bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short‐term traffic travel time forecasting using ensemble approach based on long short‐term memory networks
Authors: Jia Xingli , Zhou Wuxiao , Yang Hongzhi , Li Shuangqing , Chen Xingpeng
Published: January 2023

To enhance the control effect of intelligent transportation system (ITS) of expressway, avoid blind travel causing traffic congestion, improve road capacity, and achieve the purpose of smooth and efficient operation of the network, 3σ criterion and 2σ cycle removal criterion were used to eliminate the abnormal data of travel time. Thereafter, a combined prediction model of Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM) based on the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) algorithm and attention mechanism is proposed. Travel time data, collected from the real world, is decomposed into several Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs) and a residue with the CEEMDAN. Then, the decomposed sub‐sequence is predicted and the final prediction result is obtained by comprehensive superposition. The results indicate that: the CEEMDAN algorithm has significantly improved the prediction performance. Compared with the AT‐LSTM model, mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) is reduced by 10.75%, 24.84%, 31.80%, 24.98%, 14.29%, and 31.42% when the time window was 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18, respectively, in the dataset of Yaxi expressway. In the dataset of Chengnan expressway, the number of error points with MAPE greater than 40% is significantly reduced after the adoption of the LSTM model. After the introduction of CEEMDAN algorithm, the error at each time point is controlled within 30%. The proposed model controls the error at each time point within 25%. In different datasets, the proposed model has better prediction ability for highly non‐linear travel time, and can better capture the trend abrupt characteristics of rush hour traffic flow.
Sensitivity enhancement for micromechanical vibro‐impact resonators using snap‐through curved beams
Authors: Yi Yun , Tsai Chun‐Pu , Li Wei‐Chang
Published: January 2023

This work enhances the driving sensitivity of micromechanical vibro‐impact resonators by reducing the output switching gap. Differing from previous works for gap narrowing that either require a dedicated pull‐in bias voltage and stopper structures or post‐fabrication refill processes, the use of the snap‐through technique calls for only the initial activation step without the need for constantly applied voltage or additional process steps. Doing so realizes a final gap spacing from a typical 2‐μm limitation to a 0.9‐μm sub‐micron gap. While probes are used to mechanically initiate the bistable transition in this proof‐of‐concept demonstration, this could be done electrically once properly designed actuation electrodes are available. This transducer gap narrowing technique can help facilitate higher sensitivity for vibro‐impact resonator embedded applications such as zero‐quiescent power communication receivers.
Retracted: Visualisation‐based binary classification of android malware using vgg16
Authors: Marwaha Aryan , Malik Rami Qays , Beram Shehab Mohamed , Rizwan Ali , Kishore Kakarla Hari , Thakur Deepak , Gera Tanya , Shabaz Mohammad
Published: January 2023

Retraction: [Aryan Marwaha, Rami Qays Malik, Shehab Mohamed Beram, Ali Rizwan, Hari Kishore Kakarla, Deepak Thakur, Tanya Gera, Mohammad Shabaz, Visualisation‐based binary classification of android malware using vgg16, IET Software 2023 (https://doi.org/10.1049/sfw2.12094)].

The above article from IET Software, published online on 23 January 2023 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the Editor‐in‐Chief, Hana Chockler, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (the IET) and John Wiley and Sons Ltd. This article was published as part of a Guest Edited special issue. Following an investigation, the IET and the journal have determined that the article was not reviewed in line with the journal’s peer review standards and there is evidence that the peer review process of the special issue underwent systematic manipulation. Accordingly, we cannot vouch for the integrity or reliability of the content. As such we have taken the decision to retract the article. The authors have been informed of the decision to retract.
Optical switch by direct modulated laser diode using fiber laser for pulse picking
Authors: Kaneko Satoru , Yasui Manabu , Kurouchi Masahito , York Robert , Hagiwara Yuna , Nakamura Masaru
Published: January 2023

