bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short and long term exposure to air pollution increases the risk of ischemic heart disease
Authors: Kim So Young , Kim Sang Hoon , Wee Jee Hye , Min Chanyang , Han Sang-Min , Kim Seungdo , Choi Hyo Geun
Published: March 2021

Previous studies have suggested an increased risk of ischemic heart disease related to air pollution. This study aimed to explore both the short-term and long-term effects of air pollutants on the risk of ischemic heart disease after adjusting for meteorological factors. The Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort from 2002 to 2013 was used. Overall, 2155 participants with ischemic heart disease and 8620 control participants were analyzed. The meteorological data and air pollution data, including SO2 (ppm), NO2 (ppm), O3 (ppm), CO (ppm), and particulate matter (PM)10 (μg/m3), were analyzed using conditional logistic regression. Subgroup analyses were performed according to age, sex, income, and region of residence. One-month exposure to SO2 was related to 1.36-fold higher odds for ischemic heart disease (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.06–1.75). One-year exposure to SO2, O3, and PM10 was associated with 1.58- (95% CI 1.01–2.47), 1.53- (95% CI 1.27–1.84), and 1.14 (95% CI 1.02–1.26)-fold higher odds for ischemic heart disease. In subgroup analyses, the ≥ 60-year-old group, men, individuals with low income, and urban groups demonstrated higher odds associated with 1-month exposure to SO2. Short-term exposure to SO2 and long-term exposure to SO2, O3, and PM10 were related to ischemic heart disease.
Theory of a frequency-dependent beam splitter in the form of coupled waveguides
Authors: Makarov Dmitry N.
Published: March 2021

It is known that the beam splitter in the form of coupled waveguides (BS) is one of the main devices used in quantum optics and quantum technologies. A BS has two independent parameters: one is the reflection coefficient R or the transmission coefficient T, where $$R+T=1$$

R
+
T
=
1

; the second is the phase shift $$\phi $$
ϕ
. In various applications of quantum optics, these coefficients are considered constant. This is due to the fact that the frequency dependence of these coefficients is usually not taken into account, or this dependence is such that it cannot affect the constancy of these coefficients. It is shown that the coefficients R, T and phase shift $$\phi $$
ϕ
are generally values that depend on the frequencies of incoming photons, the interaction time of photons in the BS, and the type of BS. It is established that in general, R, T and $$\phi $$
ϕ
cannot be considered constant coefficients, and the criteria for when they can be considered constant are defined. The results obtained must be taken into account when analyzing and planning experiments where the beam splitter is presented in the form of coupled waveguides.
Comprehensive metabolomic study of the response of HK-2 cells to hyperglycemic hypoxic diabetic-like milieu
Authors: Valdés Alberto , Lucio-Cazaña Francisco J. , Castro-Puyana María , García-Pastor Coral , Fiehn Oliver , Marina María Luisa
Published: March 2021

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease. Although hyperglycaemia has been determined as the most important risk factor, hypoxia also plays a relevant role in the development of this disease. In this work, a comprehensive metabolomic study of the response of HK-2 cells, a human cell line derived from normal proximal tubular epithelial cells, to hyperglycemic, hypoxic diabetic-like milieu has been performed. Cells simultaneously exposed to high glucose (25 mM) and hypoxia (1% O2) were compared to cells in control conditions (5.5 mM glucose/18.6% O2) at 48 h. The combination of advanced metabolomic platforms (GC-TOF MS, HILIC- and CSH-QExactive MS/MS), freely available metabolite annotation tools, novel databases and libraries, and stringent cut-off filters allowed the annotation of 733 metabolites intracellularly and 290 compounds in the extracellular medium. Advanced bioinformatics and statistical tools demonstrated that several pathways were significantly altered, including carbohydrate and pentose phosphate pathways, as well as arginine and proline metabolism. Other affected metabolites were found in purine and lipid metabolism, the protection against the osmotic stress and the prevention of the activation of the β-oxidation pathway. Overall, the effects of the combined exposure of HK-cells to high glucose and hypoxia are reasonably compatible with previous in vivo works.
Psychometric properties of the embodiment scale for the rubber hand illusion and its relation with individual differences
Authors: Romano Daniele , Maravita Angelo , Perugini Marco
Published: March 2021

The Rubber Hand Illusion (RHI) opened the investigation of the sense of body ownership in healthy people. By putting in slight contrast vision touch and proprioception, healthy people embody a fake hand in one's body representation. The easiness of the procedure, typically measured with a set of questions that capture the subjective experience, favoured its blooming. However, validation studies of embodiment questionnaires are lacking, and the individual differences that contribute to the embodiment received little attention. In our study, 298 participants underwent an RHI procedure following both synchronous and asynchronous (control) visuo-tactile stimulations. The study had multiple aims: (a) to explore the psychometric structure of a 27-items questionnaire largely used in the literature; (b) to build a psychometrically efficient scale to measure embodiment-related phenomena; (c) to explore whether and how individual differences (empathy, self-esteem and mindfulness) are associated with the experience of illusion. We found a relatively simple structure consisting of three components: embodiment of the rubber hand, disembodiment of the biological hand, physical sensations experienced during the procedure. The scales designed were psychometrically reliable and theoretically meaningful, encompassing 18 of the original items. Finally, by adopting a network analysis approach, we found that the embodiment is directly related to empathy and self-esteem, while disembodiment and physical sensation are unrelated to individual personality traits. The study provides substantial evidence to use the embodiment scale as a standard questionnaire for future RHI studies. Additionally, the correlations with personality traits suggest that the embodiment induced by the RHI deeply integrates with the complexity of the individuals and their differences.
Structure-controlled asperities of the 1920 Haiyuan M8.5 and 1927 Gulang M8 earthquakes, NE Tibet, China, revealed by high-resolution seismic tomography
Authors: Sun Quan , Pei Shunping , Cui Zhongxiong , Chen Yongshun John , Liu Yanbing , Xue Xiaotian , Li Jiawei , Li Lei , Zuo Hong
Published: March 2021

