bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conjugated porous polyimide poly(2,6-diaminoanthraquinone) benzamide with good stability and high-performance as a cathode for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Pang Yanrui , Li Hao , Zhang Shuanggui , Ma Quanwei , Xiong Peng , Wang Rui , Zhai Yunming , Li Hongbao , Kang Hongwei , Liu Yuping , Zhang Lin , Zhang Longhai , Zhou Tengfei , Zhang Chaofeng
Published: August 2021

Conjugated porous polyimide poly(2,6-diaminoanthraquinone) benzamide was prepared by a simple polycondensation reaction. The polymer delivers outstanding rate performance and long-term cycling stability as a cathode for sodium ion batteries.
The role of micro-vibration parameters in inflammatory responses of macrophages cultured on biphasic calcium phosphate ceramics and the resultant influence on osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Wu Jinjie , Tang Yitao , Pu Ximing , Wang Menglu , Chen Fuying , Chen Xuening , Zhu Xiangdong , Zhang Xingdong
Published: August 2021

Micro-vibration stimulation (MVs) plays a critical role in regulating the inflammatory responses of macrophages to BCP ceramics and further inducing the osteogenic differentiation of BMMSCs in a paracrine manner.
Phosphonate/quaternary ammonium copolymers as high-efficiency antibacterial coating for metallic substrates
Authors: Dong Yaning , Liu Li , Sun Jin , Peng Wan , Dong Xiaohan , Gu Yahui , Ma Zhuangzhuang , Gan Donglin , Liu Pingsheng
Published: August 2021

A type of novel phosphonate/cationic copolymers as metal anchorable efficient antibacterial coating were prepared due to the ability of phosphonate groups to bind with metallic substrates and bactericidal property of quaternary ammonium polymers.
Preparation of thiol-grafted poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/yolk–shell carbon sphere/Au composites for the simultaneous detection of caffeic acid and levofloxacin
Authors: Sawut Nurbiye , Jamal Ruxangul , Abdiryim Tursun , kadir Aygul , Zhang Ruanye , Helil Zulpikar , Niyaz Mariyam
Published: August 2021

The combination of YRFC with thiol grafted PEDOT could stabilize Au NPs to achieve effective detection of CA and LVF.
All-fabric-based multifunctional textile sensor for detection and discrimination of humidity, temperature, and strain stimuli
Authors: Yang Shuaitao , Li Chengwei , Wen Ningxuan , Xu Shihong , Huang Hui , Cong Tianze , Zhao Yongpeng , Fan Zeng , Liu Kun , Pan Lujun
Published: August 2021

A simple sewing method was employed to integrate the resistive and capacitive sensors into one device. According to the negative or positive responses of the resistance and capacitance, the applied stimulus can be well-identified.
Synthesis of hollow rod-like hierarchical structures assembled by CoFe/C nanosheets for enhanced microwave absorption
Authors: Bao Susu , Song Zhijia , Mao Runjing , Li Yue , Zhang Shuhong , Jiang Zhiyuan , Li Xueai , Xie Zhaoxiong
Published: August 2021

An effective strategy is designed to fabricate hollow hierarchical composites assembled by CoFe/C nanosheets with enhanced microwave absorption.
Nesting-like band gap in bismuth sulfide Bi2S3
Authors: Linhart W. M. , Zelewski S. J. , Scharoch P. , Dybała F. , Kudrawiec R.
Published: August 2021

Bi2S3 is a nesting-like band gap semiconductor, where direct optical transition dominates above the indirect one, resulting in a strong absorption edge and excitonic emission.
A high‐throughput screening method for the discovery of Saccharomyces and non‐Saccharomyces yeasts with potential in the brewing industry
Authors: Aguiar‐Cervera Jose E. , Delneri Daniela , Severn Oliver
Published: August 2021

Both Saccharomyces and non‐Saccharomyces yeast strains are of great importance for the fermentation industry, especially with the flourishing of craft breweries, which are driving current innovations. Non‐conventional yeasts can produce novel beverages with attractive characteristics such as flavour, texture, and reduced alcohol content; however, they have been poorly explored. A new method for screening the fitness of conventional and non‐conventional yeast libraries utilising robotic platforms and solidified media representing industrial conditions is proposed. As proof of concept, a library formed of 6 conventional and 17 non‐conventional yeast strains was distributed in 96, 384 and 1536 arrays onto a YPD agar medium. Following this, the library was replicated in different conditions mimicking beer and cider fermentation conditions. The colony size was monitored over time, and fitness values measured in maximum pixels/h and maximum biomass were calculated. Significant differences in growth were observed in between the different strains and conditions. As examples, Candida milleri Y‐7245 displayed good performance in wort conditions, and Kazachstania yakushimaensis Y‐48837 stood out for its performance in apple juice. The method is proposed to be used as a pre‐screening step when studying vast yeast libraries. This would enable interested parties to discover potential hits for further study at a low initial cost. Furthermore, this method can be used in other applications where the desired screening media can be solidified.
Retrospective validation of a machine learning clinical decision support tool for myocardial infarction risk stratification
Authors: Panchavati Saarang , Lam Carson , Zelin Nicole S. , Pellegrini Emily , Barnes Gina , Hoffman Jana , Garikipati Anurag , Calvert Jacob , Mao Qingqing , Das Ritankar
Published: August 2021

