bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing Grover search algorithm on large-scale superconducting quantum computers
Authors: AbuGhanem Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Quantum computing is on the cusp of transforming the way we tackle complex problems, and the Grover search algorithm exemplifying its potential to revolutionize the search for unstructured large datasets, offering remarkable speedups over classical methods. Here, we report results for the implementation and characterization of a three-qubit Grover search algorithm using the state-of-the-art scalable quantum computing technology of superconducting quantum architectures. To delve into the algorithm’s scalability and performance metrics, our investigation spans the execution of the algorithm across all eight conceivable single-result oracles, alongside nine two-result oracles, employing IBM Quantum’s 127-qubit quantum computers. Moreover, we conduct five quantum state tomography experiments to precisely gauge the behavior and efficiency of our implemented algorithm under diverse conditions – ranging from noisy, noise-free environments to the complexities of real-world quantum hardware. By connecting theoretical concepts with real-world experiments, this study not only shed light on the potential of Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum Computers in facilitating large-scale database searches but also offer valuable insights into the practical application of the Grover search algorithm in real-world quantum computing applications.
A novel optimal design approach for bladeless wind turbines considering mechanical properties of composite materials used
Authors: Mohamed Zeinab , Soliman Moataz , Feteha Mohamed , Saber E.
Published: January 2025

Bladeless wind turbines face operational limitations due to the lock-in phenomenon. This study introduces two novel mechanisms for designing bladeless wind turbines to address this issue, enabling operation across a broad wind speed range from 2 to 10 m/s while ensuring that lock-in conditions are satisfied at any wind speed within this range. The study aims to maintain optimal performance without any decline that is observed in conventional bladeless wind turbines by controlling the turbine’s natural frequency through implementing these mechanisms, either by adjusting the effective length of the stand or by incorporating an additional mass in the hollow mast, or both. A mathematical model including dynamic analysis is constructed to adjust natural frequency to match the shedding frequency at the specified wind speed. Validation of our model shows high accuracy. Numerical results demonstrate that applying these mechanisms ensures the turbine is optimally designed across varying parameters. Findings reveal that for lower flexural modulus values, the first mechanism alone can achieve a 99.2% increase in mechanical efficiency at 7 m/s. For higher flexural modulus values, incorporating the second mechanism is essential to reduce the turbine’s overall size. This integrated approach improves efficiency with a 55.7% increase.
Effects of time-of-day on the noradrenaline, adrenaline, cortisol and blood lipidome response to an ice bath
Authors: Braunsperger Alexander , Bauer Maximilian , Brahim Chaima Ben , Seep Lea , Tischer Dominik , Peitzsch Mirko , Hasenauer Jan , Figueroa Sieglinde Hechenbichler , Worthmann Anna , Heeren Joerg , Dyar Kenneth A. , Koehler Karsten , Soriano-Arroquia Ana , Schönfelder Martin , Wackerhage Henning
Published: January 2025

While the effect of time-of-day (morning versus evening) on hormones, lipids and lipolysis has been studied in relation to meals and exercise, there are no studies that have investigated the effects of time-of-day on ice bath induced hormone and lipidome responses. In this crossover-designed study, a group of six women and six men, 26 ± 5 years old, 176 ± 7 cm tall, weighing 75 ± 10 kg, and a BMI of 23 ± 2 kg/m2 had an ice bath (8–12 °C for 5 min) both in the morning and evening on separate days. Absence from intense physical exercise, nutrient intake and meal order was standardized in the 24 h prior the ice baths to account for confounders such as diet or exercise. We collected venous blood samples before and after (5 min and 30 min) the ice baths to measure hormones (noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol) and lipid levels in plasma via liquid chromatography mass spectrometry shotgun lipidomics. We found that ice baths in the morning increase plasma fatty acids more than in the evening. Overall plasma lipid composition significantly differed in-between the morning and evening, and only in the morning ice bathing is accompanied by significantly increased plasma fatty acids from 5.1 ± 2.2% to 6.0 ± 2.4% (P = 0.029) 5 min after and to 6.3 ± 3.1% (P = 0.008) 30 min after. Noradrenaline was not affected by time-of-day and increased significantly immediately after the ice baths in the morning by 127 ± 2% (pre: 395 ± 158 pg/ml, post 5 min: 896 ± 562 pg/ml, P = 0.025) and in the evening by 144 ± 2% (pre: 385 ± 146 pg/ml, post 5 min: 937 ± 547 pg/ml, P = 0.015). Cortisol was generally higher in the morning than in the evening (pre: 179 ± 108 pg/ml versus 91 ± 59 pg/ml, P = 0.013; post 5 min: 222 ± 96 pg/ml versus 101 ± 52 pg/ml, P = 0.001; post 30 min: 190 ± 96 pg/ml versus 98 ± 54 pg/ml, P = 0.009). There was no difference in the hormonal and lipidome response to an ice bath between women and men. The main finding of the study was that noradrenaline, adrenaline, cortisol and plasma lipidome responses are similar after an ice bath in the morning and evening. However, ice baths in the morning increase plasma fatty acids more than in the evening.
The effect of mortality salience and early-life maternal care on neuroendocrine, autonomic, and psychological stress responses
Authors: Bentele Ulrike U. , Strobel Paula , Meier Maria , Benz Annika B. E. , Gaertner Raphaela J. , Klink Elea S. C. , Denk Bernadette F. , Dimitroff Stephanie J. , Unternaehrer Eva , Pruessner Jens C.
Published: January 2025

