bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tax incentives for export activity in the Republic of Turkey
Authors: Dirksen Tatiana Viktorovna
Published: July 2021

The subject of this research is the norms of tax legislation of the Republic of Turkey aimed at incentivizing export activity, case law on their implementation, as well as doctrinal sources that affect the development of legal regulation of tax incentives in the country. The methodological framework is comprised in the formal legal method, which allow assessing the actual effect of the norms of the Turkish tax legislation. The method of content analysis was used for the analysis of the corresponding norms to determine the characteristic trends in the development of legal regulation of taxes, as well as for outlining various export support measures in the Republic of Turkey. Within the tax system of the Republic of Turkey, the author establishes the presence of the effective mechanisms for stimulating export activity. Such mechanisms are associated with the possibility of purchasing necessary products by the exporter without paying VAT, as well as a simplified procedure for its refund without conducting tax audit in rendering preferential guarantees or a positive decision of a certified auditor, which also reflects partial delegation of authority in the sphere tax control to special entities outside the structure of the government bodies. Turkish legislation also features the system of quick VAT refund within 5 days to a certified individual. Acquisition of such certificate suggest observing the criteria of good faith, which has a positive impact upon the so-called tax compliance. Tax incentives for export activity in the context of direct taxes in the Republic of Turkey consists in the practical application of the territorial concept of taxation to the income of Turkish companies carrying out certain types of activity abroad, which positively affects the export of labor, services and related commodities. Therefore, the obtained results can be valuable in the development of Russian tax legislation in the area of tax incentives for export activity.
Metaphorical representations of the “German economic miracle” in the prose of Bernhard Schlink
Authors: Gushchina Anna Ivanovna
Published: July 2021

This article discusses the difficult postwar years of Germany reflected in the works of B. Schlink, as well as assesses the impact of economic circumstances upon the formation of German collective consciousness. The object of this research is the novels “The Justice of Selb”, “The Deceit of Selb”, “The Farewell of Selb” by B. Schlink. The subject of this research is the artistic peculiarities of representation of the “German economic miracle” in the prose of B. Schlink. The writer had a critical attitude on idealizing the results of Germany's rapid economic development. He believes that mythologization of the positive results of economic development is only one side to a coin. A profound analysis of the listed novels by B. Schlink, dedicated to the theme of postwar restoration of Germany, gives a better perspective on the writer’s role in the German literary process during the late XX – early XXI centuries, which defines the relevance of this research. The goal of this article lies in studying the importance of mythological representations associated with the rapid recovery and economic development of Germany in the consciousness of the German nation, as well as their reflection in the works of Bernhard Schlink. In his novels, B. Schlink not only mentions the return of former Nazis to public and civil posts, but also draws the images of the prosperous postwar existence of German industrialists, whose factories used to supply the needs of the Reich. Depicting the conflict between the characters, the writer destroys one of their pleasant elements of the myth of “German economic miracle”. The hero – Detective Selb – reflects on the ethical questions pertinent to economic development. The life-changing event in national history, which allowed Germany to regain its rightful place among the European nations, is linked by the author with a range of negative consequences, such as development of the psychology of “consumerism” in the society, concealment of the German national past, detection of significant environmental problems, and escalation of radical moods among German youth.
An oscillating computational model can track pseudo-rhythmic speech by using linguistic predictions
Authors: ten Oever Sanne , Martin Andrea E
Published: August 2021

Neuronal oscillations putatively track speech in order to optimize sensory processing. However, it is unclear how isochronous brain oscillations can track pseudo-rhythmic speech input. Here we propose that oscillations can track pseudo-rhythmic speech when considering that speech time is dependent on content-based predictions flowing from internal language models. We show that temporal dynamics of speech are dependent on the predictability of words in a sentence. A computational model including oscillations, feedback, and inhibition is able to track pseudo-rhythmic speech input. As the model processes, it generates temporal phase codes, which are a candidate mechanism for carrying information forward in time. The model is optimally sensitive to the natural temporal speech dynamics and can explain empirical data on temporal speech illusions. Our results suggest that speech tracking does not have to rely only on the acoustics but could also exploit ongoing interactions between oscillations and constraints flowing from internal language models.
Five Autoimmune Gastritis Patients with Positive Findings of Serum Anti-parietal Cell Antibodies
Authors: Jeong Jong Hyeon , Lee Sun-Young , Han Hye Seung , Kim Jeong Hwan , Sung In-Kyung , Park Hyung Seok
Published: August 2021

Autoimmune gastritis is a corpus-dominant type of gastritis with positive serum anti-parietal cell antibodies (APCA) and/or anti-intrinsic factor antibodies. Serum APCA and pepsinogen (PG) assays were performed in subjects with corpus-dominant gastritis detected by endoscopy. Serum APCA was positive in five patients. All these patients were postmenopausal women (four Koreans and one Caucasian from the Russian Federation) with a mean age of 59.0±3.2 years. They displayed low PG I levels ranging from 8.1 to 18.8 ng/mL (mean, 11.4±4.8 ng/mL) and low PG I/II ratios ranging from 0.7 to 2.4 (mean, 1.2±0.7). Three of the patients were being treated for autoimmune thyroiditis. Multiple gastric neuroendocrine tumors were observed in two Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-naive patients with high serum gastrin levels exceeding 700 pg/mL and serum chromogranin A levels exceeding 1,000 ng/mL. In the remaining three patients, intestinal metaplasia was observed in the biopsied specimens from the antrum, suggesting a history of H. pylori infection. Our findings indicate the value of positive serum APCA findings, low serum PG I levels, and low serum PG I/II ratios in confirming autoimmune gastritis in patients showing corpus-dominant atrophy, regardless of their H. pylori infection status.
Exploring plant diversity through soil DNA in Thai national parks for influencing land reform and agriculture planning
Authors: Osathanunkul Maslin , Sawongta Nipitpong , Pheera Wittaya , Pechlivanis Nikolaos , Psomopoulos Fotis , Madesis Panagiotis
Published: August 2021

