bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluorescent proteins and genetically encoded biosensors
Authors: Wang Minji , Da Yifan , Tian Yang
Published: January 2023

The review summarises fluorescent proteins from natural sources, the design of biosensors with fluorescent proteins, and several typical types of genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors.
Application of a carbon dioxide regenerated ion-exchange process for removing sulphate from drinking water: a simple approach to estimate process performance
Authors: Benne Paul , Neubert Lino , Sperlich Alexander , Ernst Mathias
Published: January 2023

Increasing sulphate concentrations in some German drinking water resources require water suppliers to evaluate the applicability of state-of-the-art water treatment technologies for sulphate removal.
Light-driven Pickering interfacial catalysis for the oxidation of alkenes at near-room temperature
Authors: Feng Yaoyao , Dechezelles Jean-François , D'Acremont Quentin , Courtade Emmanuel , De Waele Vincent , Pera-Titus Marc , Nardello-Rataj Véronique
Published: January 2023

The synergistic effect of plasmonic Au and catalytic [C12]3[PW12O40] NPs in a PIC system for light-driven alkene oxidation at Troom.
Hydrosilylation and electroreduction of CO2using a zirconocene hydride catalyst
Authors: Roa Diego A. , Garcia Juventino J.
Published: January 2023

The use of commercially available [Cp2ZrHCl] (Schwartz reagent) for the hydrosilylation and electroreduction of carbon dioxide is presented.
Construction of a Bi2WO6/BiVO4 photocatalytic system for efficient visible light degradation of tetracycline drugs
Authors: Zhang Yiyao , Song Hongchen , Han Jintai , Liu Yunchao , Sun Jing , Shen Tingting , Wang Xikui , Wang Zhen , Zhang Weizhen , Yao Xuerui
Published: January 2023

A Bi2WO6/BiVO4 composite photocatalyst was synthesized that can promote the separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers and effectively degrade organic pollutants under visible light.
Post-imprinting modification: electrochemical and scanning electrochemical microscopy studies of a semi-covalently surface imprinted polymer
Authors: Kalecki Jakub , Cieplak Maciej , Iskierko Zofia , Piechowska Joanna , Nogala Wojciech , D’Souza Francis , Sharma Piyush Sindhu
Published: January 2023

Post-imprinting modification of imprinted molecular cavities with a ‘redox probe’ for electrochemical sensing.
Glucose biosensors based on Michael addition crosslinked poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels with chemo-optical sensing microdomains
Authors: Williams Tyrell J. , Jeevarathinam Ananthakrishnan S. , Jivan Faraz , Baldock Victoria , Kim Paul , McShane Michael J. , Alge Daniel L.
Published: January 2023

PEG hydrogels with phosphorescent chemo-optical biosensor microdomains are a promising platform for non-invasive continuous glucose monitoring.
A novel highly sensitive compilation-detachment fluorescence sensing strategy based on RNA-cleavage DNAzyme for MDA-MB-231 breast cancer biomarker determination
Authors: Ghafary Zhaleh , Hallaj Rahman , salimi Abdollah , khosrowbakhsh Farnosh
Published: January 2023

Schematic representation of the fluorescence multicomponent detachable platform for MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell detection.
A switchable system between magnetic and natural circularly polarised luminescence via J-aggregation using photosynthetic antenna model compounds
Authors: Tomikawa Toranosuke , Kitagawa Yuichi , Yoshioka Koki , Murata Kei , Miyatake Tomohiro , Hasegawa Yasuchika , Ishii Kazuyuki
Published: January 2023

Using zinc-chlorin, the switching of MCPL/CPL via J-aggregation has been clearly demonstrated for the first time.
Construction of ZnII/CdII-based MOFs containing a tripodal aromatic carboxylate ligand with unequal arms and their fluorescence detection for Cu2+ and Fe3+ cations
Authors: Huang Gui-Mei , Li Shuang , Ma Meng-Xia , Li Shi-Ming , Li Wen-Qiang , Ni Qing-Ling , Gui Liu-Cheng , Wang Xiu-Jian
Published: January 2023

Four MOFs have been synthesized and characterized. The luminescent sensing investigation indicates that compound 1 exhibits extremely sensitive and selective detection of Cu2+ and compounds 2–4 show extremely sensitive and selective detection of Fe3+.
Correction: Persistence of symmetry-protected Dirac points at the surface of the topological crystalline insulator SnTe upon impurity doping
Authors: Arroyo-Gascón Olga , Baba Yuriko , Cerdá Jorge I. , de Abril Oscar , Martínez-Casado Ruth , Domínguez-Adame Francisco , Chico Leonor
Published: January 2023

Correction for ‘Persistence of symmetry-protected Dirac points at the surface of the topological crystalline insulator SnTe upon impurity doping’ by Olga Arroyo-Gascón et al., Nanoscale, 2022, 14, 7151–7162, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1NR07120C.
Structural insights on the KMT2–NCP interaction
Authors: Yang Zi , Zepeda Robert , Dou Yali
Published: January 2023

