bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in prevalence of esophageal adenocarcinoma: Findings from a statewide database of over 6 million patients
Authors: Qumseya Bashar , Yang Shuang , Guo Yi
Published: December 2023

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in the west 1. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of EC worldwide. However, in Western countries, including the United States, esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is the most common 2. EAC is most common in the lower esophagus whereas SCC is most common in the middle and upper esophagus 3. The incidence of EAC has increased dramatically in western countries over the past few decades. 2
3 The exact reason for this rise in EAC has not been clearly understood. However, an increase in the prevalence of EAC risk factors is postulated as a potential explanation 4. Although there are many identifiable EAC risk factors, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), obesity, male sex, White race, and smoking 5
6
7, Barrett’s esophagus (BE) remains the major precursor lesion of esophageal adenocarcinoma. BE develops when there is a change in the normal squamous lining of the esophageal mucosa into intestinal metaplasia 8
9. The incidence has also increased in the population over the past few decades 10
11. There is a well-described progression within BE from non-dysplastic BE (NDBE), low-grade dysplasia (LGD), high-grade dysplasia (HGD), intramucosal carcinoma (IMC), to invasive EAC 12
13. Recent data suggest that the increased incidence of EAC may have plateaued 1. However, we questioned whether the prevalence of EAC is still increasing, especially at younger ages in lieu of recent trends showing an increase in the prevalence of colorectal cancer in younger patients. These findings resulted in a lowering of the colorectal cancer screening age cutoff to 45 years from 50 years 14
15
16. Therefore, we aimed to assess the time trends in the prevalence and incidence of EAC and some of its risk factors in a large population of patients in Florida and to assess these trends based on age categories. We hypothesized that the prevalence of EAC and BE has increased over time at younger age groups.
Synthesis of the C1–C13 Segment of Poecillastrin C
Authors: Hosokawa Seijiro , Clark Hugh
Published: December 2023

A stereoselective synthesis of the C1–C13 segment of poecillastrin C has been achieved. The C1–C4 moiety was derived from diallyl l-tartrate, and the amide group at the C3 position was constructed by means of a traceless Staudinger reaction. The C1–C13 segment was submitted to model studies, including esterification with a bulky alcohol at the C1 position and Stille coupling with vinyl iodide at the C13 position. The reactivity of the C1 position was affected by the neighboring C2-protective group. When the C2 hydroxy group was protected as a TBS ether, the C1 carboxylic acid did not undergo esterification with a bulky secondary alcohol, whereas the p-methoxybenzylidene N,O-acetal afforded a 2,4-dimethyl-3-pentyl ester. Stille coupling of the C1–C13 segment with 1-iodohept-1-ene gave the southern part of the poecillastrin C macrolactam attached to simplified eastern and western parts.
An Improved Protocol for the Synthesis of Carbonyl Sulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Burtoloso Antonio C. B. , de Souza João H. , Vargas Jorge A. M.
Published: December 2023

An improved protocol for the synthesis of carbonyl sulfoxonium ylides from the reaction between trimethylsulfoxonium iodide and reactive carboxylic acid derivatives is described. In a one-pot, two-step sequence, these sulfoxonium ylides could be obtained in up to 81% yield with shorter reaction times and lesser equivalent numbers of the reactants when compared to the previous methods. These improvements make the method less expensive and ideal for larger scale preparations as well, not necessitating excess of the trialkylsulfoxonium salt starting material. An easier workup procedure, avoiding solvent extraction, is also discussed and facilitates product isolation.
Thyroid Inflammation and Immunity During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A
Comprehensive Review and Case Study
Authors: Lampropoulou Eleni , Benz Claus , Kahaly George J. , Führer Dagmar
Published: December 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute
respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to the development of
various vaccines. Reports have emerged suggesting a possible association between
SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and the onset of thyroid diseases. This review explores
the clinical aspects of thyroid disorders following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination,
including a case report of a patient with concomitant subacute thyroiditis (SAT)
and Graves’ disease (GD) with blocking thyrotropin receptor
autoantibodies (TSH-R-Ab) following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. SAT, characterized
by transient inflammation of the thyroid gland, has been reported after
SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. GD, an autoimmune hyperthyroidism, has also been
observed post-vaccination, often with stimulating TSH-R-Ab. Graves’
orbitopathy (GO) has been associated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients
with a history of immune thyroid disease. The unique case underscores a very
rare thyroid condition of functional hypothyroidism in possible relation to
SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and the usefulness of functional analysis of TSH-R-Ab
that can provide valuable insights into disease pathogenesis and help to guide
treatment. This review highlights the need for continued monitoring and
awareness of potential thyroid-related complications following SARS-CoV-2
vaccination.
LPS-Induced Neuron Cell Apoptosis through TNF-α and Cytochrome c Expression in Dental Pulp
Authors: Sampoerno Galih , Supriyanto Eddo , Wahjuningrum Dian Agustin , Larasati Aghnia Alma , Ardiani Dinda , Surboyo Meircurius Dwi Condro , Bhardwaj Anuj , Ates Ayver Atav
Published: December 2023

Objectives Inflammation of the dental pulp tissue caused by bacteria, creating an immunology response of death of the dental pulp, is called apoptosis. The Porphyromonas gingivalis that cause apoptosis is lipopolysaccharide (LPS) through toll-like receptor (TLR) via two different mechanisms, intracellular and extracellular pathways. This study analyzed the role of LPS exposure of neuron cells, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and cytochrome c (cyt-c) expression in the dental pulp to predict the possible mechanism of apoptosis.