Adverse early-life experiences alter the regulation of major stress systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Low early-life maternal care (MC) has repeatedly been related to blunted cortisol stress responses. Likewise, an acutely increased awareness of mortality (mortality salience [MS]) also has been shown to blunt cortisol responses. In this study we investigated the effects of early-life MC and a potential interaction with MS on HPA axis responsivity, as well as autonomic and subjective stress responses. Seventy-three women (Mage=21.56, SDage=2.85) with self-reported low (n = 30) or high (n = 43) early-life MC, underwent the Trier Social Stress Test for groups. Before, they were asked to briefly contemplate either death (mortality condition, n = 38) or sleep (control condition, n = 35). Salivary cortisol and alpha amylase, heart rate variability and subjective stress levels were assessed repeatedly. Multilevel mixed models confirmed an effect of MC on stress system regulation, indicated by blunted cortisol responses and overall reduced heart rate variability in low versus high MC individuals. Moreover, we found an interaction between MS and MC concerning subjective stress and autonomic measures. Specifically, low MC individuals in the control compared to the mortality condition showed both overall higher subjective stress levels, and less increase in heart rate variability following stress. These findings demonstrate the enduring impact of low early-life MC and the potential role of acute mortality primes on the regulation of stress systems in healthy women.
Inducing piezoelectric behavior in a copper iodide cubane cluster-based metal–organic framework via linker engineering
Authors: Panda Sankalpa N. , Pradhan Prabhanjan , Nath Satyapriya , Mohapatra Jeebanjyoti , Patra Biplab K. , Biswal Bishnu P.
Published: January 2025

A non-centrosymmetric copper iodide cubane cluster-based metal–organic framework is synthesized. SS-PFM, and PFM mapping of the crystal revealed their strong piezoelectric nature.
Coordination-induced axial chirality controls the metal-centred configuration in a stereogenic-at-iron catalyst
Authors: Buchberger Benedikt , Demirel Nemrud , Xie Xiulan , Ivlev Sergei I. , Meggers Eric
Published: January 2025

A new approach is introduced to control the metal-centred configuration of stereogenic-at-iron catalysts by utilizing axial ligand chirality, which becomes locked upon metal coordination.
In situ construction of a hydrophobic channel interconnecting zincophilic planes on the Zn surface for enhanced stability of Zn metal anodes
Authors: Yu Miao , Mu Jiawei , Wang Lingfeng , Niu Yuchao , Si Wenjie , Li Jiale , Liu Xiaoyu , Li Tiantian , Li Xiangcun , Zheng Wenji , Dai Yan , Jiang Xiaobin , He Gaohong
Published: January 2025

This work proposes a novel electrolyte additive, sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin, which remarkably improves the cycling stability of AZIBs with the synergistic effect of its zincophilic functional groups and unique adsorption configuration.
Efficient bimetallic metal–organic framework derived magnetic Co/N-PC-800 nanoreactor for peroxymonosulfate activation and carbamazepine degradation
Authors: Huang Qiao-Qiao , Wang Yu-Mei , Fu Xun , Hu Xiao-Li , Wang Jia-Wei , Su Zhong-Min
Published: January 2025

Co/N-PC-T (600, 700, 800, 900) were successfully obtained by calcining the precursor Co@Zn-MOF, and Co/N-PC-800 exhibited excellent peroxymonosulfate activation for CBZ, achieving 98% degradation within 30 minutes.
Colorimetric visualization detection of perfluorooctanoic acid based on host–guest interactions with cyclodextrin-modified gold nanoparticles
Authors: Ma Jiateng , Liu Chuang , Li Jiali , An Zhiquan , Zhang Bihong , Hong Wenjun , Ye Cheng , Li Minjie , Guo Liang-Hong
Published: January 2025

Our colorimetric sensor developed with cyclodextrin-modified gold nanoparticles provides a nano-sensor for the visual detection of PFOA with simplicity, rapid detection, and cost-efficiency.
Determination of collagen types and mineral contents in fish skin and collagen-containing skin-derived protein hydrolysates before and after in vitro simulated digestion
Authors: Wang Min , Liu Yixuan , Pallarés Noelia , el Marsni Zouhir , Kousoulaki Katerina , Barba Francisco J.
Published: January 2025

An in vitro digestion model was established to characterize the types of collagens in skin of cod, white fish, and salmon as well as their collagen-containing skin-derived protein hydrolysates (CSPH) before and after digestion.
Palladium-catalyzed amination oxidation of electron-rich olefins in green media
Authors: Zheng Yongpeng , Wu Yaodan , Li Jianxiao , Wu Wanqing , Yang Shaorong , Qi Chaorong , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: January 2025

A palladium-catalyzed regioselective amination oxidation of electron-rich olefins with anilines in ionic liquids as environmentally benign media was accomplished.
Synergizing microfluidics and plasmonics: advances, applications, and future directions
Authors: Escobedo C. , Brolo A. G.
Published: January 2025

The synergy between nanoplasmonic and microfluidics opens a wealth of possibilities that span through several research fields and areas of applications, ranging from analytical chemistry to modern optofluidic devices.
Droplet microfluidics: unveiling the hidden complexity of the human microbiome
Authors: Xu Yibin , Wang Zhiyi , Li Caiming , Tian Shuiquan , Du Wenbin
Published: January 2025

