bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic Health Record Usage Patterns Across Surgical Subspecialties
Authors: Tang Kevin , Labagnara Kevin , Babar Mustufa , Loloi Justin , Watts Kara L. , Jariwala Sunit , Abraham Nitya
Published: October 2023

Objectives This study aimed to utilize metrics from physician action logs to analyze surgeon clinical, volume, electronic health record (EHR) efficiency, EHR proficiency, and workload outside scheduled time as impacted by physician characteristics such as years of experience, gender, subspecialty, academic title, and administrative title.

Methods We selected 30 metrics from Epic Signal, an analytic tool in Epic that extracts metrics related to clinician documentation. Metrics measuring appointments, messages, and scheduled hours per day were used as a correlate for volume. EHR efficiency, and proficiency were measured by scores built into Epic Signal. Metrics measuring time spent in the EHR outside working hours were used as a correlate for documentation burden. We analyzed these metrics among surgeons at our institution across 4 months and correlated them with physician characteristics.

Results Analysis of 133 surgeons showed that, when stratified by gender, female surgeons had significantly higher EHR metrics for time per day, time per appointment, and documentation burden, and significantly lower EHR metrics for efficiency when compared to male surgeons. When stratified by experience, surgeons with 0 to 5 years of experience had significantly lower EHR metrics for volume, time per day, efficiency, and proficiency when compared to surgeons with 6 to 10 and more than 10 years of experience. On multivariate analysis, having over 10 years of experience was an independent predictor of more appointments per day, greater proficiency, and spending less time per completed message. Female gender was an independent predictor of spending more time in notes per appointment and time spent in the EHR outside working hours.

Conclusion The burden associated with volume, proficiency, efficiency, and workload outside scheduled time related to EHR use varies by gender and years of experience in our cohort of surgeons. Evaluation of physician action logs could help identify those at higher risk of burnout due to burdensome medical documentation.
Stereotactic Intracavitary Irradiation for Cystic Craniopharyngiomas with Rhenium-186
Authors: Fagundes Walter , Souza Rodolpho Albuquerque , Touzet Gustavo , Carpentier Philippe , Dhellemmes Patrick , Blond Serge
Published: October 2023

Objective The intracavitary irradiation of cystic tumors has been used as a therapeutic alternative modality in the management of cystic craniopharyngiomas. In the present study, we review our experience, considering the technical issues, outcomes, and complications associated with the use of stereotactic intracavitary irradiation (SICI) with colloidal rhenium-186 (186Re) for cystic craniopharyngioma.

Material and Methods The records of 33 patients with cystic craniopharyngiomas treated by SICI with colloidal 186Re were retrospectively reviewed. The median radiation dose to the cyst wall was of 408 Gy (range: 175 Gy to 500 Gy). All tumors were composed of a large cyst cavity, and 9 (27.3%) also had a solid component. The mean follow-up period was of 3.7 years.

Results After SICI, 31 (93.9%) patients showed radiological evidence of cyst regression, and, in 2 (6.1%), no response was observed. An improvement in the visual deficits was observed in 8 cases (24.2%), and an improvement in endocrinogical disturbances, in 2 cases (6.1%). We observed complications in 3 patients (9.1%): diabetes insupidus in 1 case (3%), aggravation of visual acuity in 1 case (3%), and severe headache after infusion of the colloid in 1 case (3%); and 1 patient (3%) died after meningitis.

Conclusion Stereotactic intracavitary irradiation with colloidal 186Re is a safe procedure, with satisfactory results in the present series, and should be considered, in the management of cystic craniopharyngiomas, the first-intention therapy or as an adjuvant to other therapeutical modalities, with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates.
Decompressive Craniectomy in Extensive Ischemic Stroke. An Experience in a Single Institution
Authors: Echenique-Fajardo Diego Alejandro , Izaguirre-González Edenys Lourdes , De Gouveia Rodríguez María Lucy , Brito-Núñez Nafxiel Jesús
Published: October 2023

Introduction Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is a valuable treatment for reducing early lethality in malignant intracranial hypertension (IH); however, it has been shown that the decision to implement DC in patients with extensive ischemic stroke should not be based solely on the detection of IH with the use of intracranial pressure (ICP) devices.

Objective To establish the usefulness of DC in patients with extensive ischemic stroke who came to the emergency room during the period between May 2018 and March 2019.

Methods This was an analytical, prospective, and longitudinal study whose population corresponded to all patients with a diagnosis of extensive ischemic stroke.

Results The sample consisted of 5 patients, of which 3 were female and 2 males, the average age was 62.2 years old (minimum 49 years old, maximum 77 years old). Of all the patients who underwent DC, it was found that 80% of the patients did not present an increase in intracranial pressure. Decompressive craniectomy was not performed in a case that responded adequately to medical treatment. The mean values of ICP were 25 mmHg with a minimum value of 20 mmHg and a maximum value of 25 mmHg; in patients with a moderate value, the ICP averages were < 20 mmHg. The mortality was of 40% (RANKIN of 6 points).