Materials and Methods The lower tooth of Sprague Dawley rats was opened and exposed to LPS for 48 hours. Then the neuron cell analyzed histopathology using hematoxylin–eosin, whereas the TNF-α and cyt-c expression with indirect immunohistochemistry using a light microscope. The relationship between neuron cells with TNF-α and cyt-c was analyzed using stepwise regression linear analysis.

Result The LPS exposure showed a lower number of neuron cells and had a relationship with TNF-α expression but not with cyt-c, while compared with control, both TNF-α and cyt-c expression were higher in neuron cells.

Conclusion LPS exposure in dental pulp is possible to stimulate the apoptosis process through extracellular pathways marked by higher TNF-α expression.
Extensive Skeletal Muscle Metastases in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Detected by FDG PET/CT
Authors: Yilmaz Mustafa , Kandemir Ozan , Tutar Ediz
Published: December 2023

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare but aggressive tumor originating from pleural mesothelial cells. Distant skeletal muscle metastasis is rare in MPM. A 54-year-old woman was diagnosed with epithelioid MPM and treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy 2 years ago. During follow-up, diffuse irregular pleural thickening with focal chest wall invasion in the right hemithorax and two small pleural thickenings in the left hemithorax were seen on control diagnostic contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT). Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT (FDG PET/CT) imaging was performed as part of restaging. PET showed diffusely increased FDG uptake in the recurrent right pleural tumor, and two hypermetabolic small metastatic foci in the contralateral pleura. In addition, multiple hypermetabolic areas of various sizes in various skeletal muscle localizations, suggestive of extensive muscle metastases were noted. Histopathologic study confirmed metastatic epithelioid MPM. FDG PET/CT revealed multiple muscle metastases which were not observed on earlier CECT and contributed to the visualization of more extensive metastatic involvements in the presented case with MPM. FDG PET/CT can detect rarely seen skeletal muscle metastases that are not visualized on diagnostic CT, and provides more accurate restaging of MPM.
A Machine Learning Algorithm using Clinical and Demographic Data for All-Cause Preterm Birth Prediction
Authors: Bitar Ghamar , Liu Wei , Tunguhan Jade , Kumar Kaveeta V. , Hoffman Matthew K.
Published: December 2023

Objective Preterm birth remains the predominant cause of perinatal mortality throughout the United States and the world, with well-documented racial and socioeconomic disparities. To develop and validate a predictive algorithm for all-cause preterm birth using clinical, demographic, and laboratory data using machine learning.

Study Design We performed a cohort study of pregnant individuals delivering at a single institution using prospectively collected information on clinical conditions, patient demographics, laboratory data, and health care utilization. Our primary outcome was all-cause preterm birth before 37 weeks. The dataset was randomly divided into a derivation cohort (70%) and a separate validation cohort (30%). Predictor variables were selected amongst 33 that had been previously identified in the literature (directed machine learning). In the derivation cohort, both statistical (logistic regression) and machine learning (XG-Boost) models were used to derive the best fit (C-Statistic) and then validated using the validation cohort. We measured model discrimination with the C-Statistic and assessed the model performance and calibration of the model to determine whether the model provided clinical decision-making benefits.

Results The cohort includes a total of 12,440 deliveries among 12,071 individuals. Preterm birth occurred in 2,037 births (16.4%). The derivation cohort consisted of 8,708 (70%) and the validation cohort consisted of 3,732 (30%). XG-Boost was chosen due to the robustness of the model and the ability to deal with missing data and collinearity between predictor variables. The top five predictor variables identified as drivers of preterm birth, by feature importance metric, were multiple gestation, number of emergency department visits in the year prior to the index pregnancy, initial unknown body mass index, gravidity, and prior preterm delivery. Test performance characteristics were similar between the two populations (derivation cohort area under the curve [AUC] = 0.70 vs. validation cohort AUC = 0.63).

Conclusion Clinical, demographic, and laboratory information can be useful to predict all-cause preterm birth with moderate precision.