A new method of direct modulating a pre‐amplifier laser diode as an optical switch is proposed. To modulate the laser diode with lower repetition rate, the repetition rate in the kilohertz region can be achieved using a source laser of 100 MHz without electro‐optical modulators (EOM) or acousto‐optical modulators (AOM). Using a direct modulated laser diode, an ON/OFF ratio (extinction ratio) of 25 dB was demonstrated in this study.
Modelling, simulation and performance comparison of different membership functions based fuzzy logic control for an active magnetic bearing system
Authors: Gupta Suraj , Biswas Pabitra Kumar , Aljafari Belqasem , Thanikanti Sudhakar Babu , Das Sajal K.
Published: January 2023

In‐house prototype model of an active magnetic bearing is built and using its physical parameter values a linearized transfer function of order two, is mathematically obtained for a specific point of operation. In this work, a closed loop active magnetic bearing system is proposed and controller for this closed loop is designed using fuzzy logic control. Two different fuzzy inference systems: Mamdani and Sugeno fuzzy inference system constructed individually with eleven different types of membership functions separately. The considered membership functions are—linear, generalized bell‐shaped, Gaussian distribution based, quadratic, cubic polynomial and sigmoidal curve‐based membership functions. Calculating the transient state and steady state parameter values together with the controller output allows to see how these various membership functions perform on the proposed closed loop active magnetic bearing system. Observed data shows that changing the fuzzy inference system for a specific membership function will result in 67.41% reduction in the overshoot value, 29.70% reduction in settling time value, 10.42% change in rise time value and 2.91% variation is peak time value. Practicality of all membership functions are analysed based on calculated data and their performances with the proposed model.
A dynamical mass for GJ 463 b: A massive super-Jupiter companion beyond the snow line of a nearby M dwarf
Authors: Sozzetti A.
Published: January 2023

We determined the full orbital architecture and true mass of the recently Doppler-detected long-period giant planet GJ 463 b using the HIPPARCOS-Gaia proper motion anomaly in combination with the available radial velocities, constraints from the knowledge of the spectroscopic orbital parameters, and supplementary information from a sensitivity analysis of Gaia Data Release 3 astrometry. We determined an orbital inclination ib = 152−3+2 deg (for a prograde orbit) and a mass ratio q = 0.0070 ± 0.0007, corresponding to a true mass of the companion Mb = 3.6 ± 0.4 MJup. True mass determinations for a super-Jupiter companion at intermediate orbital separations beyond the snow line around low-mass stars (M⋆ ≤ 0.5 M⊙) are a rare occurrence. Its existence is possibly explained in the context of disk-instability models of planet formation.
Does surgical removal of mandibular third molar influence the periodontal status of the adjacent second molars? A systematic review
Authors: Ménager Lélia , Ruperto Maxime , Fricain Jean-Christophe , Catros Sylvain , Fénelon Mathilde
Published: January 2023

Objective:This study aimed to assess the influence of mandibular third molar surgical removal on the periodontal status of adjacent second molars and to investigate the potential impact of the flap design.Methods:A systematic review of the literature, registered in PROSPERO, has been carried out from Pubmed and Scopus databases following PRISMA guidelines from January 2010 to January 2022. PICO method was used to select the relevant articles. Studies comparing the periodontal status of the second molar before and after mandibular third molar removal were considered.Results:Twenty-three studies involving 1067 patients were included. The two main parameters studied were periodontal pocket depth and clinical attachment level. The envelope flap and the triangular flap were the most commonly used flap techniques. Periodontal health of adjacent second molar was maintained or improved in most of the included studies. The flap design did not seem to have a significant influence either.Conclusion:Avulsion of impacted third molar in healthy young adults does not impair the periodontal health of adjacent second molars. Further studies, with higher levels of evidence, are needed to confirm these results and to identify possible risk factors (such as age, impaction depth or periodontal disease) responsible for poorer healing.
Allgemeinmedizinische und hausärztliche Aspekte im
Koalitionsvertrag 2021
Authors: Nohl-Deryk Pascal , Scherer Martin
Published: January 2023

