bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery of dibenzylbutane lignan LCA derivatives as potent anti-inflammatory agents
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zhang Juan , Gai Conghao , Wang Jing , Zhuo Xiaobin , Song Yan , Zou Yan , Zhang Peichao , Hou Guige , Meng Qingguo , Zhao Qingjie , Chai Xiaoyun
Published: April 2024

Compound 10h, a novel dibenzylbutane lignan LCA derivative, has potential anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NF-κB activation.
Quasiballistic thermal transport in submicron-scale graphene nanoribbons at room-temperature
Authors: So Soonsung , Seol Jae Hun , Lee Joo-Hyoung
Published: April 2024

Quasiballistic thermal transport in submicron-scale graphene nanoribbons is analyzed with the local thermal conductivity under steady-state heating and heat pulse propagation under transient-heating conditions, respectively.
Synthesis and characterization of magnetite coated by maltodextrin for application in magnetic hyperthermia
Authors: Bueno Yasmin Milena Loth , Naves Filipe Kalil da Silva , Rosa Tamires Pereira , Alves Odivaldo Cambraia , Martins Marcel Guimarães , Horta Marla Karolyne dos Santos , Lenzi Giane Gonçalves , Rodrigues Celio Lucas Valente , da Silva Jéssica Dornelas , Brackmann Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to synthesize magnetite nanoparticles proposing a new core with maltodextrin using the coprecipitation method in an alkaline medium, with the potential application in magnetic hyperthermia for cancer treatment.
Natural products from the human microbiome: an emergent frontier in organic synthesis and drug discovery
Authors: Sengupta Saumitra , Pabbaraja Srihari , Mehta Goverdhan
Published: April 2024

The current landscape of synthetic campaigns and drug discovery initiatives focused on human microbiome-derived natural products is presented.
K2CO3-mediated annulation of 1,3-acetonedicarboxylates with 2-fluoro-1-nitroarenes: synthesis of indoles
Authors: Chang Meng-Yang , Ho Chin-Huey , Chen Hsing-Yin
Published: April 2024

K2CO3-mediated one-pot reaction of 1,3-acetonedicarboxylates with 2 equivalents of substituted 2-fluoro-1-nitrobenzenes has been developed to synthesize various 2,3-dicarboxylate indoles via a tandem annulation pathway.
Trifluoroacetic acid molecules confined into/onto metal–organic frameworks using H2btzip for efficiently improving proton conductivity using a synergistic effect
Authors: Ma Xiaoxue , Li Xin , Han Xueke , Zhang Lu , Liu Ronghua , Hao Hongguo , Yan Hui , Zhao Xin , Kong Xiangjin , Zhou Huawei , Li Xia , Zhu Hongjie , Wang Suna , Li Yunwu , Zhong Dichang , Dai Fangna
Published: April 2024

Two outstanding proton conducting materials have been obtained by loading TFA molecules onto/into the surface or pores of MOFs. After post-treatment, their proton conductivity values are greatly increased under the same conditions.
Construction of glutathione-responsive paclitaxel prodrug nanoparticles for image-guided targeted delivery and breast cancer therapy
Authors: Ma Weiwei , Zhao Qiufeng , Zhu Shilong , Wang Xinyue , Zhang Chuangchuang , Ma Daming , Li Na , Yin Yanyan
Published: April 2024

HA-coated redox sensitive visualized nano-prodrug HA/TPE-CS-SS-PTX were exploited in order to highly efficient treatment of cancer and real-time monitoring of drug localization.
Syntheses, structural, photophysical and theoretical studies of heteroleptic cycloplatinated guanidinate(1−) complexes bearing acetylacetonate and picolinate ancillary ligands
Authors: Thakur Vasudha , Thomas Jisha Mary , Adnan Mohammad , Sivasankar Chinnappan , Vijaya Prakash G. , Thirupathi Natesan
Published: April 2024

[Pt(TAG-κC,κN)(acac)] (TAG = triarylguanidinate(1−) ligands) were isolated and fully characterized. These complexes are bluish green light emitters and the origin of absorption/emission in selected complexes were studied by TD-DFT calculations.
Mono and di ortho-C–H acetoxylation of 2-aryloxyquinoline-3-carbaldehydes
Authors: Bakthadoss Manickam , Aina Oluwafemi S. , Reddy Tadiparthi Thirupathi , Izunobi Josephat U. , Familoni Oluwole B.
Published: April 2024

A novel protocol for introducing an acetoxy functional group selectively on the ortho aryl sp2 carbon of 2-aryloxyquinoline-3-carbaldehydes in good yields with good functional group tolerance using a palladium catalyst was developed for the first time.
Understanding the impact of small vanadia clusters and their coverage effects on undoped and Ni-doped ceria nanorod supports on propane oxidative dehydrogenation
Authors: Pushkar Anoop P. , Varghese Jithin John
Published: April 2024

Vanadia deposition over ceria and Ni-doped ceria enhanced propene selectivity during propane oxidative dehydrogenation.
High-mobility organic mixed conductors with a low synthetic complexity index via direct arylation polymerization
Authors: Kimpel Joost , Kim Youngseok , Asatryan Jesika , Martín Jaime , Kroon Renee , Müller Christian
Published: April 2024

The synthesis of conjugated copolymers with glycolated thieno[3,2-b]thiophene units by direct arylation polymerization, their synthetic complexity in the context of literature compounds, and their performance in organic electrochemical transistors is described.
Spontaneous oscillation of an active filament under viscosity gradients
Authors: Liu Zhaorong , Chao Youchuang , Zheng Zhijun , Zhu Lailai
Published: April 2024