Detailed crustal structure of large earthquake source regions is of great significance for understanding the earthquake generation mechanism. Numerous large earthquakes have occurred in the NE Tibetan Plateau, including the 1920 Haiyuan M8.5 and 1927 Gulang M8 earthquakes. In this paper, we obtained a high-resolution three-dimensional crustal velocity model around the source regions of these two large earthquakes using an improved double-difference seismic tomography method. High-velocity anomalies encompassing the seismogenic faults are observed to extend to depths of 15 km, suggesting the asperity (high-velocity area) plays an important role in the preparation process of large earthquakes. Asperities are strong in mechanical strength and could accumulate tectonic stress more easily in long frictional locking periods, large earthquakes are therefore prone to generate in these areas. If the close relationship between the aperity and high-velocity bodies is valid for most of the large earthquakes, it can be used to predict potential large earthquakes and estimate the seismogenic capability of faults in light of structure studies.
Effect of intravitreal ranibizumab and aflibercept injections on retinal nerve fiber layer thickness
Authors: Ahn Jayoung , Jang Kyuhwan , Sohn Joonhong , Park Ji In , Hwang Daniel Duck-Jin
Published: March 2021

The purpose is to evaluate the effects of multiple intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) and aflibercept (IVA) injections on peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This retrospective, observational, consecutive case series study enrolled patients newly diagnosed with monocular exudative AMD from January 2014 to October 2019 who were administered IVR or IVA injections. Normal fellow eyes were included as controls. Medical records and spectral domain optical coherence tomography results were reviewed at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months after injection. No statistically significant differences in peripapillary RNFL thickness and intraocular pressure were observed between the treated and fellow eyes in the two groups. The global RNFL thicknesses for the treated eyes decreased significantly after 12 months compared with baseline, but no significant difference was observed in any of the six examined sectors (temporal, superior temporal, superior nasal, nasal, inferior nasal, and inferior temporal). At 12 months, the central macular thickness of the treated eyes decreased significantly. Multiple IVR and IVA injections are apparently safe considering peripapillary RNFL damage in patients with exudative AMD. The decreased RNFL thickness of the global sector was presumably due to anatomical improvement of macular lesions.
Re-recognizing micro locations of nanoscale zero-valent iron in biochar using C-TEM technique
Authors: Yang Kun , Xu Jialu , Zhang Ming , Lin Daohui
Published: March 2021

Biochar supported nanoscale zero-valent iron (NZVI/BC), prepared commonly by liquid reduction using sodium borohydride (NaBH4), exhibits better reduction performance for contaminants than bare NZVI. The better reducing ability was attributed to attachment of nanoscale zero-valent iron (NZVI) on biochar (BC) surface or into the interior pores of BC particles due to observations by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and plan transmission electron microscopy (P-TEM) techniques in previous studies. In this study, cross-sectional TEM (C-TEM) technique was employed firstly to explore location of NZVI in NZVI/BC. It was observed that NZVI is isolated from BC particles, but not located on the surface or in the interior pores of BC particles. This observation was also supported by negligible adsorption and precipitation of Fe2+/Fe3+ and iron hydroxides on BC surface or into interior pores of BC particles respectively. Precipitation of Fe2+ and Fe3+, rather than adsorption, is responsible for the removal of Fe2+ and Fe3+ by BC. Moreover, precipitates of iron hydroxides cannot be reduced to NZVI by NaBH4. In addition to SEM or P-TEM, therefore, C-TEM is a potential technique to characterize the interior morphology of NZVI/BC for better understanding the improved reduction performance of contaminants by NZVI/BC than bare NZVI.
Enhanced flexible optoelectronic devices by controlling the wettability of an organic bifacial interlayer
Authors: Kim Soyeon , Prasetio Adi , Han Joo Won , Kim Yongki , Shin Myunghun , Heo Jinhee , Kim Jung Ha , Cho Shinuk , Kim Yong Hyun , Jahandar Muhammad , Lim Dong Chan
Published: March 2021

Solution-processed flexible organic optoelectronic devices have great potential as low-cost organic photovoltaics for energy harvesting, and in organic light-emitting diodes as a lighting source. However, a major challenge for improving device performance and stability is the different interfacial characteristics of the hydrophobic organic layers and hydrophilic transparent electrodes, particularly for flexible devices. Surface wetting controlled interfacial engineering can provide a useful method to develop highly efficient flexible organic devices. Here, an unsaturated fatty acid-modified ethoxylated polyethyleneimine organic interfacial layer is designed, which is hydrophobic or hydrophilic on different interfaces. This interlayer results in a power conversion efficiency of 10.57% for rigid and 9.04% for flexible photovoltaic devices. Furthermore, the long-term air storage stability for 250 h is substantially improved, retaining 87.75% efficiency without encapsulation, due to the wettability driven improvement of the optical and electronic properties of the cathode interfacial layer. The performance of organic light emitting diodes also benefitted from the interlayer. This study provides a strategy to simultaneously improve efficiency and stability by controlling the wettability of the interfacial layer.
Effect of carbon and nitrogen double vacancies on the improved photocatalytic hydrogen evolution over porous carbon nitride nanosheets
Authors: Li Huihui , Ning Fuchun , Chen Xiaofei , Shi Anye
Published: March 2021