Einleitung Die bundesweite hausärztliche
Behandlungskapazität ist in der vergangenen Legislaturperiode gesunken.
In der Legislaturperiode ab 2021 droht sich dieser Trend fortzusetzen. Der
Sachverständigenrat Gesundheit sieht bis zur nächsten
Bundestagswahl 2025 einen Ersatzbedarf von mehr als 26.000 Hausärzten.
Daraus ergibt sich ein politischer Handlungsbedarf zur Sicherung der
hausärztlichen Versorgung.

Methodik Es erfolgte eine Inhaltsanalyse des Koalitionsvertrag 2021
zwischen SPD, Grünen und FDP in Bezug auf explizite und verwandte
Themenbereiche der hausärztlichen Versorgung. Mit einer gemischt
induktiven-deduktiven Einordnung der eingeschlossenen Textstellen erfolgte eine
thematische Strukturierung der Ergebnisse.

Ergebnisse Insgesamt wurden 34 relevante Textstellen zwischen den Seiten 8
bis 139 des Koalitionsvertrages identifiziert. Die hausärztliche
Versorgung wird nur einmal explizit angesprochen als es um die geplante
Aufhebung der Budgetierung geht. Weitere Vorhaben die die hausärztliche
Tätigkeit direkt betreffen umfassen Bürokratieabbau,
Präventionsmaßnahmen, sowie den vereinfachten medizinischen
Zugang für bisher benachteiligte Patientengruppen. Weitere Passagen im
Koalitionsvertrag betreffen die Versorgungssicherheit im Gesundheitswesen, inkl.
Bedarfsplanung, innovativer Gesundheitsmodelle, sowie
sektorenübergreifende Versorgung. Ein Schwerpunkt des
Koalitionsvertrages liegt im Themenfeld Digitalisierung. Dabei werden neben
IT-Grundlagen, auch eine Digitalisierungsstrategie im Gesundheitswesen,
telemedizinische Leistungen, sowie die elektronische Patientenakte inkl. opt-out
erwähnt. Weitere Textstellen umfassen Vorhaben zur Erleichterung von
Forschung oder Klimawandel und Gesundheit.

Schlussfolgerung Trotz fehlender Erwähnung von
Hausärztinnen und Hausärzten im Koalitionsvertrag betreffen
viele Vorhaben die hausärztliche Arbeit. Einige der erwähnten
Ideen hat auch die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Allgemeinmedizin und
Familienmedizin (DEGAM) schon in ihren Positionen zur Zukunft der
Allgemeinmedizin, Digitalisierung oder Klimawandel und Gesundheit
aufgeschrieben. Die geplanten Vorhaben im Koalitionsvertrag haben das Potential
die hausärztliche Versorgung zu stärken und auch für
Nachwuchs attraktiver zu machen. Um kurz- und auch langfristig aber die
hausärztliche Versorgung aufrechtzuerhalten könnten weitere
Maßnahmen notwendig sein.
One-Pot Carbon-Chain Extension for Nervonic/Carboxylic Acid Synthesis with the Assistance of Microwaves and Lithium Chloride
Authors: Yi Bingqing , Zhao Guodong , Lei Haimin , Wang Cheng , Su Jin , Li Yimeng , Gao Shengfang , Huo Xiaojie
Published: January 2023