Diagnosis and appropriate intervention for myocardial infarction (MI) are time‐sensitive but rely on clinical measures that can be progressive and initially inconclusive, underscoring the need for an accurate and early predictor of MI to support diagnostic and clinical management decisions. The objective of this study was to develop a machine learning algorithm (MLA) to predict MI diagnosis based on electronic health record data (EHR) readily available during Emergency Department assessment. An MLA was developed using retrospective patient data. The MLA used patient data as they became available in the first 3 h of care to predict MI diagnosis (defined by International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision code) at any time during the encounter. The MLA obtained an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.87, sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 70%, outperforming the comparator scoring systems TIMI and GRACE on all metrics. An MLA can synthesize complex EHR data to serve as a clinically relevant risk stratification tool for MI.
Optimal road grade design based on stochastic speed trajectories for minimising transportation energy consumption
Authors: Liu Junhui , Feng Lei , Li Zhiwu
Published: August 2021

Reducing energy consumption, regardless of fuel or electricity, of ground vehicles is a paramount pursuit in academia and industry. Current research concentrates exclusively on the improvement of the vehicle, but accepts the road conditions as external influences. The innovation of this article is to consider the road conditions, particularly the grade angle, as design variables. It is assumed that the stochastic speed trajectories of all vehicles on the road can be modelled by a Markov chain. The expected value of the average energy consumptions of all vehicles running on the road is defined as the objective function. The optimisation problem is solved by dynamic programming with Markov model. Evaluations have been made on both simulated and measured speed trajectories. For the simulated speed trajectories, the optimal road grade profile designed by the method saves up to 22% energy compared with a flat road. For the measured speed trajectories, the optimal road grade profile saves up to 2.7% transportation energy compared with the actual road profile. Application of this method on building road could lead to considerable energy saving.
Une exploration interdisciplinaire des liens entre relation au lieu et concernement. À propos des risques fluviaux et côtiers en France métropolitaine
Authors: Bousquet François , Rocle Nicolas , Rey-Valette Hélène , Meur-Ferec Catherine , Vye Didier , Lautrédou-Audouy Nicole , Amalric Marion , Blanchet Lucile , Lyser Sandrine , Blondy Caroline , Becu Nicolas
Published: August 2021

Quels sont les liens entre la relation au lieu que développent des individus et leur « concernement » à propos de phénomènes qualifiés de « risques » sur ce même lieu ? Afin de répondre à cette question, un état de l’art précise tout d’abord le concept de « concernement » en qualifiant différentes modalités (notamment « passif » ou « actif ») ainsi que le concept de « relation au lieu » et ses différentes dimensions (identitaire, émotionnelle, symbolique, fonctionnelle). Sur la base de ces précisions, et à partir des données issues de différentes enquêtes menées sur les littoraux français, une analyse est ensuite menée pour explorer empiriquement les liens entre différentes dimensions de la relation au lieu et les modalités de concernement vis-à-vis des risques fluviaux et côtiers. Les résultats montrent des liens négatifs entre les dimensions symboliques et émotionnelles de la relation au lieu et un concernement qualifié de passif, ainsi que des liens positifs entre la relation symbolique au lieu et un concernement dit actif. Ces relations sont enfin discutées par rapport aux implications de ce type de résultats dans des processus de gouvernance.
Government incentive mechanism of closed-loop supply chain based on information asymmetry
Authors: Wu Qunli , Xu Xinxin , Lin Ronghao
Published: August 2021

Focusing on the closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) comprising the manufacturer, retailer, and consumers in the waste products market, this study investigates how the government addresses the adverse selection problem on the hidden recovery costs of retailer and how it manages the moral hazard problem on the level of retailer’s hidden efforts. Based on incentive theory, a government incentive regulation aiming at maximizing social welfare is established in this study. In addition, a list of contracts with transfer payments is presented to elucidate the retailer’ collection efficiency and motivate the retailer to make the optimal investment. Besides, the impact of related factors on the recovery cost and social welfare level using numerical simulations is validated. Under government regulation, the retailer could maximize profit only by reporting the true recovery technology-type information to the government. Moreover, the retailer with high-recovery efficiency could obtain both retained profit and additional information rent. Finally, as the retailer made efforts to increase the recovery level, it increased investment cost, which affected the enthusiasm of enhancing the retailer’s recovery efficiency. Thus, the government should not blindly pursue the enhancement of recycling efficiency regardless of the cost, but should focus more on the control of recycling equipment and technology cost. Overall, this study facilitates scientific policy development and provides a reference for promoting CLSC operations.
Equilibrium analysis of cloud user request based on the Markov queue with variable vacation and vacation interruption
Authors: Zhang Yitong , Xu Xiuli
Published: August 2021

