bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the System Dynamics of COVID-19 and Reconfiguration of Emergency Medical Services
Authors: Ali Muhammad K. , Srour F. Jordan , Badr Nabil Georges , Tarhini Abbas
Published: February 2022

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are essential to the medical healthcare landscape. EMS play a crucial role in maximizing the overall expected survival probability of patients with various health emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, peoples’ lifestyle changed and their decisions to seek medical assistance were mixed with fear. This affected the type and number of missions that EMS responded to worldwide. Furthermore, COVID-19 affected EMS systems in terms of response protocols and personal protective equipment levels. These changes influenced the EMS’ provision of these essential services – fluctuations in demand impacted capacity decisions, the need for PPE altered response times, and lockdowns influenced roadway dynamics. This research focuses on describing and analyzing the performance of a major EMS provider in Lebanon in terms of response time to emergency missions during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous years and to the context of EMS in other countries. Results show that the number of calls and number of missions dropped yet, the emergency response time was found to be higher than previous years. The change in response time is most strongly tied to capacity allocation and PPE protocols. This study is an initial step toward exploring EMS system dynamics, with the goal of effectively allocating resources for improved EMS service during periods of heightened uncertainty and variability.
Towards a digital service to help the elaboration, implementation and follow-up of study regulations at the University of Geneva - a hands-on experiment
Authors: Di Marzo Serugendo Giovanna , Friha Lamia , Burgi Pierre-Yves , Döbeli Julien , Wade Assane , Cappelli Maria Assunta , Cutting-Decelle Anne-Françoise , Vonlanthen Mathieu , Durand Natacha , Hugentobler Alain
Published: February 2022

Writing study regulations for academic study programs and automatically implementing those regulations is a difficult task that involves a variety of actors and requires at each step careful compliance to the constraints defined in the regulations. This paper describes: (1) the innovation process, taking place through a hands-on experiment, that lead the R&D Unit of the University of Geneva to provide a proposal for a digital service targeting the above purpose; (2) the actual design of such a digital service, providing various functionalities: (a) the elaboration of study regulations; (b) the elaboration of the corresponding study plan; (c) the actual implementation of the study plan through the information system. The digital service relies on two main ideas: (1) all study regulations and study plans are built from common atomic elements, that we call building blocks; (2) ensuring compliance to various constraints is achieved through a reasoning engine capturing the constraints defined over an ontology of the study regulations domain. Each year, for a given University, several study regulations, with various constraints and structure are defined or updated. They all need to be carefully crafted and implemented. The work presented in this paper has the potential to alleviate and improve this task for the various actors involved (students, program directors, lawyers, scientific committee members, study advisor, information systems managers, students’ office).
An integrated inventory model with capacity constraint under order-size dependent trade credit, all-unit discount and partial backordering
Authors: Choudhury Mukunda , Mahato Chandan , Mahata Gour Chandra
Published: February 2022

In today’s competitive business situation, the supplier frequently offers his or her retailers a permissible delay period (i.e., trade credit) to stimulate sales. In addition, the capacity of any warehouse is limited in practice, thus the retailer needs an additional rented warehouse (RW) to store the excess units when the order quantity exceeds the capacity of the own warehouse (OW). Furthermore, with the globalization of the marketing policy, the supplier may provide the retailer with a discounted price if the quantity of purchase is large enough. Considering all of the factors mentioned above, in this paper we study an integrated inventory model with capacity constraint under order-size dependent trade credit and all-units discount. Shortages are allowed and partially backordered. In addition, the unit production cost, which is a function of the production rate, is considered. An algorithm is developed to determine the optimal production and replenishment policies for both the supplier and the retailer. Finally, numerical examples are presented to illustrate theoretical results. Sensitivity analysis of the major parameters are performed and some insights are obtained.
Intraperitoneal verlängerter Peritonealdialysekatheter bei Adipositas
Authors: Sayer Michael , Artunc Ferruh
Published: February 2022

Die Anlage eines Peritonealdialysekatheters (PDK) ist bei Patienten mit einer terminalen Niereninsuffizienz und einer Adipositas aufgrund des erhöhten Bauchumfangs deutlich erschwert oder gar unmöglich. Durch die Verlagerung der Implantationsstelle in den schlankeren Oberbauch könnte dieses Problem gelöst werden. In der Vergangenheit wurden dazu PDK mit Verlängerung des transmuralen Segments verwendet, die über eine lange Tunnelung über 2 Inzisionsstellen implantiert wurden. In diesem Beitrag beschreiben wir die Entwicklung eines PDK, dessen intraperitoneales Segment mittels eines Adapters verlängert und über eine einzige Inzision chirurgisch implantiert wird. Bei 29 adipösen Patienten zeigte dieser Katheter ein 1-Jahres-Überleben von 92 % bei guten Flusseigenschaften und hoher Dialyseeffektivität.
Anti-Alzheimer’s and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Compounds Isolated from Solanum Mauritianum
Authors: Ticona Luis Apaza , García Borja Durán , Bastante Marcos Humanes , Serban Andreea Madalina , Sánchez Ángel Rumbero
Published: February 2022

