrrolopyrrole dyes for dye-sensitized water splitting and solar cells’ by Isabelle Heath-Apostolopoulos et al., Sustainable Energy Fuels, 2021, DOI: 10.1039/d0se00985g.
Methodological Considerations for Auditory Training Interventions for Adults With Hearing Loss: A Rapid Review
Authors: Gaeta Laura , Stark Rachel Keiko , Ofili Erika
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate literature on auditory training published since 2013.

Method

A rapid review or a streamlined approach to systematically identify and summarize relevant studies was performed. Selected health sciences databases were searched using a search strategy developed with the PICO (population, intervention, comparison, and outcome) framework. Studies eligible for inclusion had older adult participants with hearing loss and utilized technology-based auditory training in laboratory or home settings.

Results

The study quality of most studies was found to be low to moderate, with concentrations between low and moderate. Major issues were related to study design and reporting, such as the need for blinding and a control group, larger sample sizes, and a follow-up for long-term outcomes of auditory training interventions. Wide variability in training approaches, participant backgrounds (e.g., audiograms, hearing aid use), and outcome measures are also noted.

Conclusions

Evidence on the effectiveness of auditory training is mixed. Future research should include high-quality randomized controlled trials with representative populations; follow-up periods to study long-term effects; and exploration of behavioral, electrophysiological, and self-reported outcome measures. Recommendations for study designs and methodologies are also discussed.
A Field-Based Approach to Establish Normative Acoustic Data for Healthy Female Voices
Authors: Pierce Jenny L. , Tanner Kristine , Merrill Ray M. , Shnowske Lauren , Roy Nelson
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The primary aim of this study was to obtain high-quality acoustic normative data in natural field environments for female voices. A secondary aim was to examine acoustic measurement variability in field environments.

Method

This study employed a within-subject repeated-measures experimental design that included 45 young female adults with normal voices. Participants were stratified by age (18–23, 24–29, and 30–35 years). After initial evaluation and instruction, participants completed voice recordings during seven consecutive days using a standard protocol, including both connected speech and sustained vowels. Thirty-two cepstral-, spectral-, and time-based acoustic measures were acquired using Praat and the Analysis of Dysphonia in Speech and Voice.

Results

Among the 958 total recordings, greater than 90% satisfied inclusion criteria based on protocol compliance, peak clipping, and signal-to-noise ratio. Significant differences were observed for age (
p
< .05). For 19 acoustic measures, values improved significantly as signal-to-noise ratio increased. Cepstral- and spectral-based measures demonstrated less measurement variability as compared with time-based measures.

Conclusions

With adequate training, field audio recordings represent a viable option for clinical voice management. The significant age effects observed in this study support the need for more specific criteria when collecting and applying normative data. Cepstral- and spectral-based measures demonstrated the least measurement variability. This study provides additional evidence for multiparameter acoustic voice measurement, specifically toward ecologically valid sampling in natural environments. Future studies should expand on these findings in other populations with normal and disordered voices.
DAWIS: a detection algorithm with wavelets for intracluster light studies
Authors: Ellien A. , Slezak E. , Martinet N. , Durret F. , Adami C. , Gavazzi R. , Rabaça C. R. , Da Rocha C. , Epitácio Pereira D. N.
Published: February 2021

Context. Large numbers of deep optical images will be available in the near future, allowing statistically significant studies of low surface brightness structures such as intracluster light (ICL) in galaxy clusters. The detection of these structures requires efficient algorithms dedicated to this task, which traditional methods find difficult to solve.

Aims. We present our new detection algorithm with wavelets for intracluster light studies (DAWIS), which we developed and optimized for the detection of low surface brightness sources in images, in particular (but not limited to) ICL.

Methods. DAWIS follows a multiresolution vision based on wavelet representation to detect sources. It is embedded in an iterative procedure called synthesis-by-analysis approach to restore the unmasked light distribution of these sources with very good quality. The algorithm is built so that sources can be classified based on criteria depending on the analysis goal. We present the case of ICL detection and the measurement of ICL fractions. We test the efficiency of DAWIS on 270 mock images of galaxy clusters with various ICL profiles and compare its efficiency to more traditional ICL detection methods such as the surface brightness threshold method. We also run DAWIS on a real galaxy cluster image, and compare the output to results obtained with previous multiscale analysis algorithms.