This paper considers the equilibrium balking behavior of customers in a single-server Markovian queue with variable vacation and vacation interruption, where the server can switch across four states: vacation, working vacation, idle period, and busy period. Once the queue becomes empty, the server commences a working vacation and slows down its service rate. However, this period may be interrupted anytime by the vacation interruption. Upon the completion of a working vacation, the server takes a vacation in a probability-based manner and stops service if the system is empty. The system stays idle after a vacation until a new customer arrives. The comparisons between the equilibrium balking strategy of customers and the optimal expected social benefit per time unit for each type of queue are elucidated and the inconsistency between the individual optimization and the social optimization is revealed. Moreover, the sensitivity of the expected social benefit and the equilibrium threshold with respect to the several parameters as well as diverse precision levels is illustrated through numerical examples in a competitive cloud environment.
Analysis of Preoperative and Operative Factors Influencing Postoperative Shoulder Imbalance in Lenke Type 1 Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Berlin Clara , Quante Markus , Freifrau von Richthofen Esther , Halm Henry
Published: August 2021

Background Postoperative shoulder imbalance is a common complication in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and may impair patient satisfaction. The little data in the literature on the prediction and treatment of postoperative shoulder imbalance is incongruous. According to some studies, postoperative shoulder imbalance depends on the superior instrumented vertebral bodies, skeletal maturity, extent of correction and flexibility of the major curve.

Question Can preoperative radiological parameters from X-ray and traction films as well as correction of the curves be used to identify a factor impacting on postoperative shoulder imbalance?

Material and Methods Prospective data in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with thoracic curve (Lenke type 1), operated on between 2015 and 2018 at a scoliosis centre, were analysed retrospectively based on full-length X-rays of the spine (pre-/postOP and follow-up (FU)) and preoperative-traction films: age; correction of proximal, main and lumbar curve; shoulder height [mm]; clavicle angle [°]; T1 tilt [°]; coronal plumb line deviation [mm]. The findings were expressed as means with standard deviation. Changes in parameters over time (postOP-FU) were compared by t test (significance level α = 0.05). The correlation between preOP parameters and extent of correction with postoperative shoulder imbalance (≥ 15 mm) was determined by Pearson correlation and regression classification analysis.

Outcomes 55 patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, mean age of 15 ± 1.4 years. The FU-rate after a mean of 15 months was 80% (n = 44). Correction of proximal, main and lumbar curve: 47.0%, 75.8% and 68.8%, respectively, without statistically significant change (Δ) in FU (p > 0.05). Shoulder height was − 11.0 ± 12.7 mm (preOP), 15.5 ± 13.4 mm (postOP), 10.1 ± 10.6 mm (FU) (p < 0.05). 38% of those with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis had preOP right shoulder elevation; 55% (postOP) and 32% (FU) respectively had postoperative shoulder imbalance (left shoulder elevation). Strong statistical correlation was found for Δshoulder position (FU-preOP) with pre-OP shoulder position (r = − 0.7), and Δshoulder position (pre-OP traction films) (r = 0.5) with pre-OP clavicle angle (r = − 0.5). On regression classification analysis, 81.8% of cases did display postoperative shoulder imbalance if proximal curve correction was ≤ 64.4%; main and lumbar curve correction,
Δshoulder elevation (preOP traction films) played a secondary role.

Discussion One common complication even in Lenke type 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is postoperative shoulder imbalance. Preoperative planning should include traction films, preoperative shoulder position and clavicle angle to avoid postoperative shoulder imbalance. Moderate correction of proximal curve is critical for postoperative shoulder balance.
Cytotoxicity of Poupartone B, an Alkyl Cyclohexenone Derivative from Poupartia borbonica, against Human Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ledoux Allison , Bériot Daphnée , Mamede Lucia , Desdemoustier Pauline , Detroz Fanny , Jansen Olivia , Frédérich Michel , Maquoi Erik
Published: August 2021

Poupartia borbonica is an endemic tree from the Mascarene Islands that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. The leaves of this plant were phytochemically studied previously, and isolated alkyl cyclohexenone derivatives, poupartones A – C, demonstrated antiplasmodial and antimalarial activities. In addition to their high potency against the Plasmodium sp., high toxicity on human cells was also displayed. The present study aims to investigate in more detail the cytotoxicity and pharmacological interest of poupartone B, one of the most abundant derivatives in the leaves of P. borbonica. For that purpose, real-time live-cell imaging of different human cancer cell lines and normal fibroblasts, treated or not treated with poupartone B, was performed. A potent inhibition of cell proliferation associated with the induction of cell death was observed. A detailed morphological analysis of different adherent cell lines exposed to high concentrations of
poupartone B (1 – 2 µg/mL) demonstrated that this compound induced an array of cellular alterations, including a rapid retraction of cellular protrusions associated with cell rounding, massive cytoplasmic vacuolization, loss of plasma membrane integrity, and plasma membrane bubbling, ultimately leading to paraptosis-like cell death. The structure-activity relation of this class of compounds, their selective toxicity, and pharmacological potential are discussed.
Evaluation of the Congenital Hypothyroidism Detection Strategy in Extremely Preterm Infants in Western Andalusia
Authors: Rubio-Sánchez Ricardo , Núñez-Jurado David , Melguizo-Madrid Enrique , Álvarez-Ríos Ana I. , Delgado-Pecellín Carmen
Published: August 2021

Objective This study aimed to identify extremely premature infants (< 31 weeks of gestation and/or <1,500 g) affected by congenital hypothyroidism (CH) with delayed elevation of thyrotropin (TSH) and to evaluate the detection strategy for this pathology in our reference screening population.