Key Points
Anesthesia Techniques for Harvesting via Follicular Unit Excision
Authors: Barusco Marco N.
Published: December 2023

Follicular unit excision (FUE) is one of the established techniques for harvesting donor hair for hair transplantation. Traditionally, hair restoration surgery is performed using local anesthesia, although some surgeons use general anesthesia for the procedure. Normally, local anesthesia is coupled with light oral sedation to make the procedure more comfortable for patients. Techniques such as “ring block” or nerve blocks are common and effective for scalp anesthesia. Due to its simplicity, adequate pain control and safety, ring blocks are typically used for FUE donor harvesting, reserving nerve blocks only to patients who cannot be adequately anesthetized with the ring block. Using the correct technique for application of local anesthesia can dramatically decrease the pain associated with it and create a comfortable and easy experience for the patient.
Unusual Extra-Axial and Extracranial Recurrence in an IDH Mutant Astrocytoma: A Case Report
Authors: Nair Swetha M. , Sahu Arpita , Prasad Apurva , George Asha Mary , Goel Atul , Gupta Tejpal
Published: December 2023

Isocitrate dehydrogenase mutant gliomas generally have a better prognosis than their wild-type counterpart. Recurrences are generally within the radiation field in the primary tumoral bed. Remote recurrence is uncommon and is usually intraparenchymal. Transformation to a higher grade has been observed with TP53 mutants. Presentation of glioma as an extra-axial lesion is extremely uncommon. No such cases of remote intracranial extra-axial recurrence have been reported in the literature. We describe the unique imaging findings in this case and attempt to formulate possible diagnoses. Intraoperative and pathological findings confirmed this unusual recurrence pattern.
Clinical Outcomes of Single-Stage Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using a Fast-Setting Bone Graft Substitute
Authors: Rogers Joseph D. , Adsit Matthew H. , Serbin Philip A. , Worcester Katherine S. , Firoved Amanda B. , Bonner Kevin F.
Published: December 2023

Revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) can be achieved in a single-stage or two-stage approach. Single-stage revisions have several advantages, including one less operation, decreased cost, and a quicker recovery for patients. Revision ACLR can be complicated by malpositioned or dilated bone tunnels, which makes a single-stage revision more challenging or sometimes necessitates a two-stage approach. The use of fast-setting bone graft substitutes (BGS) has been described in recent literature as a strategy to potentially help address this problem in the setting of single-stage revision ACLR. The aim of this study was to evaluate patient-reported clinical outcomes of patients who have undergone single-stage revision ACLR using fast-setting BGS to address prior malpositioned or dilated tunnels. A retrospective review was conducted of the first nine consecutive patients who had undergone single-stage revision ACLR using a fast-setting BGS by a single surgeon between May 2017 and February 2020 with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. Patient-reported clinical outcomes, including the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) questionnaire, the Tegner Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, patient satisfaction questions, and the need for additional surgery were evaluated for this group between 26 and 49 months postoperative. Of the nine patients eligible for inclusion, eight patients (88.9%) were evaluated, and one was lost to follow-up. At an average follow-up of 37.9 months (range: 27.8–55.7), the mean postoperative IKDC score was 75.0 ± 11.3, and the mean postoperative Tegner Lysholm Knee Score was 83.0 ± 17.6. None of the patients required additional revision surgery or experienced construct failure at the time of follow-up. Seven of eight respondents (87.5%) had their preoperative expectations met with the surgery, and 100% of patients stated they would have the surgery again. Single-stage revision ACLR using fast-setting BGS showed overall positive clinical outcomes for this pilot group of patients at a minimum 2-year follow-up. In select revision scenarios, these materials may be a valuable option to allow the filling of defects without compromising fixation or clinical outcomes.
Study on Screening Core Biomarkers of Noise and Drug-Induced Hearing Loss Based on Transcriptomics
Authors: Qiu Xin , Jiang Qing-Qing , Guo Wei-Wei , Yu Ning , Yang Shi-ming
Published: December 2023

Background Noise and drug-induced hearing loss (HL) is becoming more and more serious, but the integration and analysis based on transcriptomics and proteomics are lacking. On the one hand, this study aims to integrate existing public transcriptomic data on noise and gentamicin-induced HL. On the other hand, the study aims to establish the gentamicin and noise-induced HL model of guinea pigs, then to perform the transcriptomic and proteomic analyses. Through comprehensive analysis of the above data, we aim to screen, predict, and preliminarily verify biomarkers closely related to HL.

Material and Methods We screened the Gene Expression Omnibus database to obtain transcriptome data expression profiles of HL caused by noise and gentamicin, then constructed the guinea pig HL model and perform the transcriptomic and proteomic analyses. Differential expression and enrichment analysis were performed on public and self-sequenced data, and common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and signaling pathways were obtained. Finally, we used proteomic data to screen for common differential proteins and validate common differential expression genes for HL.

Results By integrating the public data set with self-constructed model data set, we eventually obtained two core biomarkers of HL, which were RSAD2 and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3). Their main function is to regulate the development of sense organ in the inner ear and they are mainly involved in mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphoinositol-3 kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathways. Finally, by integrating the proteomic data of the self-constructed model, we also found differential expression of MMP3 protein. This also preliminarily and partially verified the above-mentioned core biomarkers.

Conclusion and Significance In this study, public database and transcriptomic data of self-constructed model were integrated, and we screened out two core genes and various signal pathways of HL through differential analysis, enrichment analysis, and other analysis methods. Then, we preliminarily validated the MMP3 by proteomic analysis of self-constructed model. This study pointed out the direction for further laboratory verification of key biomarkers of HL, which is of great significance for revealing the core pathogenic mechanism of HL.
Fijación percutánea sin injerto vs fijación abierta con injerto en retardo de consolidación estable de escafoides: Analisis retrospectivo
Authors: Miró José Ignacio , Vaquero Alfonso García , Lupotti Carlos José , Rodríguez Gustavo Luis Gómez
Published: December 2023

Introduccion Actualmente hay controversia sobre el manejo quirúrgico más adecuado del retardo de consolidación de escafoides sintomático. Hay pocos estudios comparativos entre las diferentes alternativas de tratamiento. El objetivo del estudio es comparar los resultados obtenidos entre la osteosíntesis percutánea sin injerto óseo asociado, y la reducción abierta y fijación interna con autoinjerto esponjoso para el retardo de consolidación de escafoides estable.

