bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the problem of access to public health insurance schemes among cross-border migrants in Thailand through systems thinking
Authors: Kunpeuk Watinee , Teekasap Pard , Kosiyaporn Hathairat , Julchoo Sataporn , Phaiyarom Mathudara , Sri Pigunkaew , Pudpong Nareerut , Suphanchaimat Rapeepong
Published: March 2020

Background The migrant health agenda in Thailand has been shaped by domestic and international pressures relating to social and economic dimensions. Thailand has become a popular destination for international migrant workers particularly from Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar. However, only a fraction of these migrant workers were insured by public health insurance. This study aimed to apply systems thinking to explore contextual factors affecting access to public health insurance arrangements among cross-border migrants in Thailand. Methods A group model building (GMB) was applied to explore contextual factors and their interplay influencing access to health insurance for migrants in Thailand. Participants (n = 20) were encouraged to share ideas about underlying drivers and barriers of access to health insurance among migrants. Triangulation was performed with the document review. The findings were analysed by a thematic approach. The causal loop diagramme (CLD) and stock and flow diagramme (SFD) were synthesised to identify the dynamics relating to access to migrant health insurance. Results Nationality verification was recognised as one of the most important mechanisms that the Thai government exercises to deal with the precarious citizenship status of undocumented migrants. Also, it is the key function that links economic necessity, national security, and public health concerns. In the formal sector, the government plays an important role in the enrollment of migrant workers in the Social Security Scheme (SSS) run by the Ministry of Labour (MOL). In the informal sector, the Health Insurance Card Scheme (HICS) managed by the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) is the key option for migrant workers. However, some migrants are still left uninsured. The likely explanations are the semi-voluntary nature of the HICS, administrative delay of the enrollment process, and the resistance of some employers to hiring migrants. Conclusions Effective communication is required to raise awareness and acceptance towards the insurance among migrants and their employers. This needs cohesive effort from all stakeholders in society including the government, the business sector, civic groups, and even migrant communities. A public policy participatory process is needed to create a good balance of migrant policies among diverse authorities.
MFG-E8 attenuates neuro-inflammation in subarachnoid hemorrhage through driving microglial M2 polarization via modulating Integrin β3/SOCS3/STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Gao Yongyue , Zhuang Zong , Lu Yue , Wu Lingyun , Liu Guangjie , Zhou Yan , Zhang Dingding , Dai Haibin , Tao Tao , Wang Han , Li Wei , Hang Chun-Hua
Published: March 2020

Background Increasing evidence suggests microglial polarization plays an important role in the pathological processes of neuro-inflammation following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Previous studies indicated that milk fat globule-EGF factor-8 (MFG-E8) has the potential in anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammation in cerebral ischemia. However, the effects of MFG-E8 on microglial polarization have not been evaluated after SAH. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the role of MFG-E8 on anti-inflammation, and its potential mechanism on microglial polarization following SAH. Methods We established the SAH model via prechiasmatic cistern Blood injection in mice. Double-immunofluorescence staining, Western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) were performed to investigate the expression and cellular distribution of MFG-E8. Two different dosages (1 μg and 5 μg) of recombinant human MFG-E8 (rhMFG-E8) were injected intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) at 1 h after SAH. Brain water content, neurological scores, beam-walking score, Fluoro-Jade C (FJC) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick endlabeling staining (TUNEL) were measured at 24 h. Intervention of MFG-E8, integrin β3 and phosphorylation of STAT3 were achieved by specific siRNAs (500 pmol/5 µl) and STAT3 inhibitor Stattic (5 µM). The potential signal pathway and microglial polarization were measured by immunofluorescence labeling and Western blotting. Results SAH induction increased the levels of inflammation mediators, the proportion of M1 and caused neuronal apoptosis in mice at 24 h. Treatment with rhMFG-E8 (5 µg) remarkably decreased brain edema, improved neurological functions, reduced the levels of pro-inflammation factors, and promoted microglia shifted to M2 phenotype. However, knockdown MFG-E8 and integrin β3 via siRNA abolished the effects of MFG-E8 on anti-inflammation and M2 phenotype polarization. STAT3 inhibitor Stattic further clarified the role of rhMFG-E8 on microglial polarization through regulating the protein levels of integrin β3/SOCS3/STAT3 pathway. Conclusions rhMFG-E8 inhibits neuron-inflammation through transformation microglial phenotype towards M2 after SAH, which may be mediated by modulation of the integrin β3/SOCS3/STAT3 signaling pathway, and highlighting rhMFG-E8 as a potentially therapeutic target for the treatment of SAH patients.
RhTrx-1 ameliorates miroglial neuroinflammation after cerebral ischemic stroke
Authors: Jiao Yang , Wang Jianjian , Zhang Huixue , Cao Yuze , Qu Yang , Huang Siyu , Kong Xiaotong , Song Chang , Li Jie , Li Qian , Ma Heping , Lu Xiaoyu , Wang Lihua
Published: March 2020