We investigate the effects of uniform viscosity gradients on the spontaneous oscillations of an elastic, active filament in viscous fluids.
Dynamics in polymers with phase separated dynamic bonds: the case of a peculiar temperature dependence
Authors: Carden Peyton , Ge Sirui , Li Bingrui , Samanta Subarna , Sokolov Alexei P.
Published: April 2024

Relaxation processes in polymers with phase separated dynamic bonds include segmental (α) process, individual bond dissociation (α*) and rearrangement (intermediate), structural relaxation in clusters (α2) and terminal relaxation (c).
Cellulose nanocrystal-mediated enhancement of hydrogel anti-swelling and water retention
Authors: Nyamayaro Kudzanai , Iwase Takeo , Hatzikiriakos Savvas G. , Mehrkhodavandi Parisa
Published: April 2024

Anti-swelling and water retention were accomplished by introducing ionic complexation through incorporating different weight percent of CNC with varying counterions.
Boosting reaction kinetics of polycrystalline phase Fe7S8/FeS2 heterostructures encapsulated in hollow carbon nanofibers for superior fast sodium storage
Authors: Cai Hui , Wang Fei , Feng Huiyan , Liu Zhendong , Zhang Chengzhi , Lu Anbang , Zhao Xia , Lu Qiuhong , Liu Quanbing , Tan Jun
Published: April 2024

An Fe7S8/FeS2 heterojunction grown in hollow fibers was designed. This heterojunction can regulate the valence state of iron sulfide, further change its crystal phase, increase the diffusion coefficient, and contribute to high-rate in SIBs.
On a class of column‐weight 3 decomposable LDPC codes with the analysis of elementary trapping sets
Authors: Raeisi G. , Gholami M.
Published: April 2024

A column‐weight LDPC code with the parity‐check matrix is called decomposable if there exists a permutation on the rows of , such that can be decomposed into column‐weight one matrix. In this paper, some variations of edge coloring of graphs are used to construct some column‐weight three decomposable LDPC codes with girths at least six and eight. Applying the presented method on several known classes of bipartite graphs, some classes of column‐weight three decomposable LDPC codes are derived having flexibility in length and rate. Interestingly, the constructed parity‐check matrices based on the proper edge coloring of graphs can be considered as the base matrix of some high rate column‐weight three quasi‐cyclic (QC) LDPC codes with maximum‐achievable girth 20. The paper also leads to a simple characterization of elementary trapping sets of the decomposable codes based on the chromatic index of the corresponding normal graphs. This characterization corresponds to a simple search algorithm finds all possible existing elementary trapping sets in a girth‐6 or girth‐8 column‐weight 3 LDPC code which are layered super set of a short cycle in the Tanner graph of the code. Simulation results indicate that the QC‐LDPC codes with large girths lifted from the constructed base matrices have good performances over AWGN channel.
Capacity configuration optimization of photovoltaic‐battery‐electrolysis hybrid system for hydrogen generation considering dynamic efficiency and cost learning
Authors: Zhang Wenzuo , Xu Chuanbo
Published: April 2024

Green hydrogen production via photovoltaic (PV)‐electrolysis is a promising method for addressing global climate change. The battery provides a stable power supply for the PV‐electrolysis system. Hence, this study proposes a robust model for configuring the capacity of a PV‐battery‐electrolysis hybrid system by considering the dynamic efficiency characteristics and cost learning curve effect of key equipments. As a segmented function, the dynamic efficiency of electrolysis is incorporated into the robust model, which describes the hydrogen production efficiency based on power fluctuations. A learning curve model is developed based on historical data from 2012 to 2020 to predict future capital expenditure. Major results are as follows: (1) The use of dynamic efficiency characteristics can reflect the real‐time status of the electrolysis more accurately, and make the capacity configuration more reasonable compared with fixed efficiency. (2) Considering the effect of the learning curve, by 2050, the capital expenditure of the PV panel and proton exchange membrane electrolysis can be dropped to 2981 and 1992 CNY/kW, respectively. (3) The optimal case considering uncertainty currently is a 1 MW PV panel equipped with 242 kW electrolysis and 2276 kW battery.
Sublimation of volatiles from H2O:CO2 bulk ices in the context of comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko
Authors: Ligterink N. F. W. , Kipfer K. A. , Rubin M. , Altwegg K. , Hänni N. , Müller D. R. , Wurz P. , Galli A. , Wampfler S. F.
Published: April 2024

Context. The ROSINA instrument on board the Rosetta spacecraft measured, among others, the outgassing of noble gases from comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko. The interpretation of this dataset and unravelling underlying desorption mechanisms requires detailed laboratory studies.

Aims. We aim to improve our understanding of the desorption patterns, trapping, and fractionation of noble gases released from the H2O:CO2-dominated ice of comet 67P.

Methods. In the laboratory, ice films of neon, argon, krypton, or xenon (Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe) mixed in CO2:H2O were prepared at 15 K. Temperature-programmed desorption mass spectrometry is employed to analyse the desorption behaviour of the noble gases. Mass spectrometric ROSINA data of 67P were analysed to determine the fraction of argon associated with CO2 and H2O, respectively.

Results. CO2 has a significant effect on noble gas desorption behaviour, resulting in the co-release of noble gases with CO2, decreasing the amount of noble gas trapped within water, shifting the pure phase noble gas peak desorption temperature to lower temperatures, and prolonging the trapping of neon. These effects are linked to competition for binding sites in the water ice and the formation of crystalline CO2. Desorption energies of the pure phase noble gas release were determined and found to be higher than those previously reported in the literature. Enhancement of the Ar/Kr and Ar/Xe ratios are at best 40% and not significantly influenced by the addition of CO2. Analysis of ROSINA mass spectrometric data shows that the fraction of argon associated with H2O is 0.53 ± 0.30, which cannot be explained by our laboratory results.

