bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adventitial delivery of nanoparticles encapsulated with 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 attenuates restenosis in a murine angioplasty model
Authors: Cai Chuanqi , Kilari Sreenivasulu , Zhao Chenglei , Singh Avishek K. , Simeon Michael L. , Misra Avanish , Li Yiqing , Takahashi Edwin , Kumar Rajiv , Misra Sanjay
Published: February 2021

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of stenotic arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) is performed to maintain optimal function and patency. The one-year patency rate is 60% because of venous neointimal hyperplasia (VNH) and venous stenosis (VS) formation. Immediate early response gene X-1 (Iex-1) also known as Ier3 increases in response to wall shear stress (WSS), and can cause VNH/VS formation in murine AVF. In human stenotic samples from AVFs, we demonstrated increased gene expression of Ier3. We hypothesized that 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, an inhibitor of IER3 delivered as 1α, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 encapsulated in poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded in Pluronic F127 hydrogel (1,25 NP) to the adventitia of the stenotic outflow vein after PTA would decrease VNH/VS formation by reducing Ier3 and chemokine (C–C motif) ligand 2 (Ccl2) expression. In our murine model of AVF stenosis treated with PTA, increased expression of Ier3 and Ccl2 was observed. Using this model, PTA was performed and 10-μL of 1,25 NP or control vehicle (PLGA in hydrogel) was administered by adventitial delivery. Animals were sacrificed at day 3 for unbiased whole genome transcriptomic analysis and at day 21 for immunohistochemical analysis. Doppler US was performed weekly after AVF creation. At day 3, significantly lower gene expression of Ier3 and Ccl2 was noted in 1,25 NP treated vessels. Twenty-one days after PTA, 1,25 NP treated vessels had increased lumen vessel area, with decreased neointima area/media area ratio and cell density compared to vehicle controls. There was a significant increase in apoptosis, with a reduction in CD68, F4/80, CD45, pro-inflammatory macrophages, fibroblasts, Picrosirius red, Masson’s trichrome, collagen IV, and proliferation accompanied with higher wall shear stress (WSS) and average peak velocity. IER3 staining was localized to CD68 and FSP-1 (+) cells. After 1,25 NP delivery, there was a decrease in the proliferation of α-SMA (+) and CD68 (+) cells with increase in the apoptosis of FSP-1 (+) and CD68 (+) cells compared to vehicle controls. RNA sequencing revealed a decrease in inflammatory and apoptosis pathways following 1,25 NP delivery. These data suggest that adventitial delivery of 1,25 NP reduces VNH and venous stenosis formation after PTA.
Author Correction: Morphological and cytokine profiles as key parameters to distinguish between Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial keratitis
Authors: Konstantopoulos Aris , del Mar Cendra Maria , Tsatsos Michael , Elabiary Mariam , Christodoulides Myron , Hossain Parwez
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Enhanced electrochemiluminescence of CdS quantum dots capped with mercaptopropionic acid activated by EDC for Zika virus detection
Authors: Zhang Hui-Jun , Zhu Jin , Bao Ning , Ding Shou-Nian
Published: February 2021

The mechanism of enhanced ECL of MPA@CdS QDs by EDC activation was investigated, and a sandwich-type ECL immunosensor has been designed for Zika virus detection.
Site-specific facet protection of gold nanoparticles inside a 3D DNA origami box: a tool for molecular plasmonics
Authors: Erkelenz Michael , Kosinski Richard , Sritharan Oliver , Giesler Helene , Saccà Barbara , Schlücker Sebastian
Published: February 2021

Pandora's DNA origami box for the site-specific facet protection of gold nanoparticles: a building block for molecular plasmonics.
Data-driven analysis of the electronic-structure factors controlling the work functions of perovskite oxides
Authors: Xiong Yihuang , Chen Weinan , Guo Wenbo , Wei Hua , Dabo Ismaila
Published: February 2021

Tuning the work functions of materials is critical to the performance of microelectronic and (photo)electrochemical devices. We validate data-driven models to predict the work functions of cubic perovskites from simple electronic descriptors.
Relationship between liquid nanoscale structure in solvents and the strength of the Hofmeister effect in extraction experiments
Authors: Kobrak Mark N. , Nykypanchuk Dmytro , Janssen Camiel H. C.
Published: February 2021

In this study, we used mixtures of carboxylic acids and amines as solvents for the liquid–liquid extraction of copper salts with various anions from aqueous phase, and systematically varied the acid/amine ratio to determine its influence on extraction efficiency.
A systematic computational investigation of the water splitting and N2 reduction reaction performances of monolayer MBenes
Authors: Cheng Yuwen , Mo Jisheng , Li Yongtao , Zhang Yumin , Song Yan
Published: February 2021

Monolayer MB are predicted to possess promising electrocatalytic activity for water splitting and the nitrogen reduction reaction.
Identification and expression of a CHMO from thePseudomonas aeruginosastrain Pa1242: application to the bioconversion of Cyrene™ into a key precursor (S)-γ-hydroxymethyl-butyrolactone
Authors: Mouterde Louis M. M. , Couvreur Julien , Langlait Maxime M. J. , Brunois Fanny , Allais Florent
Published: February 2021