Results. We find in simulations that DAWIS is on average able to separate galaxy light from ICL more efficiently, and to detect a greater quantity of ICL flux because of the way sky background noise is treated. We also show that the ICL fraction, a metric used on a regular basis to characterize ICL, is subject to several measurement biases on galaxies and ICL fluxes. In the real galaxy cluster image, DAWIS detects a faint and extended source with an absolute magnitude two orders brighter than previous multiscale methods.
Use of the bio-engineering technologies in the construction and upgrade of complex installations for obtaining energy from three renewable sources. Complex installations for flowing waters
Authors: Poteraş George , Deák György , Burlacu Iasmina-Florina , Raischi Simona Natalia , Radu Violeta-Monica
Published: February 2021

In the context of the sustainable development, the problem of the widespread use of renewable energy resources, which are clean and inexhaustible, is becoming more acute. In this regard, it is necessary to develop some capture installations that use renewable energy sources as efficiently as possible and with low impact on the environment. This paper presents a patented installation that integrates three sources of renewable energy: wind energy, solar energy and hydraulic energy of water current. The efficiency of this complex installation is given by the fact that the simultaneous capitalization of the three renewable energy sources leads to a high efficiency, in relation with the occupied area. To increase the renewable energy absorption level, both the air turbine and the hydraulic turbine have been equipped with different bioengineering models of blades and paddles. Following the testing of the two turbines equipped with blades and paddles with bioengineering geometry, a significant improvement of their efficiency was found, compared to the initial blades and paddles.
Optimization of a Microgrid Integrated with Renewable Energies using PSO
Authors: Salehi Navid , Martínez-García Herminio , Velasco-Quesada Guillermo , García-Vílchez Encarna
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, microgrids (MGs) play a crucial role in modern power systems due to possibility of integrating renewable energies into the MG system. It is expected in near future collaborating microgrids as a community has a great affect in providing efficient energy for suppliers. Therefore, optimal operation of a MG, as a first step, is an important issue in this field. In this paper, by considering an integrated MG comprised of conventional generators, photovoltaic and wind a particle swarm optimization (PSO) is applied to minimize the cost function of the MG. Finally, the simulation results are discussed and analyzed to evaluate the system operation.
Electrophoretic deposition of Al-CuOx thermite materials on patterned electrodes for microenergetic applications
Authors: Sorokina Larisa , Ryazanov Roman , Shaman Yury , Lebedev Egor
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the features and main nuances of electrophoretic deposition of energetic nanoscale powder materials based on Al and CuOx were investigated and formulated. We have successfully demonstrated the advantage of using suspension non-stop ultrasonic mixing and horizontal electrode placement during deposition. The possibility of local deposition of energetic materials on an electrically conductive topological pattern was shown. The influence of the mass of the deposited material on the behavior of the wave combustion process of a locally formed energetic material was investigated. This study provides guidance for the multiobjective optimization and increasing the reproducibility of the local electrophoretic deposition process of energetic materials. The results indicate that Al-CuOx mixture can be integrated into microenergy systems as a material with excellent specific energy characteristics and high combustion rate.
Development of a Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) Methodology to Assist the Photovoltaic Design Process
Authors: Roberto Moraes Samuel , Murta-Pina João , Santos Miguel , Pereira Tiago C. , Monteiro Fernando , Matos Ricardo , Matos Filipe , Pinto Diogo , Oliveira Francisco , Correia Sofia , Mora André
Published: February 2021

Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) is a well-known methodology in the development of social surveys. In this work, CAPI is used to guide the flow of a questionnaire aiming for the acquisition of data and information fundamental to optimise a photovoltaic (PV) design. The questionnaire is implemented in an app, developed in the frame of the PV SPREAD project, which is aimed to support the supplier/designer of PV plants during all the stages of its development. To demonstrate how different choices of a client, specified during the interview with the designer, will have distinct economic results, two configurations are presented. In the first, the system is_allowed to determine and use the optimum inclination angle of the modules, while in the second a low angle is selected by the client, to comply with aesthetic restrictions. The first configuration improves naturally the internal rate of return of the investment, as this is the optimising cost function, but the system allows comparing both ones. The CAPI methodology and its use in the context of PV design show to be a relevant tool to support designers and to provide more informed investments to clients.
Proteomic data from leaves of twenty-four sunflower genotypes under water deficit
Authors: Balliau Thierry , Duruflé Harold , Blanchet Nicolas , Blein-Nicolas Mélisande , Langlade Nicolas B. , Zivy Michel
Published: February 2021