Both carbon and nitrogen defects are formed in the porous carbon nitride after proper PVP addition and heating in air. It exhibits improved photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance with increasing carbon to nitrogen atomic ratio.
Efficient chemosensors for toxic pollutants based on photoluminescent Zn(ii) and Cd(ii) metal–organic networks
Authors: Rosales-Vázquez Luis D. , Dorazco-González Alejandro , Sánchez-Mendieta Victor
Published: March 2021

Photoluminescent chemosensors based on Zn and Cd coordination arrays for the sensitive and selective detection of pesticides, herbicides, and cyanide in aqueous environments.
Comment on “Techno-economic analysis of capacitive and intercalative water deionization” by M. Metzger, M. Besli, S. Kuppan, S. Hellstrom, S. Kim, E. Sebti, C. Subban and J. Christensen, Energy Environ. Sci., 2020, 13, 1544
Authors: Patel Sohum K. , Wang Li , Elimelech Menachem
Published: March 2021

We discuss a recent publication in Energy & Environmental Science that presented a techno-economic analysis of electrochemical water desalination technologies.
Fate of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles during dynamic in vitro gastrointestinal digestion: the impact of milk as a matrix
Authors: Choki Kinley , Li Siqi , Ye Aiqian , Jameson Geoffrey B. , Singh Harjinder
Published: March 2021

The dissolution behavior and the structural changes of nHA during dynamic gastric digestion and intestinal digestion were examined. Milk formed a structural clot and significantly retarded the dissolution of nHA during gastric digestion.
Pterostilbene modifies triglyceride metabolism in hepatic steatosis induced by high-fat high-fructose feeding: a comparison with its analog resveratrol
Authors: Gómez-Zorita S. , Milton-Laskibar I. , Macarulla M. T. , Biasutto L. , Fernández-Quintela A. , Miranda J. , Lasa A. , Segues N. , Bujanda L. , Portillo M. P.
Published: March 2021

Mechanisms of action involved in the liver delipidating effects of resveratrol and pterostilbene.
Phosphorus modification of cobalt–iron nanoparticles embedded in a nitrogen-doped carbon network for oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wang Zheng , Zhu Lin , Lv Weixin , Wang Wei
Published: March 2021

Phosphorus modification of cobalt–iron nanoparticles embedded in a nitrogen-doped carbon network can be used as an excellent oxygen reduction catalyst.
Vibrational energy redistribution in crystalline nitromethane simulated by ab initio molecular dynamics
Authors: Lu Meilin , Zheng Zhaoyang , Zhu Gangbei , Wang Yuxiao , Yang Yanqiang
Published: March 2021

Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations (AIMD) are systematically performed to study the Vibrational Energy Redistribution (VER) in solid nitromethane (NM) by combining normal mode decomposition and short-time Fourier transform technique.
Highly efficient CO2 electrolysis to CO on Ruddlesden–Popper perovskite oxide with in situ exsolved Fe nanoparticles
Authors: Choi Junil , Park Seongmin , Han Hyunsu , Kim Minho , Park Minseon , Han Jeonghyeon , Kim Won Bae
Published: March 2021

A highly active and stable catalyst La1.2Sr0.8Mn0.4Fe0.6O4−α (R.P.LSMF) decorated with in situ exsolved Fe nanoparticles was derived from La0.6Sr0.4Mn0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSMF) by simple annealing and applied to CO2 electrolysis on solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs).
2D porous molybdenum nitride/cobalt nitride heterojunction nanosheets with interfacial electron redistribution for effective electrocatalytic overall water splitting
Authors: Guo Hao , Wu Aiping , Xie Ying , Yan Haijing , Wang Dongxu , Wang Lei , Tian Chungui
Published: March 2021

Porous 2D Mo2N-CoxN heterojunction nanosheets have been constructed based on a new strategy of cutting ZIF-67 polyhedral in Na2MoO4 aqueous solution. The material can act effective bi-functional catalysts for overall water splitting.
Ordered boron phosphorus codoped graphene realizing widely tunable quasi Dirac-cone gap
Authors: Meng L.-B. , Ni S. , Zhang Z. M. , He S. K. , Zhou W. M.
Published: March 2021

Density functional theory calculation predicts a novel ordered boron phosphorus codoped graphene realizing a widely tunable Dirac-cone gap.
Unsupported monomeric stibine oxides (R3SbO) remain undiscovered
Authors: Wenger John S. , Johnstone Timothy C.
Published: March 2021

Physical inorganic methods and reactivity are used to establish that previously reported monomeric stibine oxides are in fact hydroxystibonium cations. The unperturbed stiboryl functional group thus remains as yet unknown.
Four new Cu6S6 cluster-based coordination compounds: synthesis, crystal structures and fluorescence properties
Authors: Zhou Rui-Sha , Zhang Xiao-Yu , Fu Jin , Xin Li-Dong , Jiao Wei-Zhou , Song Jiang-Feng
Published: March 2021