Material y Metodos Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo con 24 pacientes: 13 pacientes intervenidos mediante osteosíntesis percutánea sin injerto y 11 pacientes intervenidos mediante reducción abierta y fijación interna asociando injerto esponjoso. La variable principal de estudio fue el tiempo medio de consolidación en semanas. Se midieron variables radiológicas secundarias en el pre y posoperatorio: ángulo escafolunar, distancia escafolunar, ángulo lunogrande, ángulo radiolunar, longitud escafoides, ángulo intraescafoideo lateral, y variables funcionales secundarias a las 6 , 12 y 24 semanas: rango de movilidad en flexión, extensión, desviación radial y cubital, dolor en escala VAS, valoración Quick Dash y PRWE, número medio de sesiones de fisioterapia y tiempo medio de reincorporación a actividad laboral. Se empleó el test de U de Mann-Whitney para variables cuantitativas y el test de Ji-Cuadrado para las cualitativas, estableciendo un nivel de significación en p < 0,05.

Resultados El tiempo medio en semanas hasta la cirugía fue de 10 semanas en el grupo sin injerto y 23 semanas en el grupo con injerto. El tiempo medio de consolidación en semanas en el grupo sin injerto fue de 10 sem (R 8-12 sem) y en el grupo con injerto de 12 sem (R 8-20 sem) (p = 0,002). Se obtuvo un 100% de consolidación en todos los casos. Se obtuvieron diferencias a favor del grupo sin injerto para los siguientes parámetros : EVA a los 3 meses (5 vs 7 , p = 0,002), 6 meses (3 vs 6 p = 0,000) y al año (1 vs 2 p = 0,001); DASH 1 año (9 vs 24 p = 0,000); PRWE 1 año (6 vs 10 p = 0,011), flexión media 6 meses (65° vs 45° p = 0,010); extensión media 6 meses (70° vs 46° p = 0,009); desviación cubital 6 meses (25° vs 15° p = 0,047). Se obtuvieron diferencias a favor del grupo con injerto en el parámetro desviación radial 6 meses (15° vs 12° p = 0,038). El tiempo medio de incorporación al trabajo fue de 8 semanas de media en los dos grupos.

Conclusion Para tratamiento quirúrgico del retardo de consolidación en fracturas de escafoides sin criterios de inestabilidad, la osteosíntesis percutánea sin injerto óseo asociado podría ser un tratamiento superior a la reducción abierta y fijación interna con autoinjerto esponjoso en cuanto a tiempo de consolidación radiológica y recuperación funcional.
Revisión de prótesis trapeciometacarpiana de doble movilidad en pacientes con rizartrosis: Nuestra experiencia en un estudio de 66 casos. Bajo riesgo de luxación y escasas complicaciones
Authors: Suárez-López del Amo Álvaro , Olhas-Ortiz Laura , Gil-Melgosa Lara , Martínez-Burgos Isabel , Pajares-Cabanillas Samuel
Published: December 2023

Introducción Las prótesis trapeciometacarpianas son implantadas desde hace más de 50 años. Entre sus complicaciones, destacan la posibilidad de osteolisis, aflojamiento o luxación. Con el fin de disminuir el riesgo de luxación, se desarrollaron las prótesis trapeciometacarpianas de doble movilidad.

Material y Métodos Se analizaron 66 casos de prótesis trapeciometacarpiana de doble movilidad intervenidos entre 2019 y 2022, y se evaluaron los resultados de funcionalidad, movilidad, dolor y aparición de complicaciones.

Resultados El 76.7% fueron mujeres y la edad media de 62.4 años. El dolor medido en escala EVA disminuyó de 8.1 preoperatorio a 1.5 postoperatorio. En el 92.6% de los pacientes, el índice de Kapandji al mes de la cirugía se encontraba entre 9 y 10. Además, el QuickDASH disminuyó de 46.2 a 9.8. Encontramos en el primer mes tras la cirugía dos casos de aflojamiento de cotilo y una fractura de trapecio. Desde el primer mes hasta cumplir el año, tuvimos un caso de aflojamiento de vástago. Estas complicaciones requirieron tratamiento quirúrgico de revisión. No observamos ningún caso de luxación.