A mild, green, and convenient synthesis of nervonic acid was developed through a one-pot carbon-chain extension with the assistance of microwaves and lithium chloride (55% total yield); this is preferable to a previous six-step method (10% total yield). Compared with the previous lengthy refluxing process (>80 hours) with corrosive reagents, which furnished a mixture of cis- and trans-isomers, this efficient microwave protocol was more than a hundred times faster and was free of configurational isomerization. Notably, LiCl played a dual role in a Krapcho decarboxylation and subsequent ester hydrolysis under neutral conditions that replace the corrosive saponification in the previously reported one-pot method. Finally, this mild and efficient protocol was successfully applied to various carboxylic acids, including natural products, verifying its wide utility, easy operations, and attractive properties in organic synthesis.
Transition-Metal-Free Dehydrogenative Cyclization via α-Csp3–H Activation of Ethers and Thioethers
Authors: Jana Ranjan , Manna Kartic , Begam Hasina Mamataj
Published: January 2023

We report herein the tetraethylammonium bromide catalyzed intramolecular oxidative cyclization of O- or S-alkylated salicylic or thiosalicylic acid derivatives to access 4H-benzo[d][1,3]dioxin-4-ones or 4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxathiin-4-ones, respectively. The oxidative cyclization of salicylic acid derivatives proceeds through a radical pathway at 110 °C. In contrast, the cyclization of the thiosalicylic acids proceeds smoothly at room temperature via an ionic pathway. Notably, the overall reactions are fast, completed within short reaction times, furnishing the products in high yields and with smooth formation of quaternary carbon centers.
Use of CEUS for Imaging Evaluation of Pediatric Peritonsillar Abscess
Authors: Tüchert Stefanie Eliane , Vollert Kurt , Schuster Tobias , Kröncke Thomas
Published: January 2023

Purpose Peritonsillar abscess can be diagnosed by B-mode ultrasound and cross-sectional imaging. The latter (with MRI being the modality of first choice in children) is associated with higher effort and risk for pediatric patients due to the administration of X-rays and/or the need of sedation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether the introduction of CEUS into the diagnostic algorithm for suspected pediatric peritonsillar abscess is suitable and advantageous.

Materials and methods Single-institution retrospective review of data of pediatric patients who were presented to the department of pediatric radiology for sonographic evaluation under the suspicion of peritonsillar abscess. Diagnostic performance of CEUS was evaluated by using surgical exploration or clinical follow-up as the reference standard.

Results 284 children included in the study underwent B-mode ultrasound. Mean age of all patients was 6,23 years. Peritonsillar abscess was the diagnosis in 42 patients. Diagnosis of peritonsillar abscess was made by B-mode ultrasound alone in 13 of 42 patients (31 %). In 17 of 42 patients (40 %), diagnosis was made by a combination of B-mode ultrasound and CEUS. Sensitivity rose from 37 % to 86 % in cases where B-mode ultrasound remained unclear and CEUS was used.

Conclusion Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is suitable and efficient for the diagnosis of peritonsillar abscess in pediatric patients. It increases the sensitivity for the diagnosis of peritonsillar abscess and thereby reduces the need of additional cross-sectional imaging for the pediatric patients.
Aryl Triflates in Phosphorus-Directed Rhodium(III)-Catalyzed C–H Activation
Authors: Roger Julien , Hierso Jean-Cyrille , Sire Charline , Tsivery Anthonia , Cattey Hélène
Published: January 2023

Aryl triflates are selected as suitable electrophile coupling partners for the phosphorus-directed rhodium(III)-catalyzed direct C–H arylation of polyaromatic phosphines. We report herein simple conditions for the peri-C–H functionalization of polyarylphosphines, where a [Rh(III)Cl2Cp*]2 precatalyst is employed to provide a convenient access to polyarylated phosphines in up to 93% isolated yield. This synthetic approach tolerates a wide range of different aryl trifluoromethylsulfonate derivatives bearing either electron-donating (COMe, CN, CF3 or Cl) or electron-withdrawing substituents (Me, OMe) at the para-, meta- and ortho-positions, and includes bulky polyaromatic triflate substrates. We further describe access to a large class of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon phosphine ligands, their oxidized derivatives (i.e., their oxides and selenides), their coordination modes with Au(I) and Cu(I) coinage metal salts, and their use as efficient ligands for the atom-economic, gold-catalyzed oxidative cyclization of terminal alkynes with nitriles.
Fatigue-induced Alterations of the Patellar Tendon in Elite Sprint
Track Cyclists
Authors: Klich Sebastian , Michalik Kamil , Rajca Jolanta , Ficek Krzysztof , Fernández-de-las-Peñas Cesar , Kawczynski Adam , Madeleine Pascal
Published: January 2023