A CHMO from thePseudomonas aeruginosastrain Pa1242 was identified and used to convert Cyrene™ into2H-HBO.
Simultaneous amorphous silica and phosphorus recovery from rice husk poultry litter ash
Authors: Fiameni Laura , Assi Ahmad , Fahimi Ario , Valentim Bruno , Moreira Karen , Predeanu Georgeta , Slăvescu Valerica , Vasile Bogdan Ş. , Nicoară Adrian I. , Borgese Laura , Boniardi Gaia , Turolla Andrea , Canziani Roberto , Bontempi Elza
Published: February 2021

Rice husk poultry litter ash (RHPLA) is proposed as a valuable secondary source to recover phopshorus and amorphous silica in three steps.
Scale-up experiments of SO2 removal and the promoting behavior of NO in moving beds at medium temperatures
Authors: Ma Shuangchen , Bie Xuan , Gong Chunqin , Qu Baozhong , Liu Daokuan
Published: February 2021

A superior desulfurizer, fine NaHCO3 was selected by scale-up experiments. A deep understanding of the reaction process and mechanism was explored. The effect mechanism of NO on desulfurization using NaHCO3 was proposed by in situ FTIR results.
Step-saving synthesis of star-shaped hole-transporting materials with carbazole or phenothiazine cores via optimized C–H/C–Br coupling reactions
Authors: Chen Jui-Heng , Lee Kun-Mu , Ting Chang-Chieh , Liu Ching-Yuan
Published: February 2021

Carbazole or phenothiazine core-based hole-transport materials are facilely accessed by an optimized synthesis-shortcut. Perovskite solar cell devices with 6–13 demonstrate PCEs of up to 17.57%.
A formal [3 + 3] cycloaddition of allenyl imide and activated ketones for the synthesis of tetrasubstituted 2-pyrones
Authors: Wang Yu-Hao , Zhang De-Hua , Cao Ze-Hun , Li Wang-Lai , Huang Yi-Yong
Published: February 2021

CsOH·H2O-catalyzed formal [3 + 3] cycloadditions of allenyl imide with β-ketoesters, 1,3-diketones or β-ketonitriles for the synthesis of tetrasubstituted 2-pyrone derivatives were reported.
Methylamine-assisted secondary grain growth for CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite films with large grains and a highly preferred orientation
Authors: Fan Haochen , Huang Jin-Hua , Chen Longsheng , Zhang Yue , Wang Yang , Gao CaiYan , Wang Pengcheng , Zhou Xueqin , Jiang Ke-Jian , Song YanLin
Published: February 2021

A methylamine assisted secondary grain growth method is developed for the fabrication of MAPbI3 perovskite films with a highly preferred orientation and large grain sizes, and the resultant devices exhibit improved photovoltaic performance with good stability.
In vivosoft tissue reinforcement with bacterial nanocellulose
Authors: Anton-Sales Irene , Roig-Sanchez Soledad , Traeger Kamelia , Weis Christine , Laromaine Anna , Turon Pau , Roig Anna
Published: February 2021

The biopolymer bacterial nanocellulose presents attractive mechanical and anti-adherent properties for innovative hernia repair solutions.
The rational design of four multifunctional octamolybdate-based complexes for detecting different ions and removing organic dyes from aqueous solution
Authors: Wang Xiu-Li , Cui Zi-Wei , Lin Hong-Yan , Chang Zhi-Han
Published: February 2021

Four new octamolybdate-based complexes were obtained and used not only as electrochemical sensors for sensing Cr(vi), Fe(iii), BrO3−, and NO2− ions, but also as adsorbents to adsorb organic dyes.
Dynamical decoupling in water–glycerol glasses: a comparison of nitroxides, trityl radicals and gadolinium complexes
Authors: Soetbeer Janne , Millen Marthe , Zouboulis Konstantin , Hülsmann Miriam , Godt Adelheid , Polyhach Yevhen , Jeschke Gunnar
Published: February 2021

Dynamical decoupling sequences detect spin system and solvent-induced decoherence contributions for nitroxides, trityl radicals and gadolinium complexes in glassy water–glycerol.
Au-Modified Pd catalyst exhibits improved activity and stability for NO direct decomposition
Authors: Elgayyar Taha , Schnee Josefine , Tuel Alain , Burel Laurence , Bosselet Francoise , Schuurman Yves , Meunier Frederic C. , Delannoy Laurent , Thomas Cyril
Published: February 2021

The promotion of a Pd catalyst with Au leads to higher and stable activity for the direct decomposition of NO, due to improved oxygen desorption.
Integration of an aminopyridine derived cobalt based homogenous cocatalyst with a composite photocatalyst to promote H2evolution from water
Authors: Irfan Rana Muhammad , Khan Sayed Ali , Tahir Mudassir Hussain , Ahmad Tauqeer , Ali Liaqat , Afzal Masood , Ali Hazrat , Abbas Anees , Munawar Khuram Shahzad , Zhao Jianqing , Gao Lijun
Published: February 2021

Molecular cocatalysts are promising materials to improve the performance of photocatalytic systems.
Metal-free SHN cross-coupling of pyridines with phosphine chalcogenides: polarization/deprotonation/oxidation effects of electron-deficient acetylenes
Authors: Volkov Pavel A. , Telezhkin Anton A. , Khrapova Kseniya O. , Ivanova Nina I. , Albanov Alexander I. , Gusarova Nina K. , Trofimov Boris A.
Published: February 2021