Study Design A descriptive and retrospective study was carried out with samples collected from western Andalusia and the autonomous city of Ceuta.

Results This protocol allowed us to detect six neonates with delayed TSH elevation. One of them, due to serious heart problems, died without being able to confirm CH. In two neonates, however, it was possible to detect CH, another two presented a persistent TSH elevation but normal free T4, and another one presented a temporary TSH elevation.

Conclusion It is essential to repeat the CH screening in extremely premature infants, not only at the age of 15 days but also with a third sample at the moment of hospital discharge to detect cases with delayed TSH elevation.

Key Points
Impact of Askling L-PROTOCOL on Biceps Femoris Architecture, Hamstring Flexibility and Sprint Performance
Authors: Alonso-Fernandez Diego , Martinez-Fernandez Juan , Docampo-Blanco Pedro , Fernandez-Rodriguez Rosana
Published: August 2021

Eccentric training has been shown to be important for hamstring strain injuries rehabilitation and prevention. The Askling L-PROTOCOL (L-P), comprising three exercises aimed at eccentric training and hamstring lengthening, was shown to improve this injuries recovery and relapse times in comparison with other traditional exercise-based protocols. However, the causes of these results remain unclear. This study looks at the impact of an 8-week L-P followed by 4 weeks of detraining on the architecture of the biceps femoris long head, hamstring flexibility and sprint performance. Twenty-eight healthy individuals were divided into two groups: an experimental group, which carried out the L-P, and a control group with no training. Muscle architecture was measured using 2D ultrasound, hamstring flexibility using goniometry and sprint performance using sports radar equipment before (M1) and after (M2) the training period and after detraining (M3). No significant changes were observed between M1 and M2 in the experimental group with regard to fascicle length (t=− 0.79, P>0.05), theoretical maximum speed (t=− 1.43, P>0.05), horizontal force (t=0.09, P>0.05), force application during sprint running (t=− 0.09, P>0.05) and horizontal power (t=− 0.97, P>0.05), but, however, changes were observed in hamstring flexibility (t=− 4.42, d=0.98, P<0.001) returning to pre-training values after detraining period (t=− 1.11, P>0.05). L-P has been shown to be an eccentric protocol of moderate intensity and easy implementation that could be interesting to include throughout a sports season.
Hypomagnesemia with Secondary Hypoparathyroidism and Hypocalcemia due to Novel Variants in the Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily M Member 6 (TRPM6) Gene
Authors: Jain Geetanjali , Das Gourab , Malhotra Rakhi , Ramchandran Sateesh , Phani Nagaraja M. , Appaswamy Giridharan , Sridharan Upasana , Dwivedi Aradhana
Published: August 2021

HOMG1 (hypomagnesemia 1, intestinal) or hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of magnesium metabolism, characterized by impaired magnesium absorption. This disorder may mimic other conditions presenting with neonatal seizures. Here, we report an infant diagnosed to have hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia due to novel variants in TRPM6 gene.
The HBG2 rs7482144 (C > T) Polymorphism is Linked to HbF Levels but not to the Severity of Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Lakkakula Bhaskar V. K. S. , Pattnaik Smaranika
Published: August 2021

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a severe disease characterized by anemia, acute clinical complications, and a relatively short life span. In this disease, abnormal hemoglobin makes the red blood cells deformed, rigid, and sticky. Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) is one of the key modulators of SCA morbidity and mortality. Interindividual HbF variation is a heritable trait that is controlled by polymorphism in genes linked and unlinked to the hemoglobin β gene (HBB). The genetic polymorphisms that determine HbF levels are known to ameliorate acute clinical events. About 190 well-characterized homozygous SCA patients were included in this study. Complete blood count (CBC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and clinical investigations were obtained from patient's records. Severity scores were determined by using the combination of anemia, complications, total leucocyte count, and transfusion scores. HBG2 rs7482144 polymorphism was genotyped by using the polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. The association between HBG2 rs7482144 polymorphism and HbF levels as well as the disease severity of SCA were assessed. SCA patients carrying TT genotype were found to have higher HbF levels. In addition, SCA patients with increased severity showed significantly lower levels of hemoglobin, HbF, and hematocrit values. However, the genotypes of HBG2 rs7482144 polymorphism were not found to be associated with the risk of disease severity. In summary, this study demonstrated that HBG2 rs7482144 polymorphism is linked with HbF levels, but it does not affect disease severity. The sample sizes used and the pattern of association deduced from our small sample size prevents us from extrapolating our findings further.
Aprotinin Inhibits Thrombin Generation by Inhibition of the Intrinsic Pathway, but is not a Direct Thrombin Inhibitor
Authors: Lisman Ton , Adelmeijer Jelle , Huskens Dana , Meijers Joost C. M.
Published: August 2021

Background Aprotinin is a broad-acting serine protease inhibitor that has been clinically used to prevent blood loss during major surgical procedures including cardiac surgery and liver transplantation. The prohemostatic properties of aprotinin likely are related to its antifibrinolytic effects, but other mechanisms including preservation of platelet function have been proposed.