Conclusions Decompressive craniectomy is useful in extensive ischemic stroke. The decision to implement DC in patients with extensive stroke rests on clinicoradiological parameters. The monitoring of the IPC was not particularly useful in the early detection of the neurological deterioration of the patients studied.
Bilateral Cerebral Venous Thrombosis with a Rare Presentation in a COVID-19 Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Ahrari Iman , Saffarian Arash , Rakhsha Abbas , Ghavipisheh Mahsa , Gholami Mohamad Reza
Published: October 2023

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, millions of peoples are involved. The presentation of the disease varies from mild respiratory symptoms and multiple organ failure to coma and death. Neurological symptoms such as headache or seizure are also coincident with COVID-19. Thromboembolic events increase in COVID-19 patients due to hypercoagulability and inflammation, particularly in severely ill patients. Thrombosis may cause venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or cerebral sinus venous thrombosis (CSVT). Cerebral sinus venous thrombosis is a rare phenomenon that is usually found in critically ill patients with bad prognoses. In the present case report, we present a 40-year-old man with COVID-19 confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) who was admitted due to acute bilateral visual loss due to bilateral transverse sinus thrombosis. Pseudotumor cerebri disease was confirmed through high lumbar puncture. Early surgical intervention (optic nerve fenestration) was performed and, fortunately, his visual acuity improved. Cerebral sinus venous thrombosis is a rare incident in COVID-19 patients, but due to irreversible complications, an early diagnosis is fundamental. In any neurologic change in COVID-19 patients, CSVT must be considered. Also, prophylactic thrombolytic therapy should be kept in mind as the patient is admitted.
Literature Review: Role of Neurosurgery in Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis
Authors: Ogasawara Thaís Mitie , Batista Thaís Yumi Kobayashi , dos Santos Rafael Rodrigues Pinheiro , Rampazzo Ana Carla Mondek , Badaoui Caroline Amane Pessoa , Caetano Igor Ruan de Araújo , Martins Jonathan Vinícius , Nogueira Maria Letícia , Guarnieri José Ângelo , Zicarelli Carlos Alexandre Martins
Published: October 2023

Introduction Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis results from metastatic neoplastic cells that reach the leptomeninges through the cerebrospinal fluid. The presentation of the disease is variable, making prognosis challenging. However, the presence of intracranial hypertension is common, which has prompted new treatments to mitigate this effect.

Objective To report the role of neurosurgery in the treatment of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, as well as its advances.

Methodology Literature review with a search of the PubMed database, between 2011 and 2021, using the following descriptors: Neurosurgery, Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis, Cerebrospinal and Treatment. A total of 42 articles were found, 16 of which were selected.

Results The shunt insertion considerably improved the effects of cranial hypertension, increasing the average survival time of patients by 3.5 months after surgery. The Ommaya reservoir is also a viable option due to its convenience and safety. The V-Port, on the other hand, has overcome the challenges of conventional devices, with shorter operating times (42 minutes), smaller skin incisions, and no reports of postoperative infection.

Conclusion Devices for the treatment of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis have been steadily improving, simplifying surgical procedures and benefiting patients.
Role of Robotics in Neuromodulator and Filler Injections of Face
Authors: Kapoor Krishan Mohan , Kapoor Aanandita , Bertossi Dario
Published: October 2023

In recent years, robots have been increasingly used in various fields of medicine, including surgery, dentistry, and ophthalmology. One of the newest and most promising applications of robotic technology in medicine is in the field of facial aesthetics, particularly in the injection of facial fillers and neuromodulators. While facial injections have traditionally been performed manually by trained physicians and nurses, the introduction of robots has the potential to revolutionize the field, offering a range of potential benefits, including increased precision, accuracy, and consistency of results. However, the significant disadvantages of robots are high cost, lack of flexibility and personal touch, limited experience, and risk of injury due to malfunction.
Environmental vs. labor issues: evidence of influence on intention to purchase ethical coffee in Japan
Authors: Kato Takumi , Hayami Katsuya , Kasahara Kenta , Morino Minami , Ikuma Yui , Ikeda Ryosuke , Koizumi Masaki
Published: October 2023