Conclusions. Multicomponent ice mixtures affect the desorption behaviour of volatiles compared to simple binary mixtures and experiments on realistic cometary ice analogues are vital to understanding comet outgassing.
Advancing group efficiency evaluation in DEA with negative data: an empirical application in the banking industry
Authors: Kolahdoozi Leila , Matin Reza Kazemi , Tohidi Ghasem , Razavyan Shabnam
Published: April 2024

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) plays a pivotal role in assessing production unit efficiency. This study extends group efficiency assessment within the banking sector by utilizing the Modified Semi-Oriented Radial Measure (MSORM) model, specifically designed to handle negative data. It introduces two distinct efficiency definitions and develops models for their evaluation within these groups. Focusing on banks as decision-making units, the MSORM model delves into the intricacies of group efficiency. By effectively addressing negative data complexities, it enables a comprehensive evaluation of bank efficiency across various group frameworks. The study further examines the efficacy of efficiency definitions based on average and weakest performances within the MSORM framework. Empirical findings reveal significant variations in group efficiency assessment under different paradigms, highlighting the impact of the evaluation approach. This research contributes valuable insights into performance variations within the banking industry and aids in enhancing efficiency evaluations in banking systems.
Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) with Refractive and Diffractive Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Banerjee Shalini , Kaufmann Claude , Tinner Chiara , Iselin Katja , Amstutz Christoph Andreas , Hedinger Ying-Yu Melody , Schmid Martin K. , Thiel Michael
Published: April 2024

Background Extended depth of focus intraocular lenses (EDOF-IOLs) provide unaided far- and mid-range vision. Refractive IOLs, in contrast to diffractive designs, are associated with a lower depth of focus and absence of dysphotopsia. The aim of this study was to assess spectacle independence for far-range, mid-range, and near-vision activities in patients after implantation of refractive or diffractive EDOF-IOLs using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in a real-world setting.

Patients and Methods In 2021 and 2022, all patients in a single center referred for bilateral cataract surgery were assigned to 7 experienced cataract surgeons who either bilaterally implanted only a diffractive EDOF-IOL (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, AT LARA Jena, Germany, three surgeons) or refractive EDOF-IOL (Johnson & Johnson Vision Inc., Tecnis Eyhance Irvine, California, USA, four surgeons) at the surgeonʼs discretion, with the aim of bilateral emmetropia. Six months after both cataract surgeries, all patients were contacted by telephone and asked to report their outcomes using a structured questionnaire investigating their spectacle usage for various daily activities and their experience with night glare or halos. Inclusion criteria were a normal postoperative visual potential based on the preoperative examination and completion of the questionnaire regarding postoperative visual experience.

Results Of the patients, 514 underwent bilateral cataract surgery aiming for bilateral emmetropia with the implantation of EDOF-IOLs (422 with Tecnis Eyhance and 92 with AT LARA). A complete questionnaire was obtained from 472 (92%) patients, who were included in the study (393 vs. 79). Comparing Tecnis Eyhance with AT LARA IOL, 54 vs. 57% patients were able to perform most of their daily activities without spectacles, 9 vs. 19% reported not being dependent on spectacles at all, 25 vs. 29% reported using their smartphones without spectacles, 15 vs. 49% patients reported experiencing glares or halos at night, and 1 vs.15% with driving disturbance. Overall, 95 vs. 93% patients described themselves as “satisfied” or “highly satisfied” with their IOL.

Conclusions With both types of EDOF-IOLs, the majority of patients could perform most of their daily activities without spectacles, except reading, and were highly satisfied with their IOLs. Patients with diffractive Zeiss AT LARA EDOF-IOLs were more likely to accomplish unaided near-range visual tasks; however, they were also at a higher risk of experiencing glares or halos at night.
Verringerung der gesundheitlichen Ungleichheit: Entwicklung eines
Stufenplans zur gesundheitspolitischen Entscheidungsfindung
Authors: Mielck Andreas , Wild Verina
Published: April 2024

Ein niedriger sozio-ökonomischer Status (erhoben über Indikatoren wie
Schulbildung oder Einkommen) ist zumeist mit erhöhter Morbidität und Mortalität
verbunden. Viele empirische Studien haben das belegt. Sowohl in der
wissenschaftlichen als auch in der politischen Diskussion wird oft betont, dass
diese gesundheitliche Ungleichheit verringert werden sollte. Die Frage, wie der
Weg ,von Daten zu Taten‘ konkret aussehen könnte, lässt sich bisher jedoch erst
ansatzweise beantworten. Wir stehen vor der großen Herausforderung,
wissenschaftlich gut fundierte Vorschläge für die einzelnen Schritte auf diesem
Weg zu entwickeln. Von der dafür erforderlichen breiten interdisziplinären
Kooperation ist bisher aber nur wenig zu sehen. Im Mittelpunkt des vorliegenden
Beitrages steht eine Frage, die u.E. hier von besonderer Bedeutung ist: Wie sind
die empirischen Ergebnisse zur gesundheitlichen Ungleichheit und die daraus
abgeleiteten gesundheitspolitischen Forderungen aus ethisch-normativer und aus
gesundheits-ökonomischer Sicht zu bewerten? Wir konzentrieren uns daher auf die
Kooperation zwischen Sozial-Epidemiologie, Public-Health-Ethik und
Gesundheits-Ökonomie. Zunächst wird kurz erläutert, was jede dieser Disziplinen
beitragen kann, wenn konkrete Maßnahmen zur Verringerung der gesundheitlichen
Ungleichheit entwickelt werden sollen. Besonders hervorgehoben wird dabei die
Bedeutung der Public-Health-Ethik, denn sie richtet den Fokus auf grundlegende
und bisher weitgehend vernachlässigte Fragen wie zum Beispiel: Welche
Ungleichheiten sind ,ungerecht‘, und wie lässt sich diese normative Bewertung
ethisch begründen? Anschließend wird ein ,Stufenplan zur gesundheitspolitischen
Entscheidungsfindung‘ vorgeschlagen. Er beschreibt einige grundlegende Schritte
bei der Integration empirischer, normativer und ökonomischer Abwägungen. Der
Stufenplan zeigt, wie wichtig ein klar strukturiertes Vorgehen ist, und dass die
interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit den gesamten Prozess begleiten sollte,
angefangen bei Datenerhebung und -analyse bis hin zur Entwicklung von Maßnahmen.
Deutlich wird dabei auch, dass es auf diesem Weg ,von Daten zu Taten‘ noch viele
offene Forschungsfragen gibt, und dass die Diskussion zum Thema
,wissenschaftliche fundierte Entwicklung von Maßnahmen zur Verringerung der
gesundheitlichen Ungleichheit‘ gerade erst begonnen hat.
Synthetische osmotische Dilatatoren zur Zervixreifung vor
Geburtseinleitung
Authors: Rath Werner , Kummer Julia , Königbauer Josefine T. , Hellmeyer Lars , Stelzl Patrick
Published: April 2024