Background

The severe deforestation, as indicated in national forest data, is a recurring problem in many areas of Northern Thailand, including Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Agricultural expansion in these areas, is one of the major drivers of deforestation, having adverse consequences on local plant biodiversity. Conserving biodiversity is mainly dependent on the biological monitoring of species distribution and population sizes. However, the existing conventional approaches for monitoring biodiversity are rather limited.

Methods

Here, we explored soil DNA at four forest types in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park in Northern Thailand. Three soil samples, composed of different soil cores mixed together, per sampling location were collected. Soil biodiversity was investigated through eDNA metabarcoding analysis using primers targeting the P6 loop of the plastid DNA trnL (UAA) intron.

Results

The distribution of taxa for each sample was found to be similar between replicates. A strong congruence between the conventional morphology- and eDNA-based data of plant diversity in the studied areas was observed. All species recorded by conventional survey with DNA data deposited in the GenBank were detected through the eDNA analysis. Moreover, traces of crops, such as lettuce, maize, wheat and soybean, which were not expected and were not visually detected in the forest area, were identified. It is noteworthy that neighboring land and areas in the studied National Park were once used for crop cultivation, and even to date there is still agricultural land within a 5–10 km radius from the forest sites where the soil samples were collected. The presence of cultivated area near the forest may suggest that we are now facing agricultural intensification leading to deforestation. Land reform for agriculture usage necessitates coordinated planning in order to preserve the forest area. In that context, the eDNA-based data would be useful for influencing policies and management towards this goal.
Neural correlates of tactile hardness intensity perception during active grasping
Authors: Kim Ji-Hyun , Kim Junsuk , Yeon Jiwon , Park Jang-Yeon , Chung Dongil , Kim Sung-Phil
Published: August 2021

While tactile sensation plays an essential role in interactions with the surroundings, relatively little is known about the neural processes involved in the perception of tactile information. In particular, it remains unclear how different intensities of tactile hardness are represented in the human brain during object manipulation. This study aims to investigate neural responses to various levels of tactile hardness using functional magnetic resonance imaging while people grasp objects to perceive hardness intensity. We used four items with different hardness levels but otherwise identical in shape and texture. A total of Twenty-five healthy volunteers participated in this study. Before scanning, participants performed a behavioral task in which they received a pair of stimuli and they were to report the perceived difference of hardness between them. During scanning, without any visual information, they were randomly given one of the four objects and asked to grasp it. We found significant blood oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) responses in the posterior insula in the right hemisphere (rpIns) and the right posterior lobe of the cerebellum (rpCerebellum), which parametrically tracked hardness intensity. These responses were supported by BOLD signal changes in the rpCerebellum and rpIns correlating with tactile hardness intensity. Multidimensional scaling analysis showed similar representations of hardness intensity among physical, perceptual, and neural information. Our findings demonstrate the engagement of the rpCerebellum and rpIns in perceiving tactile hardness intensity during active object manipulation.
Concentración en el Gran Santiago y migración: población, vivienda y recursos humanos 1977-2017
Authors: Rodríguez-Vignoli Jorge
Published: August 2021

Santiago concentra una fracción significativa de los recursos económico y humanos de Chile, pero hay debate sobre la persistencia de este patrón. La migración es decisiva para la redistribución y desconcentración demográficas. Para examinar empíricamente la eventual desconcentración de Santiago, precisar sus alcances territoriales, y estimar el papel de la migración en ella, se explotan los microdatos de los últimos 4 censos oficiales del país para generar indicadores tradicionales y novedosos. Además, se analizan otras dimensiones de la desconcentración, en particular la habitacional. Los resultados sugieren que la migración interna efectivamente abona a un proceso de desconcentración real de Santiago desde fines del siglo pasado, aunque esto ha sido contrarrestado por la inmigración internacional. Adicionalmente, la inflexión hacia la pérdida migratoria de Santiago ha sido segmentada y de hecho, paradojalmente, ha contribuido a reforzar la base de recursos humanos jóvenes y calificados de la ciudad.
Viaje al centro del extrarradio desde Los Chichos a Rosalía: una geografía flamenca de las periferias urbanas españolas
Authors: García-Martín Miguel
Published: August 2021