For the first time, the Cu6S6 clusters are connected to 1D inorganic CuCN (or CuSCN) chains through mercaptopyrimidine derivatives and obtain the extended arrays, providing a new strategy to construct the Cu6S6 cluster-based coordination compounds.
Anti-fatigue effect ofLepidium meyeniiWalp. (Maca) on preventing mitochondria-mediated muscle damage and oxidative stressin vivoandvitro
Authors: Zhu Hongkang , Xu Wenqian , Wang Ning , Jiang Wenhao , Cheng Yuliang , Guo Yahui , Yao Weirong , Hu Bin , Du Peng , Qian He
Published: March 2021

We investigated the role of Maca aqueous extract on muscle during exercise-induced fatigue bothin vivoandin vitro..
Suppressing aggregation induced quenching in anthracene based conjugated polymers
Authors: Congrave Daniel G. , Drummond Bluebell H. , Gray Victor , Bond Andrew D. , Rao Akshay , Friend Richard H. , Bronstein Hugo
Published: March 2021

We demonstrate an anthracene based conjugated polymer with a solid state PLQY that is effectively unchanged compared to solution measurements, alongside an identical PL 0–0 transition wavelength in solution and thin film.
Fluorescent polymer cubosomes and hexosomes with aggregation-induced emission
Authors: Chen Hui , Fan Yujiao , Zhang Nian , Trépout Sylvain , Ptissam Bergam , Brûlet Annie , Tang Ben Zhong , Li Min-Hui
Published: March 2021

Fluorescent Im3̄m cubosome and P6mm hexosome with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) were reported, which were formed by amphiphilic block copolymers PEG-b-PTPEMA. The length of hydrophobic block PTPEMA was adjusted to control morphology formation.
A highly selective decarboxylative deuteration of carboxylic acids
Authors: Li Nian , Ning Yunyun , Wu Xiaopeng , Xie Jin , Li Weipeng , Zhu Chengjian
Published: March 2021

A scalable, practical and general method for precise deuteration of aliphatic carboxylic acids via synergistic photoredox and HAT catalysis has been developed. The use of recirculation reactor achieved the preparative scale deuteration.
Stereoselective synthesis of unnatural α-amino acid derivatives through photoredox catalysis
Authors: Shatskiy Andrey , Axelsson Anton , Stepanova Elena V. , Liu Jian-Quan , Temerdashev Azamat Z. , Kore Bhushan P. , Blomkvist Björn , Gardner James M. , Dinér Peter , Kärkäs Markus D.
Published: March 2021

A protocol for stereoselective C-radical addition to a chiral glyoxylate-derived N-sulfinyl imine was developed through visible light-promoted photoredox catalysis, providing a convenient method for the synthesis of unnatural α-amino acids.
Rapid and ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of circulating tumor DNA by hybridization on the network of gold-coated magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Chen Dongfei , Wu Yanfang , Hoque Sharmin , Tilley Richard D. , Gooding J. Justin
Published: March 2021

This study introduces a new electrochemical sensing strategy for the rapid detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from whole blood in combination with a network of DNA-Au@MNPs with high sensitivity and excellent selectivity.
Perceptual and Acoustic Effects of Dual-Focus Speech Treatment in Children With Dysarthria
Authors: Levy Erika S. , Chang Younghwa M. , Hwang KyungHae , McAuliffe Megan J.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Children with dysarthria secondary to cerebral palsy may experience reduced speech intelligibility and diminished communicative participation. However, minimal research has been conducted examining the outcomes of behavioral speech treatments in this population. This study examined the effect of Speech Intelligibility Treatment (SIT), a dual-focus speech treatment targeting increased articulatory excursion and vocal intensity, on intelligibility of narrative speech, speech acoustics, and communicative participation in children with dysarthria.

Method

American English–speaking children with dysarthria (
n
= 17) received SIT in a 3-week summer camplike setting at Columbia University. SIT follows motor-learning principles to train the child-friendly, dual-focus strategy, “Speak with your big mouth and strong voice.” Children produced a story narrative at baseline, immediate posttreatment (POST), and at 6-week follow-up (FUP). Outcomes were examined via blinded listener ratings of ease of understanding (
n
= 108 adult listeners), acoustic analyses, and questionnaires focused on communicative participation.

Results

SIT resulted in significant increases in ease of understanding at POST, that were maintained at FUP. There were no significant changes to vocal intensity, speech rate, or vowel spectral characteristics, with the exception of an increase in second formant difference between vowels following SIT. Significantly enhanced communicative participation was evident at POST and FUP. Considerable variability in response to SIT was observed between children
.

Conclusions

Dual-focus treatment shows promise for improving intelligibility and communicative participation in children with dysarthria, although responses to treatment vary considerably across children. Possible mechanisms underlying the intelligibility gains, enhanced communicative participation, and variability in treatment effects are discussed.
Visual Aura in Migraine: An Analysis of 165 Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India
Authors: Singla Monika , Sulena  , Kale Richa , Brar Jaisal , Bhardwaj Sanskriti
Published: March 2021

Background Migraine auras are transient neurological symptoms, usually lasting for approximately 5 to 30 minutes before the onset of migraine pain. Out of various types of auras, visual aura is the commonest and has variable manifestations, forming approximately 90% of auras. These visual auras may be of particular interest to the ophthalmologist as well as to the neurologist. We planned to conduct this study to look for the prevalence of visual aura in our population and make a descriptive analysis of the same.

