bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of phosphorus-doped MnxCd1−xS with boosted photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from pure water
Authors: Meng Xianyu , Shi Lei , Dai Xueya , Zhang Shuo , Liu Gang , Qi Wei
Published: November 2021

Phosphorus-doped Mn0.25Cd0.75S was developed for efficient pure water splitting for hydrogen evolution without any sacrificial agents.
A high-performance photoelectrochemical sensor for the specific detection of H2O2 and glucose based on an organic conjugated microporous polymer
Authors: Sun Qiqi , Liu Qi , Gao Wen , Xing Chuanwang , Shen Jingshun , Liu Xue , Kong Xia , Li Xiyou , Zhang Yuexing , Chen Yanli
Published: November 2021

A photoelectrochemical sensor for H2O2 and glucose with remarkable specificity is developed based on a unique periodic D–A type PorPc-CMP hollow tube.
Hypercrosslinking chiral Brønsted acids into porous organic polymers for efficient heterogeneous asymmetric organosynthesis
Authors: Zhang Yuwei , Zhang Zhenwei , Ma Si , Jia Ji , Xia Hong , Liu Xiaoming
Published: November 2021

Hypercrosslinking chiral Brønsted acids into porous polymers was readily achieved, and display excellent activity, enantioselectivity and recyclability for asymmetric transfer hydrogenation.
UV curable stimuli-responsive coatings with antifogging and oil-repellent performances
Authors: Xu Jingyang , Lu Pengpeng , Wang Li , Fan Yong , Tian Weijun , Xu Jianing , Zhao Jie , Ren Luquan , Ming Weihua
Published: November 2021

A stimuli-responsive antifogging/oil-repellent coating with a delicate balance between hydrophilic and oleophobic components was prepared via a UV-assisted cross-linking method.
Synthesis and characterization of a novel pH-responsive drug-releasing nanocomposite hydrogel for skin cancer therapy and wound healing
Authors: Gonsalves Andrea , Tambe Pranjali , Le Duong , Thakore Dheeraj , Wadajkar Aniket S. , Yang Jian , Nguyen Kytai T. , Menon Jyothi U.
Published: November 2021

Inadequate excision of skin cancer can lead to local recurrence. A novel in situ-forming nanocomposite hydrogel with antimicrobial properties is reported for wound healing and localized pH-responsive treatment against skin cancer recurrence.
Cocrystal engineering for constructing two-photon absorption materials by controllable intermolecular interactions
Authors: Zhang Yihan , Wu Hongnan , Wang Yuan , Sun Lingjie , Li Shuyu , Ren Yiwen , Sun Yajing , Yang Fangxu , Zhang Xiaotao , Hu Wenping
Published: November 2021

The intermolecular interactions of cocrystals can be controlled via selecting the donors and acceptors, and then the TPA properties can be selectively adjusted, promoting the development of TPA materials prepared via cocrystal engineering.
Enhanced photomultiplication of organic photodetectors via phosphorescent material incorporation
Authors: Wang Jian , Liu Ming , Chen Jun , Son Jae Hoon , Jeong Sang Young , Xiao Jing , Chen Liang , Yang Kaixuan , Zhao Zijin , Woo Han Young , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhang Fujun
Published: November 2021

The key performance parameters of PM-OPDs were markedly enhanced by introducing the phosphorescent material FIrpic in the active layer, and the corresponding device exhibited high-quality imaging by utilizing imaging systems without current preamplifiers.
Planning for Implementation Science in Clinical Practice Research: An Augmentative and Alternative Communication Example
Authors: Binger Cathy , Douglas Natalie , Kent-Walsh Jennifer
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

Most evidence-based clinical research findings in communication sciences and disorders never achieve full implementation by practicing clinicians. To address this almost universal problem, this tutorial focuses on the initial planning steps of including implementation methodologies as part of clinical practice research programs. Integrating the principles and methodologies of implementation science can shift the current reality, leading to better uptake of evidence-based interventions.

Method:

A step-by-step approach to integrating implementation science into new or existing research projects is provided, including the construction of a logic model, the selection of an implementation framework, and the selection of research methodologies. A detailed example of an augmentative and alternative communication research program is provided to illustrate the process.

Conclusions:

Readily available online tools can help researchers start the process of integrating implementation science into clinical practice research, and existing frameworks can assist with developing and guiding research programs to ensure maximal impact. If the ultimate goal is to improve the daily lives of individuals with communication disorders through the use of evidence-based practices, clinical practice researchers must integrate these approaches into their research programs.
Comparison of Maternal Serum Levels and Placental mRNA Levels of Dickkopf-1 in Preeclamptic and Normal Pregnant Women at Delivery
Authors: Kasoha Mariz , Takacs Zoltan , Fackiner Lena , Gerlinger Christoph , Sklavounos Panagiotis , Radosa Julia , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Hamza Amr
Published: November 2021

Background Preeclampsia remains a major cause of perinatal and maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is known to be critically involved in placenta development processes. Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a key regulator of this transduction pathway. The aim of this study is to compare maternal serum DKK1 levels and placental mRNA levels of DKK1 and β-catenin in preeclamptic and normal pregnant women at delivery.