El flamenco, como expresión cultural secularmente asociada a ciertas clases sociales desfavorecidas, ha desempeñado un papel muy relevante en la construcción de la imagen y la identidad de los paisajes de las periferias urbanas. Nuestro objetivo es trazar un recorrido por algunas de esas representaciones, vinculadas a los significados cambiantes que ha ido adquiriendo la periferia a medida que se ha modificado el medio geográfico subyacente. Así, en los años setenta y ochenta, la “música de gasolinera” puso banda sonora a la idea de marginación y delincuencia que acompaña al arquetipo quinqui. Con posterioridad, el estigma fue siendo sustituido por el reclamo de atención, se persiguió el reconocimiento social de barriadas tradicionalmente estigmatizadas y el flamenco ayudó a generar un sentimiento de autoestima. Este proceso finalizó en la resignificación del ‘afueras’ como espacio elogiado y vanagloriado, una suerte de empoderamiento del suburbio como un lugar apreciado, cargado de símbolos que lo cualifica
Construir y habitar, de Richard Sennett: por un nuevo ethos urbanístico para vivir juntos
Authors: Vergara-Perucich José-Francisco
Published: August 2021

Título libro: Construir y habitar: Ética para la ciudad Autor: Richard Sennett Edición: Anagrama, colección Argumentos, 2019 (430 págs.) ISBN: 978-84-339-6433-5
Desencuentros entre el imaginario social occidental y el imaginario social indígena: elementos para una reflexión teórica sobre los imaginarios sociales nucleares en el marco del conflicto entre el estado-nación chileno y el pueblo mapuche
Authors: Gallegos Krause Eduardo
Published: August 2021

El presente trabajo de orientación eminentemente teórica tiene por objetivo realizar un diagnóstico mediante un método sintético con énfasis hipotético-deductivo que dé cuenta de cuáles son los imaginarios nucleares del Estado nación chileno, por una parte, y del Pueblo mapuche por la otra, todo esto en el marco del conflicto entre Estado-nación y Pueblo mapuche. La aproximación teórica vincula los imaginarios sociales con la construcción de la identidad y la alteridad, para esto se utilizarán los aportes en torno a los imaginarios sociales desarrollados fundamentalmente por Castoriadis y actualizados por Manuel Antonio Baeza, sin desmedro de otros aportes. El análisis particular de los elementos constituyentes de los imaginarios en estudio permite identificar y caracterizar un imaginario nuclear occidental (del Estado-nación) basado en la idea de modernidad-desarrollo y un imaginario nuclear indígena (del Pueblo mapuche) basado en el principio de renovación con una concepción cíclica y no lineal del tiempo.
SACF of the Errors of Stationary Time Series Models in the Presence of a Large Additive Outlier
Authors: Suresh R.
Published: July 2021

In this paper, the limiting behaviour of the Sample Autocorrelation Function(SACF) of the errors {et} of First-Order Autoregressive (AR(1)), First-Order Moving Average (MA(1)) and First Order Autoregressive First-Order Moving Average (ARMA(1,1)) stationary time series models in the presence of a large Additive Outlier(AO) is discussed. It is found that the errors which are supposed to be uncorrelated due to either white noise process or normally distributed process are not so in the presence of a large additive outlier. The SACF of the errors follows a particular pattern based on the time series model. In the case of AR(1) model, at lag 1, the contaminated errors {et} are correlated, whereas at higher lags, they are uncorrelated. But in the MA(1) and ARMA(1,1) models, the contaminated errors {et} are correlated at all the lags. Furthermore it is observed that the intensity of correlations depends on the parameters of the respective models.
Consistency Conditions of f(R,G)-Gravity Field Equations for Bianchi-Type III Metric
Authors: Güler Selçuk , Güdekli Ertan
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we study the -gravitation theory under the assumption that the standard matter-energy content of the universe is a perfect fluid with linear barotropic equation of state within the framework of Bianchi-Type III model from the class of homogeneous and anisotropic universe models. However, whether such a restriction lead to any contradictions or inconsistencies in the field equations will create an issue that needs to be examined. Under the effective fluid approach, we will be concerned mainly the field equations in an orthonormal tetrad framework with an equimolar and examined the situation of establishing the functional form of  together with the scale factors, which are their solutions. Unlike similar studies, which are very few in the literature, instead of assuming preliminary solutions, we determined the consistency conditions of the field equations by assuming the matter energy content of the universe as an isotropic perfect fluid for Bianchi-Type III.
Periodontitis can lead to an Initial Process of Neuroinflammation in Experimental Models
Authors: Gomes Jossinelma Camargo , Santos Bianca Caroline Custodio dos , Choptian Iohana Fiorese , Wutzke Maria Luiza Serradourada , Nassar Leonardo Maso , Schneider Sara Cristina Sagae , Kerppers Ivo Ilvan , Taques Guilherme Ribas , Nassar Patricia Oehlmeyer , Nassar Carlos Augusto
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Recent evidence shows a possible causal relationship between periodontitis and neurodegenerative diseases. Changes in the hippocampus can result in reduced cognitive functions such as behaviors associated with memory and emotions.

Objectives: Evaluate the influence of ligature-induced experimental periodontitis on the inflammation of the hippocampus of rats.

Materials and Methods: Twenty male Wistar rats, divided into Control Group (GC) and Periodontal Disease Group (GDP). GDP was induced to experimental periodontitis by placing a ligature on the lower molars for 30 days. The study performed three behavioral tests during the experiment in two stages: before and after the induction of periodontitis; at the end, the rats underwent euthanasia and the collection of the hippocampus (histological and immunological analysis) and hemimandibles (histological and radiographic analysis), with subsequent performance of Student's T-tests and Two-Way ANOVA to analyze the results.