Background Microglia are rapidly activated after ischemic stroke and participate in the occurrence of neuroinflammation, which exacerbates the injury of ischemic stroke. Receptor Interacting Serine Threonine Kinase 1 (RIPK1) is thought to be involved in the development of inflammatory responses, but its role in ischemic microglia remains unclear. Here, we applied recombinant human thioredoxin-1 (rhTrx-1), a potential neuroprotective agent, to explore the role of rhTrx-1 in inhibiting RIPK1-mediated neuroinflammatory responses in microglia. Method Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and Oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) were conducted for in vivo and in vitro experimental stroke models. The expression of RIPK1 in microglia after ischemia was examined. The inflammatory response of microglia was analyzed after treatment with rhTrx-1 and Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1, inhibitors of RIPK1), and the mechanisms were explored. In addition, the effects of rhTrx-1 on neurobehavioral deficits and cerebral infarct volume were examined. Results RIPK1 expression was detected in microglia after ischemia. Molecular docking results showed that rhTrx-1 could directly bind to RIPK1. In vitro experiments found that rhTrx-1 reduced necroptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential damage, Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and NLR Family, pyrin domain-containing 3 protein (NLRP3) inflammasome activation by inhibiting RIPK-1 expression, and regulated microglial M1/M2 phenotypic changes, thereby reducing the release of inflammatory factors. Consistently, in vivo experiments found that rhTrx-1 treatment attenuated cerebral ischemic injury by inhibiting the inflammatory response. Conclusion Our study demonstrates the role of RIPK1 in microglia-arranged neuroinflammation after cerebral ischemia. Administration of rhTrx-1 provides neuroprotection in ischemic stroke-induced microglial neuroinflammation by inhibiting RIPK1 expression.
Elimination of Tobacco rattle virus from viruliferous Paratrichodorus allius in greenhouse pot experiments through cultivation of castle russet
Authors: Quick Richard A. , Cimrhakl Launa , Mojtahedi Hassan , Sathuvalli Vidyasagar , Feldman Maximilian J. , Brown Charles R.
Published: March 2020

Corky ringspot (CRS) is a widespread potato tuber necrotic disease caused by Tobacco rattle virus (TRV) infection. In the Pacific Northwest, this virus is transmitted by the stubby root nematode (SRN) within the genus Paratrichodorus. Remediating CRS affected fields is a major challenge that can be mitigated by growing plant varieties that are resistant to TRV infection. Growing alfalfa has been shown to reduce TRV levels in CRS infested fields over time but the development of a potato cultivar with these same capabilities would be of great economic benefit to potato growers. Castle Russet is a new potato clone that does not develop symptoms of CRS disease. To assess its ability to reduce soil virus load, Castle Russet, tobacco var. “Samsun NN”, alfalfa var. “Vernema”, and Russet Burbank potato were grown for a period of 1 to 3 months in soils containing viruliferous SRN populations at two different inoculation pressures (60 nematodes/pot and 1060 nematodes/pot) in greenhouse pot experiments. SRN population size and the presence of TRV were assessed over several months post inoculation. Results indicate that plant host and length of exposure significantly influence SRN population dynamics, whereas the TRV infection status of bait plants was significantly affected by both of these factors as well as inoculation pressure. These results suggest that both alfalfa var. “Vernema” and Castle Russet are resistant to TRV infection and may potentially be used to eliminate the virus from fields affected by CRS.
TARGET2 imbalances: causes, assessments and consequences
Authors: Menrad Michael
Published: March 2020

This research aims to enrich the literature on the threatening topic of Target2 imbalances in the euro area. Using a quantitative time series analysis, the paper examines and discusses the development of Target2 imbalances and the interrelationships of the European Central Bank (ECB) activities through market intervention using quantitative easing. This paper outlines the scope of central bank activities in different Eurozone countries and examines how individual debtor and creditor countries, as well as central banks, will continue to operate. In this context it examines whether the ECB is working on a problem solution, and what are the risks posed by Target2 imbalances for the euro area, as well as whether the euro is volatile and how the Target2 imbalances will be managed if the euro breaks. This research highlights the ambiguity of central bank activities, explains the burdens and risks of Germany as the largest creditor, shows solutions through the communitization or the creation of Target3 to correct past mistakes and to prevent a further and more severe global crisis. Attention is drawn to the fact that Italy could put the Eurozone in a critical situation by introducing mini-BOTs (small government bonds; “titoli di Stato di piccolo taglio”) as the second currency. Furthermore, it is pointed out that the ECB has adjusted its price stability objectives to raise inflation expectations in the Eurozone, which is unlikely to satisfy Target2 demanding countries.
Establishment and In Vitro Evaluation of Porous Ion-Responsive Targeted Drug Delivery System
Authors: Liu Hongfei , Zhu Jie , Bao Pengyue , Ding Yueping , Wang Jiapeng , Du Yi , Qu Yang , Xu Ying
Published: March 2020

Background:

Protein drugs have disadvantages, such as short half-lives, unstable biological
activities, and low utilization efficiency.

Objective:

In this paper, a porous ion-responsive targeted drug delivery system was designed, combining
biodegradable carriers with ion exchange technology to overcome problems for protein drug
delivery systems.

Methods:

Carboxymethyl Chitosan Porous Microspheres (CCPM) were prepared using an emulsification-
chemical crosslinking method. Chitosan-bovine serum albumin-carboxymethyl chitosan
porous microspheres (CBCCPM) were prepared using a dynamic ion exchange method and static
self-assembly technology.