Two main issues in ethical consumption attract attention: environmental and labor issues. However, few studies have compared the conditions and effects that contribute to ethical purchasing behavior. To fill this gap, we conducted two studies targeting the Japanese food industry. In Study 1, we examined consumers who are accustomed to ethical consumption and clarified the product characteristics valued by consumers with high awareness of ethical issues. In Study 2, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to examine the effects of product concepts of environmental and labor issues on coffee purchase intentions. Study 1 confirmed that environmental and labor issues are emphasized for coffee, whereas recycling is emphasized for tea. This difference is due to the difference in production countries (coffee: developing countries, tea: Japan) and packaging materials (coffee: paper cups, tea: PET bottles). Study 2 showed that labor issues had a greater impact on purchase intention and willingness to pay than that of environmental issues owing to the adoption of producers’ photographs. This study complemented existing literature by comparing the conditions and effects of environmental and labor issues on ethical purchasing behavior. Considering the limited resources of companies and limited ability of consumers to process information, understanding predictive factors is extremely crucial.
A global spectral-Galerkin investigation of a Rayleigh–Taylor instability in plasma using an MHD–Boussinesq model
Authors: Piterskaya A. , Miloch W. J. , Mortensen M.
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a new efficient algorithm based on the spectral-Galerkin numerical approximations complemented by a magnetohydrodynamics–Boussinesq model and a new solver for studying the development of a Rayleigh–Taylor (RT) instability. We use the Shenfun computational framework in the Cartesian coordinates, which gives the spectral order and accuracy for the considered model based on the magnetohydrodynamics equations and the Boussinesq conjecture. The numerical simulations were conducted for each two- and three-dimensional case, both with and without an external static magnetic field. The validity of the numerical results was examined by comparing the calculated squared L2-norm of the density parameter with the linear stability analysis. We also examined the effects of a uniform tangential magnetic field on the onset and growth of an RT instability at different magnetic field strengths. The analysis of the effectiveness of the presented method suggests that it can be modified for further research on two-component plasma.
Composition variations in Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 solar cells: Not a gradient, but an interlaced network of two phases
Authors: Prot Aubin JC. M. , Melchiorre Michele , Dingwell Felix , Zelenina Anastasia , Elanzeery Hossam , Lomuscio Alberto , Dalibor Thomas , Guc Maxim , Fonoll-Rubio Robert , Izquierdo-Roca Victor , Kusch Gunnar , Oliver Rachel A. , Siebentritt Susanne
Published: October 2023

Record efficiency in chalcopyrite-based solar cells Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 is achieved using a gallium gradient to increase the bandgap of the absorber toward the back side. Although this structure has successfully reduced recombination at the back contact, we demonstrate that in industrial absorbers grown in the pilot line of Avancis, the back part is a source of non-radiative recombination. Depth-resolved photoluminescence (PL) measurements reveal two main radiative recombination paths at 1.04 eV and 1.5–1.6 eV, attributed to two phases of low and high bandgap material, respectively. Instead of a continuous change in the bandgap throughout the thickness of the absorber, we propose a model where discrete bandgap phases interlace, creating an apparent gradient. Cathodoluminescence and Raman scattering spectroscopy confirm this result. Additionally, deep defects associated with the high gap phase reduce the absorber's performance. Etching away the back part of the absorber leads to an increase of one order of magnitude in the PL intensity, i.e., 60 meV in quasi-Fermi level splitting. Non-radiative voltage losses correlate linearly with the relative contribution of the high energy PL peak, suggesting that reducing the high gap phase could increase the open circuit voltage by up to 180 mV.
Effective temperature for an intermittent bistable potential
Authors: Jerez Michael Jade Y. , Rangaig Norodin A. , Confesor Mark Nolan P.
Published: October 2023

Thermodynamics of far-from-equilibrium systems often require measurement of effective parameters such as temperature. Whether such approach is valid for the general case of resetting protocols, active systems, or of confined systems under time-varying fields is still under investigation. We report on the effect of switching ON-OFF of an asymmetric bistable potential to the mean first passage time (MFPT) of a probed particle to go from one potential minima to the other. Experimental results coupled with numerical simulations shows the potential becoming more symmetric at slow switching. Moreover, the MFPT deviates from equilibrium condition with an effective temperature, Teff < T, at slow switching but approaches room temperature, T, at fast switching. For each switching rate, we quantify how far the system is from equilibrium by measuring deviation from a detailed balance like relation and the net circulation of flux present in phase-space. Both analysis suggest equilibrium condition are met at high switching.
Glassy dynamics of water in TIP4P/Ice aqueous solutions of trehalose in comparison with the bulk phase
Authors: Lupi Laura , Gallo Paola
Published: October 2023

We perform molecular dynamics simulations of TIP4P/Ice water in solution with trehalose for 3.65 and 18.57 wt. % concentrations and of bulk TIP4P/Ice water at ambient pressure, to characterize the structure and dynamics of water in a sugar aqueous solution in the supercooled region. We find here that TIP4P/Ice water in solution with trehalose molecules follows the Mode Coupling Theory and undergoes a fragile to strong transition up to the highest concentration investigated, similar to the bulk. Moreover, we perform a Mode Coupling Theory test, showing that the Time Temperature Superposition principle holds for both bulk TIP4P/Ice water and for TIP4P/Ice water in the solutions and we calculate the exponents of the theory. The direct comparison of the dynamical results for bulk water and water in the solutions shows upon cooling along the isobar a fastening of water dynamics for lower temperatures, T < 240 K. We found that the counter-intuitive behavior for the low temperature solutions can be explained with the diffusion anomaly of water leading us to the conclusion that the fastening observed below T = 240 K in water dynamics is only fictitious, due to the fact that the density of water molecules in the solutions is higher than the density of the bulk at the same temperature and pressure. This result should be taken into account in experimental investigations which are often carried out at constant pressure.
Droplet dispersion characteristics during human walking in a queue
Authors: Kong Benben , Li Yu , Cheng Mengmeng , Song Caiyue , Zou Yitao , Shi Hong , Jiang Yanlong
Published: October 2023