The human microbiome is vital for health. Droplet microfluidics offers a versatile toolbox for microbiome research, enabling single-cell sequencing, cultivation, and functional analyses to deepen our understanding and drive innovations.
Pre-validation of a novel reconstructed skin equivalent model for skin irritation and nanoparticle risk assessment
Authors: Sanches Priscila Laviola , Vieira Carias Rosana Bizon , Alves Gutember Gomes , Catarino Carolina Motter , Bosquetti Bruna , De Castilho Costa Meg Cristina , Di Pietro Micali Andrezza , Schuck Desirée Cigaran , Granjeiro José Mauro , Ribeiro Ana R.
Published: January 2025

Schematic of reconstructed epidermis model, with and without nanoparticle exposure.
Machine learning recognition of hybrid lead halide perovskites and perovskite-related structures from X-ray diffraction patterns
Authors: Marchenko E. I. , Korolev V. V. , Kobeleva E. A. , Belich N. A. , Udalova N. N. , Eremin N. N. , Goodilin E. A. , Tarasov A. B.
Published: January 2025

We proposed a simple approach for quickly identifying the dimensionality of inorganic substructures, types of connections of lead halide polyhedra and structure types using common powder XRD data and a ML-decision tree classification model.
Review on Ti3C2 MXene-based binary and ternary composites for photocatalytic applications
Authors: C P Prathibha , Srinivas Mallapur , Kumar S. Girish
Published: January 2025

Ti3C2/TiO2 and C@TiO2 based composites for photocatalytic applications.
Structural transformation in isomeric 0D copper(i) iodide hybrids and their utilization as water-stable luminophores for furaltadone detection
Authors: Yang Lin , Shi Canzhi , Li Bohan , Liu Xia , Gao Xinxiang , Li Yani , Xu Yan
Published: January 2025

Two hybrid copper halide isomers, 4-BrBTP(Cu2I4)0.5 (1-α and 1-β), are explored, showing switchable luminescence via isomeric transformation and furaltadone sensitivity.
Overview of rough surface construction technology for cotton fabrics used in oil/water separation
Authors: Bai Huanhuan , Song Chengzhi , Zheng Limei , Shen Tong , Meng Xu , Ma JinXing
Published: January 2025

The discharge of waste organic solvents, various oil/water mixtures and the frequent infiltration of oil into water bodies have created significant threats to the ecological environment.
Multi-heterostructure with multi-interface for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction in industrial alkaline seawater
Authors: Zhang Kai , Su Qingmei , Lv Yvjie , Shi Weihao , Wang Pinpin , Wang Zhiyong , Zhao Wenqi , Zhang Miao , Ding Shukai , Ma Shufang , Du Gaohui , Xu Bingshe
Published: January 2025

The multi-heterostructure H2–NiCo2O4@NiMoO4 electrocatalyst with multi-interface demonstrates outstanding HER performance in both 1 M KOH and alkaline seawater electrolyte, particularly at an ultra-high current density of 4000 mA cm−2.
Alloy nanocluster artificial photosystems steering photoredox organic transformation
Authors: Zheng Bing-Xiong , Yuan Jiao-Nan , Su Peng , Yan Xian , Chen Qing , Yuan Meng , Xiao Fang-Xing
Published: January 2025

Atomically precise alloy nanocluster artificial photosystems are exquisitely designed for photocatalytic selective organic transformation under visible light.
Magnetic chromatography improves colloidal and MRI attributes of magnetoliposomes enabling evaluation of the impact of size on bio-distribution in an in vivo model of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Moloney Cara , Roy Chaudhuri Tista , Straubinger Robert M. , Brougham Dermot F.
Published: January 2025

Magnetic chromatography was exploited to fractionate suspensions of magnetoliposomes (SML: lipid coated clusters of magnetic iron–oxide nanoparticles) improving their colloidal properties and magnetic resonance image contrast capabilities.
Unraveling the influence of substrate surface and temperature on microstructural evolution of crystalline MoS2 in atomic layer deposition
Authors: Ryu Seung Ho , Kim Seong Keun
Published: January 2025

In this study, we examine the atomic layer deposition (ALD) growth behavior of crystalline MoS2 films on various substrates, including SiO2, mica, and Al2O3, at deposition temperatures of ≥650 °C.
Ca2YScAl2Si2O12:Cr3+ phosphor-in-glass film for laser-driven high-power near-infrared lighting
Authors: Lin Yi , Dong Gaoming , Lin Hang , Wang Bo , Wang Pengfei , Xu Ju , Cheng Yao , Xiong Yan , Wang Yuansheng
Published: January 2025

A new Ca2YScAl2Si2O12:Cr3+ PiGF was synthesized using rapid infrared firing, highlighting luminous output of 2626 mW under blue laser excitation, for near-infrared lighting applications in nondestructive detection, night vision and bioimaging.
A Mixed Methods Evaluation of Implementation Outcomes of a Self-Regulation Strategy for Health Education: Perspectives of Clinicians and Older Adults With and Without Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Kemp Amy M. , O'Brien Katy H.
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Effective self-management is key for older adults with and without traumatic brain injury (TBI) to maintain their health, safety, and independence. Self-regulation is one method of promoting self-management. However, it is essential to examine effective methods of self-regulation interventions to maximize the use of such health promotion.

Method:

Forty-one older adults (19 with TBI; 22 without TBI) participated in an in-person or telepractice health education intervention for fall prevention with 15 speech-language pathology student clinicians. The intervention was a self-regulation strategy, mental contrasting with implementation intentions (MCII), for promoting fall prevention. This mixed methods study explored treatment adherence and evaluated implementation outcomes through acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, modifications to treatment, and therapist adherence and client participation.