The MLL/KMT2 family enzymes are frequently mutated in human cancers and congenital diseases. They deposit the majority of histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4) mono-, di-, or tri-methylation in mammals and are tightly associated with gene activation. Structural and biochemical studies in recent years provide in-depth understanding of how the MLL1 and homologous yeast SET1 complexes interact with the nucleosome core particle (NCP) and how their activities for H3K4 methylation are regulated by the conserved core components. Here, we will discuss the recent single molecule cryo-EM studies on the MLL1 and ySET1 complexes bound on the NCP. These studies highlight the dynamic regulation of the MLL/SET1 family lysine methyltransferases with unique features as compared with other histone lysine methyltransferases. These studies provide insights for loci-specific regulation of H3K4 methylation states in cells. The mechanistic studies on the MLL1 complex have already led to the development of the MLL1 inhibitors that show efficacy in acute leukemia and metastatic breast cancers. Future studies on the MLL/SET1 family enzymes will continue to bring to light potential therapeutic opportunities.
Joint UAV deployment, SF placement, and collaborative task scheduling in heterogeneous multi‐UAV‐empowered edge intelligence
Authors: Wang Yangang , Wei Xianglin , Wang Hai , Fan Jianhua , Chen Juan , Zhao Kuang , Hu Yongyang
Published: January 2023

To support artificial intelligence (AI)‐involved tasks offloaded from the mobile devices (MDs), it is necessary to equip the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) with custom‐made co‐processor (CP) for handling AI workloads in multi‐UAV‐empowered Edge Intelligence. Existing CPU‐oriented task scheduling algorithm cannot apply to the CPU+CP heterogeneous architecture. In this backdrop, this paper first formulates the joint service function placement, collaborative task scheduling, UAV deployment, and MD position determination problem as a Mixed Integer Non‐Linear Programming problem. Then, an alternating optimization‐based algorithm is put forward to derive a sub‐optimal solution of the problem utilizing Differential Evolution and Greedy‐based Hungarian algorithms. A series of experiments are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposal. Results show that authors' proposal can achieve an overall revenue that is roughly 50% higher than those of existing methods.
A survey on reconfigurable intelligent surfaces: Wireless communication perspective
Authors: Hassouna Saber , Jamshed Muhammad Ali , Rains James , Kazim Jalil ur Rehman , Rehman Masood Ur , Abualhayja Mohammad , Mohjazi Lina , Cui Tei Jun , Imran Muhammad Ali , Abbasi Qammer H.
Published: January 2023

Using reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs) to improve the coverage and the data rate of future wireless networks is a viable option. These surfaces are constituted of a significant number of passive and nearly passive components that interact with incident signals in a smart way, such as by reflecting them, to increase the wireless system's performance as a result of which the notion of a smart radio environment comes to fruition. In this survey, a study review of RIS‐assisted wireless communication is supplied starting with the principles of RIS which include the hardware architecture, the control mechanisms, and the discussions of previously held views about the channel model and pathloss; then the performance analysis considering different performance parameters, analytical approaches and metrics are presented to describe the RIS‐assisted wireless network performance improvements. Despite its enormous promise, RIS confronts new hurdles in integrating into wireless networks efficiently due to its passive nature. Consequently, the channel estimation for, both full and nearly passive RIS and the RIS deployments are compared under various wireless communication models and for single and multi‐users. Lastly, the challenges and potential future study areas for the RIS aided wireless communication systems are proposed.
H2 model order reduction of bilinear systems via linear matrix inequality approach
Authors: Nasiri Soloklo Hasan , Bigdeli Nooshin
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes an H2‐optimal model order reduction (MOR) method for bilinear systems based on the linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach. In this method, to reduce the computational complexity, at first, a reduced middle‐order approximation of the system is derived based on common bilinear MOR methods. Next, the H2 norm of the error system is minimized to obtain the reduced‐order bilinear model. Generalized Lyapunov equations are added to the optimization problem as LMI constraints to guarantee the specification of type II Gramians of the bilinear system to improve accuracy. Besides, two stability conditions are included to the optimization problem as its constraints to preserve stability of reduced‐order bilinear model. One of advantages of the proposed method is the need for only one of the Gramians of controllability or observability. Since the proposed H2‐optimal MOR problem is a polynomial matrix inequality (PMI) problem, an iterative method is used to convert the PMI to the LMI problems and solve the optimization problem. Three bilinear test systems are considered to show the proposed method's efficiency, while its performance is compared with some classical methods. Results show that the proposed methods lead to a more accurate reduced‐order model than other MOR methods.
Live line strain clamp's DR image anomaly detection based on unsupervised learning
Authors: Haoliang Zheng , Zhiwei Jia , Yuting Li , Rongjie Wang , Wenguang Zhou
Published: January 2023

Due to the high‐risk working environment of high‐voltage transmission lines, defect samples of strain clamps cannot be fully and completely collected. As a result, the deep learning method based on defect sample tags cannot effectively identify all abnormalities. To solve this problem, an unsupervised anomaly detection method based on knowledge distillation is proposed, which only requires a small number of normal samples to drive the model for anomaly detection. ResNet is the framework of the teacherstudent model, and the feature activation layer after ResBlock is used for knowledge transfer. Residual‐assisted attention and pyramid‐splitting attention were used to enhance the spatial perception and multi‐scale information utilization ability of the model. This model only transmits the information of normal samples and is sensitive to abnormal samples. The proposed model outperformed the baseline by 23% and individual categories by 78% on the MVTec AD (Anomaly Detection Dataset) and outperformed the baseline by 45% and individual categories by 10% on the CIFAR10 and is also reliable for Mnist and Fashion Mnist. This method performs best (82.71%) over the existing method on the self‐built data set.
Segmenting lung parenchyma from CT images with gray correlation‐based clustering
Authors: Liu Caixia , Xie Wanli , Zhao Ruibin , Pang Mingyong
Published: January 2023