Materials and Methods It was an observational, questionnaire-based cross-sectional study, enrolling all the consenting patients of migraine. Migraine was classified by International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)-III β version, Third edition of International Classification of Headache Disorders. Patients in whom aura was present, detailed profile of visual aura was made regarding its type, duration, relation with migraine as per its laterality, etc.

Observations and Results Out of 1,245 migraine patients, 165 (13.25%) patients reported to have visual aura, 127 females and 38 males. Scintillating scotoma was the commonest type of visual aura, then zigzag lines, blurred vision, and tunnel vision. Majority of patients had aura between 5 and 35 minutes, none had more than 60 minutes. A total of 142 patients out of 165 had unilateral aura, out of which 64 (38.78%) patients had aura ipsilateral to the side of headache, and 78 (47.27%) patients had aura contralateral to the side of headache. Twenty-three (13.93%) patients had bilateral aura.

Discussion The frequency of visual aura was found to be 13.25% in our study, which is high compared with previously published Indian data. We did a descriptive analysis of visual aura symptoms.

Conclusion Visual aura is the commonest type of aura, more frequent in females. Scintillating scotoma was found to be the commonest type of visual aura, followed by zigzag lines in study. Our study is unique of its type as its shows a descriptive visual analysis in a larger number of patients.
Prolapsed Rectum and Risk Factors in Prader–Willi Syndrome: A Case-Based Review
Authors: Butler Merlin G.
Published: March 2021

A 14-year-old male adolescent patient with Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) with maternal disomy 15 was reported with rectal prolapse as only the second patient in the literature. With predisposing risk factors present for rectal damage and prolapse in this syndrome, the incidence must be higher and therefore underreported. These risk factors include skin and rectal picking, self-stimulation, altered pain sensation, decreased muscle mass, strength and physical activity with hypotonia, and gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances. Pertinent literature was reviewed and analyzed that focused on clinical features and behavior seen in PWS as underrecognized risk factors for developing rectal damage and prolapse. An illustrative case is presented as the second patient reported with PWS and a prolapsed rectum. A discussion of predisposing behavioral and clinical risk factors is presented including for self-stimulation, rectal picking, chronic constipation, decreased gut motility, reduced water intake, and a restricted diet. Although a paucity of cases do exist, physical, behavioral, and GI findings common in PWS may contribute to rectal prolapse requiring better awareness and proactive surveillance, management, and treatment protocols for patients affected with this rare obesity-related genetic disorder.
The Scattered Light Time-history Diagnostic suite at the National Ignition Facility
Authors: Rosenberg M. J. , Hernandez J. E. , Butler N. , Filkins T. , Bahr R. E. , Jungquist R. K. , Bedzyk M. , Swadling G. , Ross J. S. , Michel P. , Lemos N. , Eichmiller J. , Sommers R. , Nyholm P. , Boni R. , Marozas J. A. , Craxton R. S. , McKenty P. W. , Sharma A. , Radha P. B. , Froula D. H. , Datte P. , Gorman M. , Moody J. D. , Heinmiller J. M. , Fornes J. , Hillyard P. , Regan S. P.
Published: March 2021

The Scattered Light Time-history Diagnostic (SLTD) is being implemented at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to greatly expand the angular coverage of absolute scattered-light measurements for direct- and indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments. The SLTD array will ultimately consist of 15 units mounted at a variety of polar and azimuthal angles on the NIF target chamber, complementing the existing NIF backscatter suite. Each SLTD unit collects and diffuses scattered light onto a set of three optical fibers, which transport the light to filtered photodiodes to measure scattered light in different wavelength bands: stimulated Brillouin scattering (350 nm–352 nm), stimulated Raman scattering (430 nm–760 nm), and ω/2 (695 nm–745 nm). SLTD measures scattered light with a time resolution of ∼1 ns and a signal-to-noise ratio of up to 500. Currently, six units are operational and recording data. Measurements of the angular dependence of scattered light will strongly constrain models of laser energy coupling in ICF experiments and allow for a more robust inference of the total laser energy coupled to implosions.
Brightness calculation formula for Kohler illumination beam
Authors: Nakasuji Mamoru , Goto Katsuto , Hirano Yutaka
Published: March 2021

A two-lens optical system entails two beams: a crossover beam and a Kohler illumination beam. We observed that upon varying the excitation corresponding to the first lens from large to small values, the crossover beam changed to a Kohler illumination beam with increased brightness. We derived new calculation formulas for the Kohler illumination beam. Brightness B and beam current Ib can be expressed as B = Bco (ϕco/ϕ)2 and Ib = Bco (παϕco)2/4, where Bco, ϕco, ϕ, and α denote the crossover beam brightness, crossover beam size, Kohler illumination beam size, and beam semi-angle, respectively; additionally, ϕco and ϕ are obtained at the same first lens excitation. These two equations were experimentally validated. We obtained a brightness of 2.05 × 108 A/cm2 sr using a beam energy and an emission current of 20 keV and 54 µA, respectively. Notably, this value surpasses the Langmuir limit of 4.11 × 105 A/cm2 sr by 499 times.
Compensation effects on hole transport in C-doped p-type GaPN dilute nitrides
Authors: Zou Yongjie , Goodnick Stephen M.
Published: March 2021