Solanum mauritianum, commonly known as “Tabaquillo”, was one of the most used plants by tribes from South America as a remedy for headaches. Based on this ethnopharmacological use, a bioguided isolation of compounds with anti-inflammatory and anti-Alzheimer’s activities from S. mauritianum was carried out by measuring the inhibition of NF-κB in C8D1A, Neuro-2a, and EOC 13.31 cells, and by measuring the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and β-amyloid. This allowed the isolation and characterisation by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry of four compounds (1–4). Compounds 1–4 showed NF-κB inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 9.13–9.96, 17.17–17.77, 2.41–2.79, and 1.59–1.93 µM, respectively, while celastrol (the positive control) had an IC50 value of 7.41 µM. Likewise, compounds 1–4 showed anti-Alzheimer’s activity, inhibiting the acetylcholinesterase by 40.33, 20.57, 61.26, and 83.32%, respectively, while galantamine (positive control) showed an inhibition of 90.38%. In addition, concerning the inhibition of β-amyloid aggregation, compounds 1–4 showed an inhibition of 47, 23, 65, and 93%, respectively, while curcumin (positive control) had an inhibition of 71.19%.
Addressing the Psychosocial Needs of Individuals with Communication Disorders: The Integration of Animal-Assisted Therapy within Counseling
Authors: Atherton W. Leigh , Hudock Daniel
Published: February 2022

Individuals with speech, language, and communication disorders often present with psychosocial concerns that span the physiological, intrapersonal, and interpersonal domains of functioning. Despite this fact, the provision of counseling service by speech-language pathologist (SLP) that directly addresses clients' psychosocial needs is sparse. Research shows the primary counseling strategy used by therapists is psychoeducation, failing to effectively address the psychosocial concerns. Integrating complementary approaches to traditional counseling in SLP can enhance both the quality of therapeutic intervention and client outcomes. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the potential of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) as an adjunctive or complementary approach for counseling within SLP. A review of literature demonstrates a need for improved counseling service provision within SLP treatment, as well as the benefits of integrating AAT. A framework for how AAT intentions and techniques fit within SLP Scope of Practice counseling activities is presented, along with case examples to demonstrate how AAT can be integrated within SLP treatment. It is concluded that the integration of AAT as a complementary approach to traditional SLP counseling can enhance both the frequency of counseling services provided and clients' psychosocial outcomes.
A Rare Case of Isolated Agenesis of the Thyroid Isthmus: Surgical Implications
Authors: Singhal Gaurang , Nayak Pradeepti , Sharma Nishi
Published: February 2022

The thyroid gland is the largest endocrine gland in the body and pathologies related to this gland are a fairly common occurrence in clinical practice. Various developmental abnormalities can distort the morphology of the thyroid gland. Variations in anatomy may have critical clinical implications, both in terms of manifestations and surgical complications. In this report, we discuss a rare case of isolated agenesis of the thyroid isthmus that was discovered incidentally during the right thyroid lobectomy of a female patient who was diagnosed as the case of colloid goiter.
What Else to Pay Attention in Terms of Bone Health Other than Osteoarthritis among Candidates Undergoing Total Knee Replacement: Observations in a Subset of Indian Population
Authors: Pandey Amol Prabhakar , Dubey Sonam , Sharma Kavita , Soni Pankaj
Published: February 2022

Background Earlier it was thought that osteoarthritis and osteoporosis were mutually exclusive but many studies now prove that these diseases coexist. This study was undertaken to assess the bone health in terms of mineral density and other markers among patients undergoing total knee replacement due to osteoarthritis.

Methods A total of 100 patients with advanced osteoarthritis undergoing total knee replacement and satisfying inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Detailed social, medical, personal, and family history was recorded. All participants underwent for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (spine and both hips), X-rays (both knees and pelvis), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) scoring, and serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and Parathyroid hormone (PTH). Data collected and analyzed.

Results In total, 87% of total participants were females. Mean values for age, height, weight, serum vitamin D3, serum PTH, serum calcium, serum phosphorus, serum alkaline phosphatase, WOMAC score, and bone mineral density (BMD) score (T-score) were 65.35 years, 160.15 cm, 69.37 kg, 26.91 ng/mL, 48.02 pg/mL, 9.01 mg/mL, 3.40 ng/mL, 57.91 IU/L, 56.32, and −1.16, respectively.

Conclusion Osteopenia and osteoporosis seem prevalent in the Indian population with advanced knee osteoarthritis. Our findings do not support the hypothesis of inverse relation between osteoarthritis and lower BMD. The study reflected poorer bone health and lesser average age for Indian patients undergoing total knee replacement.
Initial involvement into birding: triggers, gender, and decade effects—a mixed-methods study
Authors: Randler Christoph , Marx Nadja
Published: February 2022