Results:

CCPM were round in appearance mostly with a particle size distribution of 5-15 μm,
which facilitates passive targeting to the lungs. CCPM had a total ion exchange capacity of 9.97 ±
0.07 mmol/g and showed a strong ability to attract and contain positively charged drugs. A potentiometric
titration curve was used to identify the dissociation behavior of exchangeable groups on
the microspheres; the optimal pH for ion exchange of microspheres was ≥ 4.3. CCPM had ion responsiveness,
in vitro degradation ability, thermal stability and biocompatibility. In vitro release results
confirmed that BSA and CCPM were mainly bound together by ionic bonds and the drug release
mechanism of the self-assembled microspheres changed from particle diffusion to membrane
diffusion under pH 7.4 PBS solution containing 0.02% Tween 80. Circular dichroism and sodium
dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis results showed no significant change in the secondary
structure and purity of BSA after binding to CCPM. The cumulative in vitro release rate of
microspheres after 24 h was 86.78%.

Conclusion:

In this paper, CBCCPM, a porous ion-responsive targeted drug delivery system, was
designed.
Application of Polymeric Nano-Materials in Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Minakshi Prasad , Kumar Rajesh , Ghosh Mayukh , Brar Basanti , Barnela Manju , Lakhani Preeti
Published: March 2020

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is an umbrella term used to describe disorders that involve Crohn’s disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC) and pouchitis. The disease occurrence is more prevalent in the working group population which not only hampers the well being of an individual but also has negative economical impact on society. The current drug regime used therapy is very costly owing to the chronic nature of the disease leading to several side effects. The condition gets more aggravated due to the lower concentration of drug at the desired site. Therefore, in the present scenario, a therapy is needed which can maximize efficacy, adhere to quality of life, minimize toxicity and doses, be helpful in maintaining and stimulating physical growth of mucosa with minimum disease complications. In this aspect, nanotechnology intervention is one promising field as it can act as a carrier to reduce toxicity, doses and frequency which in turn help in faster recovery. Moreover, nanomedicine and nanodiagnostic techniques will further open a new window for treatment in understanding pathogenesis along with better diagnosis which is poorly understood till now. Therefore the present review is more focused on recent advancements in IBD in the application of nanotechnology.
The Neuro-Vascular Consequence of Diabetes: Foot Amputation and Evaluation of its Risk Factors and Health-Related Economic Impact
Authors: Naqvi Iftikhar Haider , Talib Abu , Naqvi Sajjad Haider , Yasin Lubabah , Rizvi Nayema Zehra
Published: March 2020

Background:

The rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with the huge burden of diabetic foot amputation is a challenge to the health economy of Pakistan and other countries. Identification of various risk factors for amputation, along with its financial burden, is needed to address this problem.

Objectives:

This study aimed to determine the financial burden and risk factors associated with T2DMrelated foot amputation.

Methods:

Retrospective hospital-based study from January 2017 to December 2018. Patients with T2DM with and without amputation were enrolled. The direct medical costs of amputation along with various risk factors, were determined. Risk factors were evaluated by logistic regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 1460 patients with T2DM were included; 484 (33%) patients had an amputation. The mean total cost of below knee, fingers and toe amputation was 886.63±23.91, 263.35 ±19.58 and 166.68 ± 8.47 US$, respectively. This difference among groups was significant (p<0.0001). Male gender (odds ratio, OR: 1.29, 1.01-1.63, p=0.037), peripheral artery disease (OR: 1.93, 1.52-2.46, p=0.000), peripheral neuropathy (OR: 1.31, 1.40-1.63, p=0.000), prior diabetic foot ulcer (OR: 2.02, 1.56- 2.56, p=0.000) and raised glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (OR: 3.50, 2.75-4.4, p=0.000) were risk factors for amputation.

Conclusion:

The health-related financial impact of amputations is high. Peripheral artery disease, peripheral neuropathy, prior diabetic foot ulcer and raised HbA1c were risk factors for amputation.
Arylhydrazono/Aryldiazenyl Pyrazoles: Green One-Pot Solvent-Free Synthesis and Anticancer Evaluation
Authors: Alsayari Abdulrhman , Abdullatif	Bin Muhsinah  , Asiri Yahya I. , Alshehri Jaber Abdullah , Mabkhot Yahia N. , Alfaifi Mohammad Y. , I. Elbehairi Serag Eldin , Mahnashi Mater H. , Hassan Mohd. Zaheen
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study was to synthesize and evaluate the biological activity of pyrazole
derivatives, in particular, to perform a “greener” one-pot synthesis using a solvent-free method as an
alternative strategy for synthesizing hydrazono/diazenyl-pyridine-pyrazole hybrid molecules with
potential anticancer activity. Effective treatment for all types of cancers is still a long way in the future
due to the severe adverse drug reactions and drug resistance associated with current drugs. Therefore,
there is a pressing need to develop safer and more effective anticancer agents. In this context, some hybrid
analogues containing the bioactive pharmacophores viz. pyrazole, pyridine, and diazo scaffolds
were synthesized by one-pot method. Herein, we describe the expedient synthesis of pyrazoles by a onepot
three-component condensation of ethyl acetoacetate/acetylacetone, isoniazid, and arenediazonium
salts under solvent-free conditions, and the evaluation of their cytotoxicity using a sulforhodamine B
assay on three cancer cell lines. Molecular docking studies employing tyrosine kinase were also carried
out to evaluate the binding mode of the pyrazole derivatives under study. 1-(4-Pyridinylcarbonyl)-3-
methyl-4-(2-arylhydrazono)-2-pyrazolin-5-ones and [4-(2-aryldiazenyl)-3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-
yl]-4-pyridinylmethanones, previously described, were prepared using an improved procedure. Among
these ten products, 1-isonicotinoyl-3-methyl-4-[2-(4-nitrophenyl)hydrazono]-2-pyrazolin-5-one (1f)
displayed promising anticancer activity against the MCF-7, HepG2 and HCT-116 cell lines, with an
IC50 value in the range of 0.2-3.4 μM. In summary, our findings suggest that pyrazoles containing hydrazono/
diazenyl and pyridine pharmacophores constitute promising scaffolds for the development of
new anticancer agents.
Withdrawal Notice: Modeling and Experimental Verification of the Rapid Inversion Model of the Living Body Based on the FEM Model
Authors: Zhang Shuang , Liu Yi He
Published: March 2020