Experimental studies of transport in GaPN dilute nitrides have evidenced low hole mobilities, which limit their applications in optoelectronics. Theoretical work to date has not explained the origin of such low hole mobilities. Here, we use full band cellular Monte Carlo methods to investigate hole transport in C-doped GaPN dilute nitrides as a function of hole concentration. Good agreement between simulation and experiment is obtained by introducing a doping-dependent self-compensation. The results suggest that the reduction in the hole mobility is caused by the compensation for the p-type C doping, which is likely due to the formation of C–N complexes that act as donor scattering centers. This agrees well with the low C activation ratio reported by Liu et al. [Appl. Phys. Lett. 96, 032106 (2010)] and other studies on C–N complexes in GaP.
On the correlation of the magnetic properties with the structural parameters in Fe-doped europium chromite
Authors: Ratkovski D. R. , Ramírez J. M. Marín , França E. L. T. , Franco A. , Machado F. L. A.
Published: March 2021

In the present work, the dynamics of the spins and the structural parameters of thermal treated samples of Eu1−xFexCrO3 (x = 0, 0.1 and 0.2) were investigated. The ac-magnetic susceptibility (χac) was measured near TN for frequencies (f) in the range 10 - 104 Hz, magnitude of the ac magnetic field of 10 Oe and for 5 ≤ T ≤ 300 K. X-ray diffraction data were used for determining the lattice parameters and the bonding angle θB (Cr– O(2) – Cr) for 100 ≤ T ≤ 300 K. The maximum in χac was found to shift to higher values of T for increasing values of f. The Vogel-Fulcher law was used for analyzing χac yielding values for the characteristic relaxation time τ0, activation energy Ea/kB and glassy temperature TG, respectively, in the ranges 2.10 - 3.96 ps, 46.5 - 47.2 K and 169.9 -176.1 K. The super-exchange parameter J∼cos4180−θB/2/d7, where d is the length of the bound Cr-O(2), was also obtained yielding a good correlation with the corresponding values of TN.
Phase Transitions in Grey Matter
Authors: Marro Joaquin , Torres Joaquin J.
Published: March 2021

Phase Transitions in Grey Matter: Brain Architecture and Mind Dynamics relates the complex systems that we know as ‘mind’ and ‘brain’ to simple concepts in physics such as ‘phase transition’ and ‘criticality’ and establishes a close mathematical link between them. A serious review of live issues in science – from interaction and correlation to emergence, scale invariance, attractors, noise and chaos—this book demonstrates their relevance to intelligence and consciousness. The result is a significant and useful portrait of what ‘mind’ currently means to science and aggregates widely dispersed and sometimes hard to find topics into one resource.

Key highlights:Provides a coherent basis for the existence of criticality in the brain, and shows how some of its main outstanding properties may be understoodDeeply explores the assumption that phase transition is the most relevant concept to understand the mindOffers a strong foundation for those interested in making a complete and useful portrait of the brain

This book is for advanced graduate and graduate students in physics, applied mathematics, biology and medicine. It is an excellent resource for practitioners and those curious about recent advances in neurosciences.
类型学视角下汉语的双系式结构
Authors: Wu Tong
Published: March 2021

类型学发现，典型的双系式（applicative）结构将宾语（直接宾语或间接宾语）这个句法角色指派给一个本来不能作宾语的项。本文证明汉语中以下结构都是类型学中所谓的“双系式”：在共时层面，有普通话中的“吃食堂”结构，自陆俭明、郭锐（1998）提出以来，有诸多学者从不同角度对其进行了研究；在历时层面，上古汉语中有名词（性结构）直接作补语和介词短语作补语交替的现象。汉语虽然是典型的孤立语，（几乎）没有判断双系式的形态依据，但这些结构在语义-句法层面表现出了双系式结构的基本特点，是完全可以归类为双系式结构的。这一结论也为类型学的动词配价（valency）研究打开了新思路，即在以往对于动词配价研究更侧重形态标准的基础上，也应参考句法行为特征（syntactic behavior），这对于研究汉语类的孤立语的动词配价操作尤其重要。
“Beloved monster”
Authors: Androutsopoulou Athena , Kalyvopoulos Ioannis , Koukidis Emmanuel , Koutsavgousti Georgia , Passa Ioanna , Tarnara Eleni , Tsatsaroni Charikleia
Published: March 2021

This psychobiography study looks into one aspect of Frida Kahlo’s life, her relationship with Diego Rivera. It attempts to solve the puzzle of how Frida managed to reconcile her dedication to Diego, whose behavior was hurtful, with her rebellious character and ideology. Adopting a narrative/dialogical theoretical lens and employing the narrative inquiry method of languages of the unsayable that analyses narrative form, we examined her essayPortrait of Diego. We triangulated findings with letters, diary and paintings. We found that Frida used languages of the unsayable as narrative strategies to manage inner conflict and reconcile dedication with character and ideology. She kept voices of anger and resentment from gaining strength, and downplayed their emotional impact in favor of voices of devotion and despair. The findings point to the importance of looking into both theformandcontentof autobiographical narratives. Limitations and clinical implications of the study are discussed.
Exploring the Case: Iceland – Fishing Traditions and Visitor Experience
Authors: Ward-Perkins David
Published: March 2021

Introduction

This case study highlights the importance of cultural heritage in the development of tourism. Visitors to Iceland quickly understand the important role of tourism in the country’s national identify. In this ‘Exploring the case’, we consider what that implies.