Birdwatching is an increasing nature-related activity, with an important influence on data collection of citizen science programs. Initial involvement into a leisure activity is an important life event, but also of interest for nature conservation and citizen science projects. Here, we assessed the initiation into birding by an open-ended question. Based on an online survey, mainly in Austria, Germany and Switzerland we recruited 2668 participants, with 2464 people reporting a specific reason for their initial involvement. Data were analyzed by a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. Initiation age was 22.90 years (±15.27). The reasons for initial involvement were in descending order: social influence, nature experience, bird-centered triggers, education (formal/informal), cognitive-emotional aspects (interest, curiosity), other emotions, involvement via other hobbies/jobs, life-course events, ecological aspects, bird clubs/groups and opportunity. Men were more influenced by males and women more by females. Men experienced birding initiation more by club/group and the venue of other activities (job/hobby). Women were more influenced by nature experience, bird experience, emotions, and life-course events. Social initiation became less important during decades, while ecological aspect, education, other activities, and life-course events became more important. The study has implications on program developers and nature conservation organizations.
Numerical model sheds light on degenerative eye condition
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: February 2022

Highly accurate numerical model studies mechanical stress causing vitreous liquification in the human eye
Crosstalk creates a more secure source of randomness based on quantum phenomena
Authors: McConnon Aili
Published: February 2022

Using a drawback of the quantum channel for randomness generation
Application of two-phase transition model in underwater explosion cavitation based on compressible multiphase flows
Authors: Yu Jun , Liu Jian-hu , Wang Hai-kun , Wang Jun , Zhou Zhang-tao , Mao Hai-bin
Published: February 2022

Underwater explosion cavitation is generally simulated using a one-fluid model based on compressible multicomponent flows. Owing to the lack of mass and heat transfer between liquid and vapor phases, this model is incapable of extensively analyzing the cavitation mechanism in underwater explosion. In this study, we extend the phase transition model provided by Chiapolino et al. to the field of underwater explosion cavitation. The model presents a more accurate description of the thermodynamics of cavitation processes involving liquid–vapor phase transition. The numerical results show that the phase transition exhibits significant potential in the study of underwater explosion cavitation, and the likely occurrence of creation, development, and collapse of the cavitation can be captured. A vortex band composed of a large number of tiny cavitation bubbles can be observed in the numerical results, which is consistent with the experiment in underwater explosion near a free surface. The variation range of the cavitation domain calculated by the phase transition model is basically consistent with the experiment, which proves the reliability and accuracy of the calculation model. Meanwhile, the distribution characteristics of quantities such as density, pressure, and vapor phase volume fraction in the cavitation domain can be effectively obtained in simulation, which are usually difficult to capture in experiments. The creation mechanism of cavitation near a free surface and rigid wall is different. However, the collapse mechanism is similar. The results of this study could provide an in-depth understanding of the dynamic behavior of cavitation in underwater explosion.
Study on insulation defect discharge features of dry-type reactor based on audible acoustic
Authors: Zhou Xiu , Tian Tian , Li Xiuguang , Chen Kang , Luo Yan , He Ninghui , Liu Weifeng , Ma Yunlong , Bai Jin , Zhang Xiaoxing , Zhang Guozhi
Published: February 2022

The audible signal (20 Hz to 20 kHz) generated during the operation of a dry-type reactor is one of the key features to evaluate its operation state. However, at present, the time/frequency domain features of the audible signal under typical insulation defects are not clear, which makes it difficult to effectively carry out the fault diagnosis of the dry-type reactor based on audible signals. Based on this, the audible signal features under typical insulation defect discharge of the dry-type reactor are studied in this paper. Three typical insulation defect discharge models (metal protrusion defect, pollution defect, and metal foreign bodies defect) are simulated; then, the discharge acoustic signals are collected under the voltage of 8 kV. Analysis of acoustic signal features shows that the acoustic signal of metal protrusion defect discharge occurs in the positive half cycle of power frequency with the cycle of 20 ms. Both pollution defect discharge and metal foreign bodies defect discharge show intermittent discharge; during the discharge, the discharge acoustic signal of pollution defect has features similar to that of metal protrusion defect, while the discharge of metal foreign bodies defect shows randomness with a larger amplitude of discharge acoustic signal (up to 110 dB). Based on the frequency domain feature vectors’ extraction, it is found that the odd harmonic component of the metal protrusion defect discharge acoustic signal accounts for more than twice the even-order harmonic, and the high-frequency energy (12.5–25 kHz) is the main component. The discharge acoustic signal of the metal foreign bodies defect is mainly low-frequency energy, and the high-frequency energy proportion of pollution defect discharge acoustic signal is similar to that of low-frequency energy. In addition, the variance of high-frequency energy ratio (Rhf) of the metal foreign bodies defect discharge acoustic signal is 5.25 and 21 times that of the metal protrusion defect and pollution defect. This study provides some technical support for further detection and assessment of the operation state of the dry-type reactor based on audible signals.
Three-dimensional non-hydrostatic model for dam-break flows
Authors: Ai Congfang , Ma Yuxiang , Ding Weiye , Xie Zhihua , Dong Guohai
Published: February 2022