The dispersion of respiratory droplets is strongly influenced by the complex airflow induced by human activities, such as walking in a queue. Understanding the relationship between local airflow disturbances during queue walking and droplet dispersion is crucial. This study investigates the effects of following distance (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 m), walking speed (0.8, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.4 m/s), and droplet diameter (1, 10, 50, 80, and 120 μm) on droplet dispersion. The findings reveal that the interaction between wake vortex and forward airflow provides a foundation for cross-infection among individuals. An increased following distance leads to an initial rise and subsequent decrease in the concentration in the breathing zone of the susceptible individual. The social distances of 1.0 and 1.5 m are insufficient to mitigate the risk of cross-infection, warranting a recommended following distance of at least two meters. The effect of walking speed on droplet dispersion varies depending on the scenario. In cases involving standing and walking cycles, the infection risk of the susceptible individual gradually increases with higher walking speeds. Conversely, when individuals walk continuously in a queue, the infection risk of the susceptible individual decreases with increased walking speed. Moreover, intermediate-sized droplets play a critical role in the transmission of respiratory infectious diseases and demand heightened attention. This study expounds the intricate airflow dynamics during queue walking and emphasizes the significance of following distance, walking speed, and droplet diameter in minimizing the risk of cross-infection.
Investigation of turbulence models for aerodynamic analysis of a high-pressure-ratio centrifugal compressor
Authors: Liu Jun-Nan , Wang Dingxi , Huang Xiuquan
Published: October 2023

The aerodynamic design and optimization of modern centrifugal compressors are inseparable from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools. In a design environment, CFD simulations are expected to predict compressor performance characteristics with reasonable accuracy. Turbulence models and model simplification can play a significant role in the discrepancy between analysis and reality. To investigate the influence of turbulence models on aerodynamic analysis results of centrifugal compressors, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's high efficiency centrifugal compressor stage is selected as the test vehicle. Six eddy-viscosity models, namely, Spalart–Allmaras (SA), standard k–epsilon (k−ε), renormalization group k–epsilon (RNG k−ε), Wilcox k–omega (k−ω), shear stress transport (SST), and SST-reattachment modification (SST-RM) are considered. In all numerical analyses, measured surface roughness is included with the aim of improving numerical solution accuracy. Although some discrepancies exist, the compressor performance characteristics predicted by the k−ω model are in satisfactory agreement with the test data over the whole speedline. The k−ε model overpredicts the isentropic efficiency than the other models, while the SST-RM model underestimates the total pressure ratio in the near-stall region. The RNG k−ε model matches high flow characteristics but overestimates the choked mass flow rate. The SST model obtains a similar operating range with the test data but underestimates the compressor's isentropic efficiency and total pressure ratio, while the SA model totally overestimates the compressor characteristics due to the wall function. Furthermore, variations caused by turbulence models are discussed together with the flow field analysis. Finally, to verify the impact of the impeller backplate bleed cavity, an additional simulation is conducted that specifically accounts for this feature.
Ab initio investigations of two-dimensional carrier gas at interfaces in GaN/AlN and GaN/AlN/Al2O3 heterostructures
Authors: Zoino S. , Borowik Ł. , Mohamad B. , Nowak E. , Kempisty P.
Published: October 2023

The formation of a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the GaN (0001)/AlN interface holds significant implications for GaN-based high-voltage and high-frequency (RF) devices. Due to the promising results provided by the addition of a thin layer of AlN in metal–oxide-semiconductor channel high-electron-mobility transistor devices, this interface can be found in both the access region and near the dielectric gate. Recent ab initio simulations shed light on the crucial role played by spontaneous and piezoelectric polarizations within polar GaN and AlN crystals in driving the formation of the 2DEG. This study explores the underlying mechanisms behind the 2DEG formation and investigates the impact of fixed charges and additional layers, like Al2O3, on the carrier concentration. Consistent with the literature, our findings highlight the predominant role of polarizations within III–V materials in the formation of the 2DEG. Moreover, we examine the influence of fixed charges on the AlN surface, revealing their ability to accumulate or deplete the 2DEG, while maintaining charge conservation through the emergence of a new two-dimensional charge gas on the AlN surface. Additionally, we explore the effects of incorporating a β-Al2O3 crystal layer on the GaN/AlN structure, finding that the 2DEG’s carrier density is reduced, yet not entirely eliminated, while a significant positive charge concentration at the AlN/Al2O3 interface pins the Fermi level. This comprehensive investigation contributes to our understanding of microscopic phenomena in III–V heterostructures, paving the way for future advancements and applications in power electronics.
Electromagnetic loss study of honeycomb structured absorbers with a metal substrate
Authors: Leng Shao-Yong , Wu Bin , Mu Lei , Qiao Liang , Wang Tao , Li Fa-Shen
Published: October 2023

The broad application prospect of the honeycomb structure wave absorber in industrial and civil fields makes researchers focus on studying its wave absorbing mechanism so as to optimize its structural design and improve its wave absorbing performance. Distinguishing from the equivalent circuit thinking to study the honeycomb structured absorber, a kind of symmetry operation is adopted in this paper for the honeycomb structured absorber from the electromagnetic wave propagation point of view. The reflection loss is assumed to be the result of the loss of the incident electromagnetic wave in the absorbing body and the superposition of multiple refractions, and the symmetry operation can separate the specific physical process of the refracted wave involved in the superposition. The separated electromagnetic wave vector superposition is compared with the simulated and experimental values to verify the correctness of the conjecture. The separation results show that the absorption properties are determined by the internal loss and the phase change caused by the surface structure, which is of positive significance for the optimization and design of honeycomb absorbers.
Particle dynamics in dusty plasma: Classical tunneling
Authors: Avinash K.
Published: October 2023