Conclusiones La prótesis trapeciometacarpiana de doble movilidad es una opción quirúrgica con buen resultado funcional, de movilidad y supervivencia para pacientes con rizartrosis candidatos a cirugía.
Evolución radiológica de coalición entre escafoides y trapecio a lo largo de la ósificación del carpo
Authors: Olmedo Martín Estefanía , López Salinas José Tomás , Morales Sánchez-Migallón Carlos
Published: December 2023

Las coaliciones carpianas son la unión de dos o más huesos del carpo. Presentan una baja incidencia, siendo el diagnóstico incidental. Nuestro objetivo es describir la evolución radiográfica de esta malformación durante la osificación a propósito de un caso. Varón de 15 años, con fracturas repetidas de escafoides derecho, al que se diagnostica de coalición entre escafoides y trapecio no ósea bilateral tras estudio complementario. El paciente contaba previamente con controles radiográficos de la muñeca izquierda desde la infancia hasta la maduración esquelética. Todos los huesos del carpo se osifican a partir de un núcleo primario de osificación, apareciendo secuencialmente. Comparando los controles radiográficos con las series óseas de referencia, se acentúan las diferencias a partir de los 9 años, al finalizar la osificación. Las coaliciones carpianas son poco frecuentes y pasan desapercibidas hasta la maduración esquelética del carpo. Presentan una mayor susceptibilidad al estrés mecánico, y mayor riesgo sufrir fracturas tras traumatismos.
Dosing, Monitoring, Blood Product Utilization, and Thromboembolic Complications of Four-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate as Part of an Institutional Protocol in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kiskaddon Amy L. , Goldenberg Neil A. , Fierstein Jamie L. , Miller Alexandra , Quintessenza James A. , Kartha Vyas M.
Published: December 2023

Pediatric cardiac surgery patients are predisposed to blood loss. Blood product administration can lead to complications. Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) offer potential advantages of factor composition, small volume, decreased immunogenicity/infectious risks, and accessibility. The objective of this study was to describe dosing, monitoring, blood product utilization, and thromboembolic complications of administering four-factor PCC (4F-PCC) in pediatric cardiac surgery. We performed a retrospective review of patients aged <18 years undergoing cardiac surgery from June 2020 to May 2022 (inclusive) who received 4F-PCC. Outcomes of interest included 4F-PCC dosing (units/kg) and number of doses administered, chest tube output, blood product administration, donor exposure, length of stay, and thromboembolic events. Eighty-six patients met eligibility criteria. The median (range) age and weight were 0.37 (0.01–16.3) years and 5.3 (1.6–98) kg, respectively. Median (range) total 4F-PCC dose per patient was 25 (9.2–50) units/kg, with 6 patients (7%) receiving a total of two doses. Median (range) 24-hour postoperative packed red blood cells, platelet, plasma, and cryoprecipitate administration volumes were 0 (0–2.57) mL/kg/24 h, 0 (0–1.09), 0 (0–2.64), and 0 (0–0.28 mL/kg/24 h), respectively. Median (range) length of stay and 24-hour postoperative chest tube output were 10 (6–26) days and 1.1 (0.1–4.2) mL/kg/h, respectively. Two (2%) patients experienced a thromboembolic event within 30 days of 4F-PCC administration. These retrospective findings suggest no worsening of hemostatic parameters, a mild median improvement in fibrinogen, low blood product utilization, and low thromboembolism rates following 4F-PCC use in pediatric cardiac surgery.
Deep-Plane Rhytidectomy: Pearls in Maximizing Outcomes while Minimizing Recovery
Authors: Gordon Neil A. , Sawan Tareq G.
Published: December 2023

The deep-plane rhytidectomy was first described in 1990 and has gained traction in the past decade as supported by anatomy, embryology, and clinical evidence. Consumer dissatisfaction in facial rejuvenation procedures often occurs because procedures are too conservative and are undone. From the consumer's perspective, an outcome is a combination of the esthetic result, predictability, and the length of the recovery process. The length of the recovery process is often the limiting issue affecting the consumer's willingness to proceed with the procedure. As one of the early pioneers in deep-plane rhytidectomy, the lead author will define contemporary advances in deep-plane techniques such as dissection entry point, flap design, and flap fixation concepts that allow an aggressive approach to treating both the superficial soft tissue envelope and deeper facial aging structures. These technique modifications and insights will provide the surgeon with an understanding of how to achieve significant, natural, long-lasting results with predictable short recovery periods—maximizing outcomes and minimizing postoperative processes.
Durchbrüche ermöglichen: Rollenmodelle in Verhandlungen mit Lieferanten
Authors: Schlüchtermann Jörg , Reinig Julia
Published: December 2023

In Verhandlungen ist es von Vorteil, wenn gut vorbereitet unterschiedliche Rollen besetzt werden. Wenn die Einzel-Rollen der Gegenseite erkannt werden, können Probleme direkt angegangen werden.
Modell zur Berechnung des Einsparpotenzials: Kosteneinsparungen mit einheitlichen Produktstammdaten
Authors: Ehrenburg Marcus , Gallmann Thomas
Published: December 2023

Fehlerhafte Produktstammdaten sind ein Kostenfaktor für Kliniken. Wie können mit einer Zentralisierung von Produktstammdaten für Verbrauchsmaterialien über verschiedene Abteilungen hinweg Kosten gespart werden? Wir beschreiben die Herausforderungen und bieten Lösungsansätze.
Linking local collaborative governance and public service delivery: mediating role of institutional capacity building
Authors: Zia ud din Muhammad , Yuan yuan Xu , Khan Naqib Ullah , Han Heesup
Published: December 2023

