bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced photocatalytic degradation of amoxicillin using a spinning disc photocatalytic reactor (SDPR) with a novel Fe3O4@void@CuO/ZnO yolk-shell thin film nanostructure
Authors: Fallahizadeh Saeid , Gholami Mitra , Rahimi Mahmood Reza , Esrafili Ali , Farzadkia Mahdi , Kermani Majid
Published: September 2023

Antibiotics are resistant compounds with low biological degradation that generally cannot be removed by conventional wastewater treatment processes. The use of yolk-shell nanostructures in spinning disc photocatalytic reactor (SDPR) enhances the removal efficiency due to their high surface-to-volume ratio and increased interaction between catalyst particles and reactants. The purpose of this study is to investigate the SDPR equipped to Fe3O4@void@CuO/ZnO yolk-shell thin film nanostructure (FCZ YS) in the presence of visible light illumination in the photocatalytic degradation of amoxicillin (AMX) from aqueous solutions. Stober, co-precipitation, and self-transformation methods were used for the synthesis of FCZ YS thin film nanostructure and the physical and chemical characteristics of the catalyst were analyzed by XRD, VSM,, EDX, FESEM, TEM, AFM, BET, contact angle (CA), and DRS. Then, the effect of different parameters including pH (3–11), initial concentration of AMX (10–50 mg/L), flow rate (10–25 mL/s) and rotational speed (100–400 rpm) at different times in the photocatalytic degradation of AMX were studied. The obtained results indicated that the highest degradation efficiency of 97.6% and constant reaction rate of AMX were obtained under LED visible light illumination and optimal conditions of pH = 5, initial AMX concentration of 30 mg/L, solution flow rate of 15 mL/s, rotational speed of 300 rpm and illumination time of 80 min. The durability and reusability of the nanostructure were tested, that after 5 runs had a suitable degradation rate. Considering the appropriate efficiency of amoxicillin degradation by FCZ YS nanostructure, the use of Fe3O4@void@CuO/ZnO thin film in SDPR is suggested in water and wastewater treatment processes.
Clinical outcomes between elderly ESKD patients under peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis: a national cohort study
Authors: Peng Yu-Kai , Tai Tzong-Shyuan , Wu Chao-Yi , Tsai Chung-Ying , Lee Cheng-Chia , Chen Jia-Jin , Hsiao Ching-Chung , Chen Yung-Chang , Yang Huang-Yu , Yen Chieh-Li
Published: September 2023

With ageing populations, new elderly end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) cases rise. Unlike younger patients, elderly ESKD patients are less likely to undergo kidney transplant, and therefore the decision of receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) and hemodialysis (HD) is more crucial. A total of 36,852 patients, aged more than 65, who were newly diagnosed with ESKD and initiated renal replacement therapy between 2013 and 2019 were identified. These patients were categorized into two groups: the PD group and the HD group according to their long-term renal replacement treatment. After propensity score matching, the PD group (n = 1628) displayed a lower incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (10.09% vs. 13.03%, hazard ratio (HR): 0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.66–0.83), malignancy (1.23% vs. 2.14%, HR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.40–0.76), and MACCE-associated mortality (1.35% vs. 2.25%, HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.46–0.84) compared to the HD group (n = 6512). However, the PD group demonstrated a higher rate of infection (34.09% vs. 24.14%, HR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.20–1.37). The risks of all-cause mortality and infection-associated mortality were not different. This study may provide valuable clinical information to assist elderly ESKD patients to choose HD or PD as their renal replacement therapy.
Advantages of enhanced recovery after surgery program in robot-assisted radical cystectomy
Authors: Nakamura Masaki , Tsuru Ibuki , Izumi Taro , Ono Akihiro , Inoue Yasushi , Muraki Yasuko , Yamada Yumi , Tsuji Yuko , Watanabe Junko , Fujimura Mutsuko , Kihara Shunsuke , Naito Akihiro , Shiratori Taichi , Amakawa Ryo , Inatsu Hiroki , Yoshimatsu Tadashi , Kashiwagi Masanori , Fukuda Akira , Morikawa Teppei , Kusakabe Masashi , Suzuki Motofumi , Kameyama Shuji , Kume Haruki , Shiga Yoshiyuki
Published: September 2023

Radical cystectomy is a gold-standard treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. We recently introduced robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with perioperative enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). The medical records of patients with bladder cancer who underwent open radical cystectomy (ORC) or RARC/ERAS at NTT Medical Center Tokyo were retrospectively reviewed to compare the surgical outcomes, hospital stay, and medical costs between groups. Multidisciplinary full ERAS items were provided for the RARC/ERAS group. The median estimated blood losses in the ORC and RARC/ERAS groups were 650 and 100 mL, and the median operative times were 312 and 445 min, respectively. In addition, the median times to liquid food intake in these groups were 6 and 0 days, the median times to first flatus and first defecation were 2 and 1 day, and 3 and 1.5 days, respectively. The rates of postoperative ileus in the ORC and RARC/ERAS groups were 27.5% and 4.5%, and the median postoperative hospital stays was 26.5 and 12 days, respectively. Medical costs excluding surgery were significantly lower in the RARC/ERAS group. In conclusion, RARC/ERAS represents a safe treatment option for muscle-invasive bladder cancer with decreased perioperative complications and lower medical costs.
Cortical excitability and multifidus activation responses to transcranial direct current stimulation in patients with chronic low back pain during remission
Authors: Wattananon Peemongkon , Thu Khin Win , Maharjan Soniya , Sornkaew Kanphajee , Wang Hsing-Kuo
Published: September 2023

