bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solar light-driven photoelectrocatalytic and photocatalytic applications based on flower-like NV-g-C3N5@VS2 heterojunctions
Authors: Hu Bicheng , Zhang Yuhui , Zhang Jincheng , Liu Jiazan , Lei Meng , Zhao Chenxi , Lu Qiujun , Wang Haiyan , Du Fuyou , Zhang Shiying
Published: May 2023

Solar light-driven photoelectrocatalytic nitrogen reduction and photocatalytic degradation of pollutants based on flower-like NV-g-C3N5@VS2 heterojunctions.
Rapid, efficient and controllable photo-assisted polysulfide sealing over MnO2
Authors: Gao Qianxing , Bai Jia-qi , Song Yinghong , Wu Mingyuan , Huang Lei , Chen Jingshuai , Wu Songhua , Sun Song
Published: May 2023

δ-MnO2 can achieve rapid, efficient and controllable curing performance for liquid polysulfide rubbers via photo-assistance.
Unraveling the separation mechanisms of the LTA zeolite depending on the regulated particle size and pore structure for efficient ethylene/ethane separation
Authors: Liu Chaowen , Xin Mudi , Zhang Xuejing , Wang Chunlu , Qiu Limei , Xu Guangtong
Published: May 2023

Efficient ethylene/ethane adsorptive separation can be realized using LTA zeolites with suitable particle sizes and appropriate cation exchange rates, due to multiple factors such as kinetic effects, steric effects, and equilibrium effects.
1T–2H MoSe2/N-doped rGO composites as anodes for high performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Sun Peng , Zhang Menglu , Liu Yue , Zhao Jiahua , Yang Jiawei , Wang Yufeng , Wang Yongfei , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: May 2023

1T-2H MoSe2/N-doped rGO nanocomposites are fabricated by a hydrothermal method. The MoSe2 nanosheets are anchored on nitrogen-doped graphene. The MoSe2/N-doped rGO delivers high reversible capacity and long cycling stability as a potential anode for lithium-ion batteries.
Reduced graphene oxide–copper thiotungstate composite for enhanced photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Dagar Preeti , Ganguli Ashok K.
Published: May 2023

Here, we have used a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) electron conducting scaffold to improve the charge transfer properties in the ternary transition metal chalcogenide Cu2WS4.
Ergebnisse aus der VERSUS-Studie von d-uo am Beispiel des Prostatakarzinoms
Authors: Klier Jörg , König Frank , Johannsen Manfred , Eichenauer Rolf , Schönfelder Robert , Schröder Jörg , Hempel Elke , Doehn Christian
Published: May 2023

Deutsche Uro-Onkologen (d-uo) hatten bereits Anfang 2017 die Idee, eine Dokumentationsplattform zu konzipieren, mit der die Mitglieder von d-uo einerseits die Meldung an das Krebsregister ermöglicht wird und andererseits Daten in die eigene Datenbank von d-uo überführt werden können – ohne doppelten Aufwand. Das Krebsregister vergütet die Erstmeldung einer Tumorerkrankung mit 18 €. Als weiterhin einziger Anbieter vergütet d-uo seinen Mitgliedern den mit der zusätzlichen Meldung an d-uo verbunden Dokumentationsaufwand mit weiteren 18 €.

Zusätzlich zum einheitlichen Onkologischen Basisdatensatz wurden weitere Parameter von
d-uo definiert. Diese Daten werden im Rahmen der sogenannten VERSUS-Studie erhoben,
ausgewertet und interpretiert.

Ende 2022 waren 14834 Patienten mit einer neu diagnostizierten Tumorerkrankung aus dem urologischen Gebiet in die VERSUS-Studie eingeschlossen. Knapp zwei Drittel aller Patienten hatten ein Prostatakarzinom. Etwa die Hälfte aller Patienten mit einem Prostatakarzinom war im Rahmen einer Früherkennungsmaßnahme aufgefallen. Diese Patienten hatten dann auch günstigere Tumorstadien. Insgesamt hatte fast jeder achte Patient bei Erstdiagnose bereits Metastasen.

Aus der VERSUS-Studie Daten für 2167 Operationen eines Prostatakarzinoms mit der Tumorkategorie T2 oder T3 zur Verfügung. Es handelte sich um 1360 Operationen bei Patienten mit einem T2-Tumor (62,8%) und 807 Operationen bei Patienten mit T3-Tumoren (37,2%). Ein positiver Absetzungsrand lag bei 25,5% aller operierten Patienten. Bezogen auf die Tumorkategorien T2 und T3 lag der Anteil eines positiven Absetzungsrandes bei 14,3% bzw. 44,2%.

Die VERSUS-Studie wird weiterhin zu vielen Fragestellungen aus dem uro-onkologischen Feld Antworten mit Bezug zur aktuellen Versorgungsituation in Deutschland liefern.
Corneal Perforation as a Rare and Late Manifestation of Choroidal Melanoma
Authors: Berger Tim , Flockerzi Fidelis , Löw Ursula , Flockerzi Elias , Aljundi Wissam , Abdin Alaadin , Daas Loay , Seitz Berthold
Published: May 2023

Purpose To report a case of corneal perforation as a rare and late manifestation of choroidal melanoma and to highlight the major histopathological findings of this unusual combined
clinical presentation.