Methods The present study included 30 women with preeclampsia and 30 women with normal pregnancy. Maternal serum DKK1 levels were measured by ELISA. Placental mRNA levels of DKK1 and β-catenin were detected using RT-PCR.

Results Decreased maternal serum DKK1 levels were associated with worse maternal and fetal complications including HELLP syndrome, determination of one or more pathological symptom and IUGR diagnosis. No significant difference in maternal serum DKK1 levels was reported between preeclamptic women and women with normal pregnancy. Placental mRNA DKK1 levels were lower in preeclamptic women compared with normal pregnant women. Placental mRNA β-catenin levels showed no significant difference between two groups.

Conclusions Our findings reported the aberrant placental mRNA DKK1 levels in patients with preeclampsia. In addition, worse preeclampsia features were associated with decreased maternal serum DKK1 levels. Hence, aberrant Wnt/β-catenin signaling might present a plausible mechanism in preeclampsia pathogenicity. Dysregulated expression of DKK1 at gene level in the placenta but not at protein level in the maternal serum might confirm the notion that preeclampsia is a type of placenta-derived disease.
The EFSUMB Guidelines and Recommendations for Musculoskeletal Ultrasound – Part II: Joint Pathologies, Pediatric Applications, and Guided Procedures
Authors: Naredo Esperanza , Rodriguez-Garcia Sebastián C. , Terslev Lene , Martinoli Carlo , Klauser Andrea , Hartung Wolfgang , Hammer Hilde B. , Cantisani Vito , Zaottini Federico , Vlad Violeta , Uson Jacqueline , Todorov Plamen , Tesch Christian , Sudoł-Szopińska Iwona , Simoni Paolo , Serban Oana , Sconfienza Luca Maria , Sala-Blanch Xavier , Plagou Athena , Picasso Riccardo , Özçakar Levent , Najm Aurelie , Möller Ingrid , Micu Mihaela , Mendoza-Cembranos Dolores , Mandl Peter , Malattia Clara , Lenghel Manuela , Kessler Jens , Iohom Gabriella , de la Fuente Javier , DʼAgostino Maria Antonietta , Collado Paz , Bueno Angel , Bong David , Alfageme Fernando , Bilous Diana , Gutiu Roxana , Marian Anamaria , Pelea Michael , Fodor Daniela
Published: November 2021

The second part of the Guidelines and Recommendations for Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSUS), produced under the auspices of EFSUMB, following the same methodology as for Part 1, provides information and recommendations on the use of this imaging modality for joint pathology, pediatric applications, and musculoskeletal ultrasound-guided procedures. Clinical application, practical points, limitations, and artifacts are described and discussed for every joint or procedure. The document is intended to guide clinical users in their daily practice.
New Nasopharyngeal Flap for Posterior Skull-base Reconstruction: The Upper-Tongue Flap
Authors: Pezato Rogério , Dassi Camila , Stamm Aldo Cassol , Voegels Richard Louis
Published: November 2021

Introduction Reconstructions of clival resection are still challenging, and additional reconstructive methods may be necessary to achieve full coverage of the skull-base defect in patients with middle- and lower-clivus disease.

Objective To describe a new nasopharyngeal flap for the middle and lower clivus.

Methods Using nasal endoscopy in a cadaver dissection, we demonstrated a new nasopharygeal flap to cover the lower and middle clival resection.

Results We described a new nasopharyngeal flap capable of covering the lower and middle portion of the clivus.

Discussion The new nasopharyngeal flap, called the upper-tongue flap, is particularly adequate as an alternative for the reconstruction of middle and lower clivus defects, and it is better used in association with a nasalseptal flap in cases in which the nasalseptal flap alone does not provide enough mucosal coverage.

Conclusion The new nasopharyngeal flap can be used in the reconstruction of clival resection.
Treatment Results for Stage III Laryngeal Cancer: Analysis of a Populational Database Using Propensity Scores
Authors: Köhler Hugo Fontan , Carvalho Genival Barbosa de , Kowalski Luiz Paulo
Published: November 2021

Introduction Treatment of stage III laryngeal cancer suffered a major paradigm change with surgery being substituted by radiation therapy with chemotherapy.

Objective To evaluate the oncological outcome of different treatment modalities for stage III laryngeal cancer using a population database.

Methods A population database representing patients treated in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, was analyzed. Demographic, clinical and treatment variables were included, and the outcomes of interest were disease-specific and overall survival. Propensity score with nearest neighbor matching was used to compensate for imbalances in treatment groups.

Results We retrieved data from 1,804 patients. In multivariate analysis, age, female gender, payment source, clinical N stage (cN) stages, and treatment modality were significant for disease-specific and overall survival. Patients submitted to surgery treatment had a significantly better disease-specific (p < 0.001) and overall survival (p < 0.001) compared with chemoradiation. Propensity score matching was based on cN stage, gender, age, topography, and payment modality, and allowed the pairing of 685 patients from each treatment modality. There was a significant difference in disease-specific survival favoring surgery-based treatment (p = 0.017).