Evidence indicates that patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) have lumbar multifidus muscle (LM) activation deficit which might be caused by changes in cortical excitability. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) can be used to restore cortical excitability. This study aimed to (1) determine the immediate effects of a-tDCS on the cortical excitability and LM activation and (2) explore the relationship between cortical excitability and LM activation. Thirteen participants with CLBP during remission and 11 healthy participants were recruited. Cortical excitability (peak-to-peak motor evoked potential amplitude; P2P and cortical silent period; CSP) and LM activation were measured at pre- and post-intervention. We found significant difference (P < 0.05) in P2P between groups. However, no significant differences (P > 0.05) in P2P, CSP and LM activation were found between pre- and post-intervention in CLBP. The CLBP group demonstrated significant correlation (P = 0.05) between P2P and LM activation. Although our finding demonstrates change in P2P in the CLBP group, one-session of a-tDCS cannot induce changes in cortical excitability and LM activation. However, moderate to strong correlation between P2P and LM activation suggests the involvement of cortical level in LM activation deficit. Therefore, non-significant changes could have been due to inadequate dose of a-tDCS.
Lubiprostone plus polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage solution (PEG-ELS) versus PEG-ELS for bowel preparation in chronic constipation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tangvoraphonkchai K. , Manasirisuk W. , Sawadpanich K. , Suttichaimongkol T. , Mairiang P.
Published: September 2023

Colonoscopy is considered the standard procedure for early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. Adequate bowel cleansing is an important determinant of the efficacy of colonoscopy screening. Currently, there is no standard method of bowel preparation for patients with chronic constipation. The aim was to access the rate of adequate bowel cleansing achieved using split-dose polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage solution (PEG-ELS) plus lubiprostone in comparison with split-dose PEG-ELS alone. A single-centre, endoscopist-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted. Seventy-eight constipated patients aged 18–75 years who were indicated for colonoscopy in the gastroenterology unit of Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University, between February 2020 and February 2021 were randomly allocated to receive either split-dose PEG-ELS in combination with lubiprostone (N = 39) or split-dose PEG-ELS alone (N = 39) before colonoscopy. Adequate bowel cleansing was defined as an Ottawa bowel preparation score ≤ 7. The rate of adequate bowel cleansing was comparable between the PEG-ELS plus lubiprostone group and the PEG-ELS alone group (50% vs. 52.9%, p value = 0.81) with a relative risk of 1.13 (95% CI = 0.43–2.91). There were no significant differences in adenoma detection rate (41.2% vs. 35.3%, p value = 0.62), adverse events, acceptance, compliance, or patient satisfaction between the 2 groups. No additional benefit to successful bowel preparation was achieved by the combination of lubiprostone and PEG-ELS in chronic constipation patients undergoing colonoscopy.
PC3T: a signature-driven predictor of chemical compounds for cellular transition
Authors: Han Lu , Song Bin , Zhang Peilin , Zhong Zhi , Zhang Yongxiang , Bo Xiaochen , Wang Hongyang , Zhang Yong , Cui Xiuliang , Zhou Wenxia
Published: September 2023

Cellular transitions hold great promise in translational medicine research. However, therapeutic applications are limited by the low efficiency and safety concerns of using transcription factors. Small molecules provide a temporal and highly tunable approach to overcome these issues. Here, we present PC3T, a computational framework to enrich molecules that induce desired cellular transitions, and PC3T was able to consistently enrich small molecules that had been experimentally validated in both bulk and single-cell datasets. We then predicted small molecule reprogramming of fibroblasts into hepatic progenitor-like cells (HPLCs). The converted cells exhibited epithelial cell-like morphology and HPLC-like gene expression pattern. Hepatic functions were also observed, such as glycogen storage and lipid accumulation. Finally, we collected and manually curated a cell state transition resource containing 224 time-course gene expression datasets and 153 cell types. Our framework, together with the data resource, is freely available at http://pc3t.idrug.net.cn/. We believe that PC3T is a powerful tool to promote chemical-induced cell state transitions.
4π light scattering flow cytometry: enhancing the identification and characterization of individual cells
Authors: Alexandrov Evgeniy A. , Litvinenko Alena L. , Yastrebova Ekaterina S. , Strokotov Dmitry I. , Nekrasov Vyacheslav M. , Gilev Konstantin V. , Chernyshev Andrei V. , Karpenko Andrey A. , Maltsev Valeri P.
Published: September 2023

A completely novel flow cytometer was developed and tested in the current study. The flow cytometer enables the collection of 98.5% of scattering photons in an angle-resolved partly regime. The light-scattering profiles were used to solve the inverse light-scattering problem.
Solid state 1H, 7Li, and 13C NMR studies on new ionic plastic crystals of crown ether–Li-TFSA complexes
Authors: Kobayashi Akira , Yamagami Jun , Ranjan Subham , Takamizawa Satoshi , Honda Hisashi
Published: September 2023

This study provides the first evidence that a Li ion can form ionic plastic crystals using crown ether with a bis-(trifluoromethanesulphonyl) amide (TFSA) anion.
First principles study of BAs/MoSi2N4 van der Waals heterostructure: tunable electronic and optical properties via vertical strain
Authors: Qi Yunxi , Yao Can , Zhao Jun , Zeng Hui
Published: September 2023

We use first-principles calculations to explore the modulation of a two-dimensional BAs/MoSi2N4 van der Waals heterostructure via strain, including the structure stabilities, electronic properties, charge transfer and optical properties.
The theoretical design of manganese catalysts with a Si–N–Si–C–Si–C six-membered ring core-based bowl-shaped quadridentate ligand for the hydrogenation of CO/CN bonds
Authors: Yue Yunfan , Ma Tian , Qi Hexiang , Zhao Yaqi , Shi Xiaofan , Tang Yanhui , Pu Min , Lei Ming
Published: September 2023