A three-dimensional (3D) non-hydrostatic model is presented for the simulation of dam-break flows. The model solves the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations using the projection method. 3D computational grids are constructed from a two-dimensional horizontal unstructured mesh by adding horizontal layers in the vertical direction. Based on the horizontal unstructured grid system, horizontal advection terms are discretized by a momentum conservative scheme. The proposed model is validated with several physical experiments. The agreement between the model results and experimental data is generally good, which demonstrates the capability of the proposed model to resolve dam-break flows over flat and uneven bottoms with complex geometries. Moreover, the efficiency of the model is evaluated with 3D dam-break flow experiments. Comparisons between the non-hydrostatic model and the corresponding quasi-3D shallow water model are also performed, which confirm the role of non-hydrostatic effects in dam-break flows.
Development of resveratrol with thiolated alginate as a supplement to prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Authors: Ke Yong-Chen , Chen Tzu-Chien , Tang Rui-Chian , Lin Jhih-Ni , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is a common metabolic liver disease of all ages worldwide. However, current pharmacological and surgical treatments are accompanied with side effects and complications. EndoBarrier, a less invasive bariatric surgery, blocks the upper portion of the intestine to reduce nutrition absorption. To mimic the nutrient restriction effect of EndoBarrier, thiol-containing materials may bind to the thiol groups of the mucus with an enhanced mucoadhesive property. Here, we develop thiolated alginate with cysteine conjugation via an N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N-ethylcarbodiimide/N-hydroxysuccinimide reaction. The alginate–cysteine (AC) exhibits excellent mucoadhesive properties and forms a physical barrier in the intestine to reduce absorption significantly, which was tested with both in vitro and in vivo mucoadhesive test and barrier function test. The nontoxicity property of AC was also proven with WST-1 and live and dead stain. In addition, AC demonstrates potent carrier properties of extending the release of resveratrol to improve the efficacy with the test of the transwell system in the release profile. In the long-term therapeutic evaluation, alginate cysteine with resveratrol (ACR) is orally administrated daily to mice with an methionine choline-deficient diet. The results of this in vivo study show that developed ACR could effectively alleviate fat degeneration in the liver and improve fat-related metabolic parameters in serum without hepatocellular damage and kidney dysfunction. In sum, AC was found to be mucoadhesive, reduce glucose absorption, alleviate inflammation, and decrease fatty degradation. This promising material exhibits the potential to be a supplement for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Electron power absorption mode transition in capacitively coupled Ar/CF4 discharges: hybrid modeling investigation
Authors: Wen Ying-Ying , Li Xin-Yang , Zhang Yu-Ru , Song Yuan-Hong , Wang You-Nian
Published: February 2022

In this work, the electron power absorption mode transition in capacitively coupled Ar/CF4 discharges is investigated by using a one-dimensional fluid/electron Monte Carlo hybrid model. Different electron power absorption modes are observed under various external discharge conditions, which could be explained by examining the contribution of bulk electrons and secondary electrons respectively. The results indicate that as the gap increases, the electron power absorption mode changes from the drift-ambipolar (DA) mode to a α-γ-DA hybrid mode. This is ascribed to the enhanced ionization process of secondary electrons due to their sufficient collisions when the discharge region expands, as well as the weakened drift and ambipolar electric fields. By increasing the secondary electron emission coefficient, the number density of secondary electrons grows, and thus the discharge experiences a transition from a α-DA hybrid mode over a α-γ-DA hybrid mode and finally into the γ mode. Moreover, when the proportion of CF4 increases, the discharge tends to be more electronegative. As a consequence, the discharge gradually transits from a α-γ hybrid mode over a α-γ-DA hybrid mode, and finally to the DA mode. The results obtained in this work are important for improving the high aspect ratio etching process by secondary electrons.
Phase transitions in intrinsic magnetic topological insulator with high-frequency pumping
Authors: Qin Fang , Chen Rui , Lu Hai-Zhou
Published: February 2022

In this work, we investigate the topological phase transitions in an effective model for a topological thin film with high-frequency pumping. In particular, our results show that the circularly polarized light can break the time-reversal symmetry and induce the quantum anomalous Hall insulator (QAHI) phase. Meanwhile, the bulk magnetic moment can also break the time-reversal symmetry. Therefore, it shows rich phase diagram by tuning the intensity of the light and the thickness of the thin film. Using the parameters fitted by experimental data, we give the topological phase diagram of the Cr-doped Bi2Se3 thin film, showing that by modulating the strength of the polarized optical field in an experimentally accessible range, there are four different phases: the normal insulator phase, the time-reversal-symmetry-broken quantum spin Hall insulator phase, and two different QAHI phases with opposite Chern numbers. Comparing with the non-doped Bi2Se3, it is found that the interplay between the light and bulk magnetic moment separates the two different QAHI phases with opposite Chern numbers. The results show that an intrinsic magnetic topological insulator with high-frequency pumping is an ideal platform for further exploring various topological phenomena with a spontaneously broken time-reversal symmetry.
Deep learning the properties of inorganic perovskites
Authors: Cherukara Mathew J , Mannodi-Kanakkithodi Arun
Published: February 2022