In den vergangenen 20 Jahren hat sich der Anteil der eingeleiteten Geburten in
Ländern mit hohem Durchschnittseinkommen nahezu verdoppelt. In Deutschland lag er
2020 bei 21,8% 1. Geburtseinleitungen bei
unreifer Zervix sind mit längerer Behandlungsdauer, höheren Kosten, schmerzhafteren
Wehen und geringerer Akzeptanz der Schwangeren verbunden 2. Aufgrund kontraktionsbedingter uteriner
Hypoperfusion ist der Stress für die feto-plazentare Einheit erhöht, was bei
verminderter fetaler Reserve zu fetalem Distress führen kann. Damit ist das
Interesse an mechanischen Methoden (Ballonkatheter, synthetische osmotische
Dilatatoren) zur Zervixreifung vor Einleitung gestiegen 3. Der Artikel zeigt anhand 2015-2022 veröffentlichter Studien über die
Anwendung von Dilapan-S zur Zervixreifung bzw. Geburtseinleitung – evidenzbasierte
Empfehlungen für die klinische Praxis auf.
Wege zu einem effektiveren Steuerungsmix im
Gesundheitswesen
Authors: Ulrich Volker
Published: April 2024

Stand und Perspektiven der „Solidarischen Wettbewerbsordnung” stehen in zwei
Schwerpunkten (Heft 4, Vol. 28/2023 und Heft 2, Vol. 29/2024) auf dem Prüfstand. Im
ersten Schwerpunktheft geht es um die Notwendigkeit einer solidarischen
Wettbewerbsordnung und die notwendigen Neuadjustierungen, nachdem das Konzept vor 30
Jahren mit dem Gesundheitsstrukturgesetz (1993) in ersten tastenden Schritten
vorbereitet wurde. Im vorliegenden zweiten Schwerpunktheft stehen Anwendungsbereiche
und die zugrundeliegenden Funktionsbedingungen wettbewerblicher Steuerung im
Mittelpunkt.
Anforderungen an die Neurorehabilitation nach epilepsiechirurgischen
Eingriffen im linken Temporallappen bei Patienten mit neurokognitivem
Risikoprofil
Authors: Schwarz Michael , Badstübner Annabell Sophie , Meyn Karlotta , Walther Katrin , Hamer Hajo
Published: April 2024

Einleitung Bei fehlender Wirksamkeit antikonvulsiver Medikamente stellen
epilepsiechirurgische Eingriffe eine effektive Maßnahme dar, um Anfallsfreiheit
zu erreichen. Um negative Auswirkungen operativer Eingriffe auf kognitive
Funktionen zu vermeiden, sind bei Patienten mit spezifischem Risikoprofil
neurorehabilitative Maßnahmen erforderlich. Diese Studie verfolgte das Ziel, zu
identifizieren, bei welchen Patienten ein erhöhtes Risiko für postoperative
neurokognitive Verschlechterungen besteht und welche Maßnahmen den
postoperativen Rehabilitationsverlauf positiv unterstützen.

Methode In einer prospektiven Studie wurden Patientengruppen mit
epilepsiechirurgischen Eingriffen im linken bzw. rechten Temporallappen
verglichen. Die kognitive Leistungsfähigkeit der Patienten wurde präoperativ und
sechs Monate postoperativ erfasst. Bei 35 Patienten, bei denen der
epilepsiechirurgische Eingriff im linken Temporallappen erfolgt ist, wurde eine
Risikostratifizierung bezüglich postoperativer kognitiver Verschlechterungen
vorgenommen. Aus dieser Gruppe wurden sieben Patienten selektiert, die ein
spezifisches Risikoprofil aufwiesen: Sprach- und Gedächtnisdominanz links,
geringe funktionelle Kapazität der kontralateralen Hemisphäre und präoperative
neuropsychologische Defizite. Diese Gruppe wurde nach der Operation über einen
Zeitraum von sechs Monaten neuropsychologisch trainiert. Als Kontrollgruppe
dienten Patienten mit Operation im rechten Temporallappen, die keine Therapie
erhielten.

Ergebnisse Postoperativ zeigten sich für Patienten mit rechtstemporalen
Eingriffen keine wesentlichen Leistungsverschlechterungen. Nach linkstemporalen
Eingriffen traten merkliche Beeinträchtigungen im Benennen auf. Die
therapeutisch angebundenen Patienten zeigten ausgeprägte sprachassoziierte
Defizite (Benennen, Verbalgedächtnis), die sich im Verlauf der Therapie
besserten.