Collaborative governance has received attention among scholars and practitioners for resolving governance issues across the globe. The government of Pakistan emphasizes local collaborative governance practices for resolving complex local problems through efficient public service delivery. This research is planned to examine the impact of local collaborative governance on public service delivery, institutional capacity building and how local collaborative governance influences public service delivery through the mediating mechanism of institutional capacity building. Using collaborative governance theory and collecting data from multisector organizations in the context of Pakistan, the results of this study revealed that local collaborative governance is significantly related to the dimensions of public service delivery and institutional capacity building. This research findings revealed that local collaborative governance engenders public service delivery through the dimensions of institutional capacity building including service capacity, evaluative capacity, and M&O capacity.
The poverty alleviation effect of transfer payments: evidence from China
Authors: Miao Yan , Li Zheng
Published: December 2023

Transfer payments play a crucial role in combating poverty in countries. However, the effectiveness of transfer payments in alleviating poverty remains controversial due to variations in environmental factors, economic development, and cultural contexts across different nations. In this study, we employ counterfactual causal inference to examine the influence of government transfer payments on poverty. By utilizing data from China, we present new evidence that sheds light on related issues. Our findings reveal that transfer payments have a negative impact on the overall income of rural poor households. This can be attributed to a decrease in labor supply among rural poor residents who receive such payments, resulting in reduced wage income. Additionally, transfer payments lead to decreased expenditure on food and increased spending on healthcare. These changes in total income and consumption patterns indicate that China’s current transfer payment policy has short-term efficacy by meeting the basic living security needs of rural poor residents and improving their health conditions. However, the lack of significant changes in education spending suggests that transfer payments have little long-term effect.
Synergistic effects of hole blocking and Förster resonance energy transfer process in high-performance photomultiplication organic photodetectors
Authors: Shi Xue , Qiao Jia-Wei , Jeong Sang Yong , Lu Peng , Du Xiao-Yan , Yin Hang , Qin Wei , Woo Han Young , Hao Xiao-Tao
Published: December 2023

Organic photodetectors (OPDs) are a potential next-generation photodetection technology because they are lightweight, flexible, and have customizable spectral responses. However, high dark currents with low detectability remain major challenges, limiting the widespread application of photomultiplication OPDs (PM-OPDs). This work describes a straightforward interface modification strategy based on the PBDB-T:N2200 bulk heterojunction (BHJ) structure to improve the PM-OPD performance. Introducing a thin rubrene layer achieves the synergistic effects of hole blocking and the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) process, resulting in a two-order-of-magnitude reduction in dark current density and an increased responsivity of 19.77 A W−1 at 660 nm. Moreover, the external quantum efficiency improves significantly through FRET, and a specific detectivity of 4.39 × 1013 Jones is demonstrated at 660 nm, which is the highest value among existing PM-OPDs, using BHJ structures. An impressive increase in the linear dynamic range from 91 to 144 dB was obtained due to the improved photocurrent density and balanced charge transport. The broad applicability of the strategy was verified through a PM6:Y6-based OPD system. Our approach offers more general application prospects by improving the detection capability of photodetectors for low-light environments.
Research on the bidirectional motion of resonant single-wing bionic piezoelectric motor based on a biasing self-clamping mechanism
Authors: He Liangguo , Qian An , Li Xinyu , Yue Xukang , Wan Zhikai , Huang Liang
Published: December 2023

Based on our previous research, this article adds new research content and further refines the previous research on bionic motors. It is in the form of note as a complementary improvement to the previous article. This article proposes a novel approach to achieving reversal motion in such motors driven by a single harmonic signal, specifically the multimode mode of the vibrator. In contrast to the conventional inertial impact piezoelectric motor, we propose a bidirectional piezoelectric motor that can achieve bidirectional motion only by altering the driving signal characteristics. Compared to other bidirectional piezoelectric motors, this motor features a simpler structure and more convenient control. The COMSOL6.0 finite element analysis software was utilized to optimize the working mode of the piezoelectric motor, and an experimental platform was constructed for testing and verifying the performance of the designed prototype. The final experimental data demonstrate that, with an excitation voltage of 300 Vp-p, a preload of 2 N, and an excitation frequency of 781 Hz, the motor prototype achieves a maximum no-load speed of 12.15 mm/s, a maximum resolution of 15.27 μm, and a maximum load of 14 g. These results confirm the validity of the new working mode.
Simulation of bidisperse colloidal centrifugal sedimentation using a mixture viscosity model
Authors: Chen Hangyu , Sykes Thomas C. , Kivan Oguzhan , Jia Xiaodong , Fairweather Michael , Hunter Timothy N.
Published: December 2023