Conclusion The treatment choice has a significant impact on survival in patients with stage III laryngeal cancer with surgery-based treatment being superior to chemoradiotherapy (CRT).
Frequency-Following Response and Auditory Behavior in Children with Prenatal Exposure to the Zika Virus
Authors: Hora Laís Cristine Delgado da , Muniz Lilian Ferreira , Griz Silvana Maria Sobral , Silva Jéssica Dayane da , Britto Diana Babini Lapa de Albuquerque , Venâncio Leonardo Gleygson Angelo , Filho Demócrito de Barros Miranda , Leal Mariana de Carvalho
Published: November 2021

Introduction Prenatal exposure to the Zika virus can impair neurodevelopment and cause auditory damage.

Objective To analyze the frequency-following response (FFR) and the auditory behavior (with the LittlEars
® questionnaire) of children with and without prenatal exposure to Zika virus infection.

Methods A total of 30 children participated in the present study, divided into 3 groups: 10 children with microcephaly and prenatal exposure to the Zika virus; 10 normocephalic children with prenatal exposure to the Zika virus; and 10 children with no evidence of prenatal exposure to the virus. The FFR test was performed with the /da/ syllable. The LittlEars
® questionnaire was used with parents/guardians.

Results For the FFR measurements, there was no difference between the groups. The children with exposure to the Zika virus presented a final score in the questionnaire below what is expected from children with normal hearing. A significant difference was observed for the final, semantic, and expressive scores between the group with microcephaly and the other groups. A strong negative correlation was seen between the LittlEars
® questionnaire final score and the FFR measurements for the group with microcephaly when compared with the other groups.

Conclusion Children exposed to the Zika virus, with and without microcephaly, presented FFR patterns similar to what was seen in children with no evidence of virus exposure. However, they showed signs of immature auditory behavior, suggesting auditory development delay.
DIGEST Scale Predictis More Quality of Life Than PAS: The Residue Influence on Supracricoid Laryngectomy
Authors: Freitas Andressa Silva de , Zica Guilherme Maia , Salles Mariana , Silva Ana Catarina Alves e , Silva Thiago Huaytalla , Dias Fernando Luiz , Santos Izabella Costa
Published: November 2021

Introduction Supracricoid laryngectomy (SCL CHEP) removes ∼ 70% of the larynx, resulting in structural rearrangement and modification of the swallowing mechanism, promoting chronic dysphagia. One of the consequences of this new physiology is the formation of pharyngeal residues that can increase the possibility of aspiration. The formation of residues after SCL CHEP, its functional consequences, and its influence on quality of life (QOL) is still poorly described in the literature.

Objective To investigate and compare the association between self-reported QoL and objective assessments of swallowing function in patients undergoing SCL CHEP.

Methods A cross-sectional study was performed from 2018 to 2020 in a reference service for head and neck surgery in Brazil. A total of 860 swallowing videofluoroscopy images were evaluated using the Penetration and Aspiration Scale (PAS) and Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST).

Results In a group of 86 patients, there was a significant relationship between oncological staging and the global (p < 0.001) and total (p = 0.002) QoL domains. There was a negative correlation between the DIGEST scale and the emotional domain of the QoL protocol (p = 0.045). The swallowing function proved to be relevant for QoL.

Conclusion The PAS scale did not show any correlation with QoL. The functional performance of swallowing according to the DIGEST scale was coherent with the QOL scores. It is suggested that the residue may be a more relevant aspect for QoL than the aspiration, making DIGEST a promising tool in the assessment of dysphagic patients.
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding in Adolescent: Normal or a Sign of an Underlying Disease?
Authors: Luiro Kaisu , Holopainen Elina
Published: November 2021

Heavy, and often irregular, menstrual bleeding (HMB) is a common gynecologic complaint among adolescents. During the first few post-menarcheal years, anovulatory cycles related to immaturity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis are the most common etiology for abnormal uterine bleeding and should be considered as a part of normal pubertal development rather than a disease. If an already regular menstrual cycle becomes irregular, secondary causes of anovulation should be ruled out. Inherited and acquired bleeding disorders, such as von Willebrand disease, and quantitative and qualitative abnormalities of platelets are relatively common findings in adolescents with HMB from menarche. History of excessive bleeding or a diagnosed bleeding disorder in the family supports this etiology, warranting specialized laboratory testing. First-line treatment of HMB among adolescents is medical management with hormonal therapy or nonhormonal options. Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device is an effective tool also for all adolescents with menstrual needs.
Tinnitus and Otosclerosis: An Exploratory Study about the Prevalence, Features and Impact in Daily Life
Authors: Lima Antonio Fontes , Moreira Filipa Carvalho , Costa Isabel Esteves , Azevedo Catia , Mar Fernando , Dias Luis
Published: November 2021

Introduction Tinnitus is experienced by a significant part of the patients suffering from otosclerosis.

Objective To assess the prevalence of tinnitus in otosclerosis, its main features, and the impact on the daily life.

Methods Patients diagnosed with otosclerosis in 2019 in a tertiary hospital were enrolled in the study. Demographic data were retrieved and, besides a regular audiometric evaluation, the patients underwent acuphenometry to assess the psychoacoustic measurements (pitch and loudness), and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI).