Results: GDP showed a higher level of anxiety, less habituation and reduced time to explore the new object compared to GC (p<0.05). Besides, GDP had a lower number of osteocytes and osteoblasts, and higher osteoclastic activity, as well as more significant alveolar bone loss compared to GC (p<0.05). Senile plaques were noted in the hippocampus in addition to positive beta-amyloid, tau, and CD68 markings on GDP.

Conclusions: Therefore, it can be concluded that periodontitis triggered the presence of senile plaques, beta-amyloid, tau, and CD68 markings, which, together, manifested an initial neuroinflammation process in these animals. Clinical Relevance: Periodontitis can be a risk factor in neuroinflammation process
Depression Due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Adolescents
Authors: Kashyap Pratheek R. , Jha Rakesh Kumar , Patil Praful
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS) is a common endocrinal disorder of reproductive age, that cause enlarged ovaries with small cyst on the outer edges with infrequent or prolonged menstrual cycles, excess hair growth, acne and obesity, which is nowadays prevailing among females at adolescent stage. About 5-10% of women among the general population of in the world are affected by PCOS. There is an increase in the prevalence of PCOS among the women and young girls of reproductive age, where they experience depression because of PCOS particularly. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. The early diagnosis and treatment along with weight loss may reduce the long term complications of PCOS. It is not only a problem associated with reproduction, but also has associated vital metabolic and psychological health risks.

Aim: Depression Due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Adolescents

Conclusion: In comparison to safe controls, adolescents with PCOS had lower self-esteem, more anxiety, and more depressive symptoms. Future research is required to look into the psychiatric issues that affect adolescents with PCOS.
Capability of Hepatic Regeneration of Albino Mice against Hepatic Injuries Induced by Phentolep Drug
Authors: Memon Sameena Gul , Shaikh Pashmina , Gul Fahmida , Ahmed Tahseen
Published: July 2021

The major theme of our research was to evaluate the condition of the regenerative capacity of liver with proper consumption of phenytoin medicines with proper precautionary factors. DNA damage was measured through the comet assay via hepatocytes and histological examination was conducted in order to ensure the liver injuries.

Current study comprises of four different group of Balb/c albino mice, from them 1st group was facilitated with normal saline as per recommended dose of 1ml/kg. In 2nd group of mice, phenotolep drug was injected with the dose of 12mg/kg for two continuous weeks. Whereas; in 3rd group same, the drug is administered into the mice with same dosing regimen for 02 weeks and then allowed to recover for 02 weeks. In the last group of mice, phenotolep was given to the remaining mice with a similar regimen and managed for 04 weeks for normal physiological functions and it was concluded that induction of phentolep among various groups of mice can induce alteration the nucleus of hepatocytes and ultimately variation occurred within DNA. 3rd and 4th groups showed quite differ results than the positive group as regression was observed in these groups and restore the normal physiology of the liver and the current study indicates that hepatic injuries can be sorted out with passage of time.
Evaluation of the Systemic Serum Exposure and Acute Toxicity of the Aqueous Extract of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae) Rhizomes in Wistar Rats
Authors: Nkempu Ameaka Fatima , Fokunang Tembe Estella , Narcisse Bayaga Hervé , Berinyuy Eustace Bonghan , Omgba Tabi Yves , Nono Njinkio Borgia , Bathelemy Ngameni , Ntungwen Fokunang Charles
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Liver toxicity has become a public health concern as more people globally get exposed to xenobiotics with the potential to cause liver damage and consequent liver cirrhosis. The increase in liver toxicant abuse has necessitated the exploration of xenobiotic exposure levels when addressing therapeutic measures using alternative herbal remedies. The increasing use of herbal products as alternative therapy needs regulatory alignment through evidence-based support for the safety and efficacy of these natural products. To undertake preclinical discovery of new metabolites from medicinal products, the objective of this study was to investigate the systemic serum exposure and acute toxicity of the aqueous extract of Curcuma longa (Zingiberaceae) rhizomes on Wistar rat models.

Methods: Phytochemical screening was carried out on the aqueous extract obtained by maceration of the dried plant rhizomes. Standard screening techniques for plant metabolites were used to screen blood serum after animal exposure with the extract. After a 500mg/Kg dose, systemic exposure was evaluated in blood samples collected at 30-minute intervals for one hour.

For acute toxicity, a single 2000mg/Kg by body weight dose of the plant extract and the reference (Silymarin 50mg/Kg) were administered to rats, and they were observed for 14 days. Biochemical markers of toxicity such as ALAT, ASAT, GGT, Bilirubin were quantified, and histological studies of the liver were carried out.

Results: No secondary metabolites were identified at 30 mins and 1hr in rat serum following a 500 mg/Kg oral dose. Administration of a 2000 mg/Kg oral dose to rats was well tolerated, and there were no deaths or significant target organ toxicity. The plant showed no lethality at the dose of 2000mg/kg body weight and decreased liver toxicity markers such as ASAT, ALAT, GGT, and Bilirubin. Histology revealed no significant damage to liver hepatocytes, no central vein occlusion, and no evidence of fibrosis.

