Cubic hexagonal - phase, size and morphology effects on the photoluminescence quantum yield of NaGdF:Er/Yb upconverting nanoparticles.

Upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) are well-known for their capacity to convert near-infrared light into UV/visible light, benefitting various applications where light triggering is required. At the nanoscale, loss of luminescence intensity is observed and thus, a decrease in photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), usually ascribed to surface quenching. We evaluate this by measuring the PLQY of NaGdF:Er,Yb UCNPs as a function of size ( 15 to 100 nm) and shape (spheres, cubes, hexagons).

Seismocardiographic adjustment of diastolic timed vibrations.

A seismocardiography based methodology is introduced for predicting the start and the end of diastole to be used in diastolic timed vibrations. An accelerometer was placed on the sternum of 142 participants (120 healthy and 22 ischemic heart patients) to record Seismocardiogram (SCG). It is claimed that SCG, in combination with electrocardiogram (ECG), provides a mechanism for predicting diastole.