Results In total, 66 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with a female predominance (63.6%; n = 42), and a mean age of 48.7 years. The mean air-bone gap was of 26.3 dB. A total of 72.7% complained of tinnitus; it was mostly unilateral, identified in the low frequencies, namely 500 Hz, with median loudness of 7.5 dB. The median score on the THI score was of 37; most patients had a mild handicap (33.3%, n = 16), followed by those with a severe handicap (22.9%; n = 11). The female gender had a statistically significant association with the presence of tinnitus. The THI scores were higher in middle-aged patients (age groups: 40 to 49 and 50 to 59 years), which was statistically significant. No correlation was found between audiometry results and the prevalence of tinnitus or score on the THI. On the other hand, high-pitched tinnitus, compared to low pitched-tinnitus, was associated with larger air-bone gaps.

Conclusion The prevalence of tinnitus in our population was in line with the prevalences reported in the literature. It caused a catastrophic handicap in 22.9% of the patients. High-pitched tinnitus was associated with higher handicap. Nonetheless, the existence of tinnitus and its severity were not associated with the degree of hearing loss.
Topology characteristic analysis of vehicular ad hoc network based on time-varying complex network
Authors: Zhang Hong , Wei Li
Published: November 2021

The dynamic network topology of the Vehicular Ad Hoc Network (VANET) directly affects network performances. The VanetMobiSim software was used to study the dynamic topology of VANET in detail. A time-varying model of VANET was built. First, the information transmission model of VANET was established on the basis of the time-varying network theory. The evolution of VANET characteristic parameters in a time-varying process was stimulated by using the information transmission time τ and the maximum tolerated delay time δ accessibility graph. Then, we perform mathematical analysis of the relations of (τ, δ) to the out-degrees, average packet accessibility, and asymmetry ratio. Finally, the relations of the node communication radius to the global efficiency and the average harmonic mean of the distances were analyzed. The results indicated that the time-varying accessibility graph made VANET information transmission more efficient; reducing the information transmission time τ or increasing the maximum tolerated delay time δ tends to bring out the improving temporal connectivity of the whole network, thus improving the efficiency of packet transmission.
Light Sheet Microscopy and Imaging
Authors: Mondal Partha Pratim
Published: November 2021

Light Sheet Microscopy and Imaging introduces the fundamentals and important advancements at the frontiers of optical physics and applied sciences. It presents coherent, in-depth explanations of different variants of light sheet microscopes beginning from the basics of light. This emerging technology has an impact on a range of disciplines from nanophysics (nanolithography) to biophysics (imaging, cell biology, developmental biology, and biotechniques) and is destined to influence every field of science and engineering.

This book provides an in-depth study of:Fundamentals of light sheet microscopy and important advancements in the technologyPrinciples of light sheet physics, optical imaging, computational techniques, and experimental design, with applications from applied physics to biological imagingInsights into a wide range of light sheet microscopy techniques, optical setups, and imaging science

Light Sheet Microscopy and Imaging is an excellent resource for research scientists in optical microscopy and biomedical imaging, and for students studying imaging optics, biomedical engineering, light sheet microscopy, applied physics, and their applications.
Soil water deficit effects on soil inorganic nitrogen in alternate-furrow flood irrigated Australian cotton production systems
Authors: Macdonald Ben C. T. , Schwenke Graeme D. , McPherson Annabelle , Mercer Clarence , Baird Jonathan , Nachimuthu Gunasekhar
Published: November 2021

Context Predicting the nitrogen (N) mineralisation from soil organic matter is a key aid to fertiliser decision-making and improving the N fertiliser use efficiency of a crop. Aims and methods Field experiments were conducted to assess the amount of inorganic N derived from soil organic matter mineralisation over two seasons (2017–2018 and 2018–2019) across treatments differing in irrigation frequency and amount. During both seasons, the plant line soil in each treatment was sequentially sampled at each irrigation event. Key results There was an effect of the soil water deficit on the measured accumulated soil inorganic N derived from mineralisation in both measurement years. It was observed that soil inorganic N accumulated in the plant line rather than in other hillside and furrow positions for all soil moisture deficit treatments in both years. In 2017–2018, N accumulated in the plant was significantly greater than the measured accumulated inorganic N (0–300 mm). Conclusions and implications The sequential soil sampling approach was challenging in irrigated systems and we propose a hybrid measurement of pre-season available soil N and/or plant N uptake in nil N fertiliser plots as a means of estimating N derived from soil organic matter mineralisation.
Storage of soil samples leads to over-representation of the contribution of nitrate to plant-available nitrogen
Authors: Bailey Taleta , Robinson Nicole , Farrell Mark , Macdonald Ben , Weaver Tim , Antille Diogenes L. , Chin Aidan , Brackin Richard
Published: November 2021