Conclusion: There were no systemically available secondary metabolites at a dose of 500 mg/Kg after the qualitative screening; more sensitive and specific methods are required to test these secondary metabolites in serum. This study confirmed the safety margin of Curcuma longa with no lethality following a single oral dose of 2000mg/Kg and after observation for 14 days. There was a low expression of biochemical markers of toxicity ALAT, ASAT, and no histological indication of liver damage.
Post COVID-19 Organizing Pneumonia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Alanazi Talal Khalid Abdullah , Alahmari Nasser Faris Ali , Qubays Faris Essa Ibrahim , Alenezi Solaiman Hosaian ibraheem , Alenezi Meshal Faleh Mofadhe
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Several observational studies have found parallels between COVID-19 pneumonia and organizing pneumonia (OP). This study aims to investigate the published literature of OP related to COVID-19, estimates the prevalence of OP among COVID-19 patients, and assesses the risk or COVID-19 severity associated with OP.

Methodology: This was a systematic review and meta-analysis. A systematic electronic search through PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, EBSCO, and Google Scholar was conducted to include relevant and eligible literature. The authors used Review Manager 5.4 to perform quantitative data synthesis for the condition of interest analyses.

Results: A total of 9 eligible study articles and 12 case reports were included in this study. The estimated pooled organizing pneumonia prevalence among COVID-19 patients was 45.6% [23.1%-68.2%]. The association between OP and severe COVID-19 infection revealed a pooled OR [95% CI] of 5.22 [-0.96-11.41].

Conclusion: COVID-19 patients had a rather high OP prevalence (43%). Surprisingly, cancer patients with COVID-19 infection had the lowest OP prevalence. OP was identified as a possible risk factor for the severity of COVID-19 infection.
Nicotinamide as a Skin Whitener: Evidence and Controversies
Authors: Hamzawi Nabeel K. Al
Published: July 2021

Background: Topical nicotinamide (NAM) can reduce excessive melanin deposition in cell culture, by reversibly blocking the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to the adjacent keratinocytes. Thus, it has been increasingly used as a whitening agent.

Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of topical nicotinamide used for the treatment of melasma and hyperpigmentation.

Methods: An electronic search for topical nicotinamide was carried out on Pubmed and Medline databases to identify studies that addressed this topic as a whitening agent. And to review the primary and secondary outcomes.

Results: A significant decrease in hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness was found with the use of topical nicotinamide, compared with the vehicle In two small sample size clinical studies. Combined regimens including nicotinamide and other ingredients offer more synergistic effects than monotherapy.

Conclusion: Due to the lack of sufficient evidence, the use of nicotinamide for melasma remains controversial. Extended randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials with long-term follow-up periods are needed to assess the efficacy of nicotinamide as a whitening agent.
Determination of Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid and HMF in Grape Molasses Produced by Traditional and Modern Methods
Authors: Şanli Senem , Altınbaş Sercan
Published: July 2021

Sorbic acid and benzoic acid have long been widely used in the food industry to inhibit the growth of various bacteria, yeasts and fungi, especially in acidic media. The health effects have led to limitation on the concentrations that can be used in food. In most studies, HMF has been found to have carcinogenic effects such as cytotoxicity toward mucous membranes, the skin and the upper respiratory tract; mutagenicity; chromosomal aberrations; and carcinogenicity toward humans and animals. Because of these reason, the analytical determination of these compounds is important for consumer interest and protection. The aim of this study is to determine the concentration of sorbic acid, benzoic acid and HMF in grape molasses samples by using HPLC. For HPLC analysis, a Zorbax SB RP18 (150 × 4.60 mm i.d. × 5 μm) column was selected as the stationary phase at 25°C. In sixteen grape molasses samples (produced by traditional and modern method), sorbic acid, benzoic acid and HMF concentrations were determined by HPLC method. HMF was detected in all of the commercial and traditional type molasses samples. Only two commercial molasses sample, sorbic acid and benzoic acid were detected.
The Quality of Life of Inguinal Hernia Patient in India: The Application of Hernia- Specific Quality of Life Assessment
Authors: Badwaik Nitesh Ganesh , Gharde Pankaj , (Pate) Meenakshi Yeola
Published: July 2021

Background:  In inguinal hernia patient post-operative recurrence rate has been decrease due to advancement in prosthetic mesh. The hernia outcome study should concentrate on hernia post-operative quality of life and various complications.

Objectives:

To study the application of HERQL INSTRUMENT in surgical practice.

To study the quality of life pre-operatively & post-operatively.

To utilise as HERQL INSTRUMENT in clinical management as a prognostic indicator to improve upon the healthcare system.

Methodology: All the patients of inguinal hernia presenting to Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha as an elective/emergency case will be included in the study after obtaining consent. Patient has to go through the HERQL questionnaire pre-operatively and post-operatively or post-operatively only. These patients will be enrolled in the study.

Results: We expect a causal relationship between formative symptomatic subscale and the reflective functional status demonstrated by HERQL. The assessment of summative pain in preoperative and immediate postoperative patient shows changes in summative pain and 3 month follow up suggestive of clinical response of HERQL.

Conclusion: This study will help to know quality of life in “post-operative” hernia patient with the help of “HERQL instrument”.
Comorbidities: A Decider of Severe Clinical Outcomes in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Agrawal Rahul
Published: July 2021

Background: Comorbidity is the biggest decider in COVID-19 pandemic whether the infected person will develop the severe clinical outcome or not. It is one of the few conclusions that has widespread acceptance.