Results:

All participants demonstrated some behavior change. Participants without TBI evaluated the MCII protocol as more acceptable,
F
(1, 39) = 5.88,
p
= .018; appropriate,
F
(1, 39) = 5.34,
p
= .023; and feasible,
F
(1, 39) = 9.56,
p
= .003, than participants with TBI, although all ratings were perceived as neutral or positive. From clinician data, protocol adherence,
F
(1, 39) = 1.57,
p =
.22, and client participation,
F
(1, 39) = 0.10,
p =
.92, were similar across injury groups, but participants with TBI required more fidelity-consistent modifications to treatment,
F
(1, 39) = 6.88,
p =
.012. There were no differences between settings except that those in telepractice had more client participation,
F
(1, 39) = 21.02,
p
< .001. Clinicians felt MCII was equally appropriate for both groups in all settings, acceptability:
F
(1, 48) = 0.082,
p
= .78; appropriateness:
F
(1, 48) = 0.554,
p
= .46; feasibility:
F
(1, 48) = 0.197,
p
= .66.

Conclusion:

MCII may be a feasible tool to provide health education as it offers enough structure and individualization to be considered appropriate and relevant for older adults, and for novice clinicians to administer and modify as needed based on client needs.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.28074443
Early Childhood Practitioners' Use of Language Facilitation Strategies During Informational Book Reading: Relation to Language Skills of Children With Developmental Language Disorder
Authors: Guo Ying , Breit Allison , Xie Yanli
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

The primary aim of the study was to examine the association between early childhood practitioners' use of language facilitation strategies during interactive book reading of informational texts related to science and the language skills of preschool children with developmental language disorder (DLD).

Method:

Twenty-four practitioners (12 early childhood special education teachers and 12 speech-language pathologists) and 33 preschoolers with DLD participated. Practitioners received training and implemented an informational book-reading intervention for 19 weeks. Practitioners' use of language facilitation strategies (i.e., activating thinking by setting the informational text structure, asking target questions, asking inferential questions, and providing support) was coded using an observational tool. Children with DLD were assessed with a battery of language assessments at pre- and post-intervention.

Results:

Providing support significantly predicted the receptive academic vocabulary and receptive understanding of signal words of preschoolers with DLD. Practitioners asking target questions (direct questions related to targeted academic vocabulary and signal words) significantly predicted the receptive academic vocabulary of preschoolers with DLD. By contrast, these two types of language facilitation strategies were not related to expressive academic vocabulary or signal words. The other language facilitation strategies (i.e., activating thinking by setting the informational text structure and asking inferential questions) did not contribute to receptive or expressive academic vocabulary or signal words.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that asking direct questions and providing support may be effective mechanisms for supporting children's understanding of academic vocabulary and signal words during interactive book reading of informational texts.
Modelling of superposition in 2D linear acoustic wave problems using Fourier Neural Operator networks
Authors: Middleton Michael , Murphy Damian T. , Savioja Lauri
Published: January 2025

A method of solving the 2D acoustic wave equation using Fourier Neural Operator (FNO) networks is presented.  Various scenarios including wave superposition are considered, including the modelling of multiple simultaneous sound sources, reflections from domain boundaries and diffraction from randomly-positioned and sized rectangular objects.  Training, testing and ground-truth data is produced using the acoustic Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) method.  FNO is selected as the neural architecture as the network architecture requires relatively little memory compared to some other operator network designs.  The number of training epochs and the size of training datasets were chosen to be small to test the convergence properties of FNO in challenging learning conditions.  It is demonstrated that an FNO network predicts wave behaviour faster than equivalent FDTD simulations.  The use cases of FNO networks, including data compression and auralisation are considered and compared to existing operator network designs.
Development and commissioning of an aeroacoustic test bench for the investigation of single and coaxial propeller noise
Authors: Gallo Erica , De Decker Julien , Bresciani Andrea , Haezebrouck Pauline , Garone Emanuele , Schram Christophe
Published: January 2025

This paper describes the design and commissioning of an aeroacoustic test rig for the study of single and coaxial propeller propulsive systems. The size of the propellers matches typical drone applications. The experimental setup, designed and commissioned at the ALCOVES anechoic laboratory of von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics, is equipped with aerodynamic sensors for performance analysis and is surrounded by a microphone antenna for the characterization of the noise level and directivity. Thefacility permits varying different parameters such as the longitudinal distance between the rotor planes, and the rotational speed/direction of each propeller. Requirements for the qualification of the test room consist of low-level background noise and minimized turbulence ingestion noise. Two experimental databases have been constituted and are joined to the present paper: (i) for the DJI 9450 two-bladed propeller, verified against data from the literature, and (ii) for single and coaxial contra-rotating Mejzlik two-bladed propellers. The proposed benchmark data will support the validation of low- and high-fidelity numerical methods.
Loudness matching of complex tones simulating sounds from electric trucks
Authors: Elise Nyman Birgitta , Nykänen Arne
Published: January 2025