Herein, a new series of bowl-shaped quadridentate ligands with a Si–N–Si–C–Si–C six-membered ring core and their manganese catalysts were designed using the density functional theory (DFT) method for the hydrogenation of unsaturated CX (XN, O) bonds.
Four- and three-coordinate planar iron(ii) complexes supported by bulky organosilyl ligands
Authors: Ishii Reon , Nakagawa Minesato , Wada Yoshimasa , Sunada Yusuke
Published: September 2023

Four- and three-coordinate iron(ii) bis(silyl) complexes were prepared and their catalytic performance in hydrosilylation reactions was investigated.
Functionalised organometallic photoswitches containing dihydropyrene units
Authors: Gillespie Angus A. , Roemer Max , Jago David , Sobolev Alexandre N. , Nealon Gareth L. , Spackman Peter R. , Moggach Stephen A. , Koutsantonis George A.
Published: September 2023

Synthesis of half-sandwich Ru and Fe complexes functionalised with alkynyl dihydropyrenes is described. Unlike the parent DHP ligand, several of the metal alkynyl dihydropyrenes showed evidence of photoswitching as a result of a higher barrier to thermal reversion.
Trinuclear rhenium(i)-based metallocages as anticancer agents towards human cervical cancer cells
Authors: Kedia Moon , Khatun Sajmina , Phukon Upasana , Shankar Bhaskaran , Rengan Aravind Kumar , Sathiyendiran Malaichamy
Published: September 2023

In vitro cytotoxicity studies of self-assembled compact trinuclear rhenium(I) based metallocages display anticancer, antimetastatic, antiproliferative and DNA damaging behavior towards human cervical cancer cells comparable to that of cisplatin.
Electroactive properties and piezo-tribo hybrid energy harvesting performances of PVDF-AlFeO3 composites: role of crystal symmetry and agglomeration of fillers
Authors: Sasmal Abhishek , Maity Sourav , Arockiarajan A. , Sen Shrabanee
Published: September 2023

The effects of difference in crystal symmetry (R3̄c and Pc21n) and agglomeration of AlFeO3 filler in tuning the electroactive properties and piezo-tribo hybrid energy harvesting performance of PVDF-based composites have been investigated.
Self-assembly of a metal–organic cage-like structure bearing cofacial redox-active bis-(o-semiquinone) copper(ii) units
Authors: Cherkasova Anna V. , Cherkasov Anton V. , Martyanov Konstantin A. , Bogomyakov Artem S. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Kissel Alexander A. , Kozhanov Konstantin A. , Kuropatov Viacheslav A. , Cherkasov Vladimir K.
Published: September 2023

We report the efficient formation of dinuclear redox-active metallacycles with a metal–organic cage-like structure during the interaction of ditopic dioxolene ligands with copper.
Boosting CO production from visible-light CO2 photoreduction via defects-induced electronic-structure tuning and reaction-energy optimization on ultrathin carbon nitride
Authors: Li Jiaying , He Chengxuan , Wang Jinlong , Gu Xiaoyi , Zhang Zehan , Li Huizi , Li Mingyang , Wang Lingzhi , Wu Shiqun , Zhang Jinlong
Published: September 2023

Defective carbon nitride enables the efficient visible-light photoreduction of CO2 by optimizing its band structure, electronic structure, and reducing the reaction energy through defect-induced modifications.
Editor’s Choice: “Organic Electronics: What a Journey!”
Authors: Brédas Jean-Luc
Published: September 2023

Scientific Editor for Materials Horizons Professor Jean-Luc Brédas (The University of Arizona, USA), introduces this Editor’s Choice collection on organic electronics.
A sulfonated graphene supported nano copper MoS2 network for non-enzymatic simultaneous sensing of dopamine and serotonin
Authors: Mahanta Baishali , Mamun Hasan Al , Singh Rana Sanjay Kumar , Borthakur Lakhya Jyoti
Published: September 2023

Hydrothermal synthesis of Cu/SG/MoS2 nanocomposite for individual and simultaneous detection of DA and 5-HT in real human urine samples.
Iron/cobalt/nickel regulation for efficient photocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction over phthalocyanine covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Zhang Qiqi , Chen Meiyan , Zhang Yanjie , Ye Yuansong , Liu Diwen , Xu Chao , Ma Zuju , Lou BenYong , Yuan Rusheng , Sa Rongjian
Published: September 2023

We elucidate the photocatalytic mechanism of CO2 reduction in metallophthalocyanine covalent organic frameworks through density functional theory calculations.
Sulfonylpyrazole- and pyrazole-directed ortho-selective C–H functionalization/alkenylation and desulfenylative olefination of aryl(sulfonyl)pyrazoles
Authors: Ahmed Mukhtar , Mahajan Shivangani , Kour Jaspreet , Sawant Sanghapal D.
Published: September 2023

ortho-Selective C–H alkenylation of arenes was achieved using (sulfonyl)pyrazoles as DGs, favored by combination of Pd(OAc)2 Boc-Sar-OH and silver acetate. Silver tetrafluoroborate gave de-sulfenylative olefinated products on sulfonylpyrazole.
Dithioallyl cation (3 + 2) cycloadditions under aprotic reaction conditions: rapid access to spiro-fused cyclopentane scaffolds
Authors: Degroote Frederick , Denoo Bram , Ryckaert Bram , Callebaut Brenda , Van Hecke Kristof , Hullaert Jan , Winne Johan M.
Published: September 2023

Acid-sensitive conjugated alkenes can be transformed into attractive spirocarbocycles, using a newly developed mild generation mode of (thio)allyl cations giving a regio- and stereoselective carbocationic cascade reaction.
Electrochemical Fe-catalysed radical cyclization for the synthesis of oxindoles
Authors: Ren Tianxiang , Qu Ruina , Song Lu
Published: September 2023