Lung segmentation, a prerequisite step of lung disease detection in computer‐aided diagnosis system, is a challenging task because of noises, complex structures, as well as large individual differences of lung CT scans. Here, an automatic algorithm for segmenting lungs from thoracic CT images accurately is presented. This scheme consists of three principal steps: image preprocessing, lung extracting and contour correcting. To cope with inhomogeneous intensities of CT images, a novel preprocessing approach based on empirical mode decomposition and bilateral filter is proposed, which has abilities of denoising, smoothing and edge keeping. Lung region is then extracted with a novel gray correlation‐based clustering approach. A new lung contour correction technology is finally employed to repair the concave regions caused by pulmonary nodules, vessels and so on. Experimental results show that the preprocessing approach outperforms other methods on image denoising and smoothing. Meanwhile, the lung segmentation algorithm is tested on a group of lung CT images affected with interstitial lung diseases and achieves a high segmentation accuracy. Compared with several existing lung segmentation methods, this algorithm exhibits a better performance on lung segmentation.
Miniaturised frequency selective surface‐based rasorber with wideband two‐sided absorption and switchable transmission/reflection band
Authors: Tang Min , Liu Qikun , Zhou Dongfang , Liu Qing , Yao Zhenning , Pan Chenqing
Published: January 2023

A new rasorber with a switchable transmission/reflection band between two wide absorption bands is proposed based on an ultrathin low‐profile frequency selective surface. To miniaturise the periodicity in the lossy layer, convoluted elements and lumped capacitors are applied, while in the bandpass layer, non‐resonate elements are implemented with PIN diodes embedded. Moreover, a square loop loaded with resistors is introduced to the bottom of the lossy layer, which consequently extends the bandwidth of the high‐frequency absorption band without an increase in thickness. The simulation indicates that the proposed design presents a switchable transmission/reflection band in two‐sided absorption bands with a periodicity of 0.089λL (wavelength at the lowest operating frequency) and thickness of 0.066λL. Angular stability and polarisation insensitivity are also obtained due to the low profile and symmetry. A prototype was fabricated and measured, according to which the switchable transmission band covers 3.67–3.93 GHz; the absorption bands cover 2.37–3.23 GHz and 4.09–6.63 GHz in the OFF state of the diodes, and 2.23–3.02 GHz and 4.01–6.53 GHz in the ON state. As reasonable agreements between the measurement and simulation results are observed, the performance of the design is verified.
Design of wideband metamaterial absorber using circuit theory for X‐band applications
Authors: Zolfaghary pour Saeed , Chegini Ebrahim , Mighani Mojtaba
Published: January 2023

A broadband metamaterial absorber working in the X‐band is designed and fabricated by 3D printing in this study. This structure is capable of nearly absorbing the power of incoming waves (more than 90%) in the frequency band starting from 7.1 to 13.8 GHz. This metamaterial absorber is designed based on an infinite array of conductive ribbons, and the thickness of the absorber is just 0.1λ for the minimum frequency (without considering the thickness of the ground layer). A circuit model and transmission line theory are used to design and explain the absorption principle of the proposed structure. Our novel design method is flexible and can be applied to other frequency bands. The satisfaction of the proposed absorber can be applied to many applications namely communication, electromagnetic shielding, radar and satellite. Furthermore, due to the flexibility of the substrate, the proposed absorber is also suitable for flexible applications in the X‐band.
Mini-moons from horseshoes: A physical characterization of 2022 NX1 with OSIRIS at the 10.4 m Gran Telescopio Canarias
Authors: de la Fuente Marcos R. , de León J. , de la Fuente Marcos C. , Licandro J. , Serra-Ricart M. , Cabrera-Lavers A.
Published: January 2023

Context. The near-Earth orbital space is shared by natural objects and space debris that can be temporarily captured in geocentric orbits. Short-term natural satellites are often called mini-moons. Reflectance spectroscopy can determine the true nature of transient satellites because the spectral signatures of spacecraft materials and near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) are different. The recently discovered object 2022 NX1 follows an Earth-like orbit that turns it into a recurrent but ephemeral Earth companion. It has been suggested that 2022 NX1 could have an artificial origin or be lunar ejecta.

Aims. Here, we use reflectance spectroscopy and N-body simulations to determine the nature and actual origin of 2022 NX1.

Methods. We carried out an observational study of 2022 NX1, using the OSIRIS camera spectrograph at the 10.4 m Gran Telescopio Canarias, to derive its spectral class. N-body simulations were also performed to investigate how it reached NEA space.

Results. The reflectance spectrum of 2022 NX1 is neither compatible with an artificial origin nor lunar ejecta; it is also different from the V type of the only other mini-moon with available spectroscopy, 2020 CD3. The visible spectrum of 2022 NX1 is consistent with that of a K-type asteroid, although it could also be classified as an Xk type. Considering typical values of the similar albedo of both K-type and Xk-type asteroids and its absolute magnitude, 2022 NX1 may have a size range of 5 to 15 m. We confirm that 2022 NX1 inhabits the rim of Earth’s co-orbital space, the 1:1 mean-motion resonance, and experiences recurrent co-orbital engagements of the horseshoe-type and mini-moon events.