This study aims to investigate morphological and mechanical properties and
echogenicity of the patellar tendon (PT) after acute fatigue-induced alterations
in sprint track cyclists. Fourteen elite track cyclists participated in this
study. The exercise protocol consisted of three maximal start accelerations
(over a distance of 62.5 m), one maximal start acceleration (at both
125 m and 250 m), and sprints from the standing start.
Immediately after testing all measurements, PT stiffness and thickness were set
at 5–10–15–20 mm distal from the apex of the
patella and 5–10 mm proximal to the tibial tuberosity. CSA was
set at proximal, middle, and distal, while echogenicity was at proximal and
distal points. The results showed significant increases in PT stiffness at all
reference points after start acceleration (p<0.001). PT thickness showed
similar results for stiffness, except for location placed at TT-5
(p<0.001). CSA increased significantly in proximal, middle, and distal
regions (p<0.001), while echogenicity of the tendon increased in
proximal and distal regions (p<0.001) after start acceleration.
Regional-dependent alterations of PT thickness and stiffness may be related to
anatomical and physiological mechanisms due to acute isometric contraction in
the initial phase of standing start. Tendon echogenicity might be also useful in
monitoring tendon mechanical properties and defining acute fatigue-induced
changes.
Investigating the Effects of Chordoma Cell-Derived Exosomes on the Tumorigenicity of Nucleus Pulposus Cells
Authors: Aydemir Esra , Yılmaz Nur Zübeyda , Bayrak Ömer Faruk , Sahin Fikrettin
Published: January 2023

Objective Interaction of tumor cells with the surrounding environment is essential for tumor growth and progression that eventually leads to metastasis. Growing evidence shows that extracellular vesicles also known as exosomes play a crucial role in signaling between the tumor and its microenvironment. Tumor-derived exosomes have generally protumorigenic effects such as metastasis, hypoxia, angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition.

Methods In this study, exosomes were isolated from a chordoma cell line, MUG-Chor1, and characterized subsequently. The number of exosomes was determined and introduced into the healthy nucleus pulposus (NP) cells for 140 days. The protumorigenic effects of a chordoma cell line-derived exosomes that initiate the tumorigenesis on NP cells were investigated. The impact of tumor-derived exosomes on various cellular events including cell cycle, migration, proliferation, apoptosis, and viability has been studied by treating NP cells with chordoma cell-line-derived exosomes cells.

Results Upon treatment with exosomes, the NP cells not only gained a chordoma-like morphology but also molecular characteristics such as alterations in the levels of certain gene expressions. The migratory and angiogenic capabilities of NP cells increased after treatment with chordoma-derived exosomes.

Conclusion Based on our findings, we can conclude that exosomes carry information from tumor cells and may exert tumorigenic effects on nontumorous cells.
Anatomical Step-by-Step Dissection of Midline Suboccipital Approaches to the Fourth Ventricle for Trainees: Surgical Anatomy of the Telovelar, Transvermian, and Superior Transvelar Routes, Surgical Principles, and Illustrative Cases
Authors: Dang Danielle D. , Rechberger Julian S. , Leonel Luciano C.P.C. , Hallak Hana , Graepel Stephen , Link Michael J. , Daniels David J. , Peris-Celda Maria
Published: January 2023

Introduction Safe, effective access to the fourth ventricle for oncologic resection remains challenging given the depth of location, restricted posterior fossa boundaries, and surrounding eloquent neuroanatomy. Despite description in the literature, a practical step-by step dissection guide of the suboccipital approaches to the fourth ventricle targeted to all training levels is lacking.