This article describes a proteomic data set produced from sunflower plants subjected to water deficit. Twenty-four sunflower genotypes were selected to represent genetic diversity within cultivated sunflower. They included both inbred lines and their hybrids. Water deficit was applied to plants in pots at the vegetative stage using the high-throughput phenotyping platform Heliaphen. We present here the identification of 3062 proteins and the quantification of 1211 of them in the leaves of the 24 genotypes grown under two watering conditions. These data allow the study of both the effects of genetic variations and watering conditions. They constitute a valuable resource for the community to study adaptation of crops to drought and the molecular basis of heterosis.
Metastatic Tuberculomas along a Nonfunctioning Ventricular Catheter
Authors: Bhople Laxmikant , Kharosekar H , Bhide Anuj , Velho V
Published: February 2021

A unique case of tubercular meningitis, developing shunt complication, is being reported. We present a pediatric patient with disseminated tubercular granulomas along the ventricular catheter of a nonfunctional ventriculoperitoneal shunt.
Organoids for the Study of Liver Cancer
Authors: Wang Haichuan , Calvisi Diego F. , Chen Xin
Published: February 2021

Liver cancer is the second most lethal malignancy worldwide. Cell lines and murine models are the most common tools for modeling human liver carcinogenesis. Most recently, organoids with a three-dimensional structure derived from primary tissues or cells have been applied to liver cancer research. Organoids can be generated from induced pluripotent stem cells, embryonic or adult, healthy or diseased tissues. In particular, liver organoids have been widely employed in mechanistic studies aimed at delineating the molecular pathways responsible for hepatocarcinogenesis. The introduction of clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) and microengineered miniorganoid technologies into liver organoids for cancer study has significantly accelerated these investigations. Translational advances have been made by utilizing liver tumor organoids for anticancer drug screening, biobanking, omics profiling, and biomarker discovery. This review summarizes the latest advances and the remaining challenges in the use of organoid models for the study of liver cancer.
Patient- and Health-Care-Provider-Reported Outcomes to Consider in Research on Pregnancy-Associated Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: King Alexandria , Leider Haley , Herman Dylan , Malinowski Ann Kinga , D'Souza Rohan
Published: February 2021

Background Venous thromboembolism (VTE) in pregnancy can have numerous adverse impacts on patients and health care systems. Ongoing research aimed at improving maternal and fetal/neonatal outcomes is hampered by the lack of patient perspective in determining which outcomes are considered important to assess the effectiveness of interventions.

Objectives The objective of this study was to elicit outcomes from those who experienced or were at risk for pregnancy-associated VTE (health service users, HSUs) and health care providers (HCPs) involved in their care.

Methods Canadian HSUs and HCPs were recruited using convenience and purposive sampling, respectively. Individual, semistructured interviews aimed specifically at eliciting pregnancy-related outcomes were conducted until data saturation was attained. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Written transcripts were de-identified and interpretatively analyzed in duplicate to obtain outcomes related to participant experiences. Outcomes were grouped based on a taxonomy developed for medical research and compared between and across interviews with patients and HCPs, and with those obtained through a systematic review of the published literature.