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Value Management Practices in Construction Industry: An Analytical Review
Authors: Alshehri Abdullah
Published: March 2020

Background:

Every building project needs a plan for it to optimize value and minimize cost for better profitability. Currently, in the construction industry around the world, not all stakeholders are aware of value management and its benefits.

Aim:

This review aims to explore the awareness level of value management among all players in the construction industries. Also, to raise dust on the significance of applying value management within the construction workplace.

Objective:

The objective was explored using research and review papers from 30 studies for 18-years (2000-2018).

Methods:

Value management is essential at the briefing stage, specifically in the contractor's health and safety performance, the design process, cost and quality, contract strategy, and performance of time.

Results:

Results indicated that the level of awareness and implementation of value management varies from region to region and country to country. Some implementation barriers include lack of knowledge and awareness, no standard method of problem-solving, lack of value management practices by contractors, the concept is new in many regions, contractors not willing to implement VM fully during projects, and lack of qualified personnel to adopt VM. From this review, some of the benefits of adopting VM include maximizing productivity, better sustainability, and expected targets achieved within a reasonable time.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the construction industry needs to put forth efforts to maximize the awareness and applications of value management to enhance project outcomes. The study is valuable for all the value management professionals involved with construction, in general, to try and incorporate it into their work ethics for better productivity.
Development and Validation of the Greek version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS)
Authors: Taoufik Konstantina , Divaris Kimon , Kavvadia Katerina , Koletsi-Kounari Haroula , Polychronopoulou Argy
Published: March 2020

Background:

The oral health of preschool-age children can affect their quality of life (QoL) as well their families. The Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) is a reliable instrument that has been used to assess the impact of oral health problems and their treatment on the QoL of preschool-age children and their families’.

Objective:

To report the development, evaluation and psychometric properties of the Greek version of ECOHIS (Gr-ECOHIS).

Methods:

Participants of this cross-sectional study were 176 mothers and their young (aged 25-71 months) children, patients of a private pediatric dental practice. During a structured interview, they completed a questionnaire, including a translated, Greek language version of the ECOHIS. Data on children’s oral health were obtainedviaclinical examinations. The psychometric properties of Gr-ECOHIS evaluated were reliability (internal and test-retest) and construct (convergent and discriminant) validity. Test-retest reliability was determined in an independent sample of 20 mother-child dyads, who completed the Gr-ECOHIS twice within a two-week interval.

Results:

The scale showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’salpha=0.85) and test-retest reliability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient= 0.97). Gr-ECOHIS showed a strong correlation with dental caries (Spearman’srho=0.62, p<0.0005) and dental treatment needs. Gr-ECOHIS was also positively associated with dental knowledge, health literacy and parental oral health-related QoL.

Conclusion

The Gr-ECOHIS is a psychometrically reliable and valid Greek language QoL instrument, which demonstrated significant associations with clinical and parent-reported measures of early childhood oral health. As such, it can be used to measure oral health-related QoL among preschool-age children in clinical and public health settings.
Restorative Treatment Decisions on Approximal Caries Among Practicing Dentists in the College of Dentistry Clinics, Ajman University, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Suliman Abdulhaq , Abdo Ahmad , Elmasmari Hussein
Published: March 2020

Objectives:

To assess restorative treatment decisions on approximal caries by dental practitioners in College of Dentistry at Ajman University regarding treatment threshold, restorative techniques and restorative materials, and to evaluate the characteristics of dentists relative to their treatment decisions.

Materials and Methods:

Questionnaires were completed by a population of 180 dentists working in the university’s clinics. The questionnaire assessed responses to the treatment threshold for a hypothetical approximal carious lesion, the most preferred types of cavity preparation and restorative materials.

Results:

Out of the 180 participants, 57.9% were females, and 42.2% were males. Eighty-three percent were 35 years old or less, 12.2% were between 36 and 50 years, and 4.4% were 50 years or older. Most participants were UAE graduates (84.4%). Majority of the participants would delay surgical intervention of the approximal carious lesion until it reaches the dentine-enamel junction (41%), and 27% would wait further until it reaches into the outer dentine, while only 21% would intervene when the lesion is limited to enamel. The majority of the participants preferred simple box preparation (72.8%), and most of them chose composite as the restorative material (85%).