Methods A 74-year-old male patient presented to our department due to corneal perforation of the right eye with the absence of light perception for 6 months. The intraocular pressure
was hard on palpation. Because of the protracted finding and reduced visual prognosis, primary enucleation was performed.

Results The histopathological examination revealed choroidal melanoma with epithelioid and spindle cell components at the posterior pole, which was positive for Melan-A, Human
Melanoma Black 45 (HMB45), BAP1, and SOX10. The anterior segment showed complete anterior chamber hemorrhage and blood remnants in the trabecular meshwork. The cornea displayed diffuse blood
staining with hemosiderin and hemosiderin-loaded macrophages and keratocytes. No inflammatory cells were present near the corneal perforation, which had a width of 3 mm. Intraocular
heterotopic ossification was indicative of a long-standing condition. Postoperative cancer staging was normal.

Conclusion Corneal perforation should be considered as a very rare and late manifestation of advanced choroidal melanoma and may result from interaction between intraocular
hemorrhage, elevated IOP, and its secondary signs such as corneal blood staining.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on therapeutic interventional oncology procedures and diagnostic CT/MRI examinations at a German university hospital
Authors: Nebelung Heiner , Radosa Christoph Georg , Schön Felix , Blum Sophia Freya Ulrike , Böhme Christian , Hoffmann Ralf-Thorsten , Plodeck Verena
Published: May 2023

Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic led to the implementation of severe restrictions on public life in Germany and a reduction in the number of non-COVID patients presenting for care. The aim of this study was to measure the impact on the number of therapeutic interventional oncology procedures in relation to diagnostic imaging studies at a high-volume radiology department.

Materials and Methods The numbers of therapeutic interventional oncology procedures and diagnostic CT/MRI examinations for the years 2010 to 2021 were extracted using the hospital information system. Monthly data from January 2010 to December 2019 were used to build forecasting models for the timeframe from January 2020 to December 2021. Real procedure numbers were compared with predicted numbers to calculate residual differences, which were considered statistically significant if the real number was outside the 95 % confidence interval (p < 0.05).

Results During the first German lockdown (March/April 2020), the number of outpatient CT/MRI examinations decreased significantly, with a less pronounced decrease of overall CT/MRI numbers. The second German lockdown (January-May 2021) led to lower than predicted outpatient CT numbers, whereas outpatient MRI numbers in part even exceeded predicted numbers and overall CT/MRI numbers stayed within confidence limits. The lockdowns had a more pronounced negative effect on the number of oncological MRI examinations compared to CT examinations. The number of therapeutic interventional oncology procedures showed no significant decrease during both lockdowns.

Conclusion Lockdown measures had minor impact on the number of therapeutic interventional oncology procedures, possibly due to a shift from more resource-intensive therapies like surgery towards interventional oncology. The overall numbers of diagnostic imaging decreased during the first lockdown, while the second lockdown had less negative impact. The number of oncological MRI examinations was affected most severely. To avoid adverse outcomes, specific protocols for patient management during future pandemic outbreaks should be implemented and continuously adapted.

Key Points 

Citation Format
Bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling: Procedural data from a German single-center study
Authors: Augustin Anne Marie , Detomas Mario , Hartung Viktor , Thurner Annette , Tröger Viola , Deutschbein Timo , Kickuth Ralph
Published: May 2023

Purpose To assess radiation exposure and diagnostic performance of bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling for the distinction of pituitary and ectopic adrenocorticotropin-dependent Cushingʼs syndrome.

Materials and Methods Procedural data of bilateral inferior petrosal sinus procedures were retrospectively evaluated. The analysis included the patients’ clinical and demographic data, procedural radiation exposure, and complication rates, sampling results, clinical course of the patients, and calculation of diagnostic performance data.

Results The cases of 46 patients diagnosed with adrenocorticotropin-dependent Cushingʼs syndrome were evaluated. Bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling was successfully performed in 97.8 % of the cases. The overall median procedure-related fluoroscopy time was 7.8 min. (range 3.2–36.2 min.), and the median procedural dose area product was 11.9 Gy*cm2 (range 2.1–73.7 Gy*cm2). Radiation doses due to digital subtraction angiography series for visualization of the inferior petrosal sinus were 3.6 Gy*cm2 (range 1.0–18.1 Gy*cm2). Radiation doses due to fluoroscopy had a higher impact on the overall radiation exposure and were significantly influenced by the patients’ habitus. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were 84 %, 100 %, 100 %, and 72 % before stimulation with corticotropin-releasing hormone, and 97 %, 100 %, 100 %, and 93 % after stimulation. Concordance between magnetic resonance imaging studies and bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling results was only found in 35.6 % of the cases. The periprocedural complication rate was 2.2 %, with one patient experiencing vasovagal syncope during catheterization.