The ability to accurately and quickly predict the stability of materials and their structural and electronic properties remains a grand challenge in materials science. Density functional theory is widely used as a means of predicting these material properties, but is known to be computationally expensive and scales as the cube of the number of electrons in the material’s unit cell. In this article, for a previously published dataset of inorganic perovskites, we show that a single neural network model using only the elemental properties of the compounds’ constituents can predict lattice constants to within 0.1 Å, heat of formation to within 0.2 eV, and band gaps to within 0.7 eV RMSE. We also compare the performance of the trained network to two widely used regression techniques, namely random forest and Kernel ridge regression, and find that the neural network’s predictions are more accurate for each of the properties. The simultaneous accurate prediction of multiple key properties of technologically relevant materials is promising for rational design and optimization in known and novel chemical spaces.
Mid-infrared optical parametric oscillation spanning 3.4–8.2 μm in a MgF2 microresonator
Authors: Sun Qibing , Wu Wei , Wang Yi , Yang Yu , Shi Lei , Ming Xianshun , Wang Leiran , Wang Keyi , Zhao Wei , Zhang Wenfu
Published: February 2022

Mid-infrared optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) offer a compelling route for accessing the ‘molecular fingerprint’ region and, thus, can find intensive applications such as precision spectroscopy and trace gas detection. Yet it still remains rather a challenge to realize broadband mid-infrared OPOs within a single cavity, usually limited by strict phase-matching conditions for wide spectral coverage and available pump power for adequate frequency generation. Here, we report the mid-infrared parametric oscillation spanning from 3.4 to 8.2 μm, based on four-wave mixing in a high-Q MgF2 microresonator with optimized dispersion. The center wavelength at 4.78 μm is determined by the continuous tunable quantum cascade laser source, which contributes to effective expansion towards longer wavelength, as well as systemic miniaturization with smaller pump module. Such results could not only shed light on new ultimates of crystal and other microresonators, but also inspire explorations on their growing potentials in near future.
Remote sensing array (RSA) for linac beam monitoring
Authors: Lauber Robert , Brivio Davide , Sajo Erno , Hesser Jürgen , Zygmanski Piotr
Published: February 2022

The purpose of the present work is to evaluate the feasibility of a novel real-time beam monitoring device for medical linacs which remotely senses charge carriers produced in air by the beam without intersecting and attenuating the beamline. The primary goal is to elaborate a theoretical concept of a possible detector geometry and underlying physical model that allows for determination of clinically relevant beam data in real time, namely MLC leaf positions and dose rate. The detector consists of two opposing electrode arrays arranged in two possible orientations around the beamline. Detection of charge carriers is governed by electromagnetic principles described by Shockley–Ramo theorem. Ions produced by ionization of the air column upstream of patient move laterally in an external electric field. According to the method of images, mirror charges and mirror currents are formed in the strip electrodes. Determination of MU rate and MLC positions using the measured signal requires solution of an inverse problem. In the present work we adopted a Least-Square approach and characterized detector response and sensitivity to detection of beam properties for different electrode geometries and MLC shapes. Results were dependent on MLC field shape and the leaf position within the active volume. The accuracy of determination of leaf positions were in the sub-mm range (up to 0.25–1 mm). Additionally, detector sensitivity was quantified by simulating ions/pulse delivered with a radiation transport deterministic computation in 1D in CEPXS/ONEDANT. For a 6 MV linac pulse, signal amplitude per pulse was estimated to be in the lower pA to fA range. We computationally demonstrated feasibility of the remote sensing detector capable of measuring beam parameters such as MLC leaf positions and dose range for each pulse. Future work should focus on optimizing the electrode geometry to increase sensitivity and better reconstruction algorithms to provide more accurate solutions of the inverse problem.
On the performance of hafnium-oxide-based negative capacitance FinFETs, with and without a spacer
Authors: Sil Monali , Nawaz Sk Masum , Mallik Abhijit
Published: February 2022

This paper reports a thorough investigation of the impacts of a spacer dielectric on the performance of HfO2-ferroelectric-based negative capacitance (NC)-FinFETs for 10 nm technology (gate length 22 nm) as per International Roadmap for Devices and Systems with in comparison with similarly-sized conventional FinFETs by means of an industry standard technology computer aided design tool. It is found that, although a high-k spacer results in improved subthreshold swing (SS) and I
ON, it increases delay due to enhanced gate capacitance for both types of devices. In spite of having higher gate capacitance for a given spacer, the delay is lower for the NC devices than the conventional devices with identical I
OFF, which is due to higher I
ON in such devices. Comparing with the baseline FinFET; I
ON, SS, threshold voltage, delay and power dissipation of NC-FinFET have been found to improve by 69%, 7%, 5%, 14% and 9% respectively, when Si3N4 spacer is used. Implications of spacer on V
DD scalability, delay and power dissipation of NC-FinFETs have also been investigated in one-to-one comparison with similarly-sized conventional FinFETs. If identical delay is considered in both the devices, higher active power dissipation due to enhanced gate capacitance is a concern for HfO2-ferroelectric-based NC-FinFETs.
Real-time adaptive leg-stiffness for roll compensation via magnetorheological control in a legged robot
Authors: Christie M D , Sun S , Deng L , Du H , Zhang S W , Li W H
Published: February 2022