Terminal acylacetylenes act as trimodal auxiliaries in SHN cross-coupling of pyridines with phosphine chalcogenides. The reaction proceeds via phosphorylation of the pyridine 2 position followed by 2 → 4-migration of phosphoryl moieties.
Sponge-like NaFe2PO4(SO4)2@rGO as a high-performance cathode material for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Shao-Fang , Hou Xian-Kun , Gu Zhen-Yi , Meng Yun-Feng , Zhao Chen-De , Zhang Hong-Xia , Wu Xing-Long
Published: February 2021

Sponge-like NaFe2PO4(SO4)2@reduced graphene oxide composite is prepared as cathode material for sodium-ion batteries. The corresponding full cells matched with hard carbon anode exhibit favorable rate and cyclic performance.
Sequential and cellular detection of copper and lactic acid by disaggregation and reaggregation of the fluorescent panchromatic fibres of an acylthiourea based sensor
Authors: Kshtriya Vivekshinh , Koshti Bharti , Pandey Deepak K. , Kharbanda Sumit , Kanth P Chandra , Singh Dheeraj K. , Bhatia Dhiraj , Gour Nidhi
Published: February 2021

We report, the self-assembly of an acyl-thiourea based sensor, N-{(6-methoxy-pyridine-2-yl) carbamothioyl}benzamide (NG1), with panchromatic fluorescent fibres and its dual-sensing properties for the sequential detection of Cu2+ ions and lactic acid.
Design study of an aerospace motor for more electric aircraft
Authors: Fang Shuhua , Wang Yicheng , Liu Huan
Published: February 2021

This study proposes an improved power density permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) for more electric aircraft (MEA) and conducts a design study on aerospace motors. To improve the power density of PMSM, a dual permanent magnet structure using high‐temperature resistant high‐performance permanent magnets and high‐performance soft magnetic alloy material is creatively designed. Methods of lightweight structure designed in both stator and rotor meanwhile are combined as another mean to increase power density. The optimisation models for 6‐slot/8‐pole and 12‐slot/10‐pole configurations are first established based on finite element analysis. Methods of improving the power density of PMSM are then given, including minimum core back yoke thickness and lightweight structure design. The electromagnetic characteristics of the optimised machine are analysed by finite element analysis software, including back electromotive force (back‐EMF), inductance, and power loss. The configuration of 12‐slot/10‐pole is selected as the best design scheme for MEA, based on which a prototype is manufactured and tested. The experiment results of cogging torque and line back‐EMF are in good agreement with the simulation results, which shows the rationality of the designed new machine. The design proves to be effective for improving the power density of aerospace motors.
Infant brain segmentation based on a combination of VGG‐16 and U‐Net deep neural networks
Authors: Pasban Sadegh , Mohamadzadeh Sajad , Zeraatkar‐Moghaddam Javad , Shafiei Amir Keivan
Published: February 2021

Medical image segmentation plays a key role in identifying the disease type. In the last decade, various methods have been proposed for medical images segmentation. Despite many efforts made in medical imaging, segmentation of medical images still faces challenges, concerning the variety of shape, location, and texture quality. According to recent studies and magnetic resonance imaging, segmentation of brain images at around 6 months of age is a challenging issue in brain image segmentation due to low tissue contrast between white matter (WM) and grey matter (GM) regions. In this study, using the deep learning model, the convolutional network for the brain fragmentation is presented. First, the image quality is improved using the pre‐processing method. The number of layers utilised in the proposed method is less than that of known models. In the pooling layer, instead of using the maximum function, the averaging function is employed. Sixty‐four batches are also considered to improve the performance of the proposed method. The method is evaluated on the iSeg‐2017 database. The DISC and ASC measures of the proposed method for the three classes of GM, WM, and cerebrovascular fluid are 0.902, 0.594, 0.930, 0.481, 0.971, and 0.231, respectively.
Forged text detection in video, scene, and document images
Authors: Nandanwar Lokesh , Shivakumara Palaiahnakote , Mondal Prabir , Raghunandan Karpuravalli Srinivas , Pal Umapada , Lu Tong , Lopresti Daniel
Published: February 2021

Rapid advances in artificial intelligence have made it possible to produce forgeries good enough to fool an average user. As a result, there is growing interest in developing robust methods to counter such forgeries. This study presents a new Fourier spectrum‐based method for detecting forged text in video images. The authors' premise is that brightness distribution and the spectrum shape exhibit irregular patterns (inconsistencies) for forged text, while appearing more regular for original text. The method divides the spectrum of an input image into sectors and tracks to highlight these effects. Specifically, positive and negative coefficients for sectors and tracks are extracted to quantify the brightness distribution. Variations in the shape of the spectrum are analysed by determining the angular relationship between the principal axes and the sectors/tracks of the spectrum. Next, it combines these two features to detect forged text in the images of IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers and document. For evaluation, the following datasets are used: own video dataset and standard datasets, namely, IMEI number, ICPR 2018 Fraud Document Contest, and a natural scene text dataset. Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms existing methods in terms of average classification rate and F‐score.
An asymptotically compatible approach for Neumann-type boundary condition on nonlocal problems
Authors: You Huaiqian , Lu Xin Yang , Trask Nathaniel , Yu Yue
Published: February 2021