Conclusion Bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling is a safe procedure with high technical success rates und excellent diagnostic performance. The procedure-related radiation exposure shows large variations and depends on the complexity of cannulation as well as the patients’ habitus. Fluoroscopy accounted for the largest proportion of radiation exposure. Acquisition of digital subtraction angiography series for the verification of correct catheter placement appears justified.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
Genetic and Epigenetic Basis of Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Singh Snigdha , Kumar P.V.S.N. Kiran , Kumar J. Pradeep , Tomo Sojit , Yadav Dharamveer , Sharma Praveen , Rao Mahadev , Banerjee Mithu
Published: May 2023

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a rare but severe adverse drug reaction seen in pharmacotherapy and a major cause of postmarketing drug withdrawals. Advances in genome-wide studies indicate that genetic and epigenetic diversity can lead to inter-individual differences in drug response and toxicity. It is necessary to identify how the genetic variations, in the presence of environmental factors, can contribute to development and progression of DILI. Studies on microRNA, histone modification, DNA methylation, and single nucleotide polymorphisms related to DILI were retrieved from databases and were analyzed for the current research and updated to develop this narrative review. We have compiled some of the major genetic, epigenetic, and pharmacogenetic factors leading to DILI. Many validated genetic risk factors of DILI, such as variants of drug-metabolizing enzymes, HLA alleles, and some transporters were identified. In conclusion, these studies provide useful information in risk alleles identification and on implementation of personalized medicine.
Factors Limiting Magnetic Resonance Imaging Diagnosis of Placenta Accreta Spectrum
Authors: Cheng CeCe , Ramsey Patrick S. , Byrne John J. , Katabathina Venkata S. , Ireland Kayla E. , Munoz Jessian L.
Published: May 2023

Objective Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders are characterized by an abnormal adherence of the placenta to the uterine myometrium. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important adjunct in antenatal diagnosis. We sought to determine if there are patient and MRI characteristics that limit the accuracy of PAS diagnosis and degree of invasion.

Study Design We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of patients who were evaluated for PAS by MRI from January 2007 to December 2020. Patient characteristics evaluated included number of prior cesarean deliveries, history of dilation and curettage (D&C) or dilation and evacuation (D&E), short interval pregnancy less than 18 months, and delivery body mass index (BMI). All patients were followed until delivery and MRI diagnosis was compared with final histopathology.

Results Of the 353 patients with suspected PAS, 152 (43%) underwent MRI evaluation and were included in the final analysis. In patients who underwent MRI evaluation, 105 (69%) had confirmed PAS on pathology. Patient characteristics were similar between groups and not associated with accuracy of MRI diagnosis. MRI was accurate in diagnosing PAS and the associated degree of invasion in 83 (55%) patients. Accuracy was associated with lacunae (8 vs. 0%, p = 0.02), abnormal bladder interface (25 vs. 6%, p = 0.002), and T1 hyperintensity (13 vs. 1%, p = 0.002). Of the 69 (45%) patients in whom MRI was inaccurate, overdiagnosis was seen in 44 (64%) patients and underdiagnosis in 25 (36%) patients. Overdiagnosis was significantly associated with dark T2 bands (45 vs. 22%, p = 0.005). Underdiagnosis was associated with earlier gestational age at MRI (28 vs. 30 weeks, p = 0.049) and lateral placentation (16 vs. 2.4%, p = 0.025).

Conclusion Patient factors did not change MRI accuracy of PAS diagnosis. MRI is associated with a significant overdiagnosis of PAS when dark T2 bands are present, and underdiagnose PAS when performed earlier in gestation or when lateral placentation is present.

Key Points
Development of Enantioselective Lithium-Isothiourea-Boronate–Catalyzed Matteson Homologations
Authors: Jacobsen Eric N. , Essman Jake Z. , Sharma Hayden A.
Published: May 2023

Our group’s discovery of lithium-isothiourea-boronate–catalyzed Matteson homologations is chronicled. Chiral thiourea dual–hydrogen bond donors were initially found to promote enantioselective dichloromethyl boronate rearrangements, albeit with poor reproducibility. Systematic investigations of the fate of the thiourea led to the discovery that lithium-isothiourea-boronate derivatives were being generated in situ as highly enantioselective catalytically active species. The optimal lithium-isothiourea-boronate catalyst displays significant generality in the rearrangement of primary alkyl migrating groups, affording synthetically valuable α-chloro boronic ester products with consistently high enantioselectivities. The catalyst is proposed to act as a structurally rigid chiral framework that precisely positions two lithium cations to enable a dual-lithium–mediated chloride abstraction.

1 Introduction

2 Reaction Development

3 Discovery of Isothiourea-Boronate Catalysts

4 Synthetic Application

5 Mechanistic and Computational Studies

6 Conclusions and Outlook
Myocarditis Screening Methods in Athletes After SARS-CoV-2 Infection
– a Systematic Review
Authors: Hofbauer Theresa , Humann Kathrin , Neidenbach Rhoia Clara , Scharhag Jürgen
Published: May 2023

This review aims to elucidate the myocarditis incidence in SARS-CoV-2-positive
athletes and to evaluate different screening approaches to derive sports
cardiological recommendations after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The overall incidence
of athletes (age span 17–35 years, 70% male) with myocarditis
after SARS-CoV-2 infection was 1.2%, with a high variation between
studies (which contrasts an incidence of 4.2% in 40 studies within the
general population). Studies that used conventional screening based on symptoms,
electrocardiogram, echocardiography, and cardiac troponin – only
followed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in case of abnormal findings
– reported lower myocarditis incidences (0.5%, 20/3978).
On the other hand, advanced screening that included cardiac magnetic resonance
imaging within the primary screening reported higher incidences (2.4%,
52/2160). The sensitivity of advanced screening seems to be 4.8 times
higher in comparison to conventional screening. However, we recommend
prioritization of conventional screening, as the economical load of advanced
screening for all athletes is high and the incidence of myocarditis in
SARS-CoV-2-positive athletes and the risk of adverse outcomes seems low. Future
research will be important to analyze the long-term effects of myocarditis after
infection with SARS-CoV-2 in athletes for risk stratification to optimally guide
a safe return to sport.
Synthesis and Optical Resolution of Inherently Chiral Fluorescent Calix[4]arenes and Their Application in Chiral Recognition
Authors: Luo Jun , Chung Wen-Sheng , Yang Fu-Ming , Chen Yi-Chieh
Published: May 2023