Summary:After analyzing the case fatalities of COVID-19, many patients were found to be having either one of many conditions which are commonly called as comorbidities due to which they cannot made it to survivors list. Also several COVID-19 patients requiring the sophisticated medical attention like ventilators and oxygen support system have any kind of underlying medical condition. Deteriorated immune system is one of the reasons behind slipping into severe symptoms category.

Conclusion: It is established that comorbidities are the major influencer in COVID-19 infected patients. More study is needed to further segregate the data on the basis of each comorbidity.
Gifts from Nature: Bio‐Inspired Materials for Rechargeable Secondary Batteries
Authors: Jo Chang‐Heum , Voronina Natalia , Sun Yang‐Kook , Myung Seung‐Taek
Published: August 2021

Materials in nature have evolved to the most efficient forms and have adapted to various environmental conditions over tens of thousands of years. Because of their versatile functionalities and environmental friendliness, numerous attempts have been made to use bio‐inspired materials for industrial applications, establishing the importance of biomimetics. Biomimetics have become pivotal to the search for technological breakthroughs in the area of rechargeable secondary batteries. Here, the characteristics of bio‐inspired materials that are useful for secondary batteries as well as their benefits for application as the main components of batteries (e.g., electrodes, separators, and binders) are discussed. The use of bio‐inspired materials for the synthesis of nanomaterials with complex structures, low‐cost electrode materials prepared from biomass, and biomolecular organic electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries are also introduced. In addition, nature‐derived separators and binders are discussed, including their effects on enhancing battery performance and safety. Recent developments toward next‐generation secondary batteries including sodium‐ion batteries, zinc‐ion batteries, and flexible batteries are also mentioned to understand the feasibility of using bio‐inspired materials in these new battery systems. Finally, current research trends are covered and future directions are proposed to provide important insights into scientific and practical issues in the development of biomimetics technologies for secondary batteries.
Surface‐Anisotropic Janus Silicon Quantum Dots via Masking on 2D Silicon Nanosheets
Authors: Kloberg Marc Julian , Yu Haoyang , Groß Elisabeth , Eckmann Felix , Restle Tassilo M. F. , Fässler Thomas F. , Veinot Jonathan G. C. , Rieger Bernhard
Published: August 2021

Surface‐anisotropic nanoparticles represent a new class of materials that shows potential in a variety of applications, including self‐assembly, microelectronics, and biology. Here, the first synthesis of surface‐anisotropic silicon quantum dots (SiQDs), obtained through masking on 2D silicon nanosheets, is presented. SiQDs are deposited on the 2D substrate, thereby exposing only one side of the QDs, which is functionalized through well‐established hydrosilylation procedures. The UV‐sensitive masking substrate is removed through UV‐irradiation, which simultaneously initiates the hydrosilylation of a second substrate, thereby introducing a second functional group to the other side of the now free‐standing SiQDs. This renders surface‐anisotropic SiQDs that have two different functional groups on either side of the particle. This method can be used to introduce a variety of functional groups including hydrophilic and hydrophobic substrates, while the unique optoelectronic properties of the SiQDs remain unaffected. The anisotropic morphology of the QDs is confirmed through the aggregation behavior of amphiphilic Janus SiQDs at the interface of water and hexane. Additionally, anisotropic SiQDs are used to produce the first controlled (sub)monolayer of SiQDs on a gold wafer.
Stabilizing Zinc Anodes by Regulating the Electrical Double Layer with Saccharin Anions
Authors: Huang Cong , Zhao Xin , Liu Shuang , Hao Yisu , Tang Qunli , Hu Aiping , Liu Zhixiao , Chen Xiaohua
Published: August 2021

Zn anodes suffer from poor Coulombic efficiency (CE) and serious dendrite formation due to the unstable anode/electrolyte interface (AEI). The electrical double layer (EDL) structure formed before cycling is of great significance for building stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on Zn surface but barely discussed in previous research about the stabilization of Zn anode. Herein, saccharin (Sac) is introduced as electrolyte additive for regulating the EDL structure on the AEI. It is found that Sac derived anions are preferentially adsorbed on the Zn metal surface instead of water dipole, creating a new H2O‐poor EDL structure. Moreover, the unique SEI is also detected on the Zn surface due to the decomposition of Sac anions. Both are proved to be capable of modulating Zn deposition behavior and preventing side reactions. Encouragingly, Zn|Zn symmetric cells using Sac additive deliver a high cumulative plated capacity of 2.75 Ah cm−2 and a high average CE of 99.6% under harsh test condition (10 mA cm−2, 10 mAh cm−2). The excellent stability is also achieved at a high rate of 40 mA cm−2. The effectiveness of this Sac additive is further demonstrated in the Zn‐MnO2 full cells.
Cutaneous Ionogel Mechanoreceptors for Soft Machines, Physiological Sensing, and Amputee Prostheses
Authors: Shen Zequn , Zhu Xiangyang , Majidi Carmel , Gu Guoying
Published: August 2021