Schlussfolgerung Durch eine frühe neurorehabilitative Anbindung kann das
Auftreten postoperativer kognitiver Funktionseinbußen minimiert werden.
Unexpected One-Pot Synthesis of 3-Cinnamoyl-3-hydroxyphthalide Derivatives
Authors: Ngernmeesri Paiboon , Rakchaya Intouch , Thongaram Phanida , Saiyalard Sengchan , Yimnoi Kredmanee , Wattanathana Worawat , Chuanopparat Nutthawat
Published: April 2024

A new and simple method to prepare 3-cinnamoyl-3-hydroxyphthalide derivatives from 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone and substituted benzaldehydes was unexpectedly uncovered. The reaction was conveniently performed in DMSO at 100 °C with K3PO4 as a base and AlCl3 as a catalyst. We propose that the reaction proceeds by a cascade process involving nucleophilic addition followed by demethylation and rearrangement. The products were typically obtained in moderate to good yields. The highest yield (95%) was obtained when the reaction of 2-bromobenzaldehyde was performed for 24 hours. X-ray crystallography of the product derived from 2-fluorobenzaldehyde unequivocally confirmed the structure of the hydroxyphthalide derivatives.
Tandem One-Pot Synthesis of 2H- and 3H-Pyrroles Enabled by Dual Rh(II)/Pd(0) Catalysis
Authors: Choi Seoung-Mi , Yun Yuri , Kim Ju Hyun
Published: April 2024

Regioselective approaches toward 2H- and 3H-pyrroles, which are biologically important but easily isomerizable compounds, have been successfully achieved via dual Rh(II)/Pd(0) relay catalysis and DBU-mediated processes in one-pot operation using N-tosyltriazoles and hydroxymethylallyl carbonates. In this transformation, readily accessible N-tosyltriazoles were enabled as stable nitrogen sources for the two scaffolds, and the regioselectivity was controlled by the substituent positions of the hydroxymethylallyl carbonates.
Eyebrow Lift: Open-Book ROOF Transposition and Orbicularis–Frontalis Sliding Maneuver
Authors: Neves Jose Carlos , Duarte Ana
Published: April 2024

This article delves into innovative surgical techniques, the open-book ROOF (retro-orbicularis oculi fat) transposition technique (OBRoof) and the orbicularis–frontalis sliding maneuver (OFS), designed for eyebrow and upper eyelid rejuvenation in the aging process. Emphasis is placed on understanding the dynamic changes occurring within the forehead and eyebrow envelope's five layers and their intrinsic relationships as well as the impact of the ROOF ptosis causing upper eyelid hooding. The OBRoof technique is highlighted for its effectiveness in addressing ptotic volume, offering a rejuvenated appearance by relocating volume to the supraciliary region.

In the OFS, we explore the concept of extensive dissection above the upper border of the eyebrow to allow for free repositioning of the eyebrow. The stabilization is based on deep-plane facelift concepts, as the orbicularis oculi muscle corresponds to the superficial muscular aponeurotic system, and it is anchored to the deep layers (periosteum) by passing through the frontal muscle.

In summary, this article provides a comprehensive exploration of innovative and minimally invasive techniques for eyebrow and upper eyelid rejuvenation, shedding light on their anatomical foundations, procedural intricacies, and the potential for achieving natural and lasting outcomes.
Feasibility, safety, and adherence of a remote physical and cognitive exercise protocol for older women
Authors: Peixoto Cristiane , Matioli Maria Niures Pimentel dos Santos , Takano Satiko Andrezza Ferreira , Teixeira Maurício Silva , Passos Neto Carlos Eduardo Borges , Brucki Sonia Maria Dozzi
Published: April 2024

Background Population aging and the consequences of social distancing after the COVID-19 pandemic make it relevant to investigate the feasibility of remote interventions and their potential effects on averting functional decline.

Objective (1) To investigate the feasibility, safety, and adherence of a remote protocol involving physical and cognitive exercises for older women with normal cognition; (2) to examine its effects on cognitive and well-being variables.

Methods Twenty-nine women (age ≥ 60 years old) were randomized into experimental group (EG; n = 15) and control group (CG; n = 14). The EG performed a 40-minute session of cognitive and physical exercises, and CG performed a 20-minute stretching session. Both groups performed 20 sessions via videoconference and 20 on YouTube twice a week. The Mini-Mental State Examination, Verbal Fluency Test, Digit Span (direct an inverse order), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and Well-being Index (WHO-5) were applied in pre- and post-interventions by phone.

Results Overall adherence was 82.25% in EG and 74.29% in CG. The occurrence of adverse events (mild muscle pain) was 33.3% in EG and 21.4% in CG. The EG improved verbal fluency and attention (p ≤ 0.05); both groups had improved depressive symptoms.