Results and Conclusion We interviewed 10 HSUs and eight HCPs and elicited 52 outcomes, 21 of which have not been reported in the literature. Although the majority of elicited outcomes were in the clinical/physiological core outcome area, both HSUs and HCPs highlighted the importance of outcomes related to functioning/life impact and general wellbeing of mother and baby. These outcomes representing the perspectives of HSUs and HCPs should be considered while conducting trials on pregnancy-associated VTE.
Etiology and Management of Complications Associated with Sinus Augmentation Procedures
Authors: Shenoy Santhosh B. , Talwar Avaneendra , Shetty Smitha , Anegundi Raghavendra Vamsi
Published: February 2021

Sinus floor elevation is a predictable procedure for vertical bone augmentation in the atrophic posterior maxilla. As with most surgical procedures, complications can be encountered during sinus floor elevation/augmentation. A clinician should have a thorough knowledge of factors that can lead to complications and possible ways to manage. Presurgical evaluation of the sinus is a prerequisite in identifying the concomitant presence of systemic disease and maxillary sinus disease that may lead to postoperative complications. Despite the best efforts, one may encounter adverse events. Complications can broadly be divided into intraoperative, acute, and chronic complications based on the timing of its occurrence. The most commonly encountered complications include membrane perforation and excessive bleeding. Evaluation of anatomic deviations and sound surgical skill is required to reduce intraoperative complications. Prevention is better than cure. It is always better to know how and when a complication might occur so that the clinician might take the necessary steps to avoid it. This article reviews the management of most commonly encountered complications and the best possible ways to manage them.
Plastic/ferroelectric molecular crystals: Ferroelectric performance in bulk polycrystalline forms
Authors: Harada Jun
Published: February 2021

Plastic crystals are a class of compounds composed of small molecules with globular structures. Plastic crystals exhibit various unique features, most of which arise from the rotator motion and orientational disorder of the constituent molecules. We recently discovered that some plastic crystals exhibit ferroelectricity in lower-temperature phases, including the room-temperature phase. The crystals, i.e., plastic/ferroelectric molecular crystals, have demonstrated several unique features that differ from conventional molecular ferroelectrics. In particular, the materials have achieved ferroelectric performance for the first time as bulk polycrystals of small-molecule crystals. These features are attributed to the multiaxial ferroelectricity and facile preparation of monolithic bulk polycrystals, which are impossible to achieve for conventional molecular crystals. Numerous related molecular ferroelectrics have been developed, rendering plastic/ferroelectric crystals an emerging class of molecular ferroelectrics. In this perspective, we have outlined the development and unique features of plastic/ferroelectric molecular crystals, focusing particularly on their ferroelectricity and related properties in bulk polycrystalline forms.
Estimation of post-fire vegetation recovery in boreal forests using solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) data
Authors: Guo Meng , Li Jing , Yu Fangbing , Yin Shuai , Huang Shubo , Wen Lixiang
Published: February 2021

The estimation of post-fire vegetation recovery is essential for forest management and wildfire policy-making. In the last few decades, vegetation indices have been widely used to monitor post-fire vegetation recovery by comparison with the pre-fire state. In this study, vegetation recovery is estimated using Solar-Induced chlorophyll Fluorescence (SIF), which is a by-product of photosynthesis and can reflect the physiological characteristics of a plant. We found that 20 years is insufficient for vegetation recovery, as the SIF within burned areas exhibited a significant increasing trend, which was most notable within the first 6 to 10 years after a wildfire. When comparing the SIF within and outside burned areas, we found that, during the first 3 to 6 years, SIF values outside burned areas were larger than that within burned areas; however, after ~6 years, the SIF within the burned areas exceeded that outside burned areas owing to the different carbon sequestration intensities of different vegetation recovery stages. Field photos of recovering vegetation were then compared with the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) trend within the burned area, and it was found that, although the EVI reached pre-fire levels or stabilised, vegetation recovery was continuing.
Lifestyle and mental health disruptions during COVID-19
Authors: Giuntella Osea , Hyde Kelly , Saccardo Silvia , Sadoff Sally
Published: February 2021

Significance

COVID-19 has affected daily life in unprecedented ways. Drawing on a longitudinal dataset of college students before and during the pandemic, we document dramatic changes in physical activity, sleep, time use, and mental health. We show that biometric and time-use data are critical for understanding the mental health impacts of COVID-19, as the pandemic has tightened the link between lifestyle behaviors and depression. Our findings also suggest a puzzle: Disruptions to physical activity and mental health are strongly associated, but restoration of physical activity through a short-term intervention does not help improve mental health. These results highlight the large impact of COVID-19 on both lifestyle and well-being and offer directions for interventions aimed at restoring mental health.
Blood metaphors and metonymies in Jordanian Arabic and English
Authors: Zibin Aseel
Published: February 2021