With electric powertrains quickly advancing in the heavy vehicle sector, there is an increasing interest in the industry to find a general practice for evaluating tonal sounds. The challenge to set requirements is complex. Tonal sounds span from extremely annoying to pleasant. Established methods for prediction of tonal magnitude typically estimate individual tonal components without considering interrelations between the tones.  
In this study, the loudness perception of continuous complex tones with increasing number of harmonics as well as non-harmonic tone components, is assessed using pink noise as reference. Frequencies studied cover 350-11000 Hz. These frequencies typically occur in electrified trucks, hitting the most sensitive area of the human hearing. 
The results show a statistically significant positive linear relationship between perceived loudness and increasing number of harmonics, even with decreasing level of amplitude (-6 dB/oct). Significant differences are seen between harmonic and non-harmonic tonal signals, when the second partial is detuned.
Increasing the number of tonal components increases the perceived loudness linearly. Non-harmonic complex tonal sounds are assessed less loud than the corresponding harmonic sounds. In case of complex tonal sounds, models of loudness estimation need to take the number of tone components and their frequency ratios into account.
Lightweight photovoltaic modules technologies: reliability evaluation and market opportunity
Authors: Dupuis Julien , Abdel Nour Christine , Oliveira Santos João Victor , Lefillastre Paul
Published: January 2025

This study aims at performing an assessment of lightweight photovoltaic (PV) module's reliability by comparing module's performances and reliability of several manufacturers. Lightweight modules are characterized by a reduced weight compared to classical PV modules with usually less than 10 kg/m2 allowing its installation on rooftops with low bearing capacity without the need of reinforcing the roof structure. Even if this PV technology has higher costs than classical modules due to lower capacity production and often specific module material like transparent composite instead of glass, it represents an efficient technical and commercial solution for specific applications with lower transportation, installation, and maintenance costs. Nevertheless, very few information is available on the reliability of these emerging products. The large variety of module components used by the manufacturers do not help into selecting the best modules available on the market. In this work, after introducing the potential capacity of low bearing rooftop market for France, we detailed a first reliability benchmark of market available lightweight module's products. This benchmark was carried out through indoor experimental work under accelerated aging testing as well as outdoor exposure conditions based on IEC61215 and IEC61730 qualification standards. The accelerated aging sequence results highlight high power degradation discrepancies between the five technologies investigated with some of them degrading more than 50% after a damp heat − UV − thermal cycling testing sequence. The power generation obtained in outdoor conditions underlines lower energy yield obtained by installing photovoltaic module directly on a flat roof caused by their orientation and tilt (0 to 10°) entailing sometimes higher soling losses. Based on all these results, LCOE estimations are performed and show an over-cost between 10 and 100% compared to the use of standard module option with roof reinforcement.
Approaches for reducing metallization-induced losses in industrial TOPCon solar cells
Authors: Mack Sebastian , Ourinson Daniel , Meßmer Marius , Teßmann Christopher , Krieg Katrin , Benick Jan , Huyeng Jonas D. , Greulich Johannes , Wolf Andreas
Published: January 2025

Minimizing carrier recombination in silicon solar cells is key to increase the conversion efficiency, as recombination affects both the fill factor and the open circuit voltage. Recombination at metal-semiconductor interfaces plays a crucial part in this, however, processing conditions which lead to low recombination, such as e.g., a low firing set temperature or the use of thick dielectrics, typically result in increased contact resistivities. Also, a too low firing set temperature leads to an incomplete hydrogenation of the interfaces. Recently, laser-enhanced contact optimization has been introduced to decouple recombination and contact properties to some extent, which allows for high fill factors and high open circuit voltages, and which explains the growing interest from manufacturers in that technology. We elucidate on the need for improved hydrogenation of interfaces, which contradicts the wish to decrease firing temperatures for reduced carrier recombination at metal-semiconductor interfaces. The implementation of an additional annealing step, e.g. in a tube furnace, after dielectric surface passivation is shown to lead to improved passivation properties so that the thermal budget during contact firing can be optimized to minimize contact resistivities. Overall, contact optimization allows for solar cell efficiencies of 24.1%, measured at an industrial cell tester, for a traditional approach without additional annealing step, and applying an AgAl front side metallization paste. A comparison of Ag and AgAl front side metallization pastes reveals a higher open circuit voltage for the Ag paste, at the drawback of an increased contact resistivity.
Evaluation of the current status, significance, and availability of prostate MRI und MRI guided biopsy in Germany
Authors: Ullrich Tim , Boschheidgen Matthias , Schweyen Caroline Marie , Franiel Tobias , Valentin Birte , Quentin Michael , Blondin Dirk , Kaufmann Sascha , Ljimani Alexandra , Radtke Jan Philipp , Albers Peter , Antoch Gerald , Schimmöller Lars
Published: January 2025

Evaluation of the current status, significance and availability of multiparametric prostate MRI and MRI-guided biopsy in Germany.

A voluntary web-based questionnaire with 26 distinct items was emailed to members of the German Radiological Society (DRG) and the Professional Association of German Radiologists (BDR). The questions referred to personal qualification, acquisition, quality, and management of prostate MRI, and assessment of the importance of the method.

In total 182 questionnaires were captured from all 10 german postal regions (over 60% of the university hospitals, almost 50% of the maximum care hospitals and approx. 12% of the practices or medical service centers). 43% of the respondents had a Q1 or Q2 quality certificate from the DRG, 10% had a certificate from the BDR, respectively. The majority (90%) criticized inadequate reimbursement of the examination. In 47% MRI cases were discussed in an interdisciplinary tumor board, in 44% case discussions happened rarely, and 12% never had interdisciplinary discussions. On a scale from 0–100 (0%: low; 100%: high) the estimation of the clinical relevance of prostate MRIs received an average of 84% (± 16%) and the estimated approval by urologists was 75% (± 21%). Lacking clinical feedback (59%) and clinical information (42%) were perceived as the largest problems.