The analysis can be extended to other countries and regions around the world where fishing traditions have, until recently, been essential to the livelihoods of the populations concerned.
Antimicrobial activity of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles, amoxicillin, and glass-ionomer cement against Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Enan Enas Tawfik , Ashour Amal A , Basha Sakeenabi , Felemban Nayef H , Gad El-Rab Sanaa M F
Published: March 2021

Background. The development of dental caries is associated with various microorganisms and secondary caries formation is the main cause of restorations failure. The advice for restorative dental materials that have antimicrobial properties has stimulated the introduction of materials containing different antibacterial agents. Objectives. The present study has been designed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and incorporate AgNPs and amoxicillin into glass ionomer cement (GIC) to synergize its effect on oral microbes. The effect of the added antimicrobial agents on compressive strength (CS) of GIC was also evaluated. Material and methods. Biosynthesis of AgNPs was done using Cupressus macrocarpa extract and AgNPs were characterized. A total of 120 disc-shaped specimens were prepared and classified into 4 main groups where Group A includes conventional GIC, Groups B and C include GIC with AgNPs or amoxicillin, respectively, while Group D included GIC with both AgNPs and amoxicillin. Each group was tested for the antimicrobial activity against both Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The distribution of biofilm was examined via a scanning electron microscope. The CS of the tested material was measured using a Material Test System. Results. The UV−visible spectrum showed a peak of 429 nm. Transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction pattern and Fourier transform infrared analysis confirmed the formation of AgNPs with spherical to oblong polydispersed particles of diameter in the range of 13.5–25.8 nm. The maximum inhibitory zone was recorded for group D against both tested bacteria with a mean of 29 mm at first 24 h period to 15 mm at three weeks and showed antimicrobial rate 92.2% and 92.56%, against both strains, respectively. Additionally, group D disintegrated the structure of S. aureus biofilm and even kill bacteria in the biofilms. The addition of AgNPs and amoxicillin caused an insignificant effect on CS of GIC. Conclusion. TheAgNPs showed a synergistic effect in combination with amoxicillin and GIC dental restorative material against studied microorganisms. The agents can be safely added with minimal effect on the mechanical properties of the original cement.
Investigation into surface composition of nitrogen-doped niobium for superconducting RF cavities
Authors: Yang Li , Liu Baiqi , Ye Zongbiao , Yang Chi , Wang Zhijun , Chen Bo , Chen Jianjun , Sha Peng , Dong Chao , Zhu Jie , Li Zhiling , Yan Rong , Ding Rui , Zhang Kun , Gou Fujun
Published: March 2021

Systematic analysis of the surface morphology, crystalline phase, chemical composition and elemental distribution along depth for nitrogen-doped niobium was carried out using different methods of characterization, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic-Force Microscopy (AFM), Grazing Incidence X-ray Diffraction (GIXRD), Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS) and layer-by-layer X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The results showed that, after nitrogen doping, the surface was covered by densely distributed trigonal precipitates with an average crystallite size of 32 ± 8 nm, in line with the calculation result (29.9 nm) of nitrogen-enriched β-Nb2N from GIXRD, demonstrating the phase composition of trigonal precipitates. The depth analysis through RBS and XPS indicated that β-Nb2N was dominant in the topmost 9.7 nm and extended to a depth of 575 nm, with gradually decreased content. In addition, the successive change along depth in the naturally oxidized states of niobium after nitrogen doping, was revealed. It was interesting to find that the oxygen diffusion depth could be moderately enhanced by the nitridation process. These results established the near-surface phase composition of nitrided niobium, which is of great significance in evaluating the effect of nitrogen doping and further understanding the Q improvement of the superconducting radio frequency cavities.
Linear Canonical Transformations in relativistic quantum physics
Authors: Ranaivoson Ravo Tokiniaina , Andriambololona Raoelina , Rakotoson Hanitriarivo , Raboanary Roland
Published: March 2021

Linear Canonical Transformations (LCTs) are known in signal processing and optics as the generalization of certain useful integral transforms. In quantum theory, they can be identified as the linear transformations which keep invariant the canonical commutation relations characterizing the coordinates and momenta operators. In this work, the possibility of considering LCTs to be the elements of a symmetry group for relativistic quantum physics is studied using the principle of covariance. It is established that Lorentz transformations and multidimensional Fourier transforms are particular cases of LCTs and some of the main symmetry groups currently considered in relativistic theories can be obtained from the contractions of LCTs groups. It is also shown that a link can be established between a spinorial representation of LCTs and some properties of elementary fermions. This link leads to a classification which suggests the existence of sterile neutrinos and the possibility of describing a generation of fermions with a single field. Some possible applications of the obtained results are discussed. These results may, in particular, help in the establishment of a unified theory of fundamental interactions. Intuitively, LCTs correspond to linear combinations of energy-momentum and spacetime compatible with the principle of covariance.
Application of machine learning and laser optical-acoustic spectroscopy to study the profile of exhaled air volatile markers of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Borisov Alexey V , Syrkina Anna G , Kuzmin Dmitry A , Ryabov Vyacheslav V , Boyko Andrey A , Zaharova Olga , Zasedatel Vyacheslav S , Kistenev Yury V
Published: March 2021