Conclusion The present study met the pre-established criteria for feasibility, safety, and adherence to the remote exercise protocol among older women. The results suggest that a combined protocol has more significant potential to improve cognitive function. Both interventions were beneficial in improving the subjective perception of well-being.
Phantomschmerz – Phänomenologie und kortikale Veränderungen
Authors: Mosch Benjamin , Mallon Lukas , Diers Martin
Published: April 2024

Der Phantomschmerz bezeichnet das Phänomen schmerzhafter Erfahrungen in amputierten Körperteilen.
Zurückzuführen ist der Schmerz wohl auf maladaptive Veränderungen von Nervenbahnen in der Peripherie
sowie im Gehirn und Rückenmark.
Phantomschmerz – Therapie
Authors: Mosch Benjamin , Mallon Lukas , Diers Martin
Published: April 2024

Aktuelle Behandlungsansätze bei Phantomschmerzen zielen darauf ab, der pathophysiologischen neuronalen
Reorganisation entgegenzuwirken.
Asynchronicities of growth: a process extension to the Uppsala model of internationalisation
Authors: Liesch Peter W. , Welch Catherine
Published: April 2024

We contend that the Uppsala internationalisation process (IP) Model offers the basis, yet unrealised, for a process theory of growth of the internationalising firm. From the Model’s origins, particularly in Penrosean theory, we develop this potential by offering a theory extension that explicates the organisational changes within the firm required to sustain international growth. This repositioning distinguishes us from previous attempts to amend, supplant or extend the IP Model. In developing the theory extension, we specify how we remain faithful to the IP Model’s behavioural assumption ground. We provide a model of the internationalising firm that posits non-linear growth paths. This is due to the challenges of synchronising the external opportunity seeking of the firm as it expands internationally with the internal capacity building required to realise these opportunities. Introducing to the IB field this asynchronicity problem, an absence of temporal concurrence, we show its potential in explaining organisational changes and discontinuities in the internationalising firm’s development as it seeks to grow. By extending the IP Model to offer a theory of growth of the internationalising firm, we provide the basis for further process scholarship on this topic that addresses contemporary concerns and developments.
Analysing and evaluating the bilingual adaptation of English graded readers in China: A social semiotic multimodal discourse study
Authors: Zhang Kunkun
Published: April 2024

International English-graded readers have been increasingly adapted, rewritten, and localised to cater to the specific needs of learners in different regions. This cross-cultural adaptation of materials has not attracted much scholarly attention, although it is an essential dimension of research on materials for language learning and teaching. The present study explores the textual transformations that occur in the bilingual adaptation of Cambridge English Readers, a series of original fiction books for learners of English, by a Chinese publisher. The analysis is underpinned by social semiotic multimodal discourse theory. Based on the analysis, the study evaluates the pedagogic potential of the bilingual edition of Cambridge English Readers as materials for English language learning and teaching. In doing so, it demonstrates a novel approach to evaluating bilingual adaptations of graded readers. It also shows that the original and bilingually adapted editions reflect different cultures of learning.
Flexible polydimethylsiloxane pressure sensor with micro-pyramid structures and embedded silver nanowires: A novel application in urinary flow measurement
Authors: Wang Ben-Song , Gao Ang , Huang Song-Wei , Ning Qi-Hong , Zhou Cheng , Song Qi-Xiang , Cui Da-Xiang
Published: April 2024

Flexible pressure sensors are lightweight and highly sensitive, making them suitable for use in small portable devices to achieve precise measurements of tiny forces. This article introduces a low-cost and easy-fabrication strategy for piezoresistive flexible pressure sensors. By embedding silver nanowires into a polydimethylsiloxane layer with micro-pyramids on its surface, a flexible pressure sensor is created that can detect low pressure (17.3 Pa) with fast response (<20 ms) and high sensitivity (69.6 mA kPa−1). Furthermore, the pressure sensor exhibits a sensitive and stable response to a small amount of water flowing on its surface. On this basis, the flexible pressure sensor is innovatively combined with a micro-rotor to fabricate a novel urinary flow-rate meter (uroflowmeter), and results from a simulated human urination experiment show that the uroflowmeter accurately captured all the essential shape characteristics that were present in the pump-simulated urination curves. Looking ahead, this research provides a new reference for using flexible pressure sensors in urinary flow-rate monitoring.
Dual-polarization small-angle strong nonreciprocal thermal radiator with Weyl semimetal
Authors: Fang Jimin , Zou Jiaqi , Liu Tingyu , Wang Manzhuo , Sun Xiaoqiang , Wu Yuanda , Zhang Daming
Published: April 2024

The development of dual-polarization irreversible radiators that can operate without external magnetic field is an arduous task. To avoid the need of strong magnetic field, a dual-polarization nonreciprocal thermal radiator with the introduction of Weyl semimetal is demonstrated. It consists of cross-shaped silicon nanopores, Weyl semimetal, and Ag reflective layer. The simulation results show that the proposed radiator offers both TE- and TM-polarized strong irreversible radiation with an incident angle of 1.6°. The TE-polarized absorptivity and TM-polarized emissivity are 98.8% and 97.6%, respectively. The dual-polarization nonreciprocity exceeds 80%. The physical principle is explained by the electric field energy distribution and impedance matching theory. The demonstrated scheme and radiator have potential application in dual-polarization multi-band irreversible radiation and thermal management.
Excitation and dynamics of spin solitons in chiral magnetization configuration
Authors: Shadman Abir , Zhu Jian-Gang (Jimmy)
Published: April 2024

This research paper presents systematic micromagnetic modeling of dynamic spin solitons carried by perpendicular magnetization component on a topologically preserved chiral sequence of uniform 360° in-plane domain walls with fixed boundaries in a strip. The long, narrow strip of a soft, magnetic thin film has a repeated in-plane magnetization pattern such that the local magnetization will rotate uniformly in a single chirality, either clockwise or counterclockwise, when moving along the strip in one direction at a constant speed. As spins in an excited soliton precess around its local magnetization field, the exchange interaction with the underlying chiral magnetization configuration yields a linear soliton motion with the direction determined by the handedness of precession and the underlying magnetization chirality. The local hyperbolic secant-like soliton profile holds its shape and energy when traveling without damping, continually changes its shape, and decays otherwise.
Filamentary velocity scaling validation and spin dynamics in the DIII-D tokamak
Authors: Molesworth S. C. , Boedo J. A. , Tsui C. K. , Perillo R. , Rudakov D. L.
Published: April 2024