A Hamiltonian formalism for studying the dynamics of a dust particle with variable electric charge in dusty plasma is proposed. The Hamiltonian and the equations of motion are presented, and the dynamics is shown to be conservative. The problem is cast in terms of the motion of a particle with a constant fictitious charge QA moving in a suitably defined potential, while the actual particle charge is spatially distributed. With this formalism, the problem of trapping of dust particles in potential wells and barriers is studied. The results show that because of the spatial “delocalization”/distribution of the particle charge, a particle with insufficient energy to cross the potential barrier can penetrate it to tunnel out, i.e., “classical tunneling,” similar to a high jumper clearing the bar by the Fosbury flop technique or the usual quantum tunneling. For energies greater than a critical value, the charged particle is shown to tunnel out of even an infinitely deep potential well. A modified criterion for trapping in potential wells is given.
Information sharing-based multivariate proper orthogonal decomposition
Authors: Wang Zihao , Zhang Guiyong , Sun Teizhi , Huang Huakun
Published: October 2023

This study explores challenges in multivariate modal decomposition for various flow scenarios, emphasizing the problem of inconsistent physical modes in Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD). This inconsistency arises due to POD's inability to capture inter-variable relationships and common flow patterns, resulting in a loss of phase information. To address this issue, the study introduces two novel data-driven modal analysis methods, collectively called Information Sharing-Based Multivariate POD (IMPOD). These methods, namely, Shared Space Information Multivariate POD (SIMPOD) and Shared Time Information Multivariate POD (TIMPOD), aim to regularize modal decomposition by promoting information sharing among variables. TIMPOD, which assumes shared time information, successfully aligns multivariate modes and corrects their phases without significantly affecting reconstruction error, making it a promising corrective technique for multivariate modal decomposition. In contrast, SIMPOD, which assumes shared space information, reorders modes and may lead to a loss of meaningful insight and reconstruction error.
Binding Debye–Hückel theory for associative electrolyte solutions
Authors: Naseri Boroujeni S. , Maribo-Mogensen B. , Liang X. , Kontogeorgis G. M.
Published: October 2023

This study presents a new equation of state (EOS) for charged hard sphere fluids that incorporates ion-ion association. The EOS is developed using the Debye–Hückel (DH) theory, reference cavity approximation, and Wertheim’s theory. Predictive accuracy is evaluated by comparing the model’s predictions with Monte Carlo simulations for various charged hard-sphere fluids. The assessment focuses on mean ionic activity coefficient, individual ionic activity coefficient, and osmotic coefficients. The results demonstrate good agreement between the model and simulations, indicating its success for different electrolyte systems. Incorporating ion-ion association improves accuracy compared to the DH theory. The importance of the cavity function and ion-dipole interactions is emphasized in accurately representing structural properties. Overall, the developed EOS shows promising predictive capabilities for charged hard sphere fluids, providing validation and highlighting the significance of ion-ion association in thermodynamic predictions of electrolyte solutions.
Unsteady nano-magnetic drug dispersion for pulsatile Darcy flow through microvessel with drug elimination phenomena
Authors: Mashiku Lazaro Revocatus , Shaw Sachin
Published: October 2023

Drug delivery by nano-drug carriers in magnetic drug targeting has shown a promising future in various cancer tumor treatments. The distinguishing properties of nanocarriers, such as small size, selective targeting, controlled release, and others, have made them more effective than the existing conventional treatments. However, several factors affect its delivery. In the present problem, we study the unsteady dispersion of drug-loaded magnetic nanocarriers in microvessels driven by a pulsatile pressure gradient derived from the unsteady Darcy law. Both fluid flow rate and mean velocity are computed analytically. The finite difference method is used to obtain the numerical solution of the solute transport equation, and the results are presented in graphs. Our results show that not only does the Womersley number influence the pulsatility dispersion of nanocarrier particles but also the microvessel permeability, magnetic-tumor distance, magnetization number, and volume fraction of magnetic nanoparticles. We found a drop in drug-loaded magnetic nanocarriers' concentration at the targeted site with decreasing blood pulsatility in the microvessel as portrayed by the Womersley parameter. In contrast, the descending magnetic tumor distance promotes nanoparticle concentration in the tumor tissue. Furthermore, the effects of other parameters, such as permeability, magnetization, volume fraction of magnetic nanoparticles, source term, elimination parameter, and nanocarrier radius, are discussed. To sum up, based on the Womersley frequency parameter coefficient used to describe blood pulsatility resulting from forceful heartbeat, flow pulsatility and nanocarrier particle dispersion are positively correlated, while magnetic-tumor distance is negatively correlated with both pulsatility and nanoparticle concentration.
Uniformly dispersing and anchoring graphene on GaN nanowire substrate: Application to electrochemical detection of glucose in sweat
Authors: Chen Shunji , Yu Jun , Zhang Jianwei , Huang Hui , Xiao Hongqian , Tang Yanjie , Dubrovskii Vladimir G. , Liu Haibin , Xia Peiling , Chen Zhefu
Published: October 2023