This study aims to examine the target concepts of metaphorical and metonymical uses ofbloodin Jordanian Arabic (JA) through adopting Conceptual Metaphor Theory as based on the notion of main meaning focus (Kövecses, 2010,2011) as a theoretical framework. A 40,000 words specialized corpus was built for the purpose of this study. Data was analyzed employingWordSmith Tools(version 6), which enables the processing of Arabic data. The results reveal that blood as a source domain can be used to conceptualizecharacter traits, essenceandemotionin JA through metonymy-based-metaphors and scenic metaphors in which the source domain is constructed metonymically. Similarities and differences were detected between JA and other languages investigated in the literature. Similarities were ascribed to cognitive embodiment of bodily substances, i.e., blood, to conceptualize abstract concepts such ascharacter traitsandemotion, while differences were attributed to socio-cultural embodiment of certain qualities of blood shared by members of the Jordanian community.
The Three Grammars and the sign
Authors: Denroche Charles
Published: February 2021

This article presents an original three-component model of the linguistic sign. It shares with the established triadic models of Peirce (1955[1897]) andOgden and Richards (1923/1949)in identifyingthought, wordandthingas essential components; but differs in being linear, withthoughtandthingat opposite poles. It is argued that this arrangement reflects the way the components of the sign relate to reality and thereby serves well as an explanatory tool for linguistic research. The model is further modified at each of the ontological realms using concepts from cognitive linguistics, renamedcognition, languageandreality. The new model is employed as a research tool in two case studies: one illustrates its use in making sense of the complex field of language grammar; the other does the same for figurative language – metaphor and metonymy. The article’s conclusions include that interrogating established cornerstones of linguistic theory in the light of new theory can lead to the development of improved research tools.
Interface dark excitons at sharp lateral two-dimensional heterostructures
Authors: Simchi Hamidreza
Published: February 2021

We study the dark excitons at the interface of a sharp lateral heterostructure of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). By introducing a low-energy effective Hamiltonian model, we find the energy dispersion relation of exciton and show how it depends on the onsite energy of composed materials and their spin–orbit coupling strengths. It is shown that the effect of the geometrical structure of the interface, as a deformation gauge field (pseudo-spin–orbit coupling), should be considered in calculating the binding energy of exciton. By discretization of the real-space version of the dispersion relation on a triangular lattice, we show that the binding energy of exciton depends on its distance from the interface line. For exciton near the interface, the binding energy is equal to 0.36 eV, while for the exciton far enough from the interface, it is equal to 0.26 eV. Also, it has been shown that for a zigzag interface the binding energy increases by 0.34 meV compared to an armchair interface due to the pseudo-spin-orbit interaction (gauge filed). The results can be used for designing 2D-dimensional-lateral-heterostructure- based optoelectronic devices to improve their characteristics.
Photo image processing analysis of electron beam irradiation on a new liquid scintillator based on alcohol
Authors: Choi J Y , Joo K K , Kim B C , Park J B
Published: February 2021

Liquid scintillator is widely used in various fields. This paper proposes a new base material, a mixture of alcohol and water for liquid scintillator and introduces photo image analysis to investigate electron beam irradiation on the new alcohol-based liquid scintillator. A possibility of using alcohol as a new detection solution in particle detector is briefly described. Alcohol has good solubility for fluor, is biodegradable and has low toxicity. The development of an alcohol-based liquid scintillator was investigated and some physical and optical properties of the alcohol-based liquid scintillator were measured. The energy exchange process that the absorption spectrum overlaps with the emission spectrum was seen in our alcohol-based liquid scintillator. To date, there have been no R&D studies elsewhere for use of alcohol-based liquid scintillator in particle detectors. As an application, we introduce a new measurement technique where range measurements were achieved after irradiating an alcohol-based liquid scintillator with electron beam energies of 6–12 MeV. By analyzing the range images taken by digital camera, or even mobile phone camera, it was possible to find out the fluor component dissolved in the alcohol-based liquid scintillator. This method has sufficient potential as it enables us to estimate wavelengths in the visible region without using an expensive spectrophotometer. These results can be used in medical imaging applications for the treatment of tumors or cancers where irradiation by electron beams takes place. Furthermore, alcohol-based LS could be used in future, next generation particle detectors.
Factors Affecting the Adoption of Emerging Technologies in the Malaysian Construction Industry
Authors: Khudzari F , Rahman RA , Ayer SK
Published: February 2021