Conclusions. The discovery of 2022 NX1 confirms that mini-moons can be larger than a few meters and also that they belong to a heterogeneous population in terms of surface composition.
Lipohyperplasia dolorosa (LiDo): Renaming, prima vista Diagnose, Koinzidenz, Palpation und Resektion
Authors: Cornely Manuel
Published: January 2023

Die seit 1940 bekannte Erkrankung „Lipedema“ wird zunehmend besser verstanden. Besonders ein dellbares Ödem ist bei der Fettverteilungsstörung der Frauen an Armen und Beinen nicht bedeutsam. Diese und weitere wissenschaftliche Erkenntnisse sind „work in progress“ mit dem Ziel des Renaming der Erkrankung. Ein „proper name“ ist „Lipohyperplasia dolorosa“ (LiDo). Bei LiDo ist die Volumenzunahme genetisch fixiert, der Schmerz jedoch dynamisch progredient.

Eine LiDo muss von anderen symmetrischen, schmerzlosen Fettverteilungsstörungen an Armen und Beinen prima vista und nach palpatorischer Untersuchung, insbesondere von der gelegentlich koinzidenten Adipositas, unterschieden werden.

Adipositas ist nie komorbid, aber häufig koinzident bei LiDo. Körperliche Aktivität und Ernährungsumstellung können zwar das Übergewicht reduzieren, nicht aber die ausschließlich LiDo-bedingte disproportionale Fettgewebsvermehrung an den Extremitäten beseitigen. Bei mit Adipositas koinzidenten LiDo-Patientinnen gibt es durch Magenchirurgie keine Effekte auf die obligate Schmerzhaftigkeit.

Für LiDo gibt es sowohl konservative als auch operative Behandlungsmöglichkeiten. Ein seit 1997 etabliertes Verfahren ist die chirurgische Behandlung durch die Lymphologische Liposculptur. Im Rahmen dieser Operation entstehen unter der Haut große Wunden, die nach den „Rules of Nine“ bei Behandlung der beiden Arme in einer Sitzung und der Suktion der Beine in 2 Sitzungen pro Eingriff einer Fläche von 18% der body surface entsprechen. Durch ein adäquates postoperatives Management sowie die Gabe von Antibiotika und Antithrombotika kommt es dennoch nur selten zu operationsbedingten lokalen Komplikationen.

Das wichtigste Ergebnis konsequenter operativer Behandlung der Lipohyperplasia dolorosa ist der Einfluss auf die Lebensqualität: „It ruined her life“ wird zu „It improves her life“.
A Modification of the Anoplasty Technique during a Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty and Anorectal Vaginal Urethroplasty Closure: The Para-U-Stitch to Prevent Wound Dehiscence
Authors: Knaus Maria E. , Westgarth-Taylor Christopher , Gasior Alessandra C. , Halaweish Ihab , Thomas Jessica L. , Srinivas Shruthi , Levitt Marc A. , Wood Richard J.
Published: January 2023

Objective Wound dehiscence after posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) or anorectal vaginal urethroplasty (PSARVUP) for anorectal malformation (ARM) is a morbid complication. We present a novel anoplasty technique employing para-U-stitches along the anterior and posterior portions of the anoplasty, which helps buttress the midline U-stitch and evert the rectal mucosa. We hypothesized that, in addition to standardized pre- and postoperative protocols, this technique would lower rates of wound dehiscence.

Materials and Methods A retrospective review of patievnts who underwent primary PSARP or PSARVUP with the para-U-stitch technique from 2015 to 2021 was performed. Wound dehiscence was defined as wound disruption requiring operative intervention within 30 days of the index operation. Superficial wound separations were excluded. Descriptive statistics were calculated. The final cohort included 232 patients.

Results Rectoperineal fistula (28.9%) was the most common ARM subtype. PSARP was performed in 75% and PSARVUP in 25%. The majority were reconstructed with a stoma in place (63.4%). Wound dehiscence requiring operative intervention occurred in four patients, for an overall dehiscence rate of 1.7%. The dehiscence rate was lower in PSARPs compared with PSARVUPs (0.6 vs. 5.2%) and lower for reconstruction without a stoma compared with a stoma (1.2 vs. 2.0%). There were additional six patients (2.6%) with superficial wound infections managed conservatively.

Conclusion We present the para-U-stitch anoplasty technique, which is an adjunct to the standard anoplasty during PSARP and PSARVUP. In conjunction with standardized pre- and postoperative protocols, this technique can help decrease rates of wound dehiscence in this patient population.
Ethical Aspects of Prodromal Synucleinopathy Prognostic Counseling
Authors: Stefani Ambra , Mozersky Jessica , Kotagal Vikas , Högl Birgit , Ingravallo Francesca , Ju Yo-El S. , Avidan Alon , Sharp Richard , Videnovic Aleksandar , Schenck Carlos H. , St Louis Erik K.
Published: January 2023