Measured filament velocities in the DIII-D tokamak are compared against theoretical scalings, finding that the latter often represents an upper limit on experimental velocity distributions with most filaments possessing lower velocity. Filament spin from internal E × B drift is experimentally demonstrated to alter filament radial velocity. A critical spin velocity, where filament radial velocity peaks, is observed and corresponds to approximately 5 km/s. This transition is corroborated using a less direct measure of filament spin in the form of a temperature ratio. These techniques are combined to find that the critical spin velocity closely aligns with transport times along and across filaments becoming comparable. The normalized filament size distribution is consistent with the most stable size as dictated by Kelvin–Helmholtz and curvature-driven instabilities. Overall, the findings suggest filament stability and spin alter filamentary transport that may threaten the integrity of first walls in fusion devices.
A wide drive frequency matching method for harmonic suppression and voltage stabilization of ultrasonic motors
Authors: Zhu Yuanfei , Yang Tianyue , Lu Cunyue , Yang Ming
Published: April 2024

To reduce harmonic components, balance system impedance, and stabilize driving voltage, an additional matching circuit is required for ultrasonic motors (USMs) driver. However, the performance of inductor or capacitor matching can be seriously weakened with changes in driving frequency. Therefore, this paper presents a simple and effective LC matching method against driving frequency adjustment for USMs. First, the driving scheme of the USM is proposed and the electromechanical coupling model is analyzed. Subsequently, the output characteristics of the full-bridge inverter are derived theoretically when the driving frequency deviates from the mechanical resonant frequency. Then, the impedance circular transform method is proposed, which can intuitively analyze the effect of matching parameters on the voltage amplitude. A matching objective function is established that can consider both the voltage stabilization and harmonic suppression. The matching parameters are solved using random weight particle swarm optimization. Simulations and experiments demonstrate that within the operating frequency of the USM, the proposed matching method can effectively prevent overvoltage and suppress harmonic components. Furthermore, compared with the existing resonant matching method, the proposed matching method can realize more stable driving capability at different frequencies. The proposed method could be useful for USMs’ variable-frequency driver design.
Femtosecond laser structured black superhydrophobic cork for efficient solar-driven cleanup of crude oil
Authors: He Yuchun , Yin Kai , Wang Lingxiao , Wu Tingni , Chen Yu , Arnusch Christopher J.
Published: April 2024

Marine oil spills have become a major global environmental challenge, yet there remains a lack of effective and environmentally friendly strategies for the remediation of water contaminated with high-viscosity oil. In this study, we introduce a superhydrophobic oleophilic material with photothermal properties for efficient absorption of viscous oil. Femtosecond laser treatment methodology is applied to cork (FSLA-cork), which exhibits not only superior hydrophobic and oleophilic properties but also the exceptional ability to be rapidly heated from ambient conditions to 58 °C in 10 s under 1.8 solar irradiation. Under solar irradiance, the FSLA-cork adsorbent functions synergistically by capillary absorption and centrifugal pumping. At one-sun intensity, an oil absorption rate of 4.02 g cm−2 within 200 s was observed. The high adsorption rates of FSLA-cork combined with the high availability of the raw material and its eco-friendly fabrication methods indicate that such methods and materials can be utilized for large-scale clean up of aqueous environments contaminated with high-viscosity oils.
Asymmetric thermal optofluidics based on plasmonic multilayered nanostructures
Authors: Jing Zhimin , Ma Cuiping , Li Peihang , Yu Peng , Neogi Arup , Wang Zhiming
Published: April 2024

Manipulating thermo-convective fluid flow induced by plasmonic nanostructures under light illumination has garnered significant attention in various fields, such as biomedical sensing, particle trapping, and drug delivery. However, achieving symmetric optical manipulation of fluid flow encounters challenges in certain applications due to the inherent temporal and spatial symmetry in the energy transfer process. Here, a design of plasmonic nanostructures is proposed to achieve a platform for the asymmetric manipulation of thermally induced fluid flow in an optofluidic environment. The difference in fluid flow rate between forward and backward directions is due to the combined effect of the local asymmetry of the heat transfer in multilayer plasmonic nanostructure and nonreciprocity. The nonreciprocity originates from the violation of time-symmetry due to the temperature gradient-induced convection. We show that the asymmetric convective flow can also be achieved when the size of the plasmonic structure enlarges from nanometer to micrometer, and it can be used for efficient particle separation or transportation in microfluidic systems. Our findings expand the scope of optofluidic applications and stimulate the exploration of design approaches for optical devices.
The role of permeability in lid-driven cavity flow containing a cluster of hot solids
Authors: Zhang Yunxin , Li Chenggong , Ye Mao
Published: April 2024

The flow behavior of particle clusters with thermal convection in confined fluid flow has garnered considerable attention. One of the remaining challenges is to understand the role of a porous structure of particle clusters in the confined thermal fluid flow. In present work, a numerical study based on a double distribution function lattice Boltzmann model has been conducted to unveil the two-sided lid-driven cavity flow containing a hot cluster formed by an array of center-placed solids. First, we investigated the heat transfer by varying the Richardson number (Ri, from 0.01 to 1.0) and the solid fraction of the cluster (ϕ, from 0.0143 to 0.6734) with fixed cavity Reynolds number (Re=1000) and Prandtl number (Pr=0.7). The increase in Ri would lead to the formation of non-centrosymmetric streamlines and isotherms and an increase in the total averaged Nusselt number Nu¯a, in which several vortex structures being identified at high Ri and ϕ. Then, we explored the influence of permeability, quantified by the Darcy number (Da), by changing the porous structure of cluster via rearranging the array of solids. It is found that a higher permeability could enhance heat transfer of particle cluster due to the increase in convection, but the smaller surface area of solid particles would limit heat transfer. A correlation of Nu¯a with respect to Ri and Da could be developed based on our two-dimensional simulation results, allowing the evaluation of involved interplay between the porous structure of particle cluster and thermal convection in confined flow via a simple yet effective way.
The propagation behavior of reaction wave for Ni/Al clad particle composites under shock loading
Authors: Xie Yifan , Shao Jian-Li , Chen Pengwan
Published: April 2024