In this representative survey the respondents estimated multiparametric MRI of the prostate as highly diagnostic and relevant with an increased approval by urologists. There is still a perceived need for continuous professional education of the method for urologists and for more widespread coverage of fusion biopsy. Prostate MRI is currently primarily offered by high volume centers. Current challenges are particularly insufficient interdisciplinary communication and inadequate reimbursement.
Using Transcranial Magnetic Nerve Stimulation to Differentiate Motor and Sensory Fascicles in a Mixed Nerve: Experimental Rat Study
Authors: Hayashi Kota , Hsieh Tsung-Hsun , Huang Yen-Lin , Chuang David Chwei-Chin
Published: January 2025

Background Accurately matching the correct fascicles in a ruptured mixed nerve is critical for functional recovery. This study investigates the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to differentiate motor and sensory fascicles in a mixed nerve.

Methods In all 40 rats, the median nerve in the left upper arm was evenly split into three segments. The rats were separated into two groups. In Group A (20 rats), the segment with the highest amplitude during TMS was selected as the motor neurotizer and transferred to the musculocutaneous nerve. In Group B (20 rats), only the medial one-third segment was selected and transferred without using TMS. The results were compared using grooming tests, nerve electrophysiological studies, muscle tetanus contraction force measurements, muscle weight, and axon counts at 16 weeks.

Results The grooming test showed that Group A performed significantly better than Group B at 12 and 16 weeks postoperatively. Tetanic muscle contraction force measurements also revealed that Group A had significantly better outcomes than Group B. However, electrophysiological testing, muscle weight, and axon counts showed no significant differences between the two groups.

Conclusion This study suggests that TMS can be used to distinguish motor fascicles from sensory fascicles in a mixed nerve. It is desirable to apply this technique intraoperatively to differentiate motor and sensory fascicles for appropriate nerve matching and to select the motor fascicles as a motor neurotizer for functioning free muscle innervation in human mixed nerve injury.
Monotherapy or combination therapy of Oleanolic acid? From therapeutic significance and drug delivery to clinical studies: A comprehensive review
Authors: Shaharyar Md. Adil , Banerjee Tanmoy , Sengupta Monalisha , Bhowmik Rudranil , Sarkar Arnab , Mandal Pallab , Alzarea Sami I. , Ghosh Nilanjan , Akhtar Jamal , Kazmi Imran , Karmakar Sanmoy
Published: January 2025

Oleanolic acid (OA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid molecule widely distributed throughout medicinal plants. This naturally occurring OA has attracted considerable interest due to its wide range of pharmacological characteristics, notably its cytotoxic effects on various human cancer cell lines, making it a potential candidate for extensive therapeutic uses. In vivo studies have shown that OA possesses hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. The inherent obstacles of OA, such as low permeability, limited bioavailability, and poor water solubility, have restricted its therapeutic applicability. However, recent developments in drug delivery techniques have given OA an additional advantage by overcoming issues with its solubility, stability, and bioavailability. This review briefly summarises the signalling pathways involved in the pharmacological activities of OA as monotherapy and in combination with other drugs. The review devotes a substantial portion to explaining the formulation developments, emphasising nanotechnology as a key factor in the improvement of the therapeutic potential of OA. Several investigated novel formulations have been discussed, including liposomes, nanoemulsions, phospholipids, and polymeric nanoparticles, emerging synergistically as an efficient delivery of OA and several other drugs. Based on our literature evaluation, it can be inferred that the combination therapy had a more favourable outcome than using OA alone in vivo trials, primarily due to synergistic effects. However, it is essential to note that this finding was inconsistent across all investigations. The combination of OA has not yet been considered for clinical trials. However, it is interesting that neither therapy has obtained approval from the USFDA.
Direct Copper-Mediated C–H Arylation of Triazolo[5,1-c][1,2,4] triazines with Aryldiazonium Salts
Authors: Varaksin Mikhail V. , Nikiforov Egor A. , Vaskina Nailya F. , Moseev Timofey D. , Fedotov Victor V. , Aminov Semen V. , Ulomsky Evgeny N. , Rusinov Vladimir L. , Charushin Valery N. , Chupakhin Oleg N.
Published: January 2025

The C–H functionalization strategy was first applied to the Cu-mediated radical arylation reactions of triazolotriazines with aromatic diazonium salts. A series of C(3)-modified triazolo[5,1-c][1,2,4]triazines were obtained in yields of up to 80% under mild conditions. The radical nature of the reaction mechanism was established by the TEMPO radical trap experiments. The developed method is characterized by its versatile application opportunities, particularly it allows C(3)-arylated azoloazine-derived compounds of various architectures to be available. The elaborated synthetic strategy is of interest in the directed design of azaheterocyclic biomolecules with diverse pharmacological applications.
Synthesis, In Vitro, and In Silico Approach to Quinoline-Arylsulfonate Derivatives as Antimicrobial Agents: DFT, Molecular Docking, and ADMET Studies
Authors: Manzoor Nikhat , Inam Afreen , Samreen Sabahat , Khatoon Shabana , Javed Saleem , Raj Nafis
Published: January 2025