Alpha-synucleinopathies can be identified in their prodromal phase, raising several ethical issues. In this review, we first provide definitions of prodromal α-synucleinopathies and discuss the importance of distinguishing between prodromes and risk factors. Next, we discuss the implications of a diagnosis of prodromal α-synucleinopathy and considerations regarding prognostic counseling in both clinical and research settings. We review available data on patient preferences regarding disclosure as well as providers' perspectives. We examine the pros and cons of disclosing a diagnosis of prodromal α-synucleinopathy, taking into consideration the differences between clinical and research settings. Asking about willingness to know in clinical and research settings and the shared decision-making process applied to prognostic counseling is discussed. Concerning research settings, ethical aspects regarding clinical trials are addressed. Availability of direct-to-consumer technologies will likely lead to novel contexts requiring prognostic counseling, and future neuroprotective or neuromodulating treatments may require further considerations on the timing, role, and importance of prognostic counseling. Recommendations on how to address ethical gaps should be a priority for patients, medical professional societies, and research workgroups. Ethical issues must be considered as an integral part of the overall clinical and research approach to prodromal synucleinopathies.
Aesthetic Surgical Pathway in Permanent Facial Filler Removal
Authors: Pascali Michele , Chirico Fabrizio , Rugge Luigi , Rauso Raffaele
Published: January 2023

Although permanent fillers have been introduced in order to get long-lasting results, many studies have shown numerous severe and disfiguring complications. Nonsurgical procedures may mitigate those adverse events but the only way to remove the filler previously injected is represented by surgical excision. We present a pathway of facial surgical accesses to be performed achieving two goals: permanent filler removal and restore facial aesthetic balance. The proposed surgical accesses are already standardized in aesthetic surgical practice in order to avoid direct excision and unpleasant facial scar. A total of 231 patients underwent surgery for permanent filler removal and aesthetic restoration of the involved facial area, represented by forehead, glabella, nose, cheeks, eyelids, chin, jawline, and lips. Magnetic resonance evaluation was performed with the exception of lip patients who were evaluated with ultrasound. Postoperative follow-up was 12 months to 6 years. Subjective and objective methods were used for outcome evaluation according to the FACE-Q questionnaire. Functional and aesthetic correction was scored using the patient-graded Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), overall patient satisfaction was assessed by a five-point scale questionnaire. Functional and aesthetic restoration was globally recognized as improved according to the GAIS. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction assessed by a five-point scale questionnaire. A very good satisfaction level was registered in both subjective and objective judgment scores. To the best of our knowledge, we present the largest case series regarding surgical removal of permanent facial fillers. A proper preoperative evaluation, filler removal followed by restorative facial aesthetic surgery technique is paramount to approach challenging cases.
Individualized Homeopathic Medicines for Low Back Pain in Lumbar Spondylosis: Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Prakash Akshaya , Bhowmik Nitai Chand , Singh Subhas , Sadhukhan Satarupa , Rai Shruti , Singh Suman , Kumar Umesh , Rahim Fathima , Balamurugan Dharshna , Bhar Koushik , Singh Navin Kumar , Koley Munmun , Saha Subhranil
Published: January 2023

Introduction Lumbar spondylosis (LS) is a degenerative disorder of the lumbar spine. Despite substantial research efforts, no gold-standard treatment for LS has been identified. The efficacy of individualized homeopathic medicines (IHMs) in LS has remained under-researched. In this study, the efficacy of IHMs was compared with identical-looking placebos in the treatment of low back pain associated with LS.

Methods A double-blind, randomized (1:1), placebo-controlled trial was conducted at the National Institute of Homoeopathy, West Bengal, India. Patients were randomized to receive IHMs or placebos, along with standardized concomitant care for both the groups. The Oswestry low back pain and disability questionnaire (ODQ) was the primary outcome; the Roland-Morris questionnaire (RMQ) and the short form of the McGill pain questionnaire (SF-MPQ) were the secondary outcomes. Each was measured at baseline and every month for 3 months. The intention-to-treat (ITT) sample was analyzed to detect any inter-group differences using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance models overall and by unpaired t-tests at different time points.

Results Enrolment was stopped prematurely because of time restrictions; 55 patients were randomized (verum: 28; control: 27); 49 were analyzed by ITT (verum: 26; control: 23). Inter-group differences in ODQ (F
1, 47 = 0.001, p = 0.977), RMQ (F
1, 47 = 0.190, p = 0.665) and SF-MPQ total score (F
1, 47 = 3.183, p = 0.081) at 3 months were not statistically significant. SF-MPQ total score after 2 months (p = 0.030) revealed inter-group statistical significance, favoring IHMs against placebos. Some of the SF-MPQ sub-scales at different time points were also statistically significant: e.g., the SF-MPQ average pain score after 2 months (p = 0.002) and 3 months (p = 0.007). Rhus toxicodendron, Sulphur and Pulsatilla nigricans were the most frequently indicated medicines.

Conclusion Owing to failure in detecting a statistically significant effect for the primary outcome and in recruiting a sufficient number of participants, our trial remained inconclusive.