We report a sustainable and efficient electrochemical Fe-catalysed protocol for the synthesis of ester-containing oxindole derivatives, which are intermediates to access biologically active indole alkaloids.
Structural isomers of di-p-benzidithiaoctaphyrins
Authors: Grover Vratta , Ravikanth Mangalampalli
Published: September 2023

We synthesized rare examples of cis- and trans-isomers of di-p-benzidithiaoctaphyrins by adopting two different synthetic routes, successfully separated the isomers and characterized them using various experimental and theoretical techniques.
High-performance perovskite light-emitting diodes based on grain boundary passivation: progress, challenges and perspectives
Authors: Weng Yalian , Lim Eng Liang , Meng Yuanyuan , Lin Junpeng , Wei Zhanhua
Published: September 2023

Metal halide perovskites are emerging as promising candidates for next-generation display and lighting technologies.
Changes in characteristics of silver conductive fabrics owing to perspiration and washing
Authors: Park Sohyun , Kim Hyewon , Lee Suhyun
Published: September 2023

Changes in the appearance, chemical components and electrical properties of silver-coated conductive knitted fabrics due to exposure to sweat and washing were investigated based on the manufacturing methods of conductive fabrics.
Crystallization of nickel sulfate and its purification process: towards efficient production of nickel-rich cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Choi Kyoung Hun , Azimi Gisele
Published: September 2023

The distribution coefficient (D2/1) for magnesium in NiSO4·6H2O crystals, a crucial salt used in battery manufacturing is assessed. The research also explores the efficiency of repulping and washing techniques in eliminating impurities from the crystals.
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of VEGFR-2/HDAC dual inhibitors as multitargeted antitumor agents based on fruquintinib and vorinostat
Authors: Gao Yali , Li Fei , Ni Xin , Yang Siwang , Liu Han , Wu Xingye , Liu Jieqing , Ma Junjie
Published: September 2023

Compound 13 was identified as a VEGFR-2/HDAC dual inhibitor by integrating the pharmacophores of fruquintinib and HDAC inhibitor.
Retraction: Preventive effect of lemon seed flavonoids on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in mice
Authors: Yang Ming , Sun Fengjun , Zhou Yue , He Mei , Yao Pu , Peng Yuan , Luo Fei , Liu Fu
Published: September 2023

Retraction of ‘Preventive effect of lemon seed flavonoids on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in mice’ by Ming Yang et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 12800–12809, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0RA01415J.
Competing quantum effects in heavy-atom tunnelling through conical intersections
Authors: Fang Wei , Heller Eric R. , Richardson Jeremy O.
Published: September 2023

The geometric-phase effect appears in reactions which tunnel around conical intersections. Our novel instanton theories indicate that this plays an important role in certain charge-transfer reactions, even at room temperature.
Effects of lipid saturation on bicelle to vesicle transition of a binary phospholipid mixture: a molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Koshiyama Kenichiro , Nakata Kazuki
Published: September 2023

We numerically demonstrated that vesiculation of saturated/unsaturated lipid assembly depends on the concentration of unsaturated lipids and the degree of unsaturation.
Coil–globule transition in two-dimensional polymer chains in an explicit solvent
Authors: Polanowski Piotr , Sikorski Andrzej
Published: September 2023

The structure of two-dimensional polymer chains in a solvent at different temperatures is still far from being fully understood.
Robust virtual‐vector model predictive control of permanent‐magnet motor considering D‐Q axis inductance parameter uncertainty
Authors: An Xingke , Liu Zhengmeng , Chen Qian , Liu Guohai
Published: September 2023

To suppress parameter mismatch and improve the output performance of model predictive control (MPC), a new robust virtual‐vector MPC strategy is proposed for a five‐phase permanent‐magnet motor in this study. Firstly, the incremental predictive model is applied to remove the impact of flux mismatch. Then the d‐q axis inductance parameter sensitivity of MPC is analysed, which produces the predictive current error between the normal parameter and mismatched parameter. Based on the current error, a new cost function is designed to select the voltage vector more accurately when the d‐q axis inductance parameter mismatch occurs. Thus, good robustness to the parameter's variation can be guaranteed. Afterwards, the duty cycle modulation technology is applied to allocate the duration time of two adjacent vector‐vectors and zero vector. So the motor current harmonics and torque ripple can be considerably suppressed. Finally, the experimental results are provided to show the effectiveness of this proposed method.
Current fluctuations reduction strategy based on optimal three‐space‐vector pulse‐width modulation for service‐life improvement of DC‐link electrolytic capacitors in three‐phase voltage‐source inverter system
Authors: Li Peihe , Shen Anwen , Tang Qipeng , Luo Xin , Xu Jinbang
Published: September 2023

The authors propose a current fluctuation reduction strategy based on optimal three‐space‐vector pulse‐width modulation (TSVPWM), which is used to improve the service‐life of the dc‐link electrolytic capacitors in two‐level three‐phase voltage‐source inverter (VSI) system. Differing from the typical SVPWM‐based method that employs two adjacent active voltage vectors and zero voltage vectors to synthesise the reference voltage, the proposed strategy selects the required voltage vectors based on the minimum dc‐link electrolytic capacitor current fluctuation. With the proposed strategy, an objective function for the root‐mean‐square value of dc‐link electrolytic capacitor current is first constructed under the constraint of eight permissible voltage vectors. And then, by solving the minimum of the objective function through the piecewise linear programming, the optimal three voltage vectors under the different modulation ratios and load power factors are obtained accordingly, so as to achieve the minimum dc‐link electrolytic capacitor current fluctuations during each switching period. Meanwhile, a PWM implementation scheme based on positive–negative double carrier signals is presented, which not only simplifies the implementation process but also effectively reduces the switching losses of power devices. Finally, the experimental results demonstrate that the proposed strategy can minimise the dc‐link electrolytic capacitor current fluctuation under different working conditions.
Fuzzy C‐means clustering algorithm based on superpixel merging and multi‐feature adaptive fusion measurement
Authors: Zeyu Xie , Xiao Luo , Defang Zhao , Xinyu Chen
Published: September 2023