Over the recent few decades, the evolving research-field of legged robotics has seen various mechanical and control-based developments. Inspired by biological species, a significant adaptation in modern mechanical leg designs has been the implementation of adjustable stiffness, shifting from what were previously simple linkages to more-complex variable stiffness actuators. Physiological studies previously demonstrated leg-stiffness modulation was not only a common trait in multiple biological locomotors, but also played a key role in disturbance recovery for humans. Guided by this, recent robotics research has shown that this can also be applied to legged robots to achieve similar locomotion adaptations, albeit often limited by the tuning time of leg stiffness in such circumstances. This study proposes real-time adaptive stiffness robot legs which are governed by fast-response magnetorheological fluid dampers, enabling stiffness adjustment upon a single step. Through experimental characterisation and model validation, these legs are shown to achieve a maximum stiffness shift of 114%. Enabled by real-time control during locomotion, improved performance and roll-angle stability is experimentally demonstrated for a bipedal robot test platform. Such improvement to locomotion is found through typical legged locomotion scenarios, with the platform encountering: obstacles, valleys, and coronal gradients in a comprehensive series of experiments.
A newly developed screening current simulation method for REBCO pancake coils based on extension of PEEC model
Authors: Noguchi So , Hahn Seungyong
Published: February 2022

Since the screening current (SC) in rare earth-barium-copper-oxide (REBCO) coated conductor (CC) generates an undesired magnetic field, it must be accurately estimated, especially for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Moreover, in recent years, it was pointed out that the screening current enhanced the stress/strain in REBCO CC, when an REBCO magnet was operated as an insert under an ultrahigh magnetic field. The previously reported SC simulation methods may be roughly categorized into finite element method (FEM) and equivalent circuit method. The FEM-based method often adopted an axisymmetric model or a thin film approximation model, while the circuit-based are the simple equivalent circuit model and the network equivalent circuit model, so-called the partial element equivalent circuit (PEEC) model. The latter is newly developed in this paper. Features of those SC simulation models are briefly compared to each other in this paper. Each SC simulation models have pros & cons. We have to adequately chose an SC simulation model depending on a purpose. We extended the original PEEC model to simulate SC. The extended model is named the advanced partial element equivalent circuit (A-PEEC) model. It is also extendable to an SC simulation of no-insulation REBCO pancake coils. To simulate the SC of a simple coil model and the LBC3 magnet, we investigated the screening current distribution maps, and the simulated screening current-induced fields were compared with the measurements. We have confirmed the validity of the newly developed A-PEEC model.
Time periodic electroosmotic flow in a pH-regulated parallel-plate nanochannel
Authors: Yang Meirong , Buren Mandula , Chang Long , Zhao Yingchun
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the separation of variables method is applied to investigate the effects of solution pH, background salt concentration and AC electric field frequency on time periodic electroosmotic flow in a pH-regulated parallel-plate nanochannel. The surface charge is generated by the protonation and deprotonation of the functional group SiOH. The background salt is KCl. The pH value of the solution is adjusted by HCl and KOH. Analytical and semi-analytical solutions for electric potential and velocity distributions are obtained. The results show that the electric potential caused by the electric double layer depends greatly on the solution pH and background salt concentration. The amplitudes of the velocity and flow rate of the time periodic electroosmotic flow decrease with the background salt concentration and increase with the deviation of the solution pH from the isoelectric point. In a nanochannel having a height less than 100 nm, the electroosmotic velocity amplitude is not affected by the AC electric field frequency because the oscillating Reynolds number is much less than unity.
Distribution of the critically endangered javan blue-banded kingfisher Alcedo euryzona along the Welo River flow in the Petungkriyono forest
Authors: Rachmawati Y , Pramudya M , Setiawan A
Published: February 2022

This research was aimed to determine the ecological factors that can affect the distribution of Alcedo euryzona and its relationship with the quantification of human anthropogenic activities in the vicinity. The research was conducted using the point count method with 7 observation points along the Welo River (±5,096 km). Based on the analysis, the distribution pattern of Alcedo euryzona is uniformly based on Morisita’s index with a value of lp
< 0 (-0,033). Whereas the relationship between the existence of species and anthropogenic activity based on hypothesis test in binary logistic analysis partially has no significant effect with a value > 0,05 (0,999). The ecological factors that influence the existence of the species include river shoulders, temperature, and altitude.
Decreasing concentration of textile dye congo red using Fenton reagent/TiO2/UV
Authors: Riyani K , Setyaningtyas T , Moesaw D M
Published: February 2022

Industrial growth in Indonesia is increasing along with the development of science and technology, for example is the textile industry. Generally the wasted produced by the textile industry is in the form of colored liquid waste which contains various textile coloring agents. One of the substances that lead to pollution in wastewater is the congo red content in it. A method that can be used to treat textile wastewater is AOPS (Advanced Oxidation Processes) using Fenton reagent which are a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and ferro ions based on the formation of hydroxyl radicals (•OH). The hydroxyl radical can be maximized by adding UV light to the H2O2/Fe2+ system and adding TiO2 photocatalysts. The results showed that TiO2 in the Fenton/UV system could increase the decrease in concentration of congo red. The decrease in concentration of congo red with the fenton/TiO2 system was 97,32% with the contribution of 100 ppm H2O2, FeSO4.7H2O 20 mg, and TiO2 0.2 gram.
Vegetation on ex-tin mining in Mempayak village, Manggar district, Belitung regency and its utilization
Authors: Priyanti  , Bustami E , Fakhrurrozi Y , Yunita E , Vahlevi R R , Hilal M
Published: February 2022