For deposition of two-dimensional materials (e.g., graphene) on a substrate, self-aggregation and poor anchor strength are still issues. Herein, the GaN nanowire (NW) substrate was employed for electrochemical deposition of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with satisfying dispersion uniformity and anchor strength. The deposited rGO exhibited flake morphology without agglomeration. Moreover, PtAu and rGO can be simultaneously and uniformly deposited on the GaN NW substrate to realize a PtAu–rGO/GaN electrochemical sensor for glucose detection. In comparison with deposition of PtAu–rGO on a stainless steel (SS) substrate (i.e., PtAu–rGO/SS), PtAu–rGO/GaN demonstrated much higher sensitivity and long-term stability, owing to better dispersion and anchor strength on GaN NW. In addition, with decoration of glucose oxidase (GOx), the GOx/PtAu–rGO/GaN sensor can be used for detecting glucose in human sweat with a low limit of detection of 5 μM, a wide linear detection range of 5 μM–12 mM, and high long-term stability, which indicates that GOx/PtAu–rGO/GaN sensor is promising for noninvasive glucose detection.
Designed two dimensional triangle lattice Ti3X5 (X=S, Se): Stable quantum anomalous Hall states with high Chern number
Authors: Xu Xiaokang , Guo Tianxia , Liu Yujie , Chen Anjie , Zhu Xiangfei , Wang Shu , He Ailei , Lu Jinlian , Liu Yongjun , Zhang Xiuyun
Published: October 2023

Although much efforts have been made into exploration of quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) effects in theory and experiment, the QAH materials with high Chern number are still rare to people. Here, by first-principles calculations, we theoretically predicted stable 2D robust QAH monolayers, Ti3X5 (X = S, Se) with high Chern number |C| = 2. In the absence of spin–orbital coupling (SOC), the ferromagnetism polarizes the system into a half semimetal with eight Weyl points in the whole Brillouin zone. When SOC is turned on, the bandgap is opened with two chiral edge modes. Additionally, a topological phase transition from C = −2 to C = 2 is realized by rotating the magnetization direction from z axis to −z axis. In addition, a phase transition from C = −2 to C = 0 can be manipulated by applying external strains or varying electronic correlation Ueff. Our work provides potential high Chern number QAH candidates for the practical electronic application.
A mixed-methods examination of an on-campus canine-assisted intervention by gender: Women, men, and gender-diverse individuals’ self-reports of stress-reduction and well-being
Authors: Binfet John-Tyler , Green Freya L.L. , Godard Rebecca J.P. , Szypula Madisyn M. , Rousseau Camille X. , Decker Jordy
Published: October 2023

On-campus canine-assisted interventions (CAIs) provide opportunities for college students to interact with therapy dog-handler teams and are considered a low-cost and low-barrier way for students to reduce their stress and bolster their well-being. Across studies, we see participant samples comprised predominantly of women participants. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a 20-min CAI on the well-being of women (
n
= 80), men (
n
= 54), and gender-diverse (
n
= 28; i.e., non-binary, genderfluid, and two-spirit) participants. Across all gender conditions, significant pre-to-post increases in well-being (i.e., campus connectedness, happiness, positive affect, or optimism) and decreases in ill-being (i.e., homesickness, loneliness, negative affect, anxiety, or stress) were found. Controlling for pre-test scores, there was no significant effect of gender on any of the well-being or ill-being. Findings corroborate previous research attesting to the efficacy of CAIs in enhancing the social and emotional well-being of students and suggest that CAIs are equally effective across participants of varied genders.
A non-excavation detection method for buried PE pipelines based on 3D time-domain stacking focusing of elastic wave reflection
Authors: Qi Yongsheng , Wang Xinhua , Yang Lin , Wang Yuexin , Guo Zisheng
Published: October 2023

This paper proposed a method for locating buried polyethylene (PE) pipelines based on three-dimensional time-domain stacking focusing on elastic wave reflections. Research is conducted on the elastic wave propagation mechanism in solids. A finite element model of the propagation of elastic waves in a pipe–soil coupling system excited by a vertically oriented source is established. The transverse wave energy component below the excitation source is zero for elastic waves excited by a vertically oriented source. Based on this characteristic, an elastic wave probe array is first used, circularly distributed around the excitation source. The symmetry of the probe array is utilized to locate the buried PE pipes in the horizontal direction. Then, interference from the transverse waves is reduced by placing the excitation source directly above the buried PE pipeline. A three-dimensional image of the buried PE pipeline is formed using high-frequency elastic wave reflection signals and three-dimensional time-domain stacking. The results show that the proposed method can determine the horizontal position and burial depth of buried PE pipes without excavation. In addition, this work is significant for the localization methods of other buried pipe materials. The related detection systems and imaging methods have certain universality and reference value for detecting other buried public facilities.
Welding defects on new energy batteries based on 2D pre-processing and improved-region-growth method in the small field of view
Authors: Lyu Ri , Lu Jun , Zhao Zhuang , Zhang Yi , Han Jing , Bai Lianfa
Published: October 2023