In this paper we consider 2D nonlocal diffusion models with a finite nonlocal horizon parameterδcharacterizing the range of nonlocal interactions, and consider the treatment of Neumann-like boundary conditions that have proven challenging for discretizations of nonlocal models. We propose a new generalization of classical local Neumann conditions by converting the local flux to a correction term in the nonlocal model, which provides an estimate for the nonlocal interactions of each point with points outside the domain. While existing 2D nonlocal flux boundary conditions have been shown to exhibit at most first order convergence to the local counter part asδ → 0, the proposed Neumann-type boundary formulation recovers the local case asO(δ2) in theL∞(Ω) norm, which is optimal considering theO(δ2) convergence of the nonlocal equation to its local limit away from the boundary. We analyze the application of this new boundary treatment to the nonlocal diffusion problem, and present conditions under which the solution of the nonlocal boundary value problem converges to the solution of the corresponding local Neumann problem as the horizon is reduced. To demonstrate the applicability of this nonlocal flux boundary condition to more complicated scenarios, we extend the approach to less regular domains, numerically verifying that we preserve second-order convergence for non-convex domains with corners. Based on the new formulation for nonlocal boundary condition, we develop an asymptotically compatible meshfree discretization, obtaining a solution to the nonlocal diffusion equation with mixed boundary conditions that converges withO(δ2) convergence.
Axiale versus periphere Osteoporose
Authors: Pfeil Alexander , Renz Diane M. , Oelzner Peter , Wolf Gunter , Böttcher Joachim , Lange Uwe
Published: February 2021

Die Osteoporose gilt als systemische Skeletterkrankung, welche mit einer gestörten Mikroarchitektur des Knochens, einer erniedrigten Knochenmasse und einer erhöhten Knochenbrüchigkeit einhergeht. Die Osteoporose kann an axialen und an peripheren Knochenkompartimenten auftreten. Den unterschiedlichen Manifestationsorten liegen verschiedene Ursachen zugrunde. Zur Quantifizierung der Osteoporose am axialen Messort wird eine Knochenmineraldichtemessung mittels der Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometrie favorisiert und am peripheren Messort ist eine periphere Knochenmineraldichtemessung mittels hochauflösender peripherer quantitativer Computertomografie bzw. Digitaler Radiogrammetrie zu bevorzugen.
Neue Option zur Myelofibrosetherapie
Authors: Schmale Ine
Published: February 2021

Fedratinib ist ein neuer oraler, selektiver JAK2-Inhibitor und erhielt Ende 2020 eine Zulassungsempfehlung vom Ausschuss für Humanarzneimittel der Europäischen Zulassungsbehörde (CHMP). Indikationen sind die Behandlung von krankheitsbedingter Splenomegalie oder Symptomen bei erwachsenen Patienten mit primärer Myelofibrose, Myelofibrose nach Polycythaemia vera oder Myelofibrose nach essenzieller Thrombozythämie, die JAK-Inhibitor-naiv sind oder mit Ruxolitinib behandelt wurden. Eine beim ASH präsentierte Auswertung befasste sich mit Langzeitergebnissen bei Patienten, die ≥ 24 Zyklen der Medikation erhalten hatten.
Plasma Rivaroxaban Level to Identify Patients at Risk of Drug Overexposure: Is a Single Measurement of Drug Level Reliable?
Authors: Shyamkumar Krishnan , Hirsh Jack , Bhagirath Vinai C. , Ginsberg Jeffrey S. , Eikelboom John W. , Chan Noel C.
Published: February 2021

Introduction Dose adjustment based on laboratory monitoring is not routinely recommended for patients treated with rivaroxaban but because an association has been reported between high drug level and bleeding, it would be of interest to know if measuring drug level once could identify patients at risk of bleeding who might benefit from a dose reduction.

Objective This study was aimed to investigate the reliability of a single measurement of rivaroxaban level to identify clinic patients with persistently high levels, defined as levels that remained in the upper quintile of drug-level distribution.

Methods In this prospective cohort study of 100 patients with atrial fibrillation or venous thromboembolism, peak and trough rivaroxaban levels were measured using the STA-Liquid Anti-Xa assay at baseline and after 2 months. Values of 395.8 and 60.2 ng/mL corresponded to the 80th percentile for peak and trough levels, respectively, and levels above these cut-offs were categorized as high for our analyses.

Results Among patients with a peak or trough level in the upper quintile at baseline, only 26.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.9–52.0%), and 13.3% (95% CI: 2.4–37.9%), respectively, remained above these thresholds.

Conclusion Our findings do not support the use of a single rivaroxaban level measurement to identify patients who would benefit from a dose reduction because such an approach is unable to reliably identify patients with high levels.
Guidelines for Dorsum Preservation in Primary Rhinoplasty
Authors: Saban Yves , de Salvador Sylvie
Published: February 2021