The former tin mining land in Mempayak Village in Belitung Regency created a basin that becomes water catchment area when it rains and becomes a source of clean air during the dry season. The heavy rain occurred in 2017 brought vast amounts of soil material depending on the ex-mining basins in this village. This study aims to inventory of vegetation that grows and discusses its use by the communities around the Mempayak Village. Vegetation that succeeded in changing 34 species grouped into 20 families and 31 genera. Vegetation in this former tin mining land has benefits as a raw material for making a single drug without mixture (34 species), food (2 species), roofing material (1 species), cutting tools (1 species), chicken feed (1 species), and straws (1 species). Vegetation body parts that are useful for the above purposes include: roots (2 species), petiolus (1 species), shoots (1 species), leaf blades (2 species), young stems (2 species), old stems (2 species), and all parts of the plant body (14 species), and unknown parts of the plant body used by the surrounding community (9 species). The success of vegetation on ex-mining land has been taking place by spending a variety of types and diverse uses by the people of Mempayak Village, Manggar District, Belitung Regency. Efforts to manage the area and manage vegetation are needed to protect the preservation of vegetation on ex-tin mining land and work carried out at high speed.
The potency of endophytic fungi isolated from Hippobroma longiflora (L) G. Don as an antioxidant sources
Authors: Widjajanti H , Muharni  , Nurnawati E , Tripuspita V
Published: February 2022

Endophytic fungi are friendly microbes colonizing in plants and play an effective role in plant-environment interactions. They produce valuable secondary metabolites that both plants and human beings can benefit from such products. In this study, an antioxidant-producing endophytic fungi were screened and identified from the leaves of Hippobroma longiflora (L.) G. Don which is one of the traditional medicinal plants. The objective of this study to evaluate the antioxidant activity of ethyl acetate extracts of 6 endophytic fungi isolated from Hippobroma longiflora (L.) G. Don. The qualitative and quantitative antioxidant activity was screened by scavenging 2,2-diphenyl-l-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Qualitatively 6 extracts from the endophytic fungi isolates (AOL1, AOL2, AOL3, AOL4, AOL5, and AOL6) from Hippobroma longiflora (L.) G. Don showed antioxidant activity, but quantitatively the extracts that showed very strong activity was extracts from AOL1 isolate with IC50 values of 28.50 μg/mL. Based on phenotypic and molecular identification AOL1 isolate identified as Phyllosticta sp and produce alkaloid, flavonoid, and terpenoid.
Palm species diversity on Mount Slamet, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Zulkarnaen R N , Helmanto H , Fikriyya N , Witono J R , Nisyawati
Published: February 2022

The palm plant group exists widespread in the world, including in Indonesia. The palm population occupies limited and specific scope areas. Palm diversity on Mt Slamet of Central Java, Indonesia, has not been reported. This study aimed to reveal the existence of palm diversity that occupies different sides of Mt. Slamet, i.e., the southern, the eastern, the western, and the northern slopes. The method used purposive sampling consisting of 236 10×10-m-plots on the palm population found along the climbing path of the four sides. The results showed that the diversity of the palm within each slope was significantly different. The palm diversity on the southern slope reveals the highest species richness and abundance with Pinanga javana. However, there is no single palm population existing on the eastern slope. The palm population on the western and northern slopes was not significantly different because of the similar number of species found. The southern slope has more stable microclimate factors, such as rainfall and temperature, that support the conclusion that the habitat on the area is in the most stable condition for the palm population.
Molecular docking studies of 4-ethyl-2-metoxyphenol and 1,3-cyclopentanedione compounds from gemor (Nothaphoebe coriacea) with glucagon like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor
Authors: Suhartono E , Biworo A , Santosa PB , Siahaan SC , Marisa D , Muthmainah N , Komari N
Published: February 2022

Gemor (Nothaphoebe coriacea) is a plant that grows in wetland forests. Many studies have revealed the potential of this plant for health and medicine, among others as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and others. However, the mechanism is unknown or not yet discovered. Previous studies have shown that gemor bark contains active compounds. One of them is 4-ethyl-2-metoxyphenol (PubChem ID 62465) and 1,3-cyclo pentanedione (PubChem CID 77466) compounds. This research will prove that 2 compounds act as antidiabetic by influencing Glucagon like-Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor. Molecular docking was carried out on 2 these compounds. The protein is taken from RCSB PDB (4ZGM). Ligand and protein preparation, analyzed and visualized docking results were carried out with the Chimera 1.14. Molecular docking using SWISSDOCK. The results show that the 4-ethyl-2-methoxyphenol compound can be bound by 6 residues (SER 84, CYS 85, TRP 87, ALA 92, VAL 95, and Pro 96); 1,3-cyclopentanedione bind by 7 residues (GLY 45, CYS 46, TYR 42, SER 49, CYS 71, VAL 83 and PRO 73). Gibbs energy for 4-Ethyl-2-methoxyphenol and 1,3-Cyclopentanedione, against GLP-1 Receptor each -6.10 kcal/mol and -5.37 kcal/mol. The conclusion is that 4-Ethyl-2-methoxyphenol and 1,3-Cyclopentanedione compound has the potential as an antidiabetic by binding mechanism with residues of GLP-1 receptor.
The effect of n-butanol fraction of gaharu (Aquilaria microcarpa Baill.) leaves on blood glucose and liver glycogen levels in alloxan-induced male rats
Authors: Anwar K , Juliantie G C , Nurlely
Published: February 2022