Aim Here we assessed effects of aprotinin on various hemostatic pathways in vitro, and compared effects to tranexamic acid(TXA), which is an antifibrinolytic but not a serine protease inhibitor.

Methods We used plasma-based clot lysis assays, clotting assays in whole blood, plasma, and using purified proteins, and platelet activation assays to which aprotinin or TXA were added in pharmacological concentrations.

Results Aprotinin and TXA dose-dependently inhibited fibrinolysis in plasma. Aprotinin inhibited clot formation and thrombin generation initiated via the intrinsic pathway, but had no effect on reactions initiated by tissue factor. However, in the presence of thrombomodulin, aprotinin enhanced thrombin generation in reactions started by tissue factor. TXA had no effect on coagulation. Aprotinin did not inhibit thrombin, only weakly inhibited the TF-VIIa complex and had no effect on platelet activation and aggregation by various agonists including thrombin. Aprotinin and TXA inhibited plasmin-induced platelet activation.

Conclusion Pharmacologically relevant concentrations of aprotinin inhibit coagulation initiated via the intrinsic pathway. The antifibrinolytic activity of aprotinin likely explains the prohemostatic effects of aprotinin during surgical procedures. The anticoagulant properties may be beneficial during surgical procedures in which pathological activation of the intrinsic pathway, for example by extracorporeal circuits, occurs.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Long-Term Compression in Patients with Mixed Arterial and Venous Etiology Ulcers in the Leg
Authors: Elhomsy Sophie , Chrusciel Jan , Sanchez Stéphane , Elhomsy Paul , Guillaumat Jérôme
Published: August 2021

Elastic compressions are standard treatment for leg ulcers of venous etiology. The effect of compressions on ulcers of mixed (arterial or venous) etiology, however, has rarely been studied. The objective of this study was to evaluate the variation in transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) in patients with ulcers of mixed arterial or venous etiology treated with 1 month of compression. This prospective cohort study was conducted at a university hospital in France. Patient eligibility was for those attending a consultation of a work-up of a leg ulcer of mixed arterial-venous etiology lasting at least 4 to 6 weeks. Compressions were prescribed according to the hemodynamic status and were evaluated by the ankle-brachial index and toe-brachial index using a decision-making algorithm based on French national guidelines. Quality of life was assessed using the Short-Form 36-Item (SF-36) questionnaire. In total, 32 patients were included between September 30, 2018 and May 31, 2019. A difference was observed between TcPO2 before compression (49.3 ± 13.01 mm Hg) and after 1 month (51.2 ± 15.05 mm Hg), average change 1.9 ± 2.04 mm Hg (p = 0.025). The average ulcer size prior to compression was 49 ± 102 cm2 versus 37 ± 94 cm2 after 1 month of effective compression, corresponding to a reduction of 12 ± 8 cm2 (p < 0.001). There was a reduction in the bodily pain dimension of the SF-36. Compressions adapted to the hemodynamic status led to an increase in TcPO2, a reduction in wound size, and an improvement to bodily pain in patients with leg ulcers of mixed arterial-venous etiology.
Natural History of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and New Advances in the Epidemiology
Authors: Piltonen Terhi T. , Arffman Riikka K. , Joham Anju E.
Published: August 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy in women, affecting up to 15% of the female population. The natural history of the syndrome is complex, including both androgen exposure in early life and adiposity-driven dysfunction involving also dysregulated, also involving altered hypothalamus–ovarian crosstalk. The manifestations can arise as early as childhood or puberty onward, suggesting that genetic susceptibility is an important etiological factor. In adulthood, women with PCOS present with reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health issues at a population-based level. Epidemiological studies on large datasets offer an excellent opportunity to evaluate health effects and costs related to the syndrome. Hospital or insurance-based datasets are also available; however, the results are not representative of the female population in the community. More longitudinal studies spanning from early childhood to late adulthood are needed to assess the long-term health impact and early manifestations of PCOS. Moreover, the identification of women with PCOS from large datasets can be expensive. Self-reported symptoms or PCOS diagnosis may offer a feasible approach.
Persistent luminescent nanoparticles: Challenges and opportunities for a shimmering future
Authors: Castaing Victor , Arroyo Encarnación , Becerro Ana I. , Ocaña Manuel , Lozano Gabriel , Míguez Hernán
Published: August 2021

Persistent phosphors are luminescent sources based on crystalline materials doped with rare-earth or transition metal cations able to produce light after the excitation source vanishes. Although known for centuries, these materials gained renewed interest after the discovery of Eu2+,RE3+ co-doped aluminates and silicates in the late 1990s due to their unprecedented afterglow properties. In contrast, persistent nanophosphors have emerged only recently as a nanoscale alternative to their bulk counterparts, offering exciting opportunities of particular relevance for in vivo imaging, optical data storage, or unconventional light generation. However, taking advantage of the avenues opened by nanoscience demands developing new synthetic strategies that allow precise control of the morphology, surface, and defect chemistry of the nanomaterials, along with a profound understanding of the physical mechanisms occurring in the nanoscale. Besides, advanced physicochemical characterization is required to assess persistent luminescence in a quantitative manner, which allows strict comparison among different persistent nanophosphors, aiming to propel their applicability. Herein, we revisit the main phenomena that determine the emission properties of persistent nanoparticles, discuss the most promising preparation and characterization protocols, highlight recent achievements, and elaborate on the challenges ahead.
Majorana bound states in semiconducting nanostructures
Authors: Laubscher Katharina , Klinovaja Jelena
Published: August 2021