The multiplication of scientific articles related to the fast-growing interest in preservation rhinoplasty (PR) may lead to confusion in the decision-making process, thus requiring a need for guidelines through a focus on benefit–risk ratio and revisions. This study analyzes a 352 consecutive primary rhinoplasties series during a 3 year (2016 to 2019) period with 1-year follow-up. The evaluation of the most appropriate procedure to the patient's nasal anatomy and expectations requires to correlate (1) a convenient classification of nasal profile lines; (2) a review of the dorsum preservation techniques (DP) classified as: full DP, DP + resurfacing, bony cartilaginous disarticulation, and finally traditional rhinoplasty; (3) the role of septoplasties, subdividing this series in two main groups; (4) analyzing the revisions in the different subgroups and to the literature. Thirty-five revisions (9.94%) were done. Correlations between profile lines, surgical procedures, and revisions show (1) 129 straight noses underwent full DP in 88 cases with 5.68% revisions; however, DP+ hump resurfacing in 32 patients with no revision. (2) Among 71 tension noses, 33 underwent full DP with 6 revisions (18.18%), while 32 patients had bony cap resurfacing, 1 revision (3.13%). (3) Among 109 kyphotic noses, 64 patients underwent DP + resurfacing with 10 revisions (15.63%); 27 patients had cartilage-only DP with two revisions (7.41%). (4) In the 43 difficult noses group, revisions were done equally in DP + resurfacing and cartilage-only subgroups. Septum stability modifies the correlations, introducing Cottle's septorhinoplasty in the paradigm. The revision rate is jumping ×2.50% when a septoplasty is associated with the rhinoplasty. Correlated to the benefit–risk ratio and the revisions, the following guidelines may be suggested in primary rhinoplasty: (1) Straight noses: full DP, (2) tension noses: DP + dorsum resurfacing and/or Cottle's variations, (3) kyphotic noses: cartilage-only DP, and (4) difficult noses: traditional rhinoplasties.
Analysis of 20-Year Trends in Medicare Reimbursement for Reconstructive Microsurgery
Authors: Gupta Nikita , Teven Chad M. , Yu Jason W. , Abujbarah Sami , Chow Nathan A. , Casey William J. , Rebecca Alanna M.
Published: February 2021

Background Microsurgery is being increasingly utilized across surgical specialties, including plastic surgery. Microsurgical techniques require greater time and financial investment compared with traditional methods. This study aimed to evaluate 20-year trends in Medicare reimbursement and utilization for commonly billed reconstructive microsurgery procedures from 2000 to 2019.

Methods Microsurgical procedures commonly billed by plastic surgeons were identified. Reimbursement data were extracted from The Physician Fee Schedule Look-Up Tool from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for each current procedural terminology (CPT) code. All monetary data were adjusted for inflation to 2019 U.S. dollars. The average annual and total percentage changes in reimbursement were calculated based on these adjusted trends. To assess utilization trends, CMS physician/supplier procedure summary files were queried for the number of procedures billed by plastic surgeons from 2010 to 2018.

Results After adjusting for inflation, the average reimbursement for all procedures decreased by 26.92% from 2000 to 2019. The greatest mean decrease was observed in CPT 20969 free osteocutaneous flaps with microvascular anastomosis (−36.93%). The smallest mean decrease was observed in repair of blood vessels with vein graft (−9.28%). None of the included procedures saw an increase in reimbursement rate over the study period. From 2000 to 2019, the adjusted reimbursement rate for all procedures decreased by an average of 1.35% annually. Meanwhile, the number of services billed to Medicare by plastic surgeons across the included CPT codes increased by 42.17% from 2010 to 2018.

Conclusion This is the first study evaluating 20-year trends in inflation-adjusted Medicare reimbursement and utilization in reconstructive microsurgery. Reimbursement for all included procedures decreased over 20% during the study period, while number of services increased. Increased consideration of these trends will be important for U.S. policymakers, hospitals, and surgeons to assure continued access and reconstructive options for patients.
Mechanisms of Soft Tissue Injury and Repair from Ballistics
Authors: Barrera Jose E.
Published: February 2021

Projectile injuries to the face deserve particular attention to evaluate for involvement of critical structures and functional elements and treat the devastating effects on facial aesthetics. Ballistic trauma to the maxillofacial region often has significant soft tissue and bony defects, creating a greater challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. The main goals of treatment of projectile injuries to the face are decreasing the amount of contaminants and nonviable tissue at the site, ensuring functionality, and restoring aesthetic appearance. There exists a lack of robust research on the subject. Soft tissue injuries from high-velocity projectiles have changed the perspective on treating acute injuries to the face and neck. Injuries encountered during both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom give the author pause to reflect upon a different wounding pattern than that encountered in stateside trauma centers. Given the dissemination of high-velocity weaponry by enemy combatants such as the improvised explosive device, mortar round, and high-velocity rifles, a higher incidence of facial wounds has been reported. The mechanism of injury and a stepwise approach for surgical repair are discussed incorporating advanced trauma life support principles and a reconstructive ladder of repair.
Superfluid stars and Q-balls in curved spacetime
Authors: Zloshchastiev Konstantin G.
Published: February 2021

Within the framework of the theory of strongly-interacting quantum Bose liquids, we consider a general relativistic model of self-interacting complex scalar fields with logarithmic nonlinearity taken from dense superfluid models. We demonstrate the existence of gravitational equilibria in this model, described by spherically symmeric nonsingular finite-mass asymptotically-flat solutions. These equilibrium configurations can describe both massive astronomical objects, such as bosonized superfluid stars or cores of neutron stars, and finite-size particles and non-topological solitons, such as Q-balls. We give an estimate for masses and sizes of such objects.
Theory of the shear acoustic phonons spectrum and their interaction with electrons due to the piezoelectric potential in AlN/GaN nanostructures of plane symmetry
Authors: Boyko I. V. , Petryk M. R. , Fraissard J.
Published: February 2021