Understanding the sedimentation behavior of bidisperse colloidal suspensions is critical in determining their stability and separation. While centrifugation is often used to accelerate separation, the settling of bidisperse colloids and their phase separation under these conditions is complex and difficult to predict explicitly. As an alternative, this work proposes a one-dimensional advection-diffusion model that uses an effective maximum volume fraction with a bidisperse viscosity scheme, which reflects important characteristics of bidisperse sedimentation while remaining computationally efficient. The influence of Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek interactions on packing fraction and dispersion viscosity is also considered. A numerical implementation is described using an adaptive finite-difference solver, which can be used for concentration profile and settling rate prediction of both species under variable acceleration. Validation experiments with silica suspensions in two size ratios (500:800 and 100:500 nm) and various total concentrations are performed using an analytical centrifuge, with results also being compared to Richardson–Zaki empirical predictions. The model is shown to be a very good fit to the data for both size ratio dispersions at three mixing ratios, with differences <10%. Slightly higher levels of variation were detected for the 500:800 nm system, owing to the smaller size ratio and resulting greater effect of uncounted secondary hydrodynamic factors, which enables the limits of the mixture viscosity model to be established. Nevertheless, this work highlights that mixture viscosity modeling combined with effective maximum volume fraction modifications can provide critical insights into the effect of bidisperse suspension dynamics on separation efficiencies.
A solar-blind vacuum-ultraviolet photodetector based on free-standing lamellar aluminum nitride single crystal
Authors: Fan Zelong , Qin Zuoyan , Jin Lei , Yue Zhongyu , Li Baikui , Zhang Wenfei , Wang Ying , Wu Honglei , Sun Zhenhua
Published: December 2023

High-quality aluminum nitride (AlN) crystals are the key material for the development of high-performance solid-state solar-blind vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) photodetectors. However, the commonly used epitaxial method to grow AlN crystals would limit this development due to the existence of indispensable substrates. This study addresses this issue using free-standing lamellar AlN single crystals that are grown using the physical vapor transport method. The large lateral dimension of the crystal enables the construction of an Au-AlN-graphene van der Waals heterojunction, which can function as a vertical VUV photodetector with the graphene serving as the light window. The asymmetric junctions formed on the two sides of the crystal and the limited penetration of the VUV endow the device with a bias polarity-dependent photoresponse feature arising from different photoelectric processes. Furthermore, the device demonstrates a high responsivity of 5.77 A W−1 and a high specific detectivity of 1.71 × 1013 cm Hz1/2 W−1 under the illumination of a 193 nm laser. The high crystallinity of the AlN guarantees a high spectral selectivity of responsivity with a 193 nm/280 nm rejection ratio of 3 × 102. This work would inspire the development of wide-bandgap-semiconductor-based VUV photodetectors in terms of methodology and mechanism.
Passive flow control for the E423 airfoil utilizing an equilateral triangular trip
Authors: Rahmani Salman , Wang Z. J.
Published: December 2023

A passive flow control technique of utilizing an equilateral triangular trip close to the leading edge was developed and tested for a micro-scale Eppler E423 airfoil at a Reynolds number based on the chord of 40 000. The analysis was carried out via high-order wall-resolved large eddy simulation using the computational solver HpMusic. Angles of attack of 5° and 20° were tested. It was shown that at an angle of attack of 5°, the trip height of two times the local boundary layer thickness outperformed existing passive flow control techniques from the literature by almost a factor of five in terms of the lift-to-drag ratio. To understand the underlying physics which allowed the trip to provide this very significant performance benefit, metrics such as pressure coefficient profiles, oil flows, iso-surfaces of Q-criteria, and leading-edge flow behavior were examined. It was found that this trip configuration simultaneously removed the flow separation regions on both the suction and pressure sides of the wing.
Quantum correlation functions through tensor network path integral
Authors: Bose Amartya
Published: December 2023

Tensor networks have historically proven to be of great utility in providing compressed representations of wave functions that can be used for the calculation of eigenstates. Recently, it has been shown that a variety of these networks can be leveraged to make real time non-equilibrium simulations of dynamics involving the Feynman–Vernon influence functional more efficient. In this work, a tensor network is developed for non-perturbatively calculating the equilibrium correlation function for open quantum systems using the path integral methodology. These correlation functions are of fundamental importance in calculations of rates of reactions, simulations of response functions and susceptibilities, spectra of systems, etc. The influence of the solvent on the quantum system is incorporated through an influence functional, whose unconventional structure motivates the design of a new optimal matrix product-like operator that can be applied to the so-called path amplitude matrix product state. This complex-time tensor network path integral approach provides an exceptionally efficient representation of the path integral, enabling simulations for larger systems strongly interacting with baths and at lower temperatures out to longer time. The derivation, design, and implementation of this method are discussed along with a wide range of illustrations ranging from rate theory and symmetrized spin correlation functions to simulation of response of the Fenna–Matthews–Olson complex to light.
Elucidation of solid-state metal flow behaviors during friction stir welding: Numerical and experimental investigation
Authors: Qiao Junnan , Shi Qingyu , Wu Chuansong , Chen Shujun , Han Yang , Yang Chengle , Chen Gaoqiang
Published: December 2023