Delays between soil sampling and processing for analysis are common in both research and agronomy, but the effects of storage conditions on measurements of plant-available nitrogen (N) are rarely considered. With increasing recognition of organic N pools in soils, such as amino acids and peptides, it is necessary to determine how sample handling impacts the outcomes of soil N quantification. In this study, we used in situ microdialysis to approximate plant availability of amino acids, ammonium and nitrate, then compared to both potassium chloride (KCl) extract and microdialysis samples taken from excavated soil samples when in the field, after 24 h refrigerated storage, and after storage for 1 month, either refrigerated or air-dried. Nitrate levels measured with microdialysis and KCl extracts increased immediately after soil sampling and continued to accumulate in the next day and 1 month stored samples. Amino acid and ammonium measurements remained more constant; however, microdialysis showed a decline in amino acid-N between in situ and next day samples. The proportional representation of N pools in the in-field extracts was most similar to in situ microdialysis. Soil samples should be processed for N analysis as close to sampling as possible, and the storage duration and conditions reported. The influence of storage must be considered in interpreting soil test results.
Benefits from enhanced-efficiency nitrogen fertilisers in rainfed temperate pastures are seasonally driven
Authors: Suter Helen , Lam Shu Kee , Walker Charles , Chen Deli
Published: November 2021

Context Enhanced-efficiency nitrogen (N) fertilisers (EEFs) can reduce N loss, but productivity and environmental benefits vary. A field experiment on rainfed ryegrass dominant pastures in southern Australia examined the effect of EEFs combined with reduced N rate on agronomic N efficiency (AE) (additional biomass per unit N applied) and apparent NUE (ApNUE) (additional plant N uptake per unit N applied) relative to urea. Methods EEFs examined were granular urea coated with (i) urease inhibitor N-(n-butyl)thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT), (ii) nitrification inhibitor 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) or (iii) polymer coating (PCU). Nitrogen was applied five times over 9 months at 0–84 kg N ha−1 per application. Key results AE varied with season from –0.5 to 22.3 kg DM kg N−1 in late (dry conditions) and early spring (ideal conditions), respectively. AE of PCU was significantly lower than urea for the first harvest due to slow N release. Using DMPP led to higher AE than equivalent urea rates in August (at 34 and 50 kg N ha−1) and early October (34 kg N ha−1). At the lowest rate (17 kg N ha−1), NBPT generally led to higher AE than at higher N rates. Using NBPT at 17 kg N ha−1 led to higher AE than urea at the same rate in July, August and February. The ApNUE ranged from 3.6% (summer) to 68% (early spring), and decreased with increasing N rate. Using DMPP did not significantly change cumulative ApNUE (entire experiment) (34%) due to limited leaching and denitrifying conditions. Cumulative ApNUE was lowest with PCU (23%) due to initial slow N release. Conclusion Seasonal variations in pasture responses to fertiliser N affected the efficiency outcomes from using EEFs. Implications Benefits in ApNUE and AE from using EEFs rely on their seasonal strategic use combined with reduced N inputs. The initial slow release of N from the PCU could be overcome by strategies such as combining the PCU with uncoated urea, to improve ApNUE.
Dynamic climate clubs: On the effectiveness of incentives in global climate agreements
Authors: Nordhaus William
Published: November 2021

Significance

Global agreements on climate change date back to the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, yet little substantial coordinated abatement has taken place. Free riding is a major hurdle in the solution of global externalities and is at the heart of the international failures to deal with climate change. The present analysis presents a dynamic model of a climate club and shows that club incentives through tariff penalties and rapid decarbonizing technological change can achieve the international objectives of governments.
A layperson encounter, on the “modified” RNA world
Authors: Pederson Thoru
Published: November 2021

A chance conversation with a nonscientist about the mRNA-COVID vaccines, conveyed here, reminded the author of our enduring responsibility to accurately portray science to the public.
Using residual heat maps to visualise Benford’s multi-digit law
Authors: Hull Benjamin , Long Alexander , Hughes Ifan G
Published: November 2021

It has been known for more than a century that, counter to one’s intuition, the frequency of occurrence of the first significant digit in a very large number of numerical data sets is nonuniformly distributed. This result is encapsulated in Benford’s law, which states that the first (and higher) digits follow a logarithmic distribution. An interesting consequence of the counter intuitive nature of Benford’s law is that manipulation of data sets can lead to a change in compliance with the expected distribution—an insight that is exploited in forensic accountancy and financial fraud. In this investigation we have applied a Benford analysis to the distribution of price paid data for house prices in England and Wales pre and post-2014. A residual heat map analysis offers a visually attractive method for identifying interesting features, and two distinct patterns of human intervention are identified: (i) selling property at values just beneath a tax threshold, and (ii) psychological pricing, with a particular bias for the final digit to be 0 or 5. There was a change in legislation in 2014 to soften tax thresholds, and the influence of this change on house price paid data was clearly evident.
Scanning tunneling spectroscopy of subsurface Ag and Ge impurities in copper
Authors: Kotzott Thomas , Bouhassoune Mohammed , Prüser Henning , Weismann Alexander , Lounis Samir , Wenderoth Martin
Published: November 2021