The assessment of welding quality in battery shell production is a crucial aspect of battery production. Battery surface reconstruction can inspect the quality of the weld instead of relying on human inspection. This paper proposes a defect detection method in the small field of view based on 2D pre-processing and an improved-region-growth method. A novel approximation-based, high-precision, and simple operation method for line structure optical plane calibration under small field of view is presented, with a measurement error within 0.01 mm. By pre-processing the line scan 2D images, the defect location distribution is obtained, and then the images near the abnormal points are reconstructed in third dimensional (3D). The proposed method enables the extraction of the morphology, size, and other information of the defects with high accuracy. The results of various defect detection experiments demonstrate the stable and reliable performance of the system. The experimental results of defect recognition rate are over 95.3% for defects above 0.5 mm in diameter, and the inspection time is less than 1/2 of the direct 3D defect inspection. Overall, this method has proven to be highly effective in the assessment of welding quality in new energy battery production.
High performance self-powered photodetector based on van der Waals heterojunction
Authors: Yan Cong , Yang Kun , Zhang Hao , Chen Yaolin , Liu Hongxia
Published: October 2023

Self-powered photodetectors that do not require external power support are expected to play a key role in future photodetectors due to their low power characteristics, but achieving high responsivity remains a challenge. 2D van der Waals heterojunctions are a promising technology for high-performance self-powered photodetectors due to their excellent optical and electrical properties. Here, we fabricate a self-powered photodetector based on In2Se3/WSe2/ReS2 van der Waals heterojunction self-powered photodetector. Due to the presence of ReS2 layer, photocurrent is enhanced as a result of the increase in light absorption efficiency and the effective region for generating photogenerated carriers. The built-in electric field is enhanced by a negative ‘back-gate voltage’ along the p–n junction vertical direction generated by the electrons in the photo-generated electrons accumulation layer. Accordingly, the optical responsivity and the photoresponse speed of this heterojunction self-powered photodetector are greatly boosted. The proposed self-powered photodetector based on the In2Se3/WSe2/ReS2 heterojunction exhibits a high responsivity of 438 mA W−1, which is 17 times higher compared to the In2Se3/WSe2 photodetector, a self-powered current (1.1 nA) that is an order of magnitude higher than that of the In2Se3/WSe2 photodetector, and a fast response time that is 250% faster. Thus the self-powered photodetector with a stronger built-in electric field and a wider depletion zone can provide a new technological support for the fabrication of high responsivity, low power consumption and high speed self-powered photodetectors based on van der Waals heterojunctions.
Enhanced second harmonic generation from a quasi-periodic silver dendritic metasurface
Authors: Chen Huan , Chen Xin , Zhao Xiaopeng , Wang Junli
Published: October 2023

The preparation of the vast majority of nonlinear optical metal metasurfaces currently relies on complex top-down methods such as electron beam or ion beam etching, which are expensive and difficult to meet the requirement of large area preparation. In this paper, an easily prepared quasi-periodic silver dendritic metasurface model with high Q factor is established in the near-infrared band based on a simple and easy-to-operate electrochemical deposition method. The simulations prove that the silver dendritic metasurface has a high Q factor (exceeds 104) because of its strong electric field localization ability, which is analogous to the superposition of multiple split-ring resonators. It is demonstrated that the second harmonic generation (SHG) intensity of the dendritic metasurface at a large incident angle (such as 85°) is about 30 times that of the metasurface at a small incident angle when the x-polarized pump light is incident obliquely to break the centrosymmetry of the metasurface. The influences of the incident angle or dendritic structure’s dimensions on the Q factor and SHG efficiency have also been researched through a lot of simulation. This easily prepared quasi-periodic silver dendritic metasurface SHG device may provide a new avenue for the development and application of miniature, integratable nonlinear optical devices.
LSAM: L2-norm self-attention and latent space feature interaction for automatic 3D multi-modal head and neck tumor segmentation
Authors: Li Laquan , Tan Jiaxin , Yu Lei , Li Chunwen , Nan Hai , Zheng Shenhai
Published: October 2023

Objective. Head and neck (H&N) cancers are prevalent globally, and early and accurate detection is absolutely crucial for timely and effective treatment. However, the segmentation of H&N tumors is challenging due to the similar density of the tumors and surrounding tissues in CT images. While positron emission computed tomography (PET) images provide information about the metabolic activity of the tissue and can distinguish between lesion regions and normal tissue. But they are limited by their low spatial resolution. To fully leverage the complementary information from PET and CT images, we propose a novel and innovative multi-modal tumor segmentation method specifically designed for H&N tumor segmentation. Approach. The proposed novel and innovative multi-modal tumor segmentation network (LSAM) consists of two key learning modules, namely L2-Norm self-attention and latent space feature interaction, which exploit the high sensitivity of PET images and the anatomical information of CT images. These two advanced modules contribute to a powerful 3D segmentation network based on a U-shaped structure. The well-designed segmentation method can integrate complementary features from different modalities at multiple scales, thereby improving the feature interaction between modalities. Main results. We evaluated the proposed method on the public HECKTOR PET-CT dataset, and the experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method convincingly outperforms existing H&N tumor segmentation methods in terms of key evaluation metrics, including DSC (0.8457), Jaccard (0.7756), RVD (0.0938), and HD95 (11.75). Significance. The innovative Self-Attention mechanism based on L2-Norm offers scalability and is effective in reducing the impact of outliers on the performance of the model. And the novel method for multi-scale feature interaction based on Latent Space utilizes the learning process in the encoder phase to achieve the best complementary effects among different modalities.
Deep learning-based workflow for hip joint morphometric parameter measurement from CT images
Authors: Zhai Haoyu , Huang Jin , Li Lei , Tao Hairong , Wang Jinwu , Li Kang , Shao Moyu , Cheng Xiaomin , Wang Jing , Wu Xiang , Wu Chuan , Zhang Xiao , Wang Hongkai , Xiong Yan
Published: October 2023