Methods Two formalin-fixed, latex-injected specimens were dissected under microscopic magnification and endoscopic visualization. Dissections of the telovelar, transvermian, and supracerebellar infratentorial-superior transvelar approaches were performed by one neurosurgery resident (D.D.D.), under guidance of senior authors. The dissections were supplemented with representative clinical cases to highlight pertinent surgical principles.

Results The telovelar and transvermian corridors afford excellent access to the caudal two-thirds of the fourth ventricle with the former approach offering expanded access to the lateral recess, foramen of Luschka, adjacent skull base, and cerebellopontine angle. The supracerebellar infratentorial-superior transvelar approach reaches the rostral third of the fourth ventricle, the cerebral aqueduct, and dorsal mesencephalon. Key steps described include positioning and skin incision, myofascial dissection, burr hole and craniotomy, durotomy, the aforementioned transventricular routes, and identification of relevant skull base landmarks.

Conclusion The midline suboccipital craniotomy represents a foundational cranial approach, particularly for lesions involving the fourth ventricle. Operatively oriented resources that combine stepwise neuroanatomic dissections with representative cases provide a crucial foundation for neurosurgical training. We present a comprehensive guide for trainees in the surgical anatomy laboratory to optimize familiarity with fourth ventricle approaches, mastery of relevant microsurgical anatomy, and simultaneous preparation for learning in the operating room.
Trifluoroethanol-Mediated Cyclization of Two-Carbon-Tethered Epoxide–N-Boc Pairs: Completely Regioselective Synthesis of 3,6-Disubstituted 1,3-Oxazinan-2-ones
Authors: Das Sajal Kumar , Das Jonali , Chouhan Raju , Borgohain Hemi , Borah Biraj Jyoti
Published: January 2023

The regio- and diastereoselective construction of biologically relevant cyclic carbamates under operationally simple and mild transition-metal-free conditions is challenging and has led to a demand for efficient methods for their synthesis. The intramolecular ring-opening cyclization of N-Boc-tethered epoxides leading to the formation of cyclic carbamates is equipped with many favorable synthetic features, including easy accessibility of starting materials in a stereodefined form, high diversification points in the substrates, and a favorable entropy factor. However, its use in the construction of 1,3-oxazinan-2-ones remains largely neglected. Specifically, prior to 2020, only few 1,3-oxazinan-2-ones were successfully synthesized using this strategy. Moreover, our very own recent attempt to access these heterocycles using one-carbon-tethered N-Boc–epoxide pairs was met with little success as the process furnished either only 1,3-oxazolidin-2-ones or nearly equal amounts of 1,3-oxazolidin-2-ones and 1,3-oxazinan-2-ones. Herein, we demonstrate that when the epoxide and N-Boc moieties are connected by a two-carbon tether, the cyclization could deliver 1,3-oxazinan-2-ones containing vicinal stereocenters, as sole regioisomers and diastereomers in high yields (up to 95% yield), irrespective of whether the distal epoxide substituent is alkyl or aryl, or the epoxide is cis- or trans-configured.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Diazobicyclic Oxadiazines via Organocatalytic [3+3]-Cycloaddition of γ-Hydroxy-α,β-Unsaturated Carbonyls with N,N′-Cyclic Azomethine Imines
Authors: Kim Sung-Gon , Kang Sung Hyun , Park Byung Jun
Published: January 2023

A diastereo- and enantioselective synthesis of diazobicyclic oxadiazines was developed through an organocatalytic cycloaddition reaction. Asymmetric catalytic [3+3]-cycloaddition of γ-hydroxy-α,β-unsaturated carbonyls with N,N′-cyclic azomethine imines, using a squaramide-based catalyst, provided biologically important enantioenriched diazobicyclic oxadiazines in good yields with moderate to high diastereo- and enantioselectivities (up to 10:1 dr and 79:21 er).
Synthesis of N–C Fused Bicyclic 1,3,5-Triazinane-2,4-dione Derivatives from Saturated Ring-Fused Urazoles
Authors: Manjunath Bhanu N. , Panga Subhaskar R. , Hall Roger G. , Shyadligeri Ashok , Shete Shrikant A.
Published: January 2023