Inherently chiral calix[4]arenes were separated by condensation with chiral auxiliary (S)- and (R)-1-phenylethylamine using column chromatography on silica gel; subsequent derivatization with click chemistry furnished compounds with fluorescent properties that can be used for chiral recognition.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure Analysis of Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Chidamide
Authors: Han Bo , Peng Xin-Yan , Gong Yan-Qing , Zhong Jia-Liang , Zhang Qing-Wei
Published: May 2023

Chidamide is the first oral subtype-selective histone deacetylase inhibitor approved in China for the treatment of relapsed and refractory peripheral T cell lymphoma. Due to the existence of isomers, many articles or patents have mistaken its structure. Herein we explored the synthesis of the key intermediate (E)-4-((3-(pyridin-3-yl)acrylamido)methyl)benzoic acid (A-3) and chidamide, using the condensing agent HBTU, instead of the unstable N,N'-carbonyldiimidazole. The single crystal of chidamide was determined by X-ray diffraction study. The optimized preparation process was easy to operate, and the purity of the final product can be up to 99.76%. Moreover, the structure of chidamide was established to be (E)-N-(2-amino-4-fluorophenyl)-4-((3-(pyridin-3-yl)acrylamido)methyl)benzamide.
Krankenhausreform: Investitionen brauchen Gewinne
Authors: Bornemeier Olaf
Published: May 2023

Der Bundesgesundheitsminister hat sich für eine „Entökonomisierung“ der medizinisch-pflegerischen Versorgung ausgesprochen. Verwirklicht werden soll dieses Vorhaben, indem die Vergütung von Krankenhausleistungen partiell von quantitativen und medizinischen Kriterien der Patientenbehandlung entkoppelt wird.
Krankenhausreport: Klug geplant statt kalt bereinigt
Authors: Hollmig Luisa-Maria
Published: May 2023

In Deutschland gibt es zu wenig Personal für zu viele stationäre Fälle. Der aktuelle AOK-Krankenhausreport zeigt auf, wie die Krankenhausreform einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Lösung des Problems liefern könnte.
Personalmanagement: Weg von der Krise am Krankenbett
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: May 2023

Weniger Fachkräfte für immer mehr Patientinnen und Patienten – dass diese Rechnung auf Dauer nicht aufgehen kann, ist für Experten keine Frage. Seit Jahren wird der Fachkräftemangel im Gesundheitswesen untersucht, doch die Zeit zum Handeln wird knapp. Ein Überblick darüber, wie die Situation in deutschen Krankenhäusern aussieht und welche Herausforderungen Klinikmanager künftig zu meistern haben.
Klinikmanagement für die Zukunft: „Es ist viel Kreativität gefragt“
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: May 2023

David-Ruben Thies will Denkanstöße geben und das Gesundheitswesen so schnell wie möglich erneuern. Wie der Geschäftsführer der Waldkliniken Eisenberg bereits in der Vergangenheit für mehr Mitarbeiterzufriedenheit sorgte und welche Pläne er für die Zukunft hat, erzählt er im kma-Gespräch.
IT-Jobkampagne: Mit Sichtbarkeit zum Erfolg
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: May 2023

In der Lausitz wird viel in den Strukturwandel investiert – weg von der Kohle, hin zur Zukunftsmedizin. Das Carl-Thiem-Klinikum Cottbus soll zum Universitätsklinikum und digitalen Leitkrankenhaus ausgebaut werden. Dafür wurden 50 IT-Stellen ausgeschrieben. Eine Kampagne soll helfen, trotz Engpässen in der Branche, neue Fachkräfte zu gewinnen.
Tag der Versicherungen: Interprofessionalität in der Geburtsversorgung
Authors: Elsner Ulrike
Published: May 2023

Auf dem diesjährigen Hauptstadtkongress diskutieren Experten aus Politik, Krankenkassen und Leistungserbringern die optimale Gestaltung der Versorgungsstrukturen rund um die Geburt. Der Fokus liegt dabei auf der interdisziplinären Zusammenarbeit und der Wochenbettversorgung von Mutter und Kind.
Gesellschaft für digitale Gesundheit: Fünf Träger – ein Portal
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: May 2023

Weil der Markt sie im Stich ließ, entwickeln fünf große Träger psychosozialer Einrichtungen kurzerhand ihr eigenes Patientenportal. Das Pfalzklinikum ist der jüngste Partner der eigens dafür gegründeten Gesellschaft für digitale Gesundheit. Erste Einrichtungen nutzen die Plattform bereits.
Arbeitsbelastung im OP: Exoskelette für Chirurgen
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: May 2023