Using the models of elastic and dielectric continuum, the system of differential equations is obtained, the exact analytical solutions of which describe the elastic displacement of the medium for nitride-based semiconductor nanostructure and the piezoelectric effect, which is caused by shear acoustic phonons. The theory of the shear acoustic phonons spectrum caused by the piezoelectric potential was developed. It is shown that shear acoustic phonons do not interact with electrons due to the deformation potential, but such interaction can occur due to the piezoelectric potential. Using the method of temperature Green’s functions and Dyson equation, expressions that describe the temperature dependences of the electronic level shifts and their decay rates are obtained. Calculations of the spectra of electrons, acoustic phonons, and characteristics that determine their interaction at different temperatures were carried out using the example of physical and geometric parameters of typical AlN/GaN nanostructure, which can function as an element of a separate cascade of a quantum cascade laser or detector.
Structure and transport properties of the Fe0.5Ni0.5 composite
Authors: Khadzhai G. Ya. , Vovk S. R. , Vovk R. V. , Gevorkyan E. S. , Kislitsa M. V. , Feher A. , Kollar P. , Fuzer J.
Published: February 2021

It is shown that the experimental data on the temperature dependences of the effective electrical resistance and thermal conductivity in the range of 4.2–300 K of the electroconsolidated Fe0.5Ni0.5 composite are within the Hashin–Shtrikman boundaries for the conductivities of a three-phase system. The components of the system are pure Fe and Ni, and the intergranular medium in the form of an alloy with an average composition close to Fe0.5Ni0.5 is considered as the third phase.
Background noise analysis and improvement for the water vapor and oxygen transmission rate test of free-standing films
Authors: Zhu Longji , Yu Qiaoxi , Rahman Naveed Ur , Zhou Zhuxin , Babu Seenivasagaperumal Sriram , Liang Shaosen , Tian Rui , Liu Siwei , Chi Zhenguo , Chen Xudong , Zhang Yi , Xu Jiarui
Published: February 2021

The background noise (BGN) of test equipment affects the lower detection limit of the measurement range, and achieving an ultralow BGN is identified as a formidable challenge for highly accurate testing of a free-standing film. In this paper, a new gas transmission rate test apparatus is designed by detecting the electrical resistance increase with calcium corrosion. Thanks to the new design strategy, the only permeable place of this apparatus is the clamping and holding site. Mathematical methods for calculating the molecular permeation behaviors and magnitude of BGN are devised. The results show that the properties and structures of the materials significantly affect the BGN value. By using a sealant with low permeability (2.25 × 10−15 g cm cm−2 s−1 Pa−1) and a clamping ring with small width (2.5 mm) and testing an ultrahigh barrier (WVTR: 10−6 g m−2 day−1), the BGN could reach a level of 10−11 g m−2 day−1. With theoretical guidance, after optimization, one sealing structure obtained an ultralow BGN value (∼10−6 g m−2 day−1) in the actual test. The electrical resistance test has many advantages over existing methods. Additionally, the computational method devised in this study to examine the effects of materials provides a useful tool to achieve high-accuracy testing.
Ion transport in nanopores with highly overlapping electric double layers
Authors: Green Yoav
Published: February 2021

Investigation of ion transport through nanopores with highly overlapping electric double layers is extremely challenging. This can be attributed to the non-linear Poisson–Boltzmann equation that governs the behavior of the electrical potential distribution as well as other characteristics of ion transport. In this work, we leverage the approach of Schnitzer and Yariv [Phys. Rev. E 87, 054301 (2013)] to reduce the complexity of the governing equation. An asymptotic solution is derived, which shows remarkable correspondence to simulations of the non-approximated equations. This new solution is leveraged to address a number of highly debated issues. We derive the equivalent of the Gouy–Chapman equation for systems with highly overlapping electric double layers. This new relationship between the surface charge density and the surface potential is then utilized to determine the power-law scaling of nanopore conductances as a function of the bulk concentrations. We derive the coefficients of transport for the case of overlapping electric double layers and compare it to the renowned uniform potential model. We show that the uniform potential model is only an approximation for the exact solution for small surface charges. The findings of this work can be leveraged to uncover additional hidden attributes of ion transport through nanopores.
Thermodiffusion of aqueous solutions of various potassium salts
Authors: Mohanakumar Shilpa , Luettmer-Strathmann Jutta , Wiegand Simone
Published: February 2021

Thermophoresis or thermodiffusion has become an important tool to monitor protein–ligand binding as it is very sensitive to the nature of solute–water interactions. However, the microscopic mechanisms underlying thermodiffusion in protein systems are poorly understood at this time. One reason is the difficulty to separate the effects of the protein system of interest from the effects of buffers that are added to stabilize the proteins. Due to the buffers, typical protein solutions form multicomponent mixtures with several kinds of salt. To achieve a more fundamental understanding of thermodiffusion of proteins, it is therefore necessary to investigate solutions of buffer salts. For this work, the thermodiffusion of aqueous potassium salt solutions has been studied systematically. We use thermal diffusion forced Rayleigh scattering experiments in a temperature range from 15 °C to 45 °C to investigate the thermodiffusive properties of aqueous solutions of five potassium salts: potassium chloride, potassium bromide, potassium thiocyanate, potassium acetate, and potassium carbonate in a molality range between 1 mol/kg and 5 mol/kg. We compare the thermophoretic results with those obtained for non-ionic solutes and discuss the thermophoresis of the salts in the context of ion-specific solvation according to the Hofmeister series.
Dynamics of the isotope exchange reaction of D with H3+, H2D+, and D2H+
Authors: Bowen K. P. , Hillenbrand P.-M. , Liévin J. , Savin D. W. , Urbain X.
Published: February 2021