Technologies are tools or machines that solve real-world problems and, therefore, very important to all industries, including the construction industry. In some parts of the world, technology is a necessity as it helps to improve and increase the efficiency of day-to-day operations, especially in terms of time and budget management. However, there are still many companies that are refusing to apply technology in their construction projects. This study aims to investigate the factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in the Malaysian construction industry. To achieve these objectives, this study analyses the extensive interview data with selected construction project managers. Nineteen factors were identified, and these factors can be categorized into two groups (internal; workable by project managers and external; uncontrollable by project managers). This work contributes to the body of knowledge in analysing the factors that affect the adoption of technology in the construction industry from industry practitioners’ angle, which could help researchers and industry practitioners draw up plans to reduce the rejection of technologies among the project managers. The findings of this study could help improve the success of adopting the technologies in any part of the construction industry.
Design for Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP) for Cattle in a Single House Model with a Bio Filter Process
Authors: Chandrasasi D , Haribowo R , Wardana B K
Published: February 2021

Liquid waste generated from cattle farms is discharged directly into culvert and river. The liquid waste is not treated so it has high potential to threaten and pollute the water and ground water environment. With the average flushing done twice a day, the gross amount of wastewater that is wasted is not less than 100-150 liters/day/cattle for weight 400 kg (Saputro et al. 2014). Therefore a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is needed to control the massive liquid waste. In addition, WWTP must be simple, inexpensive, and appropriate so that the community can apply it. Data collection is needed, namely data on the number of cattle livestock, waste water quality data and waste water discharge data. The organic parameters of cattle waste that are considered are BOD, COD, TSS, NH3-N, and pH only (Regulation of the State Minister for the Environment Number 11 Year 2009 concerning Wastewater Quality Standards for Cattle and Pork Businesses and/or Activities). Design for wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) model using the MSL (Multi Soil Layering) method (Alternative 1) and the combination of MSL with anaerobic wasps nest biofilter (Alternative 2) (Said et al. 2001). Compare the effluent results in the both alternatives that available the quality standards and analyze more optimally.
SWPS ECO Bricks: Development of Sustainable Brick Utilising Solid Waste Fly Ash and Paint Sludge
Authors: Saleh A M , Rahmat M N , Ismail N
Published: February 2021

Uncontrolled infrastructure development may produce excessive carbon emission and scarcity of natural resources. The reuse of waste materials in general promotes material ecology and the cradle to cradle concept. The utilisation of industrial waste in the development of advanced materials promoting the extensive research on sustainable building components. The main objective of this research is to investigate the potential of utilising local industrial waste, Solid Waste Fly Ash (SWFA) and Paint Sludge (PS) as target material in replacing laterite soil that is non-renewable natural resources. Standard industrial size bricks were fabricated consist the combination of Laterite Clay, SwFA and PS (SWPS) at 50:25:25 ratios. The results for engineering and environmental properties were within the acceptable of engineering standards and performances. This test result suggests potential used of SwFA and Paint Sludge as substitute to clay for unfired brick. This will certainly contribute to the recycling of SwFA and industrial sludge (Paint Sludge and possibly others) and hence to minimise the impact of these by-product to the environment if send to landfill. The manufacture of unfired bricks can exploit locally available waste materials and can be used in certain applications of low load bearing situation. This research also suggests innovation and enhanced waste management and contribution towards the concept of green building components.
CNPO “3+6”, Exploring a New Safety Management and Control Mode for Nuclear Power In-service Inspection
Authors: Wang Zhulin , Zhang Liang , Wang Jiajian
Published: February 2021

CNPO explores a new mode of high-level field management that can cure the root cause from the three basic laws that are easily ignored by the management. By constructing six safety culture systems with the characteristics of nuclear power enterprises, CNPO strives to improve the safety quality of employees in nuclear related enterprises and continuously consolidate the foundation of safety management.
Research on the Influence of Yaw Control on Wind Turbine Performance under Wake Effect
Authors: Dong Xinghui , Wang Hui
Published: February 2021