Exoskelette könnten die Arbeitsbedingungen für Operateure revolutionieren. Erste Anwender in deutschen Kliniken gibt es bereits. Ein Startup aus Baden-Württemberg bietet seit Ende 2022 sogar ein Exoskelett für Chirurgen an, das als Medizinprodukt zertifiziert ist.
The Impact of Voluntary Recall on the Trust of Loyal and First-Time Consumers in a High Awareness Brand After a Functional Transgression
Authors: Freundt Valeria L M A , Foschiera Luiza Venzke Bortoli
Published: May 2023

Brand transgressions might put at risk some of companies’ most important achievements: a high awareness brand and loyal customers’ trust. High awareness brands may suffer from the effects of a functional transgression on customers’ trust and perception regarding an organization’s capacity to keep its promises, as well as the relationship developed with loyal customers. A common outcome of a product functional transgression is government intervention asking for a product recall. The voluntary recall is an alternative to handle brand transgressions, but less common than mandatory product recalls. This paper adds to the literature by theoretically discussing and empirically analyzing how the relationship status of a first-time or loyal customer with a high awareness brand affects consumers’ trust after a functional transgression. Additionally, it examines the moderation effect of response to a functional transgression on the relation between trust’s components—competence, integrity, and benevolence. Through an experimental study 2 (company’s response: passive strategy; voluntary product recall) × 2 (relationship: loyal; first-time) × between-subjects design, the findings indicate that after a high awareness brand transgression, loyal consumers perceive greater competence, integrity, and benevolence in the brand than first-time consumers. When a transgression is followed by a passive strategy in which the transgressor company is aware of a malfunction and decides not to take any action to remediate the situation, loyal consumers have higher integrity and benevolence-based trust perception than first-time consumers. As voluntary recall takes place, loyal and first-time consumers’ perceptions of integrity and benevolence increase, and first-time consumers reach the same levels as loyal consumers, which suggests voluntary product recall is an effective trust recovery strategy for a high awareness brand.
Accurate prediction of heat conductivity of water by a neuroevolution potential
Authors: Xu Ke , Hao Yongchao , Liang Ting , Ying Penghua , Xu Jianbin , Wu Jianyang , Fan Zheyong
Published: May 2023

We propose an approach that can accurately predict the heat conductivity of liquid water. On the one hand, we develop an accurate machine-learned potential based on the neuroevolution-potential approach that can achieve quantum-mechanical accuracy at the cost of empirical force fields. On the other hand, we combine the Green–Kubo method and the spectral decomposition method within the homogeneous nonequilibrium molecular dynamics framework to account for the quantum-statistical effects of high-frequency vibrations. Excellent agreement with experiments under both isobaric and isochoric conditions within a wide range of temperatures is achieved using our approach.
Qualitative properties of solution to a viscoelastic Kirchhoff-like plate equation
Authors: Liu Yang , Moon Byungsoo , Rădulescu Vicenţiu D. , Xu Runzhang , Yang Chao
Published: May 2023

This paper is concerned with the initial boundary value problem for viscoelastic Kirchhoff-like plate equations with rotational inertia, memory, p-Laplacian restoring force, weak damping, strong damping, and nonlinear source terms. We establish the local existence and uniqueness of the solution by linearization and the contraction mapping principle. Then, we obtain the global existence of solutions with subcritical and critical initial energy by applying potential well theory. Then, we prove the asymptotic behavior of the global solution with positive initial energy strictly below the depth of the potential well. Finally, we conduct a comprehensive study on the finite time blow-up of solutions with negative initial energy, null initial energy, and positive initial energy strictly below the depth of the potential well and arbitrary positive initial energy, respectively.
Dynamic hysteresis scaling behavior in polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene ferroelectric copolymer thin films
Authors: Xu Lingfang , Song Minghang , Yi Wenjun , Fang Hanshuo , Wang Ruilong , Liang Shiheng , Xiao Haibo , Yang Changping
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we investigated the dependence of dynamic hysteresis on the electric field amplitude E0 and the frequency f in organic ferroelectric copolymer polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene [P(VDF-TrFE)] thin films prepared by a spin-coating method on fluorine-doped tin oxide conductive glass. Three stages can be observed of the hysteresis area vs the field strength E0. In stage I of low E0 values, the area ⟨A⟩ dependent on E0 follows the law of ⟨A⟩∝E01.92795, whereas the diverse distribution of the area ⟨A⟩ with frequency f is found. In stage II of the intermediate E0 values, ⟨A⟩∝E0β is not applicable owing to collective contributions between 180° domain and chiral domain, while a relation of ⟨A⟩∝f−0.18636 can be deduced, a fascinating characteristic distinguishing from the nonlinear relations of the inorganics in this section. In stage III of high E0 values, the scaling law is ⟨A⟩∝f0.08447E00.49394 where the chiral domain is active. The positive β in the law of ⟨A⟩∝fαE0β illustrates that a growing number of chiral domains in P(VDF-TrFE) can keep pace with the variation of E0. Especially, the negative α in the transition zone, resembling some inorganics under low electric fields, probably indicates 180° domain reversal failing to follow with the alternating velocity of the increasing periodic electric field.
Tunable S-band passively Q-switched thulium-doped fluoride fiber laser using Iron Phosphorus Trichalcogenide-PVA (FePS3-PVA) film
Authors: Azam Azim Danial , Ahmad Harith , Samion Muhamad Zharif , Nizamani Bilal , Sun Shufeng , Yasin M
Published: May 2023