We have measured the merged-beams rate coefficient for the titular isotope exchange reactions as a function of the relative collision energy in the range of ∼3 meV–10 eV. The results appear to scale with the number of available sites for deuteration. We have performed extensive theoretical calculations to characterize the zero-point energy corrected reaction path. Vibrationally adiabatic minimum energy paths were obtained using a combination of unrestricted quadratic configuration interaction of single and double excitations and internally contracted multireference configuration interaction calculations. The resulting barrier height, ranging from 68 meV to 89 meV, together with the various asymptotes that may be reached in the collision, was used in a classical over-the-barrier model. All competing endoergic reaction channels were taken into account using a flux reduction factor. This model reproduces all three experimental sets quite satisfactorily. In order to generate thermal rate coefficients down to 10 K, the internal excitation energy distribution of each H3+ isotopologue is evaluated level by level using available line lists and accurate spectroscopic parameters. Tunneling is accounted for by a direct inclusion of the exact quantum tunneling probability in the evaluation of the cross section. We derive a thermal rate coefficient of <1×10−12 cm3 s−1 for temperatures below 44 K, 86 K, and 139 K for the reaction of D with H3+, H2D+, and D2H+, respectively, with tunneling effects included. The derived thermal rate coefficients exceed the ring polymer molecular dynamics prediction of Bulut et al. [J. Phys. Chem. A 123, 8766 (2019)] at all temperatures.
Charge transfer plasmons in the arrays of nanoparticles connected by conductive linkers
Authors: Fedorov A. S. , Visotin M. A. , Gerasimov V. S. , Polyutov S. P. , Avramov P. A.
Published: February 2021

Charge transfer plasmons (CTPs) that occur in different topology and dimensionality arrays of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) linked by narrow molecular bridges are studied. The occurrence of CTPs in such arrays is related to the ballistic motion of electrons in thin linkers with the conductivity that is purely imaginary, in contrast to the case of conventional CTPs, where metallic NPs are linked by thick bridges with the real optical conductivity caused by carrier scattering. An original hybrid model for describing the CTPs with such linkers has been further developed. For different NP arrays, either a general analytical expression or a numerical solution has been obtained for the CTP frequencies. It has been shown that the CTP frequencies lie in the IR spectral range and depend on both the linker conductivity and the system geometry. It is found that the electron currents of plasmon oscillations correspond to minor charge displacements of only few electrons. It has been established that the interaction of the CTPs with an external electromagnetic field strongly depends on the symmetry of the electron currents in the linkers, which, in turn, are fully governed by the symmetry of the investigated system. The extended model and the analytical expressions for the CTPs frequencies have been compared with the conventional finite difference time domain simulations. It is argued that applications of this novel type of plasmon may have wide ramifications in the area of chemical sensing.
A numerical study of liquid compound filament contraction
Authors: Ho Nang X. , Vu Truong V. , Nguyen Vinh T. , Nguyen Cuong T. , Vu Hung V.
Published: February 2021

Droplets resulting from liquid filament contraction have been widely used in industrial processes. However, detailed investigations of liquid compound filament contraction processes are lacking in the literature. Therefore, this study provides a numerical investigation of the contraction of a two-layered compound filament. The simulations are based on an axisymmetric front-tracking method. It is found that because of the interfacial tension force, the initially long cylindrical filament contracts to a compound droplet without any breakup or breaks up into smaller droplets during contraction. Unlike simple filaments, the presence of the inner filament inside the compound filament results in a more complicated compound filament breakup process with various droplet types, e.g., simple droplets, single-core compound droplets, and multi-core compound droplets. We find that the inner filament breaks up into droplets, while the outer does not induce breakup. Such a breakup mode produces a multi-core compound droplet after contraction. In some cases, while the inner filament only contracts to a single droplet, its enclosing filament breaks up to produce simple droplets at each end. We also find a breakup mode that combines these two modes, where both the inner and outer filaments perform breakup. In addition, the breakup of the compound filament occurs via one of two mechanisms: end-pinching and necking. These breakup modes and mechanisms are affected by various parameters such as the inner and outer aspect ratios, the Ohnesorge number, the interfacial tension ratio, and the viscosity ratios. Based on these parameters, various regime diagrams of breakup and non-breakup are proposed.
Ferrohydrodynamics governed evaporation phenomenology of sessile droplets
Authors: Kaushal Abhishek , Mehandia Vishwajeet , Dhar Purbarun
Published: February 2021