Conclusion:

There is some variation among restorative treatment decisions of approximal caries by Ajman University’s dentists, but the majority tend to delay restorative intervention until caries reaches dentine, they prefer minimally invasive restorative techniques, and prefer composite as a restorative material.
Sitting Occupations and Physical Intensity of Work as Predictors of Mortality: A Retrospective Study of a Population of Workers in Southern Italy
Authors: Caputi Antonio , De Maria Luigi , Sardone Rodolfo , Cannone Enza S. S. , Mansi Francesca , Birtolo Francesco , Delfino Maria C. , Cavone Domenica , Vimercati Luigi
Published: March 2020

Background:

There is mounting evidence for an association between sedentary behaviour at work and an increase in all-cause death.

Objective:

The aim of the present study is to compare the mortality risk between a group of workers who performed sedentary jobs and a group of workers who performed physical jobs.

Methods:

A sample of 2325 subjects aged 65-84 years was randomly selected from the electoral rolls of eight municipalities in the Apulia region of southern Italy. All the participants underwent clinical exams and evaluation of work and lifetime physical activity via an interview. The jobs were divided into physical jobs (farmer, worker, attendant) and sedentary jobs (employee, manager, housewife, unemployed). Mortality data were acquired through the civil status office, and the Framingham risk score and the Fried frailty index were calculated.

Results:

We found that compared with subjects who performed sedentary jobs, subjects who performed physical jobs had a lower level of education (p = 0.005), a higher level of physical activity in the 30-40-years (p = 0.021) and 40-50-years (p = 0.042) divisions, and a lower mean Framingham score (p = 0.048). The mortality risk was higher for physical job workers than for sedentary job workers (HR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.707 - 0.462). In contrast, after adjusting the result for all covariates, the mortality risk was higher for sedentary job workers than for physical job workers (HR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.021 - 1.056).

Conclusion:

Our results support public health initiatives and policies to encourage adults to move more and sit less at work and throughout their day.
Nanotechnology: A Novel Approach for Drug Development in Health Care System
Authors: Sahoo Biswa M. , Kumar Bera V.V.R. , Patra Ch. Niranjan , Panda Jnyanaranjan R. , Mohanta Bibhash C. , Palei Narahari N.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Health is a lively state of the body which adjusts and adopt
with the response to various environmental changes. There are several features that
can influence the health status of human beings. Therefore, the continuous research
study is highly essential to maintain a proper health care system in the community.

Objective:

The diverse area of innovation was made in nanotechnology for
diagnosis and treatment of life-threatening diseases, such as obesity, diabetes,
cardiovascular disorders, cancer, leukemia, neurodegenerative disorders like
Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's diseases, etc. Nanotechnology generally refers
to the materials, devices, and systems in nanoscale which provides considerably
improved physical, chemical and biological property.

Methods:

It is technology which deals with the design, synthesis, characterization
of substances, devices and systems by arranging shape and size at their nanometer
scale. It involves multidisciplinary research which includes both health science and
technology for the treatment of human health. Nanotechnology can be applied at
the cellular level in the human body with a high degree of specificity to treat the
various diseases.

Conclusion:

This technology is potentially targeted to diseased tissue to achieve
maximum therapeutic efficacy with fewer side effects. Nowadays, the rapidity of
revolutionary discoveries in the field of nanotechnology is expected to accelerate in
the next decade globally.
The Development of a Modified Ear Recognition System for Personnel Identification
Authors: Hasan Haitham S. , Al-Sharqi Mais A.
Published: March 2020

Background:

This study proposed a Match Region Localization (MRL) Ear Recognition
System (ERS). Captured ear images were pre-processed through cropping and enhancement. The
preprocessed ear images were segmented using the proposed MRL segmentation algorithm and divided
into 160 sub-images. The principal features of the segmented ear images were extracted and
used in template generation. k-nearest neighbor classifiers with Euclidean distance metrics were applied
in the classification.

Objective:

The proposed ERS exhibited a recognition accuracy of 97.7%. Other publicly available
ear datasets can be tested using the proposed system for cross-database comparison and can be improved
by reducing their errors.

Methods:

This research follows four major stages, namely, the development of a PCA-based ear
recognition algorithm, implementation of the developed algorithm, determination of the optimum
ear segmentation method, and evaluation of the performance of the technique.

Results:

The False Acceptance Rate (FAR) of the developed Ear Recognition System (ERS) is 0.06.
This result implies that six out of every 100 intruders will be falsely accepted.