The wake effect causes power loss and severely reduces the power generation capacity of the wind farm. In order to reduce the impact of wakes, the current main method is to optimize the layout of wind farms, which is unrealistic for the completed wind farms. In contrast, yaw control is used to offset the wake, which minimizes the impact of wakes between WTs (Wind Turbines), thereby increasing the generating capacity of the WTs. In this paper, fluent software is used to simulate the effect of wake on the output power of the downwind WT in two tandem WTs, when the upstream WT yaws at different angles. By analyzing the change of the total output power after yaw, it is concluded that the total output power reaches the maximum when the upstream WT yaws 25°.
Unsteady Coupled Heat Transfer Simulation of Unsteady numerical simulation of slot flow in anti-heating tile
Authors: Wang Qiang , Li Wei , Yao Yongtao
Published: February 2021

An unsteady coupled heat transfer solver is developed in the study. The coupled solver, solving the partial differential equations for fluid flow and thermal conduction in the solid, is employed to predict the unsteady heat and transfer in the anti-heating tile. The influence of gap depth on the fluid flow and solid thermal conduction is studied. The results show that the flow field distribution between the different gap depths is similar, otherwise reducing the gap depth is conducive to reducing the thermal load in the bottom plate.
Influence of frequency variation value on QCM detection of Micro-mass particles
Authors: Guo Kai , Jiang Bo , Li Xingeng , Tian Shuang , Wu Yaping , Zhao Mingzhe , Mi Chunxu , Zong Lijun , Yao Shuo , Zhu Gengzeng , Wang Weina , Yan Fengjie
Published: February 2021

The core of QCM sensor is quartz crystal vibration. According to the piezoelectric effect of quartz crystal, when alternating voltage is applied to the quartz crystal, the quartz crystal will vibrate. When the frequency of oscillation circuit is consistent with the natural frequency of quartz crystal, resonance will be generated. It is found that under certain conditions, the natural frequency of quartz crystal vibration changes with the adsorption mass when other substances are adsorbed on the surface of quartz crystal vibration. According to this principle, the QCM sensor makes a sensitive film on the quartz crystal vibrating surface, and USES the sensitive film to treat the adsorption effect of the measured substance, and converts the concentration signal of the substance to the frequency signal for detection. This project USES QCM sensor to detect pollution on insulators.
Research on Distribution and Sale of Electricity Service in Parks Facing the Electricity Retail Market
Authors: Li Pingwen , Wang Jiangbo , Yin Shuo , Jin Man , Yan Jing , Chang Qing
Published: February 2021

The park is the best experimental field for power system reform. In the context of power reform, the number of market players will increase sharply. Compared with the traditional power market, the competitive power sales market covers ubiquitously connected diversified new players, and the retail market has formed a diversified market structure. How to serve the park enterprises, provide service and product of differentiated and customized electric distribution and sale, is an important part of the future electric retail business. Starting from the concept of distribution and sale of electricity in the park for the retail market, this paper develops a broad service design for the distribution service, electricity sales and value-added service in the park, in order to provide support for the scientific development of the park-level electricity market.
Analysis of Thermal Characteristics of Airborne Integrated Environmental Control System
Authors: Zhou Xu , Jiang Chunying , Li Shengyu , Mao YanE
Published: February 2021

Taking the simplified airborne integrated thermal management system as the research object, the change characteristics of the system under different control modes are analyzed, which provides a theoretical basis for the study of system control schemes. Using a combination of mathematical models and computer models to establish an integrated airborne thermal management system model with fuel as the main heat sink, air/fuel heat exchanger, fuel/PAO heat exchanger and other main components, and A fuzzy self-tuning PID control method is proposed to analyze system characteristics such as fuel/PAO heat exchanger and electronic equipment thermal changes. The results show that compared to open-loop control under thermal extreme conditions, the fuzzy self-tuning PID control mode can not only effectively control a series of equipment such as fuel pumps to maintain proper speed, but also ensure the electronic cabin and fuel/PAO heat exchanger the outlet temperature is kept within a predetermined range to meet the design requirements of the onboard thermal management system.