The fuzzy C‐means clustering (FCM) algorithm is widely used in greyscale and colour image segmentation, especially in real colour images. However, in the process of interested regions extraction, it performs barely satisfactory due to the use of single distance metric in traditional FCM. In order to address the issue, a fuzzy C‐means clustering algorithm based on superpixel merging and multi‐feature adaptive fusion measurement (FCM‐SM) are proposed. First of all, since superpixel image adapts well to irregular image boundaries, the FCM algorithm is elevated to the superpixel level. Moreover, the superpixel merging module based on colour similarity is introduced to improve the traditional watershed transformation by incorporating more gradient and intensity information. Finally, the multi‐feature adaptive fusion measurement is designed in the clustering process to incorporate multiple sources of spatial information, which comprehensively measures the information from different fields to enhance the segmentation capability further. Experiments performed on Berkeley Segmentation Dataset and Brain Tumor Segmentation Dataset demonstrate that the proposed algorithm provides better segmentation results than benchmarks during the object extraction.
A CPW‐fed fractal monopole antenna with a reduced ground plane in frequency range of 500 MHz‐5.5 GHz
Authors: Amirinalloo Shima , Atlasbaf Zahra
Published: September 2023

In this article, the authors propose a super wide band CPW‐fed fractal monopole antenna suitable for phased array antennas with a shaped beam radiation pattern, operating in the frequency ranges below and above 1 GHz at the same time. The antenna has an octagonal radiator with fractals of the same shape added to its edges and sides. Also, the symmetrical elliptical ground planes have reduced the antenna size and, consequently, the mutual coupling in the antenna array. Despite the super‐wide frequency range, the antenna's radiation pattern is relatively steady in the E‐plane, and the negligible ripple on the radiation pattern makes it suitable for shaped beam radiation patterns in phased array design. The single‐element antenna with an overall size of 0.24λ × 0.38λ at 500 MHz is printed on an FR‐4 substrate. The outcomes of the simulation and measurement are well agreed in the frequency band of [500 MHz to 5.5 GHz] with an impedance bandwidth (|S11|< −10dB) of 166.67% and VSWR< 2. Also, the fidelity factor of the antenna is studied to investigate the SWB performance.
The peculiar ejecta of the nova V1425 Aquilae
Authors: Tappert C. , Celedón L. , Schmidtobreick L.
Published: September 2023

Many important details of the mechanisms underlying the ejection of material during a (classical) nova eruption are still not understood. Here we present optical spectroscopy and narrow-band images of the nova V1425 Aql, 23 yr after the nova eruption. We find that the ejecta consist of two significantly different components. The first resembles what is commonly seen in novae, that is, a symmetric distribution centred on the position of the underlying cataclysmic binary and presenting both allowed (hydrogen and helium) and forbidden ([O III] and [N II]) transitions. The second one, on the other hand, consists of material travelling at an approximately three times higher velocity that is not visible in the allowed transitions, presents a significantly different [N II]–[O III] ratio, and is located at approximately 2.3 arcsec to the southwest of the position of the binary. Comparing the velocities and spatial extensions of the two ejecta, we find that both originated in the same nova eruption. We explore possible extrinsic and intrinsic mechanisms for the asymmetry of the high-velocity material in the form of asymmetrically distributed interstellar material and magnetic accretion, respectively, but find the available data to be inconclusive. From the expansion parallax, we derive a distance for the nova of 3.3(3) kpc.
Are there more galaxies than we see around high-z quasars?
Authors: Zana Tommaso , Carniani Stefano , Prelogović David , Vito Fabio , Allevato Viola , Ferrara Andrea , Gallerani Simona , Parlanti Eleonora
Published: September 2023

Context. It is still debated whether z ≳ 6 quasars lie in the most massive dark matter haloes of the Universe. While most theoretical studies support this scenario, current observations yield discordant results when they probe the halo mass through the detection rate of quasar companion galaxies. Feedback processes from supermassive black holes and dust obscuration have been blamed for this discrepancy, but these effects are complex and far from being clearly understood.

Aim. This paper aims to improve the interpretation of current far-infrared observations by taking the cosmological volume probed by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array Telescope into account and to explain the observational discrepancies.

Methods. We statistically investigated the detection rate of quasar companions in current observations and verified whether they match the expected distribution from various theoretical models when they are convolved with the ALMA field of view through the use of Monte Carlo simulations.

Results. We demonstrate that the telescope geometrical bias is fundamental and can alone explain the scatter in the number of detected satellite galaxies in different observations. We conclude that the resulting companion densities depend on the chosen galaxy distributions. According to our fiducial models, current data favour a density scenario in which quasars lie in dark matter haloes with a viral mass of Mvir ≳ 1012 M⊙, in agreement with most theoretical studies. According to our analysis, each quasar has about two companion galaxies, with a [CII] luminosity L[CII] ≳ 108 L⊙, within a distance of about 1 Mpc from the quasar.
Theoretical investigation of electron capture processes in slow O7+–H collisions
Authors: Lin Xiaohe , Wang Kun , Wang Yu , Liu Ling , Wu Yong , Lin Minjuan , Li Rui , Wang J. G.
Published: September 2023

Aims. The total and n-, l-, and S -resolved single-electron-capture cross sections for the collisions of O7+ with atomic hydrogen are studied in the energy region from 10−3eV u−1−5keV u−1.