Conclusion:

The developed ERS outperforms the existing ERS by approximately 24.61% in terms
of system recognition accuracy; the developed ERS can be tested on other publicly available ear databases
to check its performance on larger platforms.
Sing after God a New Song. Ritual-Musical Appropriations of Psalms in Dutch Culture between 1990-2020
Authors: Vogel Henk , Klomp Mirella , Barnard Marcel
Published: March 2020

In the Netherlands, traditional churches and religious institutions are losing ground, as is the case in the rest of western Europe. Religion changes and traditional religious forms migrate to other realms, sometimes to return to ecclesial contexts again. In this article, we present a research project on ritual-musical appropriations of psalms in contemporary Dutch culture. The concept of ritual-musical appropriations implies this is a social, and sometimes collective, process of meaning-making, which raises questions relating to formations of community, identity, and the power relations which structure and are structured by this very process.
Температурно-зависимое интегральное поглощение экситонных поляритонов в полупроводниковых кристаллах
Authors: Сейсян Р.П. , Ваганов С.А.
Published: March 2020

Abstract This paper highlights the temperature factor in the experimental study of total absorption as a method for experimental validation and the study of the exciton–polariton light transfer mechanism near the fundamental absorption edge in semiconductor crystals with spatial dispersion. The results of experimental studies of temperature-dependent total exciton absorption are generalized. The experimentally determined critical temperatures above which total absorption becomes constant, the corresponding critical damping parameter, and longitudinal–transverse splittings for the studied semiconductors CdTe, GaAs, InP, ZnSe, and ZnTe are presented.
Диэлектрическая спектроскопия и механизм фазового перехода полупроводник-металл в легированных пленках VO-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-:Ge и VO-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-:Mg
Authors: Ильинский А.В. , Кастро Р.А. , Пашкевич М.Э. , Шадрин Е.Б.
Published: March 2020

Abstract The frequency dependences of the dissipation factor tanδ( f ) and the Cole–Cole diagrams for germanium- and magnesium-doped vanadium-dioxide films in the range of 0.1–10^6 Hz are obtained. Measurements at temperatures between 173–373 K are performed. It is found that, at room temperature, an additional maximum in the tanδ( f ) dependence and an additional semicircle in the Cole–Cole diagram of the VO_2:Ge films as compared with those of undoped films appear at low frequencies. In the VO_2:Mg films, similar additional features in the dielectric spectra are observed at high frequencies. It is shown that the shape of the Cole – Cole diagrams for all the films is almost temperature independent in the mentioned temperature range, while the frequencies f _0 corresponding to the tanδ( f ) maxima increase with temperature. To interpret the dielectric spectroscopy data, a combined equivalent electrical circuit of the film sample is proposed. The mechanisms of the effect of Ge and Mg impurities on the characteristics of the complex Mott–Peierls semiconductor–metal phase transition are established.
Комбинационное рассеяние света в эвтектическом композите InSb-MnSb
Authors: Мамедов И.Х. , Араслы Д.Г. , Рагимов Р.Н. , Халилова А.А.
Published: March 2020

Raman spectra of bulk samples of the InSb-MnSb eutectic composite and their thin films prepared by the flash evaporation method have been studied. In the Raman spectra observed TO and LO modes at frequencies of 179.5 cm-1 and 192.4 cm-1 correspond to InSb compound and also the peaks at frequencies 122 cm-1, 127 cm-1, 167 cm-1, 211 cm-1, 245.5 cm-1 correspond to theoretical data for MnSb as is well known from literature. The TO mode in the Raman spectra for films is shifted toward lower energies (178 cm-1), but the LO mode is higher (196 cm-1). The high-frequency shift of the LO mode in the composite with compared its value for InSb is probably due to the presence of deformation at the matrix-inclusion interface, as well as the contribution by surface phonons scattering.
Зависимость кинетики кристаллизации тонких пленок Cr-=SUB=-0.26-=/SUB=-Si-=SUB=-0.74-=/SUB=- от толщины
Authors: Новиков С.В. , Кузнецова В.С. , Бурков А.Т. , Шуманн И.
Published: March 2020

In this work we study thermoelectric properties of Cr0.26Si0.74 thin films with thickness of 11, 14, 21, 31, 56, 74, 115 nm. The films were produced by magnetron sputtering onto unheated substrate. The films had amorphous structure. Thermoelectric properties of samples were studied during thermal annealing in pure helium atmosphere. Changing of thermoelectric properties during annealing indicated changing in structure. It was found that kinetic of crystallization depends on the thickness of the films. The thermopower of nanocrystalline films decreases with increasing film thickness, and the power factor reaches its maximum value in films with a thickness of 31 nm.
Изменения фотоэлектрических свойств нелегированных пленок аморфного гидрированного кремния под влиянием предварительного освещения при повышенных температурах
Authors: Ормонт Н.Н. , Курова И.А.
Published: March 2020

Abstract The effect of preliminary weak illumination at elevated temperatures on the photoelectric properties of undoped α-Si:H films is investigated. It is found that the dark conductivity and photoconductivity of films increases with the preliminary-illumination intensity, and the parameter γ determining the dependence of the photoconductivity on the illumination intensity decreases due to an increasing fraction of the bimolecular recombination of electrons at energy levels of the tail of the density of states of the conduction band. It is assumed that this effect may be induced by the presence of an uncontrolled oxygen impurity and an increase in the concentration of electrically active oxygen as a result of preliminary illumination of the films at elevated temperatures.
Терагерцовая фотопроводимость в графене в магнитном поле
Authors: Васильев Ю.Б. , Новиков С.Н. , Данилов С.Н. , Ганичев С.Д.
Published: March 2020