Gaharu leaves (Aquilaria microcarpaBaill.) empirically used to lower blood glucose levels by people of Tamiang Layang Cental Kalimantan. This study measured the activity ofA. microcarpaleaves to blood glucose and glycogen liver levels. The study used 24 male white rats. Animal test were divided into 6 groups (n=4) receiving different treatments: normal control, negative control (vehicle), positive control (glibenclamide 0,45 mg/kg BW),n-butanol fraction (12.5 mg/kg BW; 25 mg/kg BW; and 50 mg/kg BW). All groups, excluding the normal group, were induced by alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg BW, i.p.). After 72 hours, the levels of glucose blood were measured and the treatment was administered. Pre-prandial and postprandial measurement of blood glucose levels were conducted on days 0, 7, and 14 after treatment. On day 15ththe liver was extracted out and analyzed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry to determine the glycogen levels. The results of this study showed that bood glucose levels reduction and liver glycogen levels enhancement ofn-butanol fraction ofA. microcarpaleaves at the doses of 12.5; 25 and 50 mg/kg BW significantly different with the negative control (p < 0.05). This result suggestsn-butanol fraction ofA. microcarpaleaves has potensial as an antidiabetic agent.
Altered activation in the action observation system during synchronization in high loneliness individuals
Authors: Saporta Nira , Scheele Dirk , Lieberz Jana , Nevat Michael , Kanterman Alisa , Hurlemann René , Shamay-Tsoory Simone G
Published: February 2022

Lonely people tend to evaluate social exchanges negatively and to display difficulties in interactions. Interpersonal synchronization is crucial for achieving positive interactions, promoting affinity, closeness, and satisfaction. However, little is known about lonely individuals’ ability to synchronize and about their brain activity while synchronizing. Following the screening of 303 participants, we recruited 32 low and 32 high loneliness participants. They were scanned while engaged in movement synchronization, using a novel dyadic interaction paradigm. Results showed that high loneliness individuals exhibited a reduced ability to adapt their movement to their partner’s movement. Intriguingly, during movement adaptation periods, high loneliness individuals showed increased activation in the action observation (AO) system, specifically in the inferior frontal gyrus and the inferior parietal lobule. They did not show increased activation in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, which in the context of synchronization was suggested to be related to gap-monitoring. Based on these findings, we propose a model according to which lonely people may require stronger activation of their AO system for alignment, to compensate for some deficiency in their synchronization ability. Despite this hyperactivation, they still suffer from reduced synchronization capacity. Consequently, synchronization may be a relevant intervention area for the amelioration of loneliness.
Transient compartmentalization and accelerated volume growth coincide with the expected development of cortical afferents in the human neostriatum
Authors: Kostović Ivica , Džaja Domagoj , Raguž Marina , Kopić Janja , Blažević Andrea , Krsnik Željka
Published: February 2022

The neostriatum plays a central role in cortico-subcortical circuitry underlying goal-directed behavior. The adult mammalian neostriatum shows chemical and cytoarchitectonic compartmentalization in line with the connectivity. However, it is poorly understood how and when fetal compartmentalization (AChE-rich islands, nonreactive matrix) switches to adult (AChE-poor striosomes, reactive matrix) and how this relates to the ingrowth of corticostriatal afferents. Here, we analyze neostriatal compartments on postmortem human brains from 9 postconceptional week (PCW) to 18 postnatal months (PM), using Nissl staining, histochemical techniques (AChE, PAS-Alcian), immunohistochemistry, stereology, and comparing data with volume-growth of in vivo and in vitro MRI. We find that compartmentalization (C) follows a two-compartment (2-C) pattern around 10PCW and is transformed into a midgestational labyrinth-like 3-C pattern (patches, AChE-nonreactive perimeters, matrix), peaking between 22 and 28PCW during accelerated volume-growth. Finally, compartmentalization resolves perinatally, by the decrease in transient “AChE-clumping,” disappearance of AChE-nonreactive, ECM-rich perimeters, and an increase in matrix reactivity. The initial “mature” pattern appears around 9 PM. Therefore, transient, a 3-C pattern and accelerated neostriatal growth coincide with the expected timing of the nonhomogeneous distribution of corticostriatal afferents. The decrease in growth-related AChE activity and transfiguration of corticostriatal terminals are putative mechanisms underlying fetal compartments reorganization. Our findings serve as normative for studying neurodevelopmental disorders.