Conventional acute myocardial infarction (AMI) diagnosis is quite accurate and has proved its effectiveness. However, despite this, discovering more operative methods of this disease detection is underway. From this point of view, the application of exhaled air analysis for a similar diagnosis is valuable. The aim of the paper is to research effective machine learning algorithms for the predictive model for AMI diagnosis constructing, using exhaled air spectral data. The target group included 30 patients with primary myocardial infarction. The control group included 42 healthy volunteers. The ‘LaserBreeze’ laser gas analyzer (Special Technologies Ltd, Russia), based on the dual-channel resonant photoacoustic detector cell and optical parametric oscillator as the laser source, had been used. The pattern recognition approach was applied in the same manner for the set of extracted concentrations of AMI volatile markers and the set of absorption coefficients in a most informative spectral range 2.900 ± 0.125 µm. The created predictive model based on the set of absorption coefficients provided 0.86 of the mean values of both the sensitivity and specificity when linear support vector machine (SVM) combined with principal component analysis was used. The created predictive model based on using six volatile AMI markers (C5H12, N2O, NO2, C2H4, CO, CO2) provided 0.82 and 0.93 of the mean values of the sensitivity and specificity, respectively, when linear SVM was used.
Retraction: Exploring adversarial attacks against malware classifiers in the backdoor poisoning attack (IOP Conf. Ser.: Mater. Sci. Eng.
1022 012037)
Authors: Reddy Gopaldinne Sanjeev , Lakshmi Sripada Manasa
Published: March 2021

This article has been retracted by IOP Publishing in light of clear evidence that substantial material in the article, including text and figures, was taken without reference or permission from [1]. As a member of the Committee for Publication Ethics (COPE), IOP Publishing has investigated in accordance with COPE guidelines and it was agreed the article should be retracted.

[1] Severi G, Meyer J, Coull S and Oprea A, 2020, https://arxiv.org/abs/2003.01031v1.

Retraction published: 03 March 2021
Non-destructive evaluation of resistance projection welded joints (RPW) by flash thermography
Authors: Dell’Avvocato G. , Palumbo D. , Pepe R. , Galietti U.
Published: March 2021

Pulsed thermography is a well-known thermographic method used as nondestructive control for detecting defects and evaluating the quality of components. One of the most challenging application is the development of thermographic non-destructive methods on thin welds for quality control, in order to overcome the limits of commons non-destructive methods such as ultrasound tests (UT). In the present work, pulsed thermography in reflection mode with flash lamps excitation, post-processed by pulsed phase thermography (PPT), has been used on resistance projection welded joints (RPW). A set of RPW specimens has been produced according to a factorial plan and a procedure to identify welding parameters by analysing the phase profile has been developed. The results have been analysed by using the ANOVA and the features extracted have been verified.
Micro-scale modeling of Lithium-ion battery
Authors: Clerici D , Mocera F
Published: March 2021

Good energy density, long lifetime, high capacity and high voltage make Lithium-ion batteries the most widespread energy storage systems, suitable for several fields of application. Nevertheless, usage leads to cell degradation which mainly results in capacity and power fade. Degradation phenomena are the result of the interaction between mechanical and electro-chemical mechanisms, which are reviewed in this paper. Lithium-ion batteries store and deliver electric energy by means of ions transport between anode and cathode through the electrolyte. The active material of the electrodes consists of micrometer particles which can host lithium ions through insertion/extraction processes. These processes are modelled as diffusion-mechanical problem, since the lithium concentration gradient within the particle due to ions diffusion generates internal stresses in analogy with a temperature gradient. The model in this work, usually referred as diffusion induced stress (DIS), can predict the stresses in the active material particles which are the driving force for damage, pulverization, exfoliation and crack propagation. Indeed, the damage induced by the insertion/extraction processes explains the capacity reduction over charge/discharge cycles: a critical issue for batteries lifetime.
The future of the Autonomous Emergency Braking for Powered-Two-Wheelers: field testing end-users’ acceptability in realistic riding manoeuvres
Authors: Marra M , Lucci C , Huertas-Leyva P , Baldanzini N , Pierini M , Savino G
Published: March 2021

Motorcycle Autonomous Emergency Braking system (MAEB), is a technology that introduces also on Powered-Two-Wheelers (PTWs) the autonomous braking, which is able to apply autonomously a braking force to reduce impact speed in emergency situations. This system was shown to be possibly effective in reducing numbers of deaths and serious injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes. However, its safe applicability on standard vehicles and the acceptability among end-users has still to be proven. The goal of the study presented in this paper is to assess the acceptability and the controllability of automatic braking events deployed in realistic riding manoeuvres. Field tests were conducted involving 55 common riders as participants on three test vehicles: a naked motorcycle, a sport touring motorcycle and three-wheels scooter. The automatic braking was tested in four riding manoeuvres (straight-lane, lane-change, slalom, and curve) deployed remotely by an investigator at a travelling speed of 35-50 km/h. The system was tested with the higher levels of interventions tested so far by common users and more than 1100 interventions were recorded. The results of this study will allow having a new understanding on the limits of MAEB system.
Analysis of the resistance of adhesively bonded joints with rigid-flexible substrates
Authors: Dicosta F , Morano C , Alfano M , Furgiuele F
Published: March 2021

Hydrogen, as an energy source, appears as a valid alternative to traditional fossil resources and supports the required reduction of CO2 emissions. The most recent hyperbaric tanks built for hydrogen storage (type IV) are made of composite material. For the manufacturing of these tanks, an adhesive layer is being used to join the flexible internal polymeric core, the liner, with the external composite shell. This work aims to study the strength of the liner-composite joint using the Floating Roller Peel (FRP) test. To this purpose, finite element analyses of the peeling process are carried out using the cohesive model. In order to establish a framework for the investigation of the joint properties as a function of manufacturing parameters (e.g., adhesive type and surface preparation), this paper describes a potential procedure that can be used for the identification of joint properties.