Touch sensing has a central role in robotic grasping and emerging human–machine interfaces for robot‐assisted prosthetics. Although advancements in soft conductive polymers have promoted the creation of diverse pressure sensors, these sensors are difficult to be employed as touch skins for robotics and prostheses due to their limited sensitivity, narrow pressure range, and complex structure and fabrication process. Here, a highly sensitive and robust soft touch skin is presented with ultracapacitive sensing that combines ionic hydrogels with commercially available conductive fabrics. Prototypical designs of the capacitive sensors through facile manufacturing methods are introduced and a high sensitivity up to 1.5 kPa−1 (≈44 times higher than conventional parallel‐plate capacitive counterparts), a broad pressure detection range of over four orders of magnitudes (≈35 Pa to 330 kPa), ultrahigh baseline of capacitance, fast response time (≈18 ms), and good repeatability are demonstrated. Ionogel skins composed of an array of cutaneous mechanoreceptors capable of monitoring various physiological signals and shape detection are further developed. The touch skin can be integrated within a soft bionic hand and provide an industrial robot and an amputee with robust tactile feedback when handling delicate objects, illustrating its potential applications in next‐generation human‐in‐the‐loop robotic systems with tactile sensing.
Ultrathin Multibridge Channel Transistor Enabled by van der Waals Assembly
Authors: Huang Xiaohe , Liu Chunsen , Zeng Senfeng , Tang Zhaowu , Wang Shuiyuan , Chen Xiaozhang , Zhang David Wei , Zhou Peng
Published: August 2021

Multibridge channel field‐effect transistors (MBCFETs) enable improved gate control and flow of a large drive current and they are regarded as promising candidates for next‐generation transistor architecture. However, in achieving a larger drive current with a thinner channel, limitations arise from the decrease in mobility when the thickness of the Si nanosheet is less than 5 nm. In addition, an increase in the leakage current is unavoidable when a large number of channels are stacked. Here, a 2D ultrathin MBCFET is demonstrate, constructed based on 2 nm/2 nm MoS2 channels. The normalized drive current (23.11 µA*µm µm−1) in each level channel of this MBCFET exceeds that of the latest seven‐level‐stacked Si MBCFET, while the leakage current is only 0.4% of this value, with the subthreshold swing reaching 60 mV dec−1 and an on/off ratio reaching up to 4 × 108 at room temperature. Furthermore, the drive current of this 2D ultrathin MBCFET can be further increased by regulating the polarity of the operation voltage to reduce the injection barrier. The combination of 2D materials and an MBC structure has the potential for use in high‐performance and low‐power‐consumption electronics.
Reducing Water Activity by Zeolite Molecular Sieve Membrane for Long‐Life Rechargeable Zinc Battery
Authors: Yang Huijun , Qiao Yu , Chang Zhi , Deng Han , Zhu Xingyu , Zhu Ruijie , Xiong Zetao , He Ping , Zhou Haoshen
Published: August 2021

Aqueous electrolytes offer major advantages in safe battery operation, green economy, and low production cost for advanced battery technology. However, strong water activity in aqueous electrolytes provokes a hydrogen evolution reaction and parasitic passivation on electrodes, leaving poor ion‐transport in the electrolyte/electrode interface. Herein, a zeolite molecular sieve‐modified (zeolite‐modified) aqueous electrolyte is proposed to reduce water activity and its side‐reaction. First, Raman spectroscopy reveals a highly aggressive solvation configuration and significantly suppressed water activity toward single water molecule. Then less hydrogen evolution and anti‐corrosion ability of zeolite‐modified electrolyte by simulation and electrochemical characterizations are identified. Consequently, a zinc (Zn) anode involves less side‐reaction, and develops into a compact deposition morphology, as proved by space‐resolution characterizations. Moreover, zeolite‐modified electrolyte favors cyclic life of symmetric Zn||Zn cells to 4765 h at 0.8 mA cm−2, zinc‐VO2coin cell to 3000 cycles, and pouch cell to 100 cycles. Finally, the mature production technique and low‐cost of zeolite molecular sieve would tremendously favor the future scale‐up application in engineering aspect.
Quantitative In Situ Visualization of Thermal Effects on the Formation of Gold Nanocrystals in Solution
Authors: Khelfa Abdelali , Nelayah Jaysen , Amara Hakim , Wang Guillaume , Ricolleau Christian , Alloyeau Damien
Published: August 2021

Understanding temperature effects in nanochemistry requires real‐time in situ measurements because this key parameter of wet‐chemical synthesis simultaneously influences the kinetics of chemical reactions and the thermodynamic equilibrium of nanomaterials in solution. Here, temperature‐controlled liquid cell transmission electron microscopy is exploited to directly image the radiolysis‐driven formation of gold nanoparticles between 25 °C and 85 °C and provide a deeper understanding of the atomic‐scale processes determining the size and shape of gold colloids. By quantitatively comparing the nucleation and growth rates of colloidal assemblies with classical models for nanocrystal formation, it is shown that the increase of the molecular diffusion and the solubility of gold governs the drastic changes in the formation dynamics of nanostructures in solution with temperature. In contraction with the common view of coarsening processes in solution, it is also demonstrated that the dissolution of nanoparticles and thus the Ostwald ripening is not only driven by size effects. Furthermore, visualizing thermal effects on faceting processes at the single nanoparticle level reveals how the competition between the growth speed and the surface diffusion dictates the final shape of nanocrystals.
iSens: A Fiber‐Based, Highly Permeable and Imperceptible Sensor Design
Authors: Stockinger Thomas , Wirthl Daniela , Mao Guoyong , Drack Michael , Pruckner Roland , Demchyshyn Stepan , Steiner Melanie , Egger Florian , Müller Uwe , Schwödiauer Reinhard , Bauer Siegfried , Arnold Nikita , Kaltenbrunner Martin
Published: August 2021