In this Tutorial, we give a pedagogical introduction to Majorana bound states (MBSs) arising in semiconducting nanostructures. We start by briefly reviewing the well-known Kitaev chain toy model in order to introduce some of the basic properties of MBSs before proceeding to describe more experimentally relevant platforms. Here, our focus lies on simple “minimal” models where the Majorana wave functions can be obtained explicitly by standard methods. In the first part, we review the paradigmatic model of a Rashba nanowire with strong spin–orbit interaction (SOI) placed in a magnetic field and proximitized by a conventional s-wave superconductor. We identify the topological phase transition separating the trivial phase from the topological phase and demonstrate how the explicit Majorana wave functions can be obtained in the limit of strong SOI. In the second part, we discuss MBSs engineered from proximitized edge states of two-dimensional (2D) topological insulators. We introduce the Jackiw–Rebbi mechanism leading to the emergence of bound states at mass domain walls and show how this mechanism can be exploited to construct MBSs. Due to their recent interest, we also include a discussion of Majorana corner states in 2D second-order topological superconductors. This Tutorial is mainly aimed at graduate students—both theorists and experimentalists—seeking to familiarize themselves with some of the basic concepts in the field.
Polarization purity for active stabilization of diode laser injection lock
Authors: Niederriter R. D. , Marques Van Der Put I. , Hamilton P.
Published: August 2021

Injection locking of diode lasers is commonly used to amplify low power laser light but is extremely sensitive to perturbations in the laser current and temperature. To counter such perturbations, active stabilization is often applied to the current of the injection locked diode. We observe that the diode laser’s polarization extinction ratio (PER) greatly increases when injection locked, and therefore the PER provides a measure of injection lock quality. We report robust active stabilization of a diode laser injection lock based on the PER, demonstrating the technique at 399 nm wavelength where injection locking is typically less stable than at longer wavelengths. The PER provides a feedback error signal that is compatible with standard proportional integral differential servo controllers, requires no additional optical components beyond the optical isolator typically used in injection locking, and enables a large feedback bandwidth.
Inverted metamorphic GaInAs solar cell grown by dynamic hydride vapor phase epitaxy
Authors: Schulte Kevin L. , Diercks David R. , Guthrey Harvey L. , Young Matthew R. , Packard Corinne E. , Simon John , Ptak Aaron J.
Published: August 2021

We present an inverted metamorphic rear heterojunction ∼1.0 eV GaInAs solar cell deposited by dynamic hydride vapor phase epitaxy (D-HVPE) with high growth rate. This device uses a Ga1−xInxP compositionally graded buffer (CGB) to bridge the lattice constant gap between the GaAs substrate and the Ga0.71In0.29As emitter layer. High-resolution x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy confirm that the Ga0.71In0.29As emitter is grown lattice-matched to the in-plane lattice constant of the CGB with minimal generation of defects at the GaInAs/GaInP interface. The device contains a threading dislocation density of 2.3 × 106 cm−2, a level that enables high-performance minority carrier devices and is comparable to previously demonstrated GaInP CGBs grown by D-HVPE. The device exhibits an open-circuit voltage of 0.589 V under a one-sun AM1.5G illumination condition and a bandgap-voltage offset of 0.407 V, indicating metamorphic epitaxial performance nearly equal to state-of-the-art devices. We analyze the dark current of the device and determine that reducing recombination in the depletion region, which can be achieved by reducing the threading dislocation density and optimizing the device doping density, will improve the device performance. The CGB and device layers, comprising ∼8 μm of thickness, are grown in under 10 min, highlighting the ability of D-HVPE to produce high-quality metamorphic devices of all types with the potential for dramatically higher throughput compared to present technology.
Hybrid memory characteristics of NbOx threshold switching devices
Authors: Lee Sangmin , Hwang Hyunsang , Woo Jiyong
Published: August 2021

By exploiting NbOx, we demonstrate its hybrid memory characteristics, indicating that resistive switching is unified with selector behavior. First, we identify that the 50-nm-thick amorphous NbOx inherently shows volatile threshold switching (TS). To enable memory switching (MS) in NbOx, device environments are configured that can supply oxygen vacancies or cations constituting a conductive filament (CF). In the Al/NbOx/TiN stack, oxygen vacancies can be internally generated from an interfacial oxide layer formed by the chemical reaction between a highly reactive Al electrode and NbOx, which is confirmed via multiple physical analyses. When the effect of the extrinsic vacancies becomes comparable to the intrinsic properties of the NbOx, the hybrid memory characteristics are observed. While the TS prevents leakage current, the MS is driven by oxygen vacancy CF, allowing multilevel cell operation. Furthermore, hybrid switching can be obtained using the Cu/NbOx/TiN stack. However, the effect of a Cu CF is dominant, because the Cu electrode can externally provide ions infinitely in this case; therefore, hybrid memory behavior is achieved after MS is performed.
Substrate impact on the thickness dependence of vibrational and optical properties of large area MoS2 produced by gold-assisted exfoliation
Authors: Panasci S. E. , Schilirò E. , Migliore F. , Cannas M. , Gelardi F. M. , Roccaforte F. , Giannazzo F. , Agnello S.
Published: August 2021