We investigate single Ge and Ag impurities buried below a Cu(100) surface using low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. The interference patterns in the local density of states are surface scattering signatures of the bulk impurities, which result from 3D Friedel oscillations and the electron focusing effect. Comparing the isoelectronic d scatterer Ag and the sp scatterer Ge allows to distinguish contributions from impurity scattering and the host. Energy-independent effective scattering phase shifts are extracted using a plane wave tight-binding model and reveal similar values for both species. A comparison with ab initio calculations suggests incoherent sp scattering processes at the Ge impurity. As both scatterers are spectrally homogeneous, scanning tunneling spectroscopy of the interference patterns yields real-space signatures of the bulk electronic structure. We find a kink around zero bias for both species that we assign to a renormalization of the band structure due to many-body effects, which can be described with a Debye self-energy and a surprisingly high electron–phonon coupling parameter λ. We propose that this might originate from bulk propagation in the vicinity of the surface.
Multilayering BZO nanocolumns with different defect densities for YBCO high field applications
Authors: Aye Moe M , Rivasto Elmeri , Khan Mukarram Z , Rijckaert H , Palonen H , Huhtinen H , Van Driessche Isabel , Paturi P
Published: November 2021

The multilayer structures of alternating superconducting YBCO films doped with different BZO nanocolumn densities were utilized. We show that using 50 nm thick layers increases J
c in the whole angular range by maximum 40% as compared with 200 nm single layer BZO-doped or multilayers with smaller thickness. Multilayering is found to be most effective at high magnetic fields and temperatures. These results indicate that demonstrated multilayer structures are extremely attractive for various electrical power applications in the foreseeable future. The experimental outcomes are thoroughly discussed with the mechanisms of crystalline quality and flux pinning in YBCO with different BZO nanorod densities multilayers of varying thicknesses.
Changes in frequency-dependent dielectric features of monolayer graphene/silicon structure due to gamma irradiation
Authors: Seven Elanur , Öz Orhan Elif , Bilge Ocak Sema
Published: November 2021

The present work intends to discover the influences of 60Co gamma (γ) ray-irradiation on frequency-dependent dielectric features of Graphene/Silicon Schottky diode with an insulator layer. Graphene (Gr) nanosheets have been synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to build a Gr-based p-type Si Schottky diode. The diode was irradiated at 30 kGy and 60 kGy doses. The study has been performed at 300 K in the voltage range −6 V to +6 V at dark conditions both at 400 kHz low-frequency and 900 kHz high-frequency. The experimental results showed that dielectric features of the structure are dependent on the radiation dose and applied voltage and to be a strong function of frequency.
Diphoton production rate in relativistic nuclear collisions
Authors: Kumar Yogesh , Singh S S , Jain Poonam
Published: November 2021

In this study, we have made an effort to reveal some information about the space-time evolution of quark gluon plasma (QGP). We deal with one of the important signature of quark gluon plasma from the analysis of the experimental results on electromagnetic probes which are measured at relativistic heavy-ion collider (RHIC) and large hadron collider (LHC). Electromagnetic radiations as diphotons emitted from hot and dense matter are investigated using a phenomenological model with quasiparticle approach at temperatures above critical temperature. In this, we use thermodynamically consistent quasiparticle model composed of quarks and gluons. Due to interactions among the quarks, mass of these particles is generated in highly dense and hot matter of QGP. The mass of these particles is temperature dependent and it is found that the model works well at temperatures above the critical temperature. Thus, this work is carried out using a phenomenological model in heavy-ion collisions in the limit of high temperature and zero chemical potential. The rate of diphoton production is calculated by suitably fitted parametrization factors in quark mass. We found an appreciable enhancement using thermal quark mass as compared to dynamical quark mass in the current results of two photon production rate. The results are compared with earlier estimated diphoton production rates from QGP and hadronic matter. Our results are therefore enhanced in comparison to the other theoretical results. The estimation of diphoton emission anticipates useful insights in the relevant range of mass. So these insights on diphotons can be advantageous tool for spectroscopy and thermometry in high energy heavy-ion collisions at RHIC and LHC.
Emergence of flexible technology in developing advanced systems for post-stroke rehabilitation: a comprehensive review
Authors: Khan Muhammad Ahmed , Saibene Matteo , Das Rig , Brunner Iris , Puthusserypady Sadasivan
Published: November 2021

Objective. Stroke is one of the most common neural disorders, which causes physical disabilities and motor impairments among its survivors. Several technologies have been developed for providing stroke rehabilitation and to assist the survivors in performing their daily life activities. Currently, the use of flexible technology (FT) for stroke rehabilitation systems is on a rise that allows the development of more compact and lightweight wearable systems, which stroke survivors can easily use for long-term activities. Approach. For stroke applications, FT mainly includes the ‘flexible/stretchable electronics’, ‘e-textile (electronic textile)’ and ‘soft robotics’. Thus, a thorough literature review has been performed to report the practical implementation of FT for post-stroke application. Main results. In this review, the highlights of the advancement of FT in stroke rehabilitation systems are dealt with. Such systems mainly involve the ‘biosignal acquisition unit’, ‘rehabilitation devices’ and ‘assistive systems’. In terms of biosignals acquisition, electroencephalography and electromyography are comprehensively described. For rehabilitation/assistive systems, the application of functional electrical stimulation and robotics units (exoskeleton, orthosis, etc) have been explained. Significance. This is the first review article that compiles the different studies regarding FT based post-stroke systems. Furthermore, the technological advantages, limitations, and possible future implications are also discussed to help improve and advance the flexible systems for the betterment of the stroke community.
Design evaluation of microwave transmission properties of YBa2Cu3O7-based kinetic inductance detectors
Authors: Ariyoshi Seiichiro , Mikami Hikaru , Ebata Atsushi , Ohnishi Satoshi , Hizawa Takeshi , Tanaka Saburo , Nakajima Kensuke
Published: November 2021