Objective. Precise hip joint morphometry measurement from CT images is crucial for successful preoperative arthroplasty planning and biomechanical simulations. Although deep learning approaches have been applied to clinical bone surgery planning, there is still a lack of relevant research on quantifying hip joint morphometric parameters from CT images. Approach. This paper proposes a deep learning workflow for CT-based hip morphometry measurement. For the first step, a coarse-to-fine deep learning model is designed for accurate reconstruction of the hip geometry (3D bone models and key landmark points). Based on the geometric models, a robust measurement method is developed to calculate a full set of morphometric parameters, including the acetabular anteversion and inclination, the femoral neck shaft angle and the inclination, etc. Our methods were validated on two datasets with different imaging protocol parameters and further compared with the conventional 2D x-ray-based measurement method. Main results. The proposed method yields high bone segmentation accuracies (Dice coefficients of 98.18% and 97.85%, respectively) and low landmark prediction errors (1.55 mm and 1.65 mm) on both datasets. The automated measurements agree well with the radiologists’ manual measurements (Pearson correlation coefficients between 0.47 and 0.99 and intraclass correlation coefficients between 0.46 and 0.98). This method provides more accurate measurements than the conventional 2D x-ray-based measurement method, reducing the error of acetabular cup size from over 2 mm to less than 1 mm. Moreover, our morphometry measurement method is robust against the error of the previous bone segmentation step. As we tested different deep learning methods for the prerequisite bone segmentation, our method produced consistent final measurement results, with only a 0.37 mm maximum inter-method difference in the cup size. Significance. This study proposes a deep learning approach with improved robustness and accuracy for pelvis arthroplasty planning.
Dynamical systems analysis of an interacting scalar field model in an anisotropic universe
Authors: Bhanja Sujoy , Mandal Goutam , Al Mamon Abdulla , Kr. Biswas Sujay
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we investigate a non-canonical scalar field model in the background dynamics of anisotropic Locally Rotationally Symmetric (LRS) Bianchi type I universe where gravity is coupled minimally to scalar field which is taken as dark energy and pressureless dust as dark matter are the main matter content of the universe. We perform dynamical system analysis to characterize the cosmological evolution of the model with and without interaction in the dark sector separately. First, we convert the evolution equation into an autonomous system of ordinary differential equations by using a suitable choice of dimensionless variables, which are normalized over the Hubble scale. We choose scalar field coupling and potential in such a way that the autonomous system converted to a 2D system. Linear stability theory is employed to the extracted critical points to find the nature. From the analysis, we find some interesting cosmological scenarios, such as late-time scalar-field dominated solutions, which evolve in the quintessence era, cannot solve the coincidence problem. Accelerated scaling attractors are also obtained that correspond to the late phase evolution in agreement with present observational data, and these solutions also provide possible mechanisms to alleviate the coincidence problem. A complete cosmic evolution is obtained from early inflation to a late-time dark energy-dominated phase, connecting through a matter-dominated transient phase of the universe. Furthermore, we find that for different values of the interaction parameter α, the evolutionary trajectories of the Hubble parameter, and the distance modulus forecasted by the model are in quite well agreement with observational datasets.
The measurement of responsivity of infrared photodetectors using a cavity blackbody
Authors: Li Nong , Jiang Dongwei , Wang Guowei , Chen Weiqiang , Zhou Wenguang , Jiang Junkai , Chang Faran , Hao Hongyue , Wu Donghai , Xu Yingqiang , Shen Guiying , Xie Hui , Liu Jingming , Zhao Youwen , Wang Fenghua , Niu Zhichuan
Published: October 2023

For the measurement of responsivity of an infrared photodetector, the most-used radiation source is a blackbody. In such a measurement system, distance between the blackbody, the photodetector and the aperture diameter are two parameters that contribute most measurement errors. In this work, we describe the configuration of our responsivity measurement system in great detail and present a method to calibrate the distance and aperture diameter. The core of this calibration method is to transfer direct measurements of these two parameters into an extraction procedure by fitting the experiment data to the calculated results. The calibration method is proved experimentally with a commercially extended InGaAs detector at a wide range of blackbody temperature, aperture diameter and distance. Then proof procedures are further extended into a detector fabricated in our laboratory and consistent results were obtained.