This work shows the generation of Q-switched pulses in a thulium-doped fluoride fiber (TDFF) using a FePS3 saturable absorber (SA). The modulation depth of the FePS3 SA was 34.5%, with a saturation intensity of 0.551 kW cm−2. The Q-switched laser began at 70 mW pump power, sustained to 166 mW, having an operating wavelength of 1502 nm. Adjusting the pump power between that range allows for altering the repetition rate between 19.7 and 29.8 kHz. At 166 mW value of pump power, the laser showed a high signal-to-noise ratio ∼46 dB and was sustained over an hour with similar results obtained over 8 h. Tunability was achieved from 1450 nm to 1516 nm when a tunable bandpass filter was added. The reported FePS3 SA-based TDFF Q-switched laser can be utilized in the S-band region for photonics applications.
Characterization of the performances of commercial plastic scintillators in cryogenic environments
Authors: Biassoni M. , Caminata A. , Caprioli S. , Celentano A. , Davini S. , Marini A. , Sobrero G.
Published: May 2023

Plastic scintillators have become increasingly important in particle physics for time-of-flight and calorimetry measurements. Their light yield and the possibility of customizing their geometry make them also attractive for the construction of active vetoes in rare event physics experiments. For this purpose, some commercial plastic scintillators (purchased from Eljen Technology) were tested in cryogenic environments (liquid nitrogen and liquid helium). Their relative light yield was estimated by comparing the data acquired at room temperature with those acquired at cryogenic temperatures. Finally, estimates of the variation of the light yield at cryogenic temperatures were obtained.
Non-linear adaptive control inspired by neuromuscular systems
Authors: Schomaker L , Timmermans J , Banerjee T
Published: May 2023

Current paradigms for neuromorphic computing focus on internal computing mechanisms, for instance using spiking-neuron models. In this study, we propose to exploit what is known about neuro-mechanical control, exploiting the mechanisms of neural ensembles and recruitment, combined with the use of second-order overdamped impulse responses corresponding to the mechanical twitches of muscle-fiber groups. Such systems may be used for controlling any analog process, by realizing three aspects: Timing, output quantity representation and wave-shape approximation. We present an electronic based model implementing a single motor unit for twitch generation. Such units can be used to construct random ensembles, separately for an agonist and antagonist ‘muscle’. Adaptivity is realized by assuming a multi-state memristive system for determining time constants in the circuit. Using SPICE-based simulations, several control tasks were implemented which involved timing, amplitude and wave shape: The inverted pendulum task, the ‘whack-a-mole’ task and a handwriting simulation. The proposed model can be used for both electric-to-electronic as well as electric-to-mechanical tasks. In particular, the ensemble-based approach and local adaptivity may be of use in future multi-fiber polymer or multi-actuator pneumatic artificial muscles, allowing for robust control under varying conditions and fatigue, as is the case in biological muscles.
Land use changes associated with declining honey bee health across temperate North America
Authors: Richardson Rodney T , Conflitti Ida M , Labuschagne Renata S , Hoover Shelley E , Currie Rob W , Giovenazzo Pierre , Guarna M Marta , Pernal Stephen F , Foster Leonard J , Zayed Amro
Published: May 2023

Urbanization and agricultural intensification continue to reshape landscapes, altering the habitat available to wildlife and threatening species of both economic and conservation concern. The honey bee, Apis mellifera, is a pollinator of economic importance to North American agriculture yet managed colonies are burdened by poor health and high annual mortality. Understanding the factors influencing this species is critical for improving colony health and supporting crop production. We used a nationwide cohort of 638 managed Canadian colonies to study the dominant drivers of colony health and overwintering mortality. We found that fall colony weight—a major predictor of overwintering survival—was strongly associated with landscape composition. Among four broadly defined land cover types, we discovered that urban and forested land covers were the least valuable sources of habitat for colonies, as inferred from fall colony weight measurements. Agricultural land appeared to provide habitat quality of slightly greater value, while herbaceous land cover was most strongly positively associated with fall colony weight. Herbaceous land cover also exhibited an associational effect size which was strongly statistically distinguishable from those of urban and forested land. Our research indicates that recent and ongoing land-use changes exacerbate modern apicultural challenges, and suggests variation in nutrition or floral resource availability plays a major role in modulating honey bee health. Our work highlights the need for additional research investigating whether land use change-associated alterations in floral resource availability increase the potential for resource competition between pollinator species.
Recovering hierarchies in terms of content similarity
Authors: Benatti Alexandre , F Costa Luciano da
Published: May 2023

Several real-world and abstract structures and systems are characterized by marked hierarchy to the point of being expressed as trees. Since the study of these entities often involves sampling (or discovering) the tree nodes in a specific order that may not correspond to the original shape of the tree, reconstruction errors can be obtained. The present work addresses this important problem based on two main resources: (i) the adoption of a simple model of trees, involving a single parameter; and (ii) the use of the coincidence similarity as the means to quantify the errors by comparing the original and reconstructed structures considering the effects of hierarchical structure, nodes content, and uncertainty. Several interesting results are described and discussed, including that the accuracy of hierarchical reconstructions is highly dependent on the values of the uncertainty parameter as well as on the types of trees and that changes in the value of the content parameter can affect the accuracy of reconstructing hierarchies.
Isoperimetric stability in lattices
Authors: Barber Ben , Erde Joshua , Keevash Peter , Roberts Alexander
Published: May 2023