Methods. These state-selective cross sections were calculated by employing the full quantum-mechanical molecular-orbital close-coupling (QMOCC) method. The ab initio multireference single- and double-excitation configuration interaction approach, with optimized atomic basis sets to accurately describe the highly excited states, was used to obtain the adiabatic potentials and the radial and rotational coupling matrix elements that are required in the QMOCC calculation.

Results. Our results are compared with other available theoretical and experimental data. The n = 5 manifold is the dominant reaction channel for the chasrge-transfer process for this collision system over the entire energy range, and our results agree better with the experimental data than the other theoretical results in the energy region in which they overlap because we included the necessary highly excited states in the expansion basis set. These charge-exchange cross-section data are useful for understanding and modeling the X-ray emission in astrophysical environments.
Numerical studies on the link between radioisotopic signatures on Earth and the formation of the Local Bubble
Authors: Schulreich M. M. , Feige J. , Breitschwerdt D.
Published: September 2023

Context.Measurements of long-lived radioisotopes, which have grown rapidly in quantity and sensitivity over the last few years, provide a means, completely independent of other observational channels, to draw conclusions about near-Earth supernovae (SNe) and thus the origin of the Local Bubble (LB), our Galactic habitat. First and foremost in this context is60Fe, which has already been detected across the Earth and on the Moon.

Aims.The present study constitutes a significant step in further refining the coherent picture of the formation of the LB, constrained by radioisotopic anomalies, that we have drawn earlier and is based on the most sophisticated initial conditions determined to date.

Methods.UsingGaìaEDR3, we identified 14 SN explosions, with 13 occurring in Upper Centaurus-Lupus and Lower Centaurus-Crux, and one in V1062 Sco, all being subgroups of the Scorpius-Centaurus OB association. The timing of these explosions was obtained by us through interpolation of modern rotating stellar evolution tracks via the initial masses of the already exploded massive stars. We further developed a new Monte Carlo-type approach for deriving the trajectories of the SN progenitors, utilising a plethora of test-particle simulations in a realistic Milky Way potential and selecting explosion sites based on maximum values in six-dimensional phase-space probability distributions constructed from the simulations. We then performed high-resolution three-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations based on these initial conditions to explore the evolution of the LB in an inhomogeneous local interstellar medium and the transport of radioisotopes to Earth. The simulations include the effects of age- and initial mass-dependent stellar winds from the SN progenitors and additional radioisotopes (26Al,53Mn, and244Pu) besides60Fe using wind-derived and explosive yields from rotating models.

Results.From our modelling of the LB, we find for our main results that (i) our simulations are consistent with measurements of60Fe, in particular, a peak 2–3 Myr before present, as well as26Al,53Mn, and244Pu data; (ii) stellar winds contribute to the distribution of radioisotopes and also to the dynamics of the LB; (iii) the Solar System (SS) entered the LB about 4.6 Myr ago; and (iv) the recent influx of60Fe, discovered in Antarctic snow and deep-sea sediments, can be naturally explained by turbulent radioisotopic transport (in dust grains) mainly originating from the SN explosions and from the shock waves reflected at the LB shell.

Conclusions.Our simulations not only support the recent hypothesis that the LB triggered star formation in the solar vicinity through its expansion, but they also suggest that the second, separate60Fe peak measured at 6–9 Myr ago was generated by the passage of the SS through a neighbouring superbubble (SB), possibly the Orion-Eridanus SB, prior to its current residence in the LB.
The 12C/13C isotopic ratio at the dawn of chemical evolution
Authors: Molaro P. , Aguado D. S. , Caffau E. , Allende Prieto C. , Bonifacio P. , González Hernández J. I. , Rebolo R. , Zapatero Osorio M. R. , Cristiani S. , Pepe F. , Santos N. C. , Alibert Y. , Cupani G. , Di Marcantonio P. , D’Odorico V. , Lovis C. , Martins C. J. A. P. , Milaković D. , Murphy M. T. , Nunes N. J. , Schmidt T. M. , Sousa S. , Sozzetti A. , Suárez Mascareño A.
Published: September 2023

Context. The known mega metal-poor (MMP) and hyper metal-poor (HMP) stars, with [Fe/H] < −6.0 and < −5.0, respectively, likely belong to the CEMP-no class, namely, carbon-enhanced stars with little or no second peak neutron-capture elements. They are likely second-generation stars, and the few elements measurable in their atmospheres are used to infer the properties of a single or very few progenitors.

Aims. The high carbon abundance in the CEMP-no stars offers a unique opportunity to measure the carbon isotopic ratio, which directly indicates the presence of mixing between the He- and H-burning layers either within the star or in the progenitor(s). By means of high-resolution spectra acquired with the ESPRESSO spectrograph at the VLT, we aim to derive values for the 12C/13C ratio at the lowest metallicities.

Methods. We used a spectral synthesis technique based on the SYNTHE code and on ATLAS models within a Markov chain Monte Carlo methodology to derive 12C/13C in the stellar atmospheres of four of the most metal-poor stars known: the MMP giant SMSS J0313–6708 ([Fe/H] < −7.1), the HMP dwarf HE 1327–2326 ([Fe/H] = −5.8), the HMP giant SDSS J1313–0019 ([Fe/H] = −5.0), and the ultra metal-poor subgiant HE0233 -0343 ([Fe/H] = −4.7). We also revised a previous value for the MMP giant SMSS J1605–1443 ([Fe/H] = −6.2).