A series of novel 4-((7-chloroquinolin-4-yl)amino)phenyl arenesulfonates were synthesized via a two-step process and characterized by different spectroscopic technique for structural confirmation. The electronic structure of these derivatives was investigated by Density Functional Theory (DFT), a quantum mechanical method. All the derivatives were evaluated for their biological potency. The antibacterial activity was examined against a panel of bacteria, but they were found to be inactive. Antifungal examination demonstrated that these derivatives exhibited good to potent efficacy against fungal strain Candida albicans. Five derivatives had better MIC values between 125–250 μg/mL among all the synthesized compounds. These derivatives inhibited the formation and development of biofilms and other virulence factors of C. albicans such as adhesion and extracellular secreted proteinases and phospholipases. Furthermore, the result showed that these derivatives have low toxicity against human RBC cells. An in silico docking study showed a good binding energy with Als3 protein (PDB ID: 4LE8) and Sap2 protein (PDB ID: 1EAG) for 4-((7-chloroquinolin-4-yl)amino)phenyl 4-isopropylbenzenesulfonate and 4-((7-chloroquinolin-4-yl)amino)phenyl 4-methoxybenzenesulfonate. Considering the inhibitory effects of these derivatives against C. albicans, they can be used as potential candidates for antifungal development.
The Role of CT Perfusion in Predicting the Neuropsychological Outcome of Patients with Mild and Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Singla Kunal , Dev Rahul , Rawat Vikarm Singh , Arora Rajnish Kumar , Sadhasivam Saravanan
Published: January 2025

Objective Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) often continue to have symptoms of neuropsychological dysfunction. Studies have demonstrated cerebral perfusion (CP) deficits following TBI. There is limited literature on the association between CP and neuropsychological outcomes following TBI. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between neuropsychological outcome and CP in patients with mild to moderate TBI.

Materials and Methods Patients with mild to moderate TBI and computed tomography (CT) scan suggestive of diffuse axonal injury underwent CT perfusion scan within 48 hours of injury. All patients were evaluated with various neuropsychological tests at 3 months of follow-up. The correlation between CP and neuropsychological outcome was assessed.

Results Forty patients (21 with TBI mild and 19 with moderate TBI) were enrolled. Among 21 patients with mild head injury, 14 (66.7%) showed evidence of hypoperfusion in the right frontal lobe and 12 (57.1%) in the right parietal lobe. Among 19 patients with moderate head injury, 12 (63.1%) patients showed hypoperfusion in the right frontal lobe and 7 (36.8%) in the right parietal lobe. CP in the bilateral frontal and left temporal lobe white matters showed a statistically significant negative correlation with the number of mistakes committed in the Stroop A, B, and C tests. Perfusion in the left temporal white matter showed a negative correlation with the trail making test (parts A and B) and a positive correlation with the animal fluency test. The right parietal and left frontal lobes also showed a positive correlation with the AFT.

Conclusion We found a significant correlation between CP of the white matter of different lobes during the acute phase of TBI and neuropsychological performance at 3 months after TBI.
How to Prepare Brain Specimen for White Fiber Dissection: An Illustrative Guide
Authors: Sharma Diksha , Agrawal Deepak
Published: January 2025

Background White fiber dissection is a method in acquiring in-depth neuroanatomical understanding for surgical practice. Collection of brain specimen during autopsy and preparation of the brain specimen without any disruption in anatomy are essential steps as cadaveric brain dissection is an important part of neuroanatomical teaching, and it further provides an initiative of how kind and precise the dissection must be during live surgery.

Objective The aim of the study was to explain the stepwise technique of the preparation of the brain specimen for white fiber dissection as relevant to neuroanatomical and neurosurgical teaching.

Materials and Methods The brain removal procedure is performed on the human brain during the conventional autopsy process.

Results Various consecutive and typical steps are recommended for the removal and preparation of the specimen. Photographs accompany each relevant step for better understanding of the procedure.

Conclusion In this article, we describe the technique and step-by-step guidelines to effectively remove the brain and to prepare the brain specimen for white fiber dissection. Avoiding common errors during this intricate procedure saves time and brain specimens.
Josephson effect in layered superconductors
Authors: Gvozdikov V. M.
Published: January 2025

It is shown with the help of the microscopic theory of superconductivity that in layered superconductors with Josephson interaction between layers, the dependence of the superconducting current on the phase difference between layers has the form j(ϕ) = ∑njn sin(nϕ). The amplitudes jn are increasing functions of the ratio σ/Δ of the tunnel integral between layers to the order parameter, and decrease with increasing n. The contribution of terms with n > 1 to the superconducting current for σ/Δ ≈ 0.03 does not exceed 2% while for σ/Δ ≈ 0.1 this contribution increases to ∼ 8%. The density of states N(ω) is calculated. It is shown that the gap in the spectrum is less tnan 2Δ, and there is no root singularity at ±Δ. The effect of nonsinusoidal nature of the superconducting current on the Josephson vortex structure and the IV characteristics is discussed.
Quantum interference in high-temperature superconductors
Authors: Verkin B. I. , Dmitrenko I. M. , Dmitriev V. M. , Kartsovnik V. V. , Kozyr’ A. G. , Pavlyuk V. A. , Tsoi G. M. , Shnyrkov V. I.
Published: January 2025

The physical information obtained from inductive measurements of superconducting transitions in ceramic samples is analyzed and possible parameters for rf squids at liquid nitrogen temperatures are estimated. Intrinsic fluctuations of magnetic flux in superconducting ceramics, which are responsible for excessive noise in quantum interferometers, are reported.
Effect of striction on high-frequency magnetic susceptibility for second-order phase transition in a magnetic field
Authors: Vitebskii I. M. , Granovskii I. Ya. , Dan’shin N. K. , Levchenko G. G. , Sdvizhkov M. A.
Published: January 2025