Abstract The terahertz photoconductivity in epitaxial graphene grown on SiC substrates is investigated in a magnetic field. The magnetic-field dependence of the photoresponse signal amplitude is examined at different electron densities, bias currents, and terahertz radiation intensities. The experimental results are explained well by a photoconductivity mechanism based on the heating of electrons by terahertz radiation. A strong increase in the photoconductivity signal with increasing magnetic field caused by an increase in the relaxation time due to the suppression of electron-electron scattering is observed.
Морфология и термоэлектрические свойства керамики твердых растворов γ-Gd-=SUB=-x-=/SUB=-Dy-=SUB=-1-x-=/SUB=-S-=SUB=-1.5-y-=/SUB=-
Authors: Сотников А.В. , Баковец В.В. , Ohta Michihiro , Агажанов А.Ш. , Станкус С.В.
Published: March 2020

The temperature dependences of Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity (Т=300–873K), thermal conductivity and figure of merit (Т=300–770K) of polycrystalline samples of solid solutions based on gadolinium and dysprosium sulfides with γ-GdxDy1-xS1.49 (x=0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) composition were studied. It was established that samples morphological features, namely, the specific surface area of crystallites causing a change in the number of deformation centers determines the thermal conductivity of -GdxDy1-xS1.49, and it was found that there is an anomalous decrease in thermal conductivity for composition with х = 0.2. For this composition the lowest values of Seebeck coefficient -371 mkV/K at 873K, electrical resistivity
880 mkΩ∙m at 873K and thermal conductivity 0.68 ± 0.03 W/m·K at 770K were obtained, in this case the thermoelectric figure of merit reaches ZT = 0.23.
Влияние концентрации La на кинетику индуцированного фазового перехода в прозрачной керамике PbMg-=SUB=-1/3-=/SUB=-Nb-=SUB=-2/3-=/SUB=-O-=SUB=-3-=/SUB=--25PbTiO-=SUB=-3-=/SUB=-
Authors: Камзина Л.С. , Li G.
Published: March 2020

The effect of La concentration on the kinetic nature of the induced phase transition in
PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3–25PbTiO3 ferroceramics was studied. At temperatures below the Vogel-Fulcher temperature, the time-dependent changes in the dielectric constant and optical transmission in electric fields are studied 0 <E <6 kV / cm. It was found that in an electric field in La-containing transparent ceramics, a sharp decrease in the dielectric constant and optical transmission occurs over time, indicating an induced phase transition and an increase in the fraction of the ferroelectric phase. It has been shown that in undoped La ceramics the changes in the dielectric constant at the same fields are much smaller. It was found that the stability of the induced phase depends on the La concentration: the higher the concentration, the lower the stability. The results obtained are explained by both a varying degree of diffuse of the phase transition and different sizes of polar regions, which depend on the La concentration.
Эффект модификации вклада термоэмиссии локализованных зарядов в релаксацию фотоотклика монокристалла TlGaSe-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-
Authors: Одринский А.П.
Published: March 2020

The studing of thermoemission process peculiarities from the of charge localization centers in electrically non-uniform TlGaSe2 crystal are presented. Heterogeneity was formed by preliminary polarization of a sample at low temperature of ferroelectric state of the crystal. The results are good agreement with peculiarities of the localized charges thermoemission registration on TlInS2 in the temperature region of ferroelectric state of the crystal.
Применение теории случайных матриц для описания бозонного пика в двумерных системах
Authors: Конюх Д.А. , Бельтюков Я.М.
Published: March 2020

The random matrix theory is applied to describe the vibrational properties of two-dimensional disordered systems with a large number of degrees of freedom. It is shown that the most significant mechanical properties of amorphous solids can be taken into account using the correlated Wishart ensemble. In this ensemble, an excess vibrational density of states over the Debye law is observed as a peak in the reduced density of states g(ω)/ω. Such a peak is known as the boson peak, which was observed in many experiments and numerical simulations for two-dimensional and three-dimensional disordered systems. It is shown that two-dimensional systems have a number of differences in the asymptotic behavior of the boson peak.
Влияние структурных свойств на электросопротивление тонких пленок Al/Ag в процессе твердофазной реакции
Authors: Алтунин Р.Р. , Моисеенко Е.Т. , Жарков С.М.
Published: March 2020

Based on the study of a solid-state reaction process in Al/Ag thin films (the atomic ratio being Al:Ag=1:3) carried out by in situ electron diffraction method and electrical resistivity measurements, the reaction initiation temperature has been determined and a model of structural phase transitions occurring during the solid-state reaction has been proposed. The solid-state reaction begins at 70°C with the formation of an Al-Ag solid solution at the interface of aluminum and silver nanolayers. It has been found that in the reaction process intermetallic compounds γ-Ag2Al => µ-Ag3Al are successively formed. It has been established that for the formation of the µ-Ag3Al phase in thin films (up to 100 nm) the following is necessary: first, significant excess of silver over aluminum in the atomic composition, second, the formation of the µ-Ag3Al phase begins only after all the FCC aluminum has reacted.
The work was supported by the Russian Science Foundation (grant #18-13-00080).
Определение индикатрисы упругого рассеяния электрона на атоме из зондовых измерений функции распределения рассеянных электронов в низковольтном пучковом разряде в инертных газах
Authors: Мустафаев А.С. , Сухомлинов В.С.
Published: March 2020