We designed, fabricated, and characterized microwave transmission properties with rewound strip structures for YBa2Cu3O7 (YBCO)-based kinetic inductance detectors (KIDs). The superconducting rewound strip serves as a microwave resonator and as a broadband terahertz-wave antenna. To predict the microwave resonance characteristics before fabrication, the line-width (w) and space (s) dependence of the spiral resonators were analyzed using an electromagnetic simulator; the resonance frequency increased, and the quality factor decreased with increasing w and s from 10 to 40 μm. YBCO-based KID arrays with different w (10 and 40 μm) were fabricated on 10 mm-square MgO substrates, cooled to 3 K using a 4He refrigerator, and evaluated using a vector network analyzer to verify the result of the simulation experimentally. The measured resonance frequency ratio of 1.11 times (5.04 → 5.59 GHz) agreed with the simulated ones of 1.10 times (4.84 → 5.33 GHz) between w = 10 and 40 μm. The other resonance characteristics, such as transmission coefficient and quality factor, have a similar w dependence with the simulation.
Seshadri constants on abelian and bielliptic surfaces—potential values and lower bounds
Authors: Bauer Thomas , Farnik Łucja
Published: November 2021

In this note we contribute to the study of Seshadri constants on abelian and bielliptic surfaces. We specifically focus on bounds that hold on all such surfaces, depending only on the self-intersection of the ample line bundle under consideration. Our result improves previous bounds and it provides rational numbers as bounds, which are potential Seshadri constants.
The real cohomology of compact disconnected Lie groups
Authors: Brown Robert F.
Published: November 2021

Let G be a compact Lie group with identity component

G
0

{G_0}

and component group

Γ
=
G

/

G
0

\Gamma = G/{G_0}

. The homomorphism

χ
:
G
→

A
u
t
(

G
0

)

\chi :G \to {\operatorname {Aut(}}{G_0})

defined by

χ
(
g
)
(
x
)
=

g

−
1

x
g

\chi (g)(x) = {g^{ - 1}}xg

induces

χ
:
Γ
→

Aut

(
G
)

/

Int

(
G
)

\chi :\Gamma \to {\operatorname {Aut}}(G)/{\operatorname {Int}}(G)

. The problem of computing the real cohomology

H
∗

(
G
)

{H^\ast }(G)

is solved in the sense that, given

χ
\chi

, the decomposition of

G

\mathfrak {G}

—the Lie algebra of

G
0

{G_0}

, and a description of

d
χ

(
γ

)
e

∈

Aut

(

G

)

d\chi {(\gamma )_e} \in {\operatorname {Aut}}(\mathfrak {G})

, for each

γ
∈
Γ

\gamma \in \Gamma

, with respect to that decomposition, one can write down a complete description of

H
∗

(
G
)

{H^\ast }(G)

as a Hopf algebra.
Ultra-low contrast, complex left main coronary intervention case series using novel intravascular ultrasound technology
Authors: Patel Billal , Assaf Omar , Nabi Amjad , Wiper Andrew , More Ranjit , Abdelaziz Hesham K , Choudhury Tawfiq
Published: November 2021

Background

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) carries a high morbidity and mortality. Ultra-low contrast percutaneous coronary intervention (ULPCI) has previously been described. Complex left main (LM) ULPCI using two-stent strategy guided by novel intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) co-registration software has not been described. We report a series of complex LM ULPCI using IVUS co-registration.

Case Summaries

Five patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤20 mL/min who presented with stable angina or non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The patients previously had diagnostic angiography performed as a separate procedure. Successful LM ULPCI was performed in all patients with a provisional and two-stent bifurcation strategies. These were complex procedures, some of which required haemodynamic support and rotational atherectomy.

Discussion

This report describes the first ULPCI using a dedicated two-stent LM bifurcation strategy and using rotational atherectomy and IVUS co-registration. This technology facilitated complex PCI in this high-risk patient group with minimal contrast use (≤6 mL) with optimal results and no patients developed acute kidney injury after intervention. The adaptation of ULPCI to daily practice in patients at risk of CIN will improve treatment for this underserved patient group.
Five recurrent episodes of Takotsubo syndrome provoked by various triggers over a period of 7 years: a case report
Authors: Nomura Tetsuya , Sakaue Yu , Ono Kenshi , Wada Naotoshi
Published: November 2021

Background

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), also known as stress cardiomyopathy or apical ballooning syndrome, presents as reversible regional left ventricular wall motion abnormalities in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease. It is associated with a recurrence rate of approximately 4%. However, multiple recurrence episodes are rare in clinical settings, and the predictors of recurrence and preventive methods have yet to be fully elucidated.