Results. In four stars we derive an isotopic value while for HE 1327–2326 we provide a lower limit. All measurements are in the range 39 < 12C/13C < 100, showing that the He- and H-burning layers underwent partial mixing either in the stars or, more likely, in their progenitors. This provides evidence of a primary production of 13C at the dawn of chemical evolution. CEMP-no dwarf stars with slightly higher metallicities show lower isotopic values, <30 and even approaching the CNO cycle equilibrium value. Thus, extant data suggest the presence of a discontinuity in the 12C/13C ratio at around [Fe/H] ≈ − 4, which could mark a real difference between the progenitor pollution captured by stars with different metallicities. We also note that some MMP and HMP stars with high 12C/13C show low 7Li values, providing an indication that mixing in the CEMP-no progenitors is not responsible for the observed Li depletion.
Konsum von Tabakzigaretten, E-Zigaretten und Wasserpfeifen bei Kindern und Jugendlichen. Ergebnisse des Präventionsradars von 2016 bis 2023
Authors: Hanewinkel Reiner , Hansen Julia
Published: September 2023

Fragestellung Trends der Nutzung verschiedener Rauchprodukte im Kindes- und Jugendalter von 2016–2023 sollen abgebildet werden.

Methode Datengrundlage bilden sieben Wellen des Präventionsradars, einer schulbasierten epidemiologischen Studie in den Klassenstufen 5–10. Primäre Endpunkte der Untersuchung waren die Lebenszeit- und die Monatsprävalenz des Konsums von Tabakzigaretten, E-Zigaretten, Wasserpfeifen sowie des Konsums von mindestens zwei dieser Rauchprodukte (kombinierter Konsum). Prävalenzschätzungen basieren auf logistischen Regressionsmodellen.

Ergebnisse Der Auswertung liegen 94.127 Fragebögen zugrunde. Das Geschlechtsverhältnis war ausgewogen (49% weiblich), das mittlere Alter betrug 13 Jahre (SD=1,8). 2022/2023 betrug die Lebenszeitprävalenz des Rauchens von Tabakzigaretten 18,8% (95%-KI 18,1–19,5), von E-Zigaretten 23,5% (95%-KI 22,8–24,3), von Wasserpfeifen 14,0% (95%-KI 13,4–14,7) und des kombinierten Konsums 19,0% (95%-KI 18,3–19,7). Die Monatsprävalenz des Rauchens von Tabakzigaretten betrug 5,9% (95%-KI 5,5–6,4), von E-Zigaretten 7,0% (95%-KI 6,5–7,4), von Wasserpfeifen 3,2% (95%-KI 2,8–3,5) und des kombinierten Konsums 4,8% (95%-KI 4,4–5,2). Seit 2016 zeichnen sich folgende Trends im Hinblick auf die Lebenszeitprävalenz ab: Tabakzigaretten (–3,0 Prozentpunkte), E-Zigaretten (+1,8 Prozentpunkte), Wasserpfeifen (–9,2 Prozentpunkte), kombinierter Konsum (–2,7 Prozentpunkte). In den Jahren der COVID-19-Pandemie rauchten weniger Jugendliche. Post-COVID stiegen die Prävalenzen mit Ausnahme der Wasserpfeife wieder an.

Diskussion Der Konsum von Rauchprodukten im Jugendalter tritt häufig auf. Über den Beobachtungszeitraum deutet sich eine Trendumkehr hin zur E-Zigarette als populärstem Produkt bei Kindern und Jugendlichen an. Zudem hat sich der kombinierte Konsum mehrerer Rauchprodukte als häufiges Konsummuster verfestigt. Konsequente verhältnis- und verhaltenspräventive Maßnahmen sind erforderlich, um das Ziel einer rauchfreien Gesellschaft im Jahr 2040 noch erreichen zu können.
Long-Term Maternal Mental Health after Spontaneous Preterm Birth
Authors: Janssen Laura E. , Laarman Aranka R.C. , van Dijk-Lokkart Elisabeth M. , Bröring-Starre Tinka , Oudijk Martijn A. , de Groot Christianne J.M. , de Boer Marjon A.
Published: September 2023

Objective The aim of this study is to investigate whether a history of spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) is associated with maternal depressive and anxiety symptoms, or psychosocial distress in the fifth decade of life.

Study Design This is a secondary analysis of the PreCaris-study, a prospective observational study in which we included 350 women with a history of SPTB between 220/7 and 366/7 weeks of gestation and compared them to 115 women who had a term birth. Primary outcomes were the Depression and Anxiety scores measured using the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale and Psychosocial distress assessed with the Distress Thermometer for Parents. Secondary outcomes were self-reported impact of the birth in daily life and psychosocial support after delivery.

Results After a median of 13 years after delivery, no significant differences were found in primary outcomes. Significantly more women with a history of SPTB reported that the birth still had impact in daily life; adjusted odds ratio: 2.46 (95% confidence interval: 1.35–4.48). A total of 57 (16.3%) women after SPTB reported to have needed professional psychosocial support after delivery but did not receive it. These women more often had a high Anxiety score (p = 0.030), psychosocial distress (p = 0.001), and influence of birth in daily life (p = 0.000).

Conclusion There are no long-term effects on depressive and anxiety symptoms and psychosocial distress in women who experienced SPTB compared with women who had a full-term pregnancy. A significant part of the women who delivered preterm needed psychosocial support but did not receive it and were at higher risk of anxiety, psychosocial distress, and impact in daily life. We therefore recommend offering all women after SPTB psychosocial support after delivery.

Key Points
Novel Umbilical Catheter Securement and Protection Device for Umbilical Line Securement during Laparotomy
Authors: Salimi-Jazi Fereshteh , Wood Lauren , Rafeeqi Talha , Yamada Nicole , Fuerch Janene , Wall James
Published: September 2023

Objective Umbilical catheter malposition rate is high. We compared a Novel Umbilical Securement Device (NUSD) to standard methodologies for neonatal invasive care unit patients undergoing laparotomy.