A method for the experimental determination of elastic scattering an electron by an atom indicatrix from probe measurements of the scattered electrons distribution function in the transit mode low voltage beam discharge. The Boltzmann kinetic equation was solved by the expansion method in series by the number of collisions, and the scattered part of the electron distribution function was experimentally determined by the planar one-sided probe method, which was previously developed by the authors for beam discharge studies. The method was tested in a plasma of a low-voltage He beam discharge. A good agreement between the experimentally measured elastic electron scattering indicatrix at an energy of 30 eV and known data on the differential cross section is obtained.
It is shown that for the implementation of the developed method for determining the elastic scattering of an electron beam by atoms indicatrix, no a priori data required.
Об особенностях электронного транспорта в наноустройстве на основе молекулы, содержащей окислительно-восстановительный центр нитроамина
Authors: Сергеев Д.М.
Published: March 2020

Within the framework of the density functional theory in the local density approximation and the nonequilibrium Green function method (DFT + NEGF), electron transport was studied in a nanodevice consisting of a 2'-amino-4-ethynylphenyl-4'-ethynylphenyl-5'-nitro-1-benzenethiol molecule placed between gold electrodes. Current-voltage, dI/dV-characteristics, transmission spectrum and electron density of a nanodevice are calculated. It is shown that the current-voltage characteristic of the considered nanodevice in the voltage range of -0.8÷0.9 V acquires an N-shape and appears on it a section with negative differential resistance due to resonant tunneling of quasiparticles. The same changes are observed on the dI/dV-characteristic. The results obtained may be useful for calculating new promising electronic switching devices.
Растворимость газов в кристаллах с учетом взаимодействия между примесными атомами
Authors: Бородин К.И. , Волков В.А.
Published: March 2020

Within the framework of the molecular kinetic theory of metals and alloys, the solubility of gases in crystals is studied taking into account the interaction between impurity atoms. Dependences of solubility on gas pressure for monatomic and diatomic gases are found. It is stated that deviations from the Sieverts law are due to the interaction between impurity atoms.
Волновые эффекты корреляции элементарных деформационных актов при высокотемпературном нагружении алюминия и его сплавов
Authors: Плотников В.А. , Макаров С.В.
Published: March 2020

Проведены эксперименты по деформированию алюминия и его сплавов в условиях механического нагружения и высоких температур. Установлено, что накопление деформации в этих условиях протекает как монотонный и скачкообразный процесс, сопровождающийся монотонной и импульсной акустической эмиссией. Установлено, что основной вклад в накопление деформации вносят деформационные скачки, сопровождающиеся не только акустической эмиссией, но и осцилляцией механического напряжения. Осцилляция механического напряжения свидетельствует о быстропротекающих процессах упрочнения и разупрочнения металлических материалов. Спектральный анализ потока сигналов акустической эмиссии свидетельствует, что в ходе накопления деформации деформируемый объем представляет собой естественный резонатор, на котором осуществляется преобразование первичных сигналов акустической эмиссии в низкочастотный спектр стоячих акустических волн, осуществляющих корреляцию элементарных деформационных актов в макроскопическом масштабе, где масштаб корреляции определяется длиной стоячей волны. Ключевые слова: деформационные скачки, акустическая эмиссия, стоячие акустические волны.
Влияние плазменной модификации поверхности и стерилизации на оптические характеристики трековых мембран из полиэтилентерефталата
Authors: Филиппова Е.О. , Корепанов В.И. , Пичугин В.Ф.
Published: March 2020

Information is given on the effect of plasma surface modification and sterilization processes on the optical characteristics of a track membrane (TM) made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). TMs were obtained by irradiating PET with a 40Ar + 8 ion beam and etching in a 1.5 M NaOH solution. Modification of TMs were carried out by low-temperature plasma, sterilization by autoclaving and gamma radiation.
TMs from PET are characterized by a relatively low transmittance and refractive power, which is associated with the appearance of heterogeneities in the structure of PET, as well as the crystalline structure of the polymer.
Exposure to plasma and sterilization reduced the transmittance of TM associated with an increase in crystallinity and the formation of membrane artifacts.
О силе электростатического взаимодействия между двумя проводящими сфероидами
Authors: Гращенков С.И.
Published: March 2020

Application of finite element method for calculation of electrostatic interaction force of two conducting bodies of spheroidal shape with preset charges on their surfaces in zero external field is considered.
Адгезия между жестким индентором и упругим полупространством для несжимаемых градиентных сред с высоким показателем градиентности
Authors: Ляшенко Я.А. , Попов В.Л.
Published: March 2020

Contact problem of cylindrical indenter and graded media with account of adhesion forces between two contacted bodies is considered. Analytical solution of the problem for the case of graded media with power-law dependence of elastic modulus on normal coordinate have been found. The case of uncompressible media with Poisson ratio 1/2 was considered in details. It is shown, that in this case the behavior of system can be qualitatively different from the case of homogeneous media. Influence of roughness of the surface is considered. Surface roughness is presented as axially symmetric “waviness”. The contact of parabolic indenter and a gradient media was considered. Differences from the case of a cylinder is shown.