The gold-assisted exfoliation is a very effective method to produce large-area (cm2-scale) membranes of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) for electronics. However, the strong MoS2/Au interaction, beneficial for the exfoliation process, has a strong impact on the vibrational and light emission properties of MoS2. Here, we report an atomic force microscopy, micro-Raman, and micro-photoluminescence (μ-PL) investigation of 2H-MoS2 with variable thickness exfoliated on Au and subsequently transferred on an Al2O3/Si substrate. The E2g–A1g vibrational mode separation Δω (typically used to estimate MoS2 thickness) exhibits an anomalous large value (Δω ≈ 21.2 cm−1) for monolayer (1L) MoS2 on Au as compared to the typical one (Δω ≈ 18.5 cm−1) measured on 1L MoS2 on Al2O3. Such substrate-related differences, explained in terms of tensile strain and p-type doping arising from the MoS2/Au interaction, were found to gradually decrease while increasing the number of MoS2 layers. Furthermore, μ-PL spectra for 1L MoS2 on Au exhibit a strong quenching and an overall redshift of the main emission peak at 1.79 eV, compared to the 1.84 eV peak for 1L MoS2 on Al2O3. After PL spectra deconvolution, such redshift was explained in terms of a higher trion/exciton intensity ratio, probably due to the higher polarizability of the metal substrate, as well as to the smaller equilibrium distance at the MoS2/Au interface.
Variable-resistance materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Beletskii E. V. , Alekseeva E. V. , Levin O. V.
Published: August 2021

The review focuses on variable-conductivity materials used to protect lithium-ion batteries from ignition. Examples of emergency situations arising in the operation of such batteries are given and their causes are considered. Thermal runaway that results in ignition of a lithium-ion battery and the chemical reactions accompanying this process are discussed. Internal battery protection using variable-resistance temperature- or voltage-sensitive components is described. Various approaches to the prevention of thermal runaway by modifying a battery with thermo- and voltage-resistive materials are summarized and analyzed. The advantages and drawbacks of various types of materials of this kind are demonstrated. Particular attention is paid to the practical significance of the creation and application of protective variable-resistance materials and approaches to the design of this kind of materials.
 The bibliography includes 165 references.
Assessing the origins of the European Plagues following the Black Death: A synthesis of genomic, historical, and ecological information
Authors: Bramanti Barbara , Wu Yarong , Yang Ruifu , Cui Yujun , Stenseth Nils Chr.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Over the last few years, there has been a great deal of scientific debate regarding whether the plague bacterium,Yersinia pestis, spread from a Western European reservoir during the second plague pandemic, or if it repeatedly came to Europe from Asia. Here, we make a synthesis of the available evidence, including genomes of ancient DNA and historical, archeological, and ecological information. We conclude that the bacterium most likely came to Europe from Asia several times during the second plague pandemic.
Monitoring work and training load in military settings – what's in the toolbox?
Authors: Michael Scott W. , Siddall Andrew G. , O'Leary Thomas J. , Groeller Herbert , Sampson John A. , Blacker Sam D. , Drain Jace R.
Published: August 2021

Military personnel are required to complete physically demanding tasks when performing work and training, which may be quantified through the physical stress imposed (external load) or the resultant physiological strain (internal load). The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the techniques used to monitor work and training load in military settings, summarise key findings, and discuss important practical, analytical, and conceptual considerations. Most investigations have focused upon measuring external and internal load in military training environments; however, limited data exist in operational settings. Accelerometry has been the primary tool used to estimate external load, with heart rate commonly used to quantify internal load. Supplemental to heart rate, psychophysiological and biochemical measures have also been investigated to elucidate aspects of internal load. Broadly, investigations have revealed that military training requires personnel to perform relatively large volumes of physical activity (e.g. averaging ∼15,000 steps·day−1) of typically low‐moderate intensity activity (<6 MET), although considerable temporal and inter‐individual variability is observed from these gross mean estimates. There are limitations associated with these measures and, at best, estimates of external and internal load can only be inferred. These limitations are particularly pertinent for military tasks such as load carriage and manual material handling, which often involve complex activities performed individually or in teams, in a range of operational environments, with multiple layers of protection, over a protracted duration. Comprehensively quantifying external and internal loads during these functional activities poses substantial practical and analytical challenges.
Survival of Exomoons Around Exoplanets
Authors: Dobos V. , Charnoz S. , Pál A. , Roque-Bernard A. , Szabó Gy. M.
Published: August 2021