Study Design Retrospective study was performed on infants undergoing laparotomy from April 2019 to January 2023. Two neonatologists compared position of umbilical arterial catheter/umbilical venous catheter (UVC) on perioperative chest X-ray (CXRs) in patients with or without NUSD.

Results Eighteen patients underwent laparotomy, of which 8 patients had NUSD (9 lines) and 10 patients did not (14 lines). In NUSD group, mean gestational age was 37 ± 4 weeks and mean birth weight was 2.3 ± 0.9 kg compared with 31 ± 8 weeks and 2.1 ± 1.4 kg in non-NUSD group, respectively. The mean age at surgery was 5 ± 7 and 5 ± 3 days, respectively. No malposition was seen in NUSD group, while 57% of UVCs (28% of lines) were malpositioned postoperatively in non-NUSD group (p = 0.048).

Conclusion NUSD is an umbilical catheter securement device with low malposition rate, specifically during perioperative period with heightened risk for dislodgement.

Key Points
Retrospective Outcome Analysis of Allogenic Bone Graft
Authors: Maheshwari Vikas , Dhingra Mohit , Sharma Divyansh , Gowda Aditya K. S. , Kurmi Arun , Das Surabhi
Published: September 2023

Bone bank has become an essential requirement for centers that perform tumor and reconstructive surgeries. It provides allogenic bone procured from cadavers as well as live donors in the form of surgical residues. Thus, we conducted a retrospective observational study on recipients who underwent various reconstructive procedures using fresh frozen allograft obtsined from the live donors through surgical residues in a newly established bone bank. The outcomes of cases operated where allogenic bone grafts were used between January 2018 and November 2020 were analyzed in terms of infection and time taken for the grafts to incorporate, allowing weight-bearing in the lower limbs. A total of 223 grafts were obtained as surgical residues from replacement surgeries and traumatic amputations performed on non-salvageable limbs. Out of these, 70 grafts were transplanted into eligible recipients, who were followed up for at least one year. Among the 70 recipients, 15 were lost to follow-up. The outcome data of the remaining 55 recipients was tabulated, including infections (early, delayed and late) and the achievement of weight-bearing milestones when transplanted in lower limbs. Out of the 55 cases, allografts were used alone in 20 cases, while in 35 cases, they were augmented by implants or cement. Two cases (3.6%) experienced acute infections, and another two cases (3.6%) had chronic infection. The mean time for weight-bearing was found to be 7 months when used alone and 3.5 months when augmented with cement or an implant. Additionally, five patients did not show complete integration of the graft. The results of using allogenic bone graft are quite encouraging, suggesting their potential as biological adjuvants in reconstructive surgeries.
Strategies for Teaching Verbs to Children with and without Language Impairment
Authors: Prahl Alison , McDaniel Jena
Published: September 2023

The aim of this feasibility study was to extend the current evidence base on intransitive verb learning by evaluating and comparing three strategies (syntactic cues, semantic cues, combined cues) for teaching novel verbs to expand the vocabularies of children with and without language impairment. Twenty-three children with typical development, seven children with developmental language disorder, and eight children with Down syndrome participated in Studies 1, 2, and 3, respectively. They were taught novel, intransitive verbs using syntactic, semantic, and combined cues and then asked to receptively identify and expressively label the novel verbs. Across all conditions, participants learned novel verbs receptively with large effect sizes and participants with typical development and Down syndrome also learned the verbs expressively with large effect sizes. There were no significant differences between conditions. This study extends word-learning research by evaluating not only receptive but also expressive intransitive verb learning to expand one's vocabulary. The results provide positive evidence for three effective strategies for teaching intransitive verbs to children with and without language impairment.
Expression of Her2-Neu in Primary Gastric and Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma: An Experience from a Tertiary Center in South India
Authors: Damle Aditi , Paulose Roopa Rachel , Saikumar Divya , Ail Divya , Kartha Niveditha , Bhaskaran Renjitha , Jose Wesley , Jha Vidhya
Published: September 2023

Gastric cancer is one of the most commonly occurring cancers worldwide, often presenting at an advanced stage. Combining targeted therapy with chemotherapeutic agents can enhance and extend the survival of these patients. This 4-year retrospective study aims to assess the prognostic role of Her2-Neu expression in gastric and gastroesophageal (GE) cancer. Clinicopathological features, histological type (Lauren classification) of adenocarcinoma, and Her2 immunohistochemical expression were correlated with disease-free and overall survival in 114 patients. A Her2 score of 0 and 1+ indicated negativity, while 3+ marked positivity. For cases with a 2+ score, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) was conducted for definitive categorization. Statistical analysis employed IBM SPSS version 20.0 software. Among 114 patients, 13 displayed strong Her2-Neu immunopositivity (3 + ), 9 scored 2 + , and 92 were negative (0 [89] and 1+ [3]). FISH classified 4 and 5 cases as positive and negative, respectively. Most (64.7%) Her2-Neu-positive tumors occurred in the proximal stomach/GE junction (GEJ) and exhibited intestinal morphology (94.1%) with moderate differentiation (p-value < 0.05). Notably, 76.5% of Her2-Neu-positive patients exhibited advanced-stage disease with nodal/distant metastasis. The average disease-free survival was 15.4 months (standard error: 3.55) for positive Her2-Neu expression and 22.07 months (standard error: 1.364) for negative expression. The mean overall survival was 21.14 months (standard error: 3.702) for positive expression and 23.91 months (standard error: 1.474) for negative expression. Her2-Neu expression in gastric/GEJ adenocarcinomas correlates with reduced survival. Evaluating Her2-Neu in proximal gastric/GEJ cancers displaying low-grade intestinal morphology serves as both a predictive and prognostic indicator.