Prior studies indicate that the reaction wave can propagate from the impact surface, but the possibility and the influencing factors of the reaction wave formation are still unclear. This work investigates the propagation behavior of the shock-induced reaction wave for Ni/Al clad particle composites with varying stoichiometry (from 0.5 to 0.75 of the Ni mole fraction) through molecular dynamics simulations. It is found that the solid-state reaction processes with or without wave propagation strongly depend on the conjunction of stoichiometry and shock intensity. Within the cases of wave propagation, the calculated propagation velocity (in the range of 135–170 m/s) increases linearly or exponentially with the Ni mole fraction. Furthermore, the thermodynamic criteria for the reaction wave formation, including Al melting at the collision surface and higher temperature gradient, are established by analysis of the shock-induced high-entropy layer. In addition, microstructural characterization reveals the intrinsic mechanisms of the propagation of the reaction wave and the formation of additional reaction wave, namely, the dissolution of Ni into Al and the coalescence of reaction zones. Apart from the propagation behavior, the initial stoichiometry influences the crystallization–dissolution of B2–NiAl during reaction processes, notably through an exponential growth relationship between maximum crystallinity and the Ni mole fraction. These findings may provide a physical basis for improving traditional reaction rate models to break through phenomenological understanding.
What is the best simulation approach for measuring local density fluctuations near solvo-/hydrophobes?
Authors: Wilding Nigel B. , Evans Robert , Turci Francesco
Published: April 2024

Measurements of local density fluctuations are crucial to characterizing the interfacial properties of equilibrium fluids. A specific case that has been well-explored involves the heightened compressibility of water near hydrophobic entities. Commonly, a spatial profile of local fluctuation strength is constructed from the measurements of the mean and variance of solvent particle number fluctuations in a set of contiguous subvolumes of the system adjacent to the solvo-/hydrophobe. An alternative measure proposed by Evans and Stewart [J. Phys.: Condens. Matter 27, 194111 (2015)] defines a local compressibility profile in terms of the chemical potential derivative of the spatial number density profile. Using Grand canonical Monte Carlo simulation, we compare and contrast the efficacy of these two approaches for a Lennard-Jones solvent at spherical and planar solvophobic interfaces and SPC/E water at a hydrophobic spherical solute. Our principal findings are as follows: (i) the local compressibility profile χ(r) of Evans and Stewart is considerably more sensitive to variations in the strength of local density fluctuations than the spatial fluctuation profile F(r) and can resolve much more detailed structure; and (ii) while the local compressibility profile is essentially independent of the choice of spatial discretization used to construct the profile, the spatial fluctuation profile exhibits a strong systematic dependence on the size of the subvolumes on which the profile is defined. We clarify the origin and nature of this finite-size effect.
Continuous-variable quantum key distribution over 28.6 km fiber with an integrated silicon photonic receiver chip
Authors: Bian Yiming , Pan Yan , Xu Xuesong , Zhao Liang , Li Yang , Huang Wei , Zhang Lei , Yu Song , Zhang Yichen , Xu Bingjie
Published: April 2024

Quantum key distribution, which ensures information-theoretically secret key generation, is currently advancing through photonic integration to achieve high performance, cost reduction, and compact size, thereby facilitating the large-scale deployment. Continuous-variable quantum key distribution is an attractive approach for photonic integrations due to its compatibility with off-the-shelf optical communication devices. However, its chip-based systems have encountered significant limitations primarily related to the shot-noise-limited receiver design, which demands low noise, wide bandwidth, high clearance, and well stability. Here, we report the implementation of a real local oscillator continuous-variable quantum key distribution system with an integrated silicon photonic receiver chip. Thanks to the well-designed chip-based homodyne detectors with a bandwidth up to 1.5 GHz and a clearance up to 7.42 dB, the transmission distance of the system has been extended to 28.6 km, achieving a secret key generation rate of Mbps level. This technological advancement enables the quantum key distribution systems with photonic integrated receivers to achieve the coverage in both access network scenarios and short-distance metropolitan interconnections, paving the way for the development of the next-generation quantum key distribution networks on a large scale.
Phenomenon of self-oscillation in bubble dynamics: Bouncing acoustic bubbles
Authors: Regnault Gabriel , Doinikov Alexander A. , Laloy-Borgna Gabrielle , Mauger Cyril , Blanc-Benon Philippe , Catheline Stefan , Inserra Claude
Published: April 2024

Self-oscillations underlie many natural phenomena, such as heartbeat, ocean waves, and the pulsation of variable stars. From pendulum clocks to the behavior of animal groups, self-oscillation is one of the keys to the understanding of synchronization phenomena and hence to the collective behavior of interacting systems. In this study, we consider two closely spaced bubbles pulsating in the kHz range in response to ultrasonic excitation. A translational bouncing motion emerges from their interaction with a much lower frequency than the bubble pulsation frequency. Our analysis reveals that the observed bubble bouncing exhibits the main features of self-oscillation, such as negative damping and the emergence of a limit cycle. These results highlight unexpected nonlinear effects in the field of microbubbles and give insights into the understanding of synchronization in large bubble clouds.