Case summary

A 69-year-old woman experienced two TTS episodes before complaining of sudden-onset epigastric pain without any particular trigger. No significant coronary lesion was observed on coronary angiography, while left ventriculography showed the typical findings of apical ballooning and a hyperkinetic wall motion at the basal level of the left ventricle. The patient was again diagnosed with recurrent TTS. On Day 5 of hospitalization, follow-up echocardiography showed mural thrombus formation in the left ventricular apex. Anticoagulant therapy with oral warfarin following intravenous heparin was effective in dissolving the thrombus. She was safely discharged on Day 16 of hospitalization. However, two additional recurrent TTS episodes provoked by emotional stress occurred afterwards. Since the final hospitalization, she has been prescribed perindopril 4 mg/day and β1-receptor-selective β-blocker bisoprolol 5 mg/day and has been able to avoid the 6th recurrence of TTS for more than 12 months at present.

Conclusion

Multiple recurrent TTS episodes are rare in the clinical setting. As such, the long-term follow-up of this case may provide clues on the pathophysiology of this disease and aid us in establishing effective preventive strategies.
Complications caused by iatrogenic right-to-left shunt after surgical closure of atrial septal defect: a case report
Authors: Kim Myeong Seop , Jang Se Yong , Yang Dong Heon
Published: November 2021

Background

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a common congenital heart disease. For this condition, surgical treatment can be required depending on the size and type of ASD. This study included a case of a patient who complained of persistent dyspnoea after the surgical treatment for ASD.

Case summary

A 16-year-old girl who underwent a surgical patch closure for ASD at the age of 2 years presented to the emergency department and was diagnosed with acute stroke. Since childhood, she had suffered from exertional dyspnoea due to an unknown cause. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed normal chambers size and function and no signs of right heart strain. Transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) revealed a misplaced interatrial patch from the previous surgery, which allowed the whole blood to flow from the inferior vena cava (IVC) to the left atrium (LA), creating a large right-to-left shunt that resulted in stroke and heart failure. The patient underwent surgical treatment, and her symptoms improved significantly. Six months later, she was doing well without neurological complications and dyspnoea.

Discussion

This patient experienced stroke at the age of 16 years and had been suffering from heart failure since childhood. A large right-to-left shunt flow from the IVC to the LA by misplaced interatrial patch was found using TOE, right-sided heart catheterization, and inferior caval venography. This diagnosis should be considered in patients complaining of persistent dyspnoea with hypoxia after the surgical repair of ASD.
Case report: marantic endocarditis in renal cell carcinoma: nephrectomy a treatment
Authors: Harris Andrew Z , Ternouth Ian , Lallu Bhavesh D
Published: November 2021

Background

Marantic endocarditis (non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis) is a rare condition that involves non-infectious thrombotic lesions typically of the aortic and mitral valves. It is predominantly associated with malignancy and less commonly systemic lupus erythematosus. In this case, we report a patient with marantic endocarditis secondary to a renal cell carcinoma that was successfully treated with nephrectomy and anticoagulation.

Case summary

A 65-year-old male patient with embolic signs and symptoms was found to have non-infective thrombotic vegetations on three cardiac valves through transoesophageal echocardiography. Computed tomography revealed a 70 mm renal mass that confirmed to be a grade two clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. Nephrectomy and anticoagulation led to resolution of the embolic symptoms and of the valvular vegetations.

Discussion

The diagnosis of marantic endocarditis requires high clinical suspicion in a patient who presents with features of embolization. Incidence is highest in patients with an underlying malignancy, particularly adenocarcinoma. This case highlights the importance of echocardiography in diagnosis, removal of the source of thrombus, and prompt treatment with anticoagulation.
Adaptive function and correlates of anxiety during a pandemic
Authors: Salali Gul Deniz , Uysal Mete Sefa , Bevan Abi
Published: November 2021

Background and objectives

Most studies to date have focused on the negative aspects of anxiety. Anxiety, however, is an evolved emotional response that can provide protection in the face of risk. Pandemics are characterized by increased mortality risk coupled with future uncertainties, which both cause heightened anxiety. Here, we examine the factors associated with anxiety levels and risk avoidance behaviours during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. We asked how individual time perspectives (future-oriented consideration and attention to present moment experience) affect anxiety in uncertain times, and whether anxiety reduces mortality risk by promoting risk avoidance behaviour.

Methodology

We conducted an online survey in the UK (N = 1088) and Turkey (N = 3935) and measured participants’ generalized and pandemic-related anxiety levels, future-oriented consideration, mindfulness, intolerance of uncertainty, risk perception and risk avoidance behaviours.

Results

We found that people less tolerant of uncertainties had higher levels of pandemic anxiety. Those with higher pandemic anxiety exhibited risk avoidance behaviours more frequently. Mindfulness and increased financial satisfaction reduced pandemic anxiety. People in Turkey reported higher levels of generalized and pandemic anxiety and greater engagement in risk avoidance behaviours than people in the UK.

Conclusions and implications

Our study shows an elevated anxiety response can help mitigate infection risk during pandemics and emphasizes the importance of the underlying situation in understanding whether an anxiety response is adaptive or pathological. Maintaining a healthy level of anxiety can promote engagement in protective behaviours. Therapies addressing anxiety can focus on increasing tolerance to future uncertainties.

Lay summary

Anxiety is an emotional response triggered in the anticipation of a possible threat. We found that intolerance of uncertainty strongly predicted anxiety and that people with elevated anxiety levels engaged in protective behaviours more frequently during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that anxiety can help mitigate mortality risk.