The influence of magnetoelastic effects on the high-frequency magnetic susceptibility of a crystal is studied in a magnetic field. It is shown that at frequencies satisfying the condition ωs ≫ ω ≫ vL−1 (ωs is the minimum frequency characterizing the dynamics of the magnetic subsystem, v the velocity of sound, L the smallest linear dimension of the sample), the difference between the high-frequency susceptibility and its static counterpart is determined completely by the striction effects. Measurements carried out on ErFeO3 in the metamagnetic phase transition region are found to be in qualitative agreement with the theoretical estimates.
Autolocalization of conduction electrons in crystalline neon
Authors: Tolpygo K. B.
Published: January 2025

The possibility of autolocalization of a conduction electron in crystalline neon is considered, and the energy of its interaction with a quasi-uniform deformation in the crystal is estimated. It turns out that due to the negative value of the electron affinity energy, it is lattice extension and not compression that is advantageous, and the energy minimum is attained when a cavity of radius R ≃5.5 Å is formed. Then the localization energy is about 0.415 eV, and the barrier to be overcome is about 0.023 eV.
The effect of Hall conductivity of a two-dimensional electron layer on the properties of elastic waves propagating near a heterojunction in strong magnetic fields
Authors: Kosevich Yu. A. , Syrkin E. S.
Published: January 2025

A modification of elastic waves propagating near a heterojunction is analyzed on the basis of the system of equations of low-frequency dynamics for solid-state structures containing a 2D conducting layer in a strong magnetic field. The arrangement of a 2D conducting channel near the free surface of a crystal and in its bulk are also considered.
The λ ∝ 1/T law and isochoric thermal conductivity of rare gas crystals
Authors: Konstantinov V. A. , Manzhelii V. G. , Strzhemechnyi M. A. , Smirnov S. A.
Published: January 2025

The thermal conductivity of solid xenon is investigated for samples with fixed molar volumes. The relative excess of the experimentally obtained values of thermal conductivity over the values calculated by using the λ ∝ 1/T law is found to increase with temperature. The obtained results are compared with appropriately treated data from the literature on isochoric and isobaric thermal conductivities of solid Ar and Kr. The vacancy contribution to thermal conductivity near the melting point is analyzed. Empirical relations describing the thermal conductivity of the inert gases under consideration in the wide range of existence of the solid phase for T ≥ θ art proposed. It follows from a theoretical analysis that the observed deviations from the law λ ∝ 1/T for isochoric variation of thermal conductivity are due to unharmonic renormalization of the phonon dispersion relation for a fixed volume, the main contribution coming from “asymmetric” terms.
Effect of crystallochemical factors of T
c of high-temperature superconductors L1Ba2Cu3O7 (L-lanthanides and yttrium)
Authors: Palatnik L. S. , Fal’ko I. I.
Published: January 2025

The crystallochemical analysis of high-Tc superconducting compounds L1Ba2Cu3O7 (L-lanthanides and yttrium) with a perovskite-type lattice has revealed the importance of each of the three kinds of adjoint anion polyhedra: (1) “superconducting” CuO4 (degenerate CuO6 octahedra), (2) LO8 “stimulating” an increase in Tc, and (3) “stabilizing” BaO10 polyhedra (degenerate BaO12 cubo octahedra), which improve the crystallochemical stability of 1-2-3 lattice on the whole. The following regularity has been observed: high Tc ≃ 90 to 95 K is attained in crystallochemically nonequilibrium (metastable) compounds containing Y, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, and Lu. The “equilibrium” value of the coordination number for crystallochemically nonequilibrium polyhedra LO8 is n0 = 6 (and not n = 8 obtained in experiments). For La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, and Sm components forming crystallochemically stable 1-2-3 compounds, the equilibrium value n0 = 8 coincides with the experimental value n = 8. The value of Tc decreases with increasing ratio ρL = ρLϵ+/rO2− of ion radii (for ρ > 0.73). The high-temperature superconductivity of 1-2-3 compounds can be associated with strong deformations of Cu and Y (or L) ions, which change their electron structure.
Low-frequency oscillations of resistance in metal point contacts with structural defects
Authors: Akimenko A. I. , Gudimenko V. A. , Yanson I. K. , Verkin A. B.
Published: January 2025

Low-frequency (10−1 to 103 Hz) quasiperiodic oscillations of resistance in metal point contacts carrying current at low temperatures are observed for the case when electrodes have structural defects or impurities. The oscillations are assumed to be due to the correlations emerging in the process of electron scattering by two-level systems.
Phonon generation in Dayem–Martin effect
Authors: Kostur V. N. , Seminozhenko V. P. , Shafranyuk S. E.
Published: January 2025

Nonequilibrium effects arising in SIS’ film contacts in superconductors in a microwave field under multiphoton conditions are considered. It is shown that the field energy is mainly absorbed by electron tunneling involving photon through two channels, viz. scattering and recombination, and a part of the absorbed energy is transformed into the energy of the emitted nonequilibrium phonons. Various types of phonon generation by symmetric and asymmetric contacts are discussed. The spectra of the emitted phonons are found to contain resonance peaks in addition to other features. This suggests the possibility of the generation of nearly monochromatic phonons.