In this article, we report the morphing of the evaporation kinetics of paramagnetic saline sessile droplets in the presence of a magnetic field stimulus. We explore the evaporation kinetics both experimentally and theoretically and study the kinetics on hydrophilic and superhydrophobic substrates for various magnetic field strengths. We show that the evaporation rates of the paramagnetic droplets are augmented significantly and are observed to be a direct function of the magnetic field strength. Additionally, we note the modulation of the contact line transients due to the presence of the field. The influential role of solvated ions in modulating the flow behavior, and subsequently the evaporation, of droplets is present in the literature. Taking cue, we show using particle image velocimetry and infrared thermography that the magnetic field augments the thermo-solutal advection within the droplets. A mathematical analysis, based on the different internal advection mechanisms, has been proposed. We reveal that the magneto-thermal and magneto-solutal modes of internal ferrohydrodynamics are the dominant mechanisms behind the augmented evaporation dynamics. The experimentally obtained internal velocities are in excellent compliance with the model predictions. Furthermore, the enhanced evaporation rates are predicted accurately using a proposed model to scale the interfacial shear modified Stefan flow. The inferences drawn from these findings may hold several important implications in magnetic field-modulated microfluidic thermal and species transport systems.
Comprehensive study on the physical properties of tetragonal LaTGe3 (T = Rh, Ir, or Pd) compounds: An ab initio investigation
Authors: Miah Md. Khokon , Hossain Khandaker Monower , Rahman Md. Atikur , Rasheduzzaman Md. , Mitro S. K. , Modak Jibon Krishna , Hasan Md. Zahid
Published: February 2021

This study uses density functional theory to investigate the structural, mechanical, electronic, optical, and thermodynamic properties of tetragonal LaRhGe3, LaIrGe3, and LaPdGe3 compounds. The investigated lattice parameter showed similar results to the experimental data, justifying the accuracy of our calculations. The negative values of formation enthalpy confirmed the thermodynamic stability of LaTGe3 (T = Rh, Ir, or Pd). The mechanical stability of these compounds was also verified by their single independent elastic constants. Poisson’s and Pugh’s ratios revealed that all the compounds have a ductile nature. The metallic nature of these phases was found from their band structure calculations. The study of Mulliken bond populations and charge density maps ensured the existence of a mixed character of ionic, covalent, and metallic nature in LaRhGe3, LaIrGe3, and LaPdGe3 compounds. Detailed investigation was also performed on optical properties, and the dielectric function, absorption, and conductivity again ensured the metallic feature of all these phases. The calculated optical functions suggested their potential application in quantum-dot light emitting diodes, organic light emitting diodes, solar cells, waveguides, and solar heating reduction. Moreover, the very low values of minimum thermal conductivity and the Debye temperature are indicative of their suitability for thermal barrier coating materials.
Social innovation in sexual health: a scoping review towards ending the HIV epidemic
Authors: Srinivas Megan L. , Ritchwood Tiarney D. , Zhang Tiange P. , Li Jingjing , Tucker Joseph D.
Published: February 2021

As donor financial support decreases, ending the HIV epidemic in Asia will require novel and sustainable approaches. Social innovation, a community-engaged process that links social change and health improvement, may be useful for helping to end the HIV epidemic in Asia. A scoping review to examine social innovation strategies in sexual health for the Asian region was conducted. The research identified focused on three types of social innovation: (1) microfinance; (2) social entrepreneurship; and (3) social enterprise. Microfinance provides financial opportunities (e.g. banking services, job opportunities) to spur local entrepreneurship and healthier behaviours. Social entrepreneurship uses business principles and tools (e.g. crowdsourcing, human-centred design) to improve health. Social enterprise is a business with a social mission. Further research is needed to measure the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of social innovation strategies in improving HIV services.
A national survey of HIV knowledge, sexual practices and attitude towards homosexuality for HIV elimination among young people in China
Authors: Ruan Luanqi , Zhao Rui , Ong Jason J. , Fu Xiaoxing , Xiong Ying , Chen Yan , He Da , Chen Yujia , Zhuang Xun , Zhang Lei
Published: February 2021

Background
Elimination of HIV is a public health priority in China, but there has been reports of an upsurge in HIV among young people. A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess the awareness of HIV knowledge, attitudes towards homosexuality and practice of sexual behaviours among Chinese aged 15–24 years. Methods: The face-to-face survey was conducted from June to August 2017, collecting data on sociodemographic characteristics, HIV-related knowledge, attitudes towards homosexuality and practice of sexual behaviours among Chinese senior high school and university students. A generalised linear model (GLM) was used to assess the different levels of HIV knowledge between groups, and identify the key contributors to HIV knowledge scores. Results: The survey was completed by 73.6% (1355/1840) of the students approached. The overall level of HIV-related knowledge was low (58.9%, 10.6/18); 48.0% (650/1355) supported same-sex marriage; and 6.9% (93/1355) self-identified as homosexual or bisexual. The major factors associated with higher scores [mean ± standard deviation (s.d.)] in HIV knowledge among students included: having received school-based HIV education (11.47 ± 3.51 vs 9.02 ± 4.14, P < 0.05); support for same-sex marriage (11.69 ± 3.33 vs 9.49 ± 4.29, P < 0.05) and older age (11.61 ± 2.78 vs 9.87 ± 4.17, P < 0.05). Compared with females, males were significantly more likely (all P < 0.05) to report masturbation (60.7% vs 7.6%), pornography experiences (77.4% vs 35.3%), sexual encounters (24.6% vs 12.3%), casual sex (37.0% vs 18.1%) and sex under the influence of alcohol (29.5% vs 12.8%). Conclusions: There is is still much room for improvement in terms of HIV/AIDS prevention and health education for Chinese young people, and more comprehensive and diverse models of education for HIV prevention are urgently needed.