Embedded sensors are key to optimizing processes and products; they collect data that allow time, energy, and materials to be saved, thereby reducing costs. After production, they remain in place and are used to monitor the long‐term structural health of buildings or aircraft. Fueled by climate change, sustainable construction materials such as wood and fiber composites are gaining importance. Current sensors are not optimized for use with these materials and often act as defects that cause catastrophic failures. Here, flexible, highly permeable, and imperceptible sensors (iSens) are introduced that integrate seamlessly into a component. Their porous substrates are readily infused with adhesives and withstand harsh conditions. In situ resistive temperature measurements and capacitive sensing allows monitoring of adhesives curing as used in wooden structures and fiber composites. The devices also act as heating elements to reduce the hardening time of the glue. Results are analyzed using numerical simulations and theoretical analysis. The suggested iSens technology is widely applicable and represents a step towards realizing the Internet of Things for construction materials.
Ambipolar Channel p‐TMD/n‐Ga2O3 Junction Field Effect Transistors and High Speed Photo‐sensing in TMD Channel
Authors: Choi Wonjun , Ahn Jongtae , Kim Ki‐Tae , Jin Hye‐Jin , Hong Sungjae , Hwang Do Kyung , Im Seongil
Published: August 2021

Highly crystalline 2D/3D‐mixed p‐transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD)/n‐Ga2O3 heterojunction devices are fabricated by mechanical exfoliation of each p‐ and n‐type material. N‐type β‐Ga2O3 and p‐type TMD separately play as a channel for junction field effect transistors (JFETs) with each type of carriers as well as materials for a heterojunction PN diode. The work thus mainly focuses on such ambipolar channel transistors with two different types of channel in a single device architecture. For more extended applications, the transparency of high energy band gap β‐Ga2O3 (Eg ≈ 4.8 eV) is taken advantage of, firstly to measure the electrical energy gap of p‐TMDs receiving visible or near infrared (NIR) photons through the β‐Ga2O3. Next, the p‐TMD/n‐Ga2O3 JFETs are put to high speed photo‐sensing which is achieved from the p‐TMD channel under reverse bias voltages on n‐Ga2O3. The photo‐switching cutoff frequency appears to be ≈16 and 29 kHz for visible red and NIR illuminations, respectively, on the basis of −3 dB photoelectric power loss. Such a high switching speed of the JFET is attributed to the fast transport of photo‐carriers in TMD channels. The 2D/3D‐mixed ambipolar channel JFETs and their photo‐sensing applications are regarded novel, promising, and practically easy to achieve.
3D Laser Displays Based on Circularly Polarized Lasing from Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Arrays
Authors: Zhan Xiuqin , Xu Fa‐Feng , Zhou Zhonghao , Yan Yongli , Yao Jiannian , Zhao Yong Sheng
Published: August 2021

3D laser displays play an important role in next‐generation display technologies owing to the ultimate visual experience they provide. Circularly polarized (CP) laser emissions, featuring optical rotatory power and invariability under rotations, are attractive for 3D displays due to potential in enhancing contrast ratio and comfortability. However, the lack of pixelated self‐emissive CP microlaser arrays as display panels hinders the implementation of 3D laser displays. Here, full‐color 3D laser displays are demonstrated based on CP lasing with inkjet‐printed cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) arrays as display panels. Individual CP lasers are realized by embedding fluorescent dyes into CLCs with their left‐/right‐handed helical superstructures serving as distributed feedback microcavities, bringing in ultrahigh circular polarization degree values (gem = 1.6). These CP microlaser pixels exhibit excellent far‐field color‐rendering features and a relatively large color gamut for high‐fidelity displays. With these printed CLC red–green–blue (RGB) microlaser arrays serving as display panels, proof‐of‐concept full‐color 3D laser displays are demonstrated via delivering images with orthogonal CP laser emissions into one's left and right eyes. These results provide valuable enlightenment for the development of 3D laser displays.
Designing Inverters Based on Screen Printed Organic Electrochemical Transistors Targeting Low‐Voltage and High‐Frequency Operation
Authors: Zabihipour Marzieh , Tu Deyu , Strandberg Jan , Berggren Magnus , Engquist Isak , Andersson Ersman Peter
Published: August 2021

Low‐voltage operating organic electronic circuits with long‐term stability characteristics are receiving increasing attention because of the growing demands for power efficient electronics in Internet of Things applications. To realize such circuits, inverters, the fundamental constituents of many circuits, with stable transfer characteristics should be designed to provide low‐power consumption. Here, a rational inverter design, based on fully screen printed p‐type organic electrochemical transistors with a channel size of 150 × 80 µm2, is explored for driving conditions with input voltage levels that differs of about 1 V. Further, three different inverter circuits are explored, including resistor ladders with resistor values ranging from tens of kΩ to a few MΩ. The performance of single inverters, 3‐stage cascaded inverters and 3‐stage ring oscillators are characterized with respect to output voltage levels, propagation delay, static power consumption, voltage gain, and operational frequency window. Depending on the application, the key performance parameters of the inverter can be optimized by the specific combination of the input voltage levels and the resistor ladder values. A few of the inverters are in fact fully functional up to 30 Hz, even when using input voltage levels as low as (0 V, 1 V).