Trial registration CTRI/2019/11/021918.
Bacterial Decontamination: Bowel Preparation and Chlorhexidine Bathing
Authors: Bornstein Yadin , Wick Elizabeth C.
Published: January 2023

Infectious complications following bowel surgery continues to be a leading cause of postoperative morbidity. Both patient- and procedure-related factors contribute to risk. Compliance with evidence-based process measures is the best strategy for prevention of surgical site infections. Three process measures that aim to reduce the bacterial load present at the time of surgery are mechanical bowel preparation, oral antibiotics, and chlorhexidine bathing. There is heightened awareness of surgical site infections, in part due to improved access to reliable postoperative complication data for colon surgery as well as incorporation of surgical site infection into public reporting and pay-for-performance payment models. As a result, the literature has improved with regard to the effectiveness of these methods in reducing infectious complications. Herein, we provide the evidence to support adoption of these practices into colorectal surgery infection prevention programs.
Engaging the next generation: authoritarian regimes and their young diaspora
Authors: Wackenhut Arne F. , Orjuela Camilla
Published: January 2023

Recent scholarship on diaspora engagement and transnational repression has investigated how authoritarian regimes seek to engage, govern and control their diasporas. Recognizing that diasporas are diverse and that homeland states thus devise different strategies in relation to different groups, this research has—to a large extent—focused on the varied positions held by regime supporters and dissidents. Inter-generational differences, however, have not been studied in this context. Drawing on established frameworks theorizing extraterritorial authoritarian practices, this article explores the ways in which second-generation diaspora—or diaspora youth—is either included as subjects, patriots and clients, or excluded as outlaws and traitors by authoritarian regimes. Drawing on the literature on transnationalism and second-generation migrants, and using examples from empirical cases, we argue that the skills, resources and multi-sited embeddedness of the second-generation diaspora can make them particularly interesting targets for transnational engagement—or repression. We draw attention to specific strategies for mobilizing the support of diaspora youth, but also note that some techniques to control or repress extraterritorial subjects are less efficacious in relation to this generation.
Low-temperature magnetoresistance of functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Ovsiienko I. , Len T. , Mirzoiev I. , Beliayev E. , Gnida D. , Matzui L. , Heraskevych V.
Published: January 2023

Temperature and magnetic field dependencies of resistance for functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been studied. The measurements were carried out in the temperature range T = 4.2–200 K. It is shown that in magnetic fields up to B = 9 T, the conductivity behavior for the functionalized MWCNTs sample can be described in terms of charge carriers weak localization and interaction phenomena. We show that the contribution to the functionalized MWCNTs conductivity due to the weak localization effect exceeds the quantum correction due to the effect of the charge carriers interaction for all the temperatures and in the entire range of the applied magnetic fields except for the magnetic fields above B = 6.5 T at T = 5 K. Within the terms of the specified models, we estimate the value of the Fermi energy and determine the explicit form of the temperature dependence of the phase relaxation time for the wave function. We show that for the functionalized MWCNTs sample, the phase relaxation time for the wave function has a less pronounced temperature dependence, and its Fermi energy is more shifted to the valence band compared to non-functionalized MWCNTs. The charge carriers’ interaction constant at different temperatures can also be estimated from our experiments.
Localized and quasi-localized energy levels in the electron spectrum of graphene with isolated boron and nitrogen substitutions
Authors: Feodosyev S. B. , Sirenko V. A. , Syrkin E. S. , Manzhelii E. V. , Bondar I. S. , Minakova K. A.
Published: January 2023

Based on the calculation and analysis of local Green’s functions of impurity atoms of low concentration in a two-dimensional graphene lattice, the conditions for the formation and characteristics of local discrete levels with energies lying outside the band of the quasi-continuous spectrum and quasi-localized states with energies near the Fermi one are determined. Specific calculations were performed for boron and nitrogen impurity atoms, which can actually replace carbon in graphite and graphene nanostructures. For a boron impurity that forms local discrete levels outside the band of the quasi-continuous spectrum, sufficiently simple analytical expressions for the conditions for their formation, energy, intensity at the impurity atom, and damping parameter are obtained. An analysis of the formation of states quasi-localized on nitrogen impurities with energy near the Fermi level in graphene nanostructures was carried out.
Superconducting NbN-Al hybrid technology for quantum devices
Authors: Mutsenik E. , Linzen S. , Il’ichev E. , Schmelz M. , Ziegler M. , Ripka V. , Steinbach B. , Oelsner G. , Hübner U. , Stolz R.
Published: January 2023

The high kinetic inductance of niobium nitride (NbN) thin films can be used for an implementation of compact on-chip inductances in cryoelectronic circuits. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate the implementation of a hybrid superconducting technology that includes the fabrication of standard aluminum submicron Josephson junctions and the NbN atomic layer deposition process. As an example, we fabricated and characterized a single and array of Al Josephson junctions together with NbN interconnections. The main Al Josephson junction parameters as well as NbN superconducting properties are in a good agreement with the values obtained by our standard fabrication process. The combination of technological processes for the NbN layers with Al Josephson junction allows implementing a new generation of innovative superconducting devices for different applications.
Rate-equation approach for multi-level quantum systems
Authors: Liul M. P. , Shevchenko S. N.
Published: January 2023

Strong driving of quantum systems opens opportunities for both controlling and characterizing their states. For theoretical studying of these systems properties we use the rate-equation formalism. The advantage of such approach is its relative simplicity. We used the formalism for description of a two-level system with further expanding it on a case of a multi-level system. Obtained theoretical results have good agreement with experiments. The presented approach can also be considered as one more way to explore properties of quantum systems and underlying physical processes such as, for instance, Landau–Zener–Stückelberg–Majorana transitions and interference.
Electronic structure and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism in cr-doped topological insulator bi2se3
Authors: Antonov V. N. , Bekenov L. V. , Ernst A.
Published: January 2023