We obtain isoperimetric stability theorems for general Cayley digraphs on

Z

d

{\mathbb {Z}}^d

. For any fixed

B
B

that generates

Z

d

{\mathbb {Z}}^d

over

Z

{\mathbb {Z}}

, we characterise the approximate structure of large sets

A
A

that are approximately isoperimetric in the Cayley digraph of

B
B

: we show that

A
A

must be close to a set of the form

k
Z
∩

Z

d

kZ \cap {\mathbb {Z}}^d

, where for the vertex boundary

Z
Z

is the conical hull of

B
B

, and for the edge boundary

Z
Z

is the zonotope generated by

B
B

.
Rigidity results for mean curvature flow graphical translators moving in non-graphical direction
Authors: Ma John Man Shun , Ooi Yuan Shyong , Pyo Juncheol
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study the rigidity results of complete graphical translating hypersurfaces when the translating direction is not in the graphical direction. We proved that any entire graphical translating surface in the translating direction not parallel to the graphical one is flat if either the translating surface is mean convex or the entropy of the translating surface is smaller than

2
2

. For higher dimensional case, we show that the same conclusion holds if the graphical translating hypersurface satisfies certain growth condition.
On the small noise limit in the Smoluchowski-Kramers approximation of nonlinear wave equations with variable friction
Authors: Cerrai Sandra , Xie Mengzi
Published: May 2023

We study the validity of a large deviation principle for a class of stochastic nonlinear damped wave equations, including equations of Klein-Gordon type, in the joint small mass and small noise limit. The friction term is assumed to be state dependent. We also provide the proof of the Smolchowski-Kramers approximation for the case of variable friction, non-Lipschitz nonlinear term and unbounded diffusion.
Neither express nor implied: rethinking governing law of the arbitration agreement
Authors: Ling Andrew
Published: May 2023

What law governs the arbitration agreement is a dividing issue in international arbitration. This Article critically examines three prevailing approaches from both an empirical and theoretical perspective. Using arbitral institutions’ statistics, the Singapore Academy of Law’s survey, and public filings of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, it evaluates whether the prevailing approaches are consistent with commercial practices of drafting international arbitration agreements. The Article concludes that treating law of the seat as the default governing law of the arbitration agreement, in the absence of an express choice of law for the arbitration agreement, is the most ideal approach.
Protecting Life or Managing Risk? Suicide Prevention and the Lure of Medicalized Control
Authors: Kinghorn Warren
Published: May 2023

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States and in many other parts of the world. As such, suicide is frequently framed as a medical and public health problem for which solutions are best recommended by medical and public health authorities. While, medicalized suicide prevention strategies often resonate with traditional Christian commitments to preserve life and to discourage suicide, there is little evidence to date that medical approaches to suicide risk-reduction decrease population rates of suicide. Further, by treating suicide as a phenomenon that can be eliminated through technical managerial control, modern suicide prevention efforts construe suffering persons as carriers of risk best managed by standardized and often dehumanizing environments of care. This emphasis on the medical management of risk also erodes the clinician–patient relationship and inappropriately centers medical (e.g., systematic health screenings) rather than non-medical (e.g., access to housing) forms of response. Although, medicalized suicide prevention efforts should not be dismantled, those working to prevent suicide would do well to prioritize a positive commitment to human dignity and worth and to engage social and political systems beyond medicine and public health, while drawing on specific contributions that clinicians can offer.
Magnetic sphincter augmentation may limit access to magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Latorre-Rodríguez Andrés R , Aschenbrenner Emma , Mittal Sumeet K
Published: May 2023

Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is an alternative surgical treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease; however, >1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is contraindicated for patients who have undergone MSA with the LINX Reflux Management System (Torax Medical, Inc. Shoreview, Minnesota, USA). This drawback can impose a barrier to access of MRI, and cases of surgical removal of the device to enable patients to undergo MRI have been reported. To evaluate access to MRI for patients with an MSA device, we conducted a structured telephone interview with all diagnostic imaging providers in Arizona in 2022. In 2022, only 54 of 110 (49.1%) locations that provide MRI services had at least one 1.5 T or lower MRI scanner. The rapid replacement of 1.5 T MRI scanners by more advanced technology may limit healthcare options and create an access barrier for patients with an MSA device.
Chronotropic incompetence and exercise capacity after cardiac surgery with left atrium incision
Authors: Kanazawa M , Toyoda M , Takahashi H , Honjo H , Takahashi S , Sawada S , Funaki T , Kagaya Y , Saito H , Sato K , Kondo M , Miura M , Endo H , Oda K , Nakamura A
Published: May 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Chronotropic incompetence (CI) is sometimes observed during exercise training of cardiac rehabilitation in patients who underwent cardiac surgery, however, little is known which factors affect to the incidence of CI and exercise capacity of those patients.

Purpose

Because the possibility exists that cardiac sympathetic nerves might be impaired by surgical procedure, moreover CI is sometimes observed in patients after mitral valve surgery, we hypothesized that the incidence of CI was higher in patients with left atrium incision (LAI) during surgical operation as compared with those without LAI. And if so, which factor determines the exercise capacity of patients after cardiac surgery with LAI. We thus aimed this study to elucidate the hypothesis with cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX).