During the process of friction stir welding, the behavior of interfacial friction holds a pivotal role in shaping both the heat generation and material flow within the workpiece. However, a quantifiable comprehension of how the friction between the tool and the workpiece (T/W) precisely influences the interface contact state and the heat generation, and the material flow remains elusive. This paper strives to address this gap by introducing a mathematical model that couples interface friction and material flow through the utilization of a shear stress boundary condition at the T/W interface, which is able to present sliding and sticking condition, in our computational fluid dynamics simulation. Notably, the simulation underscore a non-uniform distribution characterizing the friction interface contact state. It is found that augmenting the coefficient of friction (CoF) induces a transition from sliding to sticking both locally and averagely at the T/W interface. When the friction interface becomes predominantly characterized by a sticking state, the CoF exerts a nominal influence over the overall heat generation, yet maintains a discernible impact on material flow patterns. This foundation enables the elucidation of the mechanism through which the friction interface contact state impacts material flow behavior. The simulated material flow trajectory also highlight that under a sliding-dominated friction interface, materials simply flow around the tool. The material flow trajectories on the advancing side (AS) and the retreating side (RS) are approximately symmetrical. The materials driven by the shoulder and the pin are converged at the center of the weld behind the tool. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that under a sticking-dominated friction interface, materials tend to undertake multiple circulations around the tool and migrate downward to the AS. Other materials are observed to migrate upward to the RS. The entrance point for this circular behavior resides in the AS situated beneath the shoulder.
Electroactive actuator composites using volume change induced by insulator-to-metal transition in VO2
Authors: Takenaka K. , Mizuno Y. , Shibutani J. , Kishida K. , Takada K. , Yagi K. , Yokoyama Y. , Katayama N. , Okamoto Y. , Hirai D. , Hatano T. , Fujita A.
Published: December 2023

This report describes the actuator functionality of a ceramic composite that uses the volume change caused by the insulator–metal (I–M) transition of VO2. When an electrical field was applied at 295 K, 50 vol. %-VO2/Al2O3 ceramic composite underwent the I–M transition because the VO2 powder dispersed in the composite became metallic. Simultaneous measurement of I–V characteristics and linear strain demonstrated that this I–M transition was accompanied by a positive strain. This strain increased with increase in the limit current value, which limits excessive current flow after transition. The strain exceeded 1300 ppm at maximum. Its magnitude corresponded to the volume change obtained from thermal expansion measurements on the composite. This composite performs a volume-change-driven actuator function that is distinct from the strain-driven counterpart of piezoelectric materials.
Investigation on the helix curvature of bicomponent helical fibers: Numerical simulation and experimental validation
Authors: Zhang Xiaomin , Xu Yuanqiang , Li Hui , Li Ying , Zhang Yu , Zhao Tienan , Zeng Yongchun
Published: December 2023

Plant tendril inspired helical structures hold significant promise in various applications. In this study, we advance the understanding of factors influencing the morphology of helical fibers fabricated during co-electrospinning, which is grounded in the mechanism of inducing strain mismatch within the polymer components. Our investigation encompasses a comprehensive analysis of the intrinsic curvature through an updated bilayer strip physical model. Potential factors affecting the resulting curvature of the electrospun helical fibers, including flexibility difference and charge difference within the component pair as well as the evaporation behavior of the chosen solvents for polymers, are explored through numerical simulations and experimental validation.
Mitigation of resistive drift wave and ion temperature gradient instabilities by velocity shear
Authors: Yakusevich Yevgeniy , Krasheninnikov Sergei
Published: December 2023

The effects of velocity shear on the resistive drift wave instability in the non-adiabatic limit and the toroidal ion temperature gradient instability are investigated for a plasma of inhomogeneous density/ion temperature, respectively. For the resistive drift wave, we find that the instability growth rate decreases monotonically with increasing magnitude of shear, but we find that complete stabilization is impossible. For the ion temperature gradient instability, we find that the standard WKB approximation is insufficient to describe the full behavior of the instability, and that an analysis of the localized eigenmode problem reveals two separate unstable solutions, which the WKB approximation does not predict. The impact of flow shear on these two new unstable solutions is discussed. In both resistive drift wave and ion temperature gradient instabilities, the sheared flow causes a shifting, tilting, and sharpening of the electrostatic potential eddies.
Quantitative domain evaluation in rhombohedral BS-PT piezoelectric ceramics via diffraction-plane-transformation model
Authors: Wu Jingen , Wu Chaoyu , Qiao Jiacheng , Xu Yiwei , Du Yongjun , Wang Zhiguang , Bai He , Cui Wanzhao , Hu Zhongqiang , Liu Ming
Published: December 2023

The domain structure fundamentally determines the piezoelectric/ferroelectric performance of ferroelectric materials. To understand the correlation between macro-properties and microstructure, the evolution of domain structure should be clearly figured out. Here, the diffraction-plane-transformation (DPT) model is proposed for the domain evaluation in BS-PT piezoelectric ceramics of rhombohedral crystalline structure. The transformation between different crystal planes is accurately revealed by the DPT model. Then, non-180° domain reversal in rhombohedral 0.4BiScO3–0.6PbTiO3 piezoelectric ceramics (abbreviated as BS-PT) can be quantitatively estimated, whether in electric poling or thermal depoling processes. Experimentally, the correlations between piezoelectric coefficients, electromechanical coupling properties, and non-180° domain reversal percentage are investigated. It is proven that the DPT model provides an effective method for the non-180° domain estimation in rhombohedral crystalline ceramics.