We have studied the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of the Cr-doped topological insulator Bi2Se3 within the density functional theory using the generalized gradient approximation in the framework of the fully relativistic spin-polarized Dirac linear muffin-tin orbital band-structure method. The X-ray absorption spectra and X-ray magnetic circular dichroism at the Cr K and L2,3 edges have been investigated theoretically from the first principles. The calculated results are in good agreement with the experimental data. The complex fine structure of the Cr L2,3 X-ray absorption spectra in Cr-doped Bi2Se3 has been found to be not compatible with a Cr2+ valency state. Its interpretation demands a mixed valent state.
Critical inhomogeneous coupled Schrödinger equations
Authors: Saanouni Tarek , Ghanmi Radhia
Published: January 2023

This work develops a local theory of the inhomogeneous coupled Schrödinger equations iu̇j+Δuj=σ|x|−γ∑1≤k≤majk|uk|p|uj|p−2uj,j∈[1,m]. Here, one treats the critical Sobolev regime u(0,⋅)∈[Hsc(RN)]m, where sc≔N2−2−γ2(p−1) is the index of the invariant Sobolev norm under the dilatation ‖λ2−γ2(p−1)u(λ2t,λ⋅)‖Ḣsc=λμ−N2+2−γ2(p−1)‖u(λ2t)‖Ḣsc. To the authors’ knowledge, the technique used in order to prove the existence of an energy local solution to the above-mentioned problem in the sub-critical regime s < sc, which consists of dividing the integrals on the unit ball of RN and its complementary, is no more applicable for s = sc. In order to overcome this difficulty, one uses two different methods. The first one consists of using Lorentz spaces with the fact that |x|−γ∈LNγ,∞, which allows us to handle the inhomogeneous term. In the second method, one uses some weighted Lebesgue spaces, which seem to be suitable to deal with the inhomogeneous term |x|−γ. In order to avoid a singularity of the source term, one considers the case p ≥ 2, which restricts the space dimensions to N ≤ 3.
Developing a platform for Fresnel diffractive radiography with 1 μm spatial resolution at the National Ignition Facility
Authors: Schoelmerich M. O. , Döppner T. , Allen C. H. , Divol L. , Oliver M. , Haden D. , Biener M. , Crippen J. , Delora-Ellefson J. , Ferguson B. , Gericke D. O. , Goldman A. , Haid A. , Heinbockel C. , Kalantar D. , Karmiol Z. , Kemp G. , Kroll J. , Landen O. L. , Masters N. , Ping Y. , Spindloe C. , Theobald W. , White T. G.
Published: January 2023

An x-ray Fresnel diffractive radiography platform was designed for use at the National Ignition Facility. It will enable measurements of micron-scale changes in the density gradients across an interface between isochorically heated warm dense matter materials, the evolution of which is driven primarily through thermal conductivity and mutual diffusion. We use 4.75 keV Ti K-shell x-ray emission to heat a 1000 μm diameter plastic cylinder, with a central 30 μm diameter channel filled with liquid D2, up to 8 eV. This leads to a cylindrical implosion of the liquid D2 column, compressing it to ∼2.3 g/cm3. After pressure equilibration, the location of the D2/plastic interface remains steady for several nanoseconds, which enables us to track density gradient changes across the material interface with high precision. For radiography, we use Cu He-α x rays at 8.3 keV. Using a slit aperture of only 1 μm width increases the spatial coherence of the source, giving rise to significant diffraction features in the radiography signal, in addition to the refraction enhancement, which further increases its sensitivity to density scale length changes at the D2/plastic interface.
Proton radiation effects on electronic defect states in MOCVD-grown (010) β-Ga2O3
Authors: McGlone Joe F. , Ghadi Hemant , Cornuelle Evan , Armstrong Andrew , Burns George , Feng Zixuan , Uddin Bhuiyan A. F. M. Anhar , Zhao Hongping , Arehart Aaron R. , Ringel Steven A.
Published: January 2023

The impact of 1.8 MeV proton irradiation on metalorganic chemical vapor deposition grown (010) β-Ga2O3 Schottky diodes is presented. It is found that after a 10.8×1013cm−2 proton fluence the Schottky barrier height of (1.40±0.05 eV) and the ideality factor of (1.05±0.05) are unaffected. Capacitance–voltage extracted net ionized doping curves indicate a carrier removal rate of 268±10cm−1. The defect states responsible for the observed carrier removal are studied through a combination of deep level transient and optical spectroscopies (DLTS/DLOS) as well as lighted capacitance–voltage (LCV) measurements. The dominating effect on the defect spectrum is due to the EC-2.0 eV defect state observed in DLOS and LCV. This state accounts for ∼75% of the total trap introduction rate and is the primary source of carrier removal from proton irradiation. Of the DLTS detected states, the EC-0.72 eV state dominated but had a comparably smaller contribution to the trap introduction. These two traps have previously been correlated with acceptor-like gallium vacancy-related defects. Several other trap states at EC-0.36, EC-0.63, and EC-1.09 eV were newly detected after proton irradiation, and two pre-existing states at EC-1.2 and EC-4.4 eV showed a slight increase in concentration after irradiation, together accounting for the remainder of trap introduction. However, a pre-existing trap at EC-0.40 eV was found to be insensitive to proton irradiation and, therefore, is likely of extrinsic origin. The comprehensive defect characterization of 1.8 MeV proton irradiation damage can aid the modeling and design for a range of radiation tolerant devices.
Coherent terahertz radiation from indium tin oxide film via third-order optical nonlinearity
Authors: He Yuhang , Chen Yuxuan , Zhao Jiapeng , Tian Zhen , Dai Jianming
Published: January 2023