Methods

We performed CPX in total 153 patients who had undergone elective cardiac operation (45 patients with LAI, age 60.5±11.0; 108 patients without LAI, age 62.0±11.7). We analyzed chronotropic response index (CRI), peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2/W), anaerobic threshold (AT), and peak oxygen pulse (peak VO2/HR) with CPX, echocardiography, and blood hemoglobin concentration (Hb).

Results

The value of CRI was significantly reduced in the patients with LAI as compared with those without LAI (with LAI 0.24±0.22 vs. without LAI; 0.44±0.18, p<0.001). Exercise capacity such as peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2), anaerobic threshold showed no significant difference between two groups. In patients with LAI, peak VO2 showed significant correlations between peak oxygen pulse (peak VO2/HR; r=0.36, p<0.05), Hb (r=0.40, p<0.01) and left atrium dimension (LAD) measured by echocardiography (r=-0.54, p<0.001).

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that higher incidence of CI was shown in patients with LAI as compared with those without LAI. Moreover peak VO2 of patients with LAI showed significant correlations with peak VO2/HR, Hb and LAD. These results suggest that 1) left atrium incision impairs cardiac sympathetic nerves and causes CI, 2) peak VO2/HR and Hb which is essential element of oxygen pulse are important factors for exercise capacity in patients after LAI with CI. Left atrium enlargement may indicates pre-operative damages of left atrium, 3) LAD which may indicate left atrium function, also is an important factor of exercise capacity in those patients.
Cardiac hemodynamic responses to exercise training in patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Kirsch M K , Vitiello D V , Trachsel L D T , Boidin M B , Lalonge J L , Juneau M J , Bherer L B , Nigam A N , Gayda M G
Published: May 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

In coronary heart disease (CHD) patients, tailored training programs are strongly recommended to decrease cardiovascular mortality but factors responsible for a positive response to training remain unclear.

The aim of this study was to compare cardiac hemodynamic parameters changes after a training program in CHD patients, according to the training responder’s status.

Methods

72 CHD patients (78% males, 63±9y) were recruited to perform a 12-week training consisting in a combination of endurance and endurance sessions.

Patients underwent 2 cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) using a ramp protocol (10 to 15 W/min) on a cycle ergometer pre- and post-training. Hemodynamic parameters (e.g., cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), stroke volume (SV), systemic vascular resistance (SVR)) were measured by bioimpedance, and CPET parameters (e.g., peak oxygen uptake (O2peak)) were also measured pre- and post-training.

Results

Patients were divided in 2 groups (responders-R and non-responders-NR) according to the median change in O2peak.

In the R group, O2peak (+16.8%, p < 0.001), CO, CI and SV increased by16.6%, 16.8% and 13.0%, respectively (p < 0.01) after the training program. In the NR group, O2peak, CO, CI and SV increased by 0.48%, 5.12%, 8.07% and 5.75%, respectively (p < 0.01). The SVR decreased in both groups (-19.0% in R and -11.4% in NR, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The R group of CHD patients showed better improvement in cardiac hemodynamic and CPET parameters after a 12-week training program than NR. Further studies are needed to determine the best way to individualize training programs for the non-responders.
Changes in muscle strength and muscle mass after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)
Authors: Van Erck D , Dolman C D , Scholte Op Reimer W J M , Henriques J P , Weijs P J M , Schoufour J D , Delewi R
Published: May 2023

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Amsterdam UMC.

Background

Maintenance of muscle strength and muscle mass is important for long-term health. Periods of physical inactivity and poor dietary intake (e.g. waiting for a medical procedure) can provoke loss of muscle strength and muscle mass.

Purpose

We aim to determine the course of muscle strength and muscle mass in patients with severe aortic stenosis from before until six months after an elective transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Moreover, we aim to explore baseline characteristics associated with change.

Methods

All patients undergoing an elective TAVI in our high-volume tertiary center were asked to participate. Included patients received three home visits (pre-procedural and 30 days and 6 months post-procedural). During these home visits, handgrip strength was measured with a handheld dynamometer. Muscle mass was determined as skeletal muscle index with a bioelectrical impedance (BIA) measurement. Multivariate mixed linear models were used to determine changes over time. A linear model adjusted for age and sex was performed to explore baseline characteristics associated with changes in muscle strength or muscle mass.

Results

In total 112 patients were included, mean age of the participants was 81 ± 5 years and 58% were male. The preprocedural measurement took place on a median of 48 [IQR: 19 – 79] days before the TAVI. Preprocedural handgrip strength was on average 36 kg for male and 24 kg for female patients and decreased after the TAVI (-0.12 [95% CI: -0.21, -0.02] kg/month, p=0.02). Living alone and lower hemoglobin level were predictive for a higher decrease in strength (β -2.20 [95% CI: -3.98, -0.42], p=0.02 and β 0.14 [95% CI: 0.02, 0.27] per mmol/l, p=0.03, respectively). Appendicular skeletal muscle index was 7.2 kg/m2 for males and 6.1 kg/m2 for females and did not change after TAVI (0.00 [95%CI: -0.01, 0.01] kg/m2/month, p=0.95). No baseline characteristics were associated with a change in muscle mass.

Conclusion

Muscle strength significantly declines and muscle mass remains the same from before until six months after the TAVI procedure. Patients living alone or patients with low hemoglobin levels are at increased risk to lose muscle strength. Future studies should focus on the prevention of strength loss, for instance with interventions focusing on nutrition and exercise around the TAVI procedure.