A synthesis of novel bicyclic 1,3,5-triazinane-2,4-diones has been accomplished through base-promoted fragmentation followed by cyclization. Various saturated ring-fused bicyclic urazoles were prepared by two complementary methods: by the reaction of N,N′-bis(2-chloroethyl)urazoles with various nucleophiles or by using 4-substituted urazoles and dibromoalkanes. Treatment of these symmetrical urazole derivatives with LDA at –78 °C to 25 °C resulted in fragmentation of the N–N bond to form an imine that underwent intramolecular cyclization, resulting in moderate yields of nonsymmetric heterocycle derivatives with an asymmetric (racemic) center and various ring sizes. The utility of these transformations was extended to syntheses of a tricyclic system and bicyclic systems containing additional heteroatoms.
A Cyclobutanol Ring-Expansion Approach to Oxygenated Carbazoles: Total Synthesis of Glycoborine, Carbazomycin A and Carbazomycin B
Authors: Parsons Philip J. , Natho Philipp , Allen Lewis A. T.
Published: January 2023

The transition-metal-free total syntheses of the oxygenated carbazole natural products glycoborine, carbazomycin A and carbazomycin B are reported. The key step involves an NBS-mediated cyclobutanol ring expansion to 4-tetralones for the preparation of the tricyclic carbazole core.
Influence of Kirschner-Wire Insertion Angle on Construct Biomechanics following Tibial Tuberosity Osteotomy Fixation in Dogs
Authors: Hawbecker Tyler J. , Duffy Daniel J. , Chang Yi-Jen , Moore George E.
Published: January 2023

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Kirschner wire insertion angle on the biomechanical characteristics following tibial tuberosity osteotomy fixation in dogs.

Study Design Twelve pairs of cadaveric tibia were harvested and randomly assigned to two treatment groups. Kirschner wires were placed either transversely (0 degrees) or placed caudodistally (30 degrees) with respect to the tibial tuberosity osteotomy. Each limb acted as its own respective control. Radiographic analysis allowed for the calculation of Kirschner wire insertion angle variance. Constructs were tested to monotonic failure while evaluating yield, peak, and failure forces, construct stiffness, and failure mode.

Results Kirschner wire insertion angles were 1.1 ± 2.2 degrees and 30.5 ± 2.3 degrees, respectively, for 0-degree and 30-degree groups (p <0.0001). Yield (p = 0.0095), peak (p <0.024) and failure loads (p <0.030) were all significantly greater for Kirschner wires inserted at an angle of 0 degrees compared with 30 degrees. Construct stiffness did not differ regardless of insertion angle (p = 0.068). Failure mode did not differ (p = 0.87) with tibial tuberosity avulsion and Kirschner wire pull-out seen in the majority of constructs (67%).

Conclusion Kirschner wires placed transversely (0 degrees) for tibial tuberosity osteotomy fixation were biomechanically superior, increasing yield, peak, and failure forces by 1.6 times, 1.3 times, and 1.4 times, respectively, to those placed in a caudodistal (30 degrees) orientation. Kirschner wire insertion angle is an important consideration following tibial tuberosity osteotomy in dogs, with Kirschner wires placed at 0 degrees conferring increased resistance of the repair to construct deformation.
Challenging Cases in Neuroimmunology
Authors: Shah Anna A. , Wolf Andrew B. , Declusin Anthony , Coleman Kyle , Kammeyer Ryan , Khan Baber , Corboy John R.
Published: January 2023