Despite numerous attempts, no exomoon has firmly been confirmed to date. New missions like CHEOPS aim to characterize previously detected exoplanets and potentially discover exomoons. In order to optimize search strategies, we need to determine those planets which are the most likely to host moons. We investigate the tidal evolution of hypothetical moon orbits in systems consisting of a star, one planet, and one test moon. We study a few specific cases with ten billion years integration time where the evolution of moon orbits follows one of these three scenarios: (1) “locking,” in which the moon has a stable orbit on a long timescale (≳109 yr); (2) “escape scenario” where the moon leaves the planet’s gravitational domain; and (3) “disruption scenario,” in which the moon migrates inwards until it reaches the Roche lobe and becomes disrupted by strong tidal forces. Applying the model to real cases from an exoplanet catalog, we study the long-term stability of moon orbits around known exoplanets. We calculate the survival rate which is the fraction of the investigated cases when the moon survived around the planet for the full integration time (which is the age of the star, or if not known, then the age of the Sun). The most important factor determining the long-term survival of an exomoon is the orbital period of the planet. For the majority of the close-in planets (<10 days orbital periods) there is no stable orbit for moons. Between 10 and 300 days we find a transition in survival rate from about zero to 70%. Our results give a possible explanation for the lack of successful exomoon discoveries for close-in planets. Tidal instability causes moons to escape or being tidally disrupted around close-in planets which are mostly favored by current detection techniques.
Computer Vision and Image Processing the Challenges and Opportunities for new technologies approach: A paper review
Authors: Hussien Reem M. , Al-Jubouri Karrar Q. , Gburi Mohaimen Al , Hussein Qahtan Al Gburi , Duaa Jaafar Al Hamami
Published: August 2021

Digital image processing has numerous applications in many sectors of the world. It expands from initial information registration into methods and thoughts combining pattern recognition, computer vision, and machine learning. The wide utilization has pulled in many researchers to integrate with a range of related specializations. This work gives a study of the latest development and theoretical ideas clarifying an improvement of computer vision particularly with pattern recognition and image processing, utilizing various regions of their field implementation. Digital image processing causes researchers to analyze images to get important data and comprehend information. It utilized a technique of multi-range implementation and huge information analysis. This work aims to focus on the latest studies related to image processing, pattern recognition, and computer vision. In this paper, Computer vision standard has been categorized into groups. For example, pattern recognition, image processing, and AI. Additionally, we give a short clarification of the forward-thinking data about the methods and their realization. This survey is restricted to computer vision, and more research can include detecting the conduct and properties of the object including people actions.
Effect of Cooling on Thermal Damage in Tissue Subjected to Laser Irradiation
Authors: Younis Sudad E. , Shibib Khalid Salem , Abduljabbar May A.
Published: August 2021

This work focuses on the finite element method (FEM) that has been used to study the effect of cooling on damage initialization in skin subjected to CO2 laser. The bio-heat equation was used to simulate the temperature distribution in a skin. The result of this work was compared with the analytical solution of the same problem with good nearby results. From the result of this work, it was observed that increasing the convection heat transfer coefficient of the skin could increase the possible time required to cause damage during subjected the tissue to the laser. Also, it was found that the decrease in the environmental temp. can cause the same effect on the initialization of damage. This observation is very useful in treating skin through various laser medical procedures to avoid thermal damage.
Proportioning of green mortar by using different cementitious materials
Authors: Dawood Eethar Thanon , Mizaal Ansam Meshaal
Published: August 2021

Pozzolanic materials are used extensively at the present time due to their availability in large quantities, especially materials that are considered waste from construction works and industrial waste. In this research, various pozzolanic materials were used, such as glass powder; ceramic powder, and brick powder, seven mortar mixes (M, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5 and M6). This research has been prepared and focuses on the impact of using these materials in mortars as cement replacement. M1, M2, M3 The cement was replaced as 30, 35, 40% by glass powder and ceramic powder (10% glass with 20, 25 and 30% ceramic powder) by weight of cement. M4, M5, M6 was replaced as 30, 35, 40% by glass powder and brick powder (10% glass with 20, 25, 30% brick powder) the cement by weight. The specimens were cast in a cube of 50 x 50 x 50 mm and the water curing regime was applied until the testing age. The fineness of the powder used in glass, ceramics and bricks is less than 45μm. Changes in compressive intensity for both samples have been examined. The optimal replacement that provided the better strength was found to be 40 percent replacement (10% glass with 30% brick powder).
Comparative Investigation on Properties of Various Local and Imported Terrazzo Tiles
Authors: Abdulhussain Sana Taha
Published: August 2021

The paper aims to study the properties of various local and imported terrazzo tiles manufactured by ten different factories. Five of the terrazzo tile samples are local while the others are imported from Turkey and Iran. Thirty samples have been tested for each factory with total number of 300 tiles. Samples of tiles have been randomly selected from local market and then tested according to the testing methods of terrazzo tiles and ordinary tiles (31, 1989) and compared with Iraqi specification (1042, 1984). Tests result showed that all local samples conform to the specification while imported samples do not conform to Iraqi specification. The Turkish samples were out of tolerances in thickness (-15, -13 mm) for both samples. The Iranian samples were out of limits in total absorption test (10.4, 11.6 %) for both sample. The higher modulus of rupture was 7.22 MPa in a Turkish sample. The best abrasion resistance was 1.87 mm average thickness reduction in an Iranian sample. The best result of SO3 content was 0.274% in local sample Kamalyah factory. Over all, according to the adopted specification all local samples can be classified as conformable to specification limits.