Coherent terahertz (THz) wave emission from indium tin oxide (ITO) in epsilon-near-zero region had been reported recently as a second-order nonlinear process. However, THz radiation from ITO through third-order nonlinear process has not been reported yet. Here, we demonstrate coherent THz radiation from an ITO film via four-wave mixing, a third-order nonlinear process, under the excitation of two-color pulsed laser fields. Experimentally, an in-line phase compensator is utilized to synthesize the asymmetric optical fields to induce photocurrent in an ITO film and consequently emit THz waves. Our experimental results show that THz radiation from ITO films can be coherently controlled by the relative phase between the two-color laser fields. Such a THz wave generation process can be attributed to the fast intra-band nonlinearity in the conduction band. Our demonstration reveals that the fast nonlinearity in ITO can be used to generate THz waves and promotes the investigation of ITO in ultrafast photonics.
Numerical investigation of the influence of supersonic flow on muzzle combustion
Authors: Sun Zhiqun , Li Qiang , Qu Pu
Published: January 2023

To further understand a muzzle combustion mechanism in high-altitude firing, the influence of supersonic flow on a muzzle combustion phenomenon is investigated. The set of internal ballistic equations is employed, providing accurate velocity and pressure when the projectile moves to the muzzle. Multispecies transport Navier–Stokes equations with complex chemical reactions are solved by coupling a real gas equation of state, the Soave–Redlich–Kwong model, and a detailed chemical reaction kinetic model. The development of muzzle flow with chemical reaction is simulated. The interaction of chemical reactions with the muzzle flow field is obtained by numerical simulation in order to explain the muzzle combustion phenomenon of fire at supersonic flight. The mechanism of muzzle combustion influenced by supersonic incoming flow is analyzed in detail. It is demonstrated from the results that the shock wave and the expansion of the jet are restrained so that the combustion is compressed behind the projectile, at the same time generating a second region of combustion behind the muzzle under the influence of supersonic incoming flow.
Well-organized SnO2 inverse opal monolayer as structured electron transport layer for high-efficiency perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chen Hanyue , Liu Gang , Tian Junlong , Ke Lili , Lin Qi , Zhou Conghua , Wang Lingling , Li Hongxing
Published: January 2023

In mesoporous perovskite solar cells (mp-PSCs), an electron transport layer (ETL) plays an important role in charge extraction and transportation, and also its structure largely affects the crystallization and optical property of perovskite films. At present, the performance of PSCs based mesoporous SnO2 (mp-SnO2) still lags behind that based planar SnO2 due to problems in the fabrication process of mp-SnO2. Herein, a well-organized monolayer SnO2 inverse opal (SIO) is prepared as the structured ETL for perovskite solar cells. The unique periodic SIO structure exhibits an obvious optical coupling phenomenon, which enhances the light absorption of the perovskite layer. Furthermore, the well-organized SIO structure with appropriate pore size triggers the confined crystallization of perovskite films and optimizes the interface of SnO2/perovskites, suppressing the interfacial electron–hole recombination. As a result, the power conversion efficiency of mp-PSCs fabricated by the monolayer SIO is boosted from 19.63% to 22.01%. This work provides a creative strategy for construction of high-efficiency mp-PSCs based on SnO2.
Valley transport in strained silicene heterojunctions with zigzag and armchair interfaces
Authors: Siu Zhuo Bin , Jalil Mansoor B. A.
Published: January 2023

We study the carrier transport through a strained silicene heterojunction based on the tight-binding Hamiltonian, focusing on the effect of the interfaces, i.e., zigzag or armchair, on the valley polarization. We find that inter-valley transmission is prevented in the zigzag configuration owing to the conservation of transverse momentum, but this restriction is lifted for the armchair configuration. More importantly, the preservation of certain valley symmetries of the Fermi surfaces in the zigzag configuration even under strain distortion results in complete cancellation of the valley polarization after summing over all incident angles. In contrast, such symmetries are absent in the forward-propagating states for the strained armchair configuration, resulting in a sizable net valley polarization even after summation over all incident angles. Our findings provide insight toward the key role of interfaces in strained silicene-based valleytronics.
Enhanced electric field control of magnetism in ternary BiFeO3-based ceramics
Authors: Zhao Gaochao , Pan Chengbing , Dong Wei , Xie Lei , Tong Peng , Yang Jie , Zhu Xuebin , Yin Lihua , Song Wenhai , Sun Yuping
Published: January 2023

We report an unambiguous observation of a room temperature (RT) converse magnetoelectric effect (CME) in ternary BiFeO3-based systems near a morphotropic phase boundary (MPB). The results of in situ XRD diffraction at different applied electric fields reveal that the lattice distortion and phase transitions dominate the RT CME in the samples near the MPB. Our results provide an experimental proof and an explanation for the electric-field control of the magnetism effect obtained at the MPB, which may provide an effective way to design multiferroics for potential applications in magnetoelectric devices with low power consumption.