Neuroimmunology is rapidly evolving field extending from well-known, but incompletely understood conditions like multiple sclerosis, to novel antibody-mediated disorders, of which dozens have been described in the past 10 years. The ongoing expansion in knowledge needed to effectively diagnose and treat these patients presents myriad challenges for clinicians. Here, we discuss six informative cases from our institution. By highlighting these challenging cases, we hope to instill fundamental points on the nuances of diagnosis and management for conditions including tumefactive multiple sclerosis, antibody-mediated encephalitis, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, neuromyelitis optica, and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein IgG–associated disease.
Acetazolamide, Short Bed Rest, and Subfascial Off-Suction Drainage in Preventing Persistent Spinal Fluid Leaks from Incidental Dural Tears
Authors: AbdelFatah Mohamed A.R.
Published: January 2023

Background Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak might occur after the repair of dural tears. Acetazolamide lowers intradural pressure by decreasing CSF production. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of persistent CSF leak from incidental dural tears after using acetazolamide, short bed rest, and subfascial off-suction drainage.

Methods The medical records at the Ain Shams University hospital were examined retrospectively for this descriptive single-arm cohort study. Adult patients who underwent lumbar degenerative spine surgery from January 2011 through January 2021 were enrolled. The included patients experienced a CSF leak and were administered acetazolamide 1.5 g/d from postoperative day (POD) 1 to POD 7. Subfascial drainage was kept for a maximum of 5 days without suction.

Results Seventy-four patients met the inclusion criteria of the study. Fifty-nine patients (79.7%) had recurrent lumbar surgery. The average age of the patients was 55.7 years. In all patients, the quantity of fluid in the drain decreased on a daily basis. The subfascial drain was kept for 5 days in 26 patients (35.1%). There was no wound infection, collection, or persistent CSF leakage in any of the patients over the 6-month follow-up period.

Conclusions In this study, acetazolamide was well tolerated by the patients and, in addition to short bed rest (72 hours) and off-suction subfascial drainage, did not result in persistent CSF leakage in any patient. A prospective placebo-controlled study is beneficial to confirm the efficacy of acetazolamide in preventing CSF leakage.
Geospatial Distribution of Fluoride and Iron in Natural Water Sources in Mangalore City
Authors: Kushalan Sharanya , Kashyap Anusha , Morajkar Shaiesh , Hegde Smitha
Published: January 2023

Water is the most essential substance that supports life on earth. Animals and plants require water for their survival. Since water is being lost or used by our body, it is essential to replace it constantly. Humans need clean, potable water for consumption and to meet their daily hygiene needs. However, increased anthropogenic activities have caused a drastic increase in heavy metals in fresh waters. Heavy metals interfere with the normal physiology of the human body. It binds to cellular components, leading to dysfunction of the metabolic processes in our body. This study was undertaken to study the geospatial distribution of selected heavy metals in open-well waters within Mangalore City Corporation limits. Mangalore is perched strategically on the path of rapid development, heading toward becoming a smart city in India. Water samples were collected from all 60 wards in the jurisdiction of Mangalore City Corporation. The fluoride concentration was estimated using the spectrophotometric method using the Sodium 2-(parasulfophenylazo)-1,8-dihydroxy3,6-naphthalene disulfonate (SPADNS) reagent. Similarly, iron was estimated using the phenanthroline reagent. The findings report that the pH of the samples was acidic in 20 wards. Panambur, Kunjathbail North, Mannagudda, Court and Cantonment water was colored. Kunjathbail (North), Kunjathbail (South), Kambala, Kadri North, Bendoor, Bolar, Mannagudda, and Markada, showed high turbidity levels. The fluoride concentration in the samples collected from 60 wards of Mangalore city was less than 1.5 ppm, which is the permissible limit by the World Health Organization. Iron is within the permissible limit except for the wards Court and Boloor, which showed an iron concentration of 0.4 ppm and 3.08 ppm, respectively. However, arsenic was not detected in any of the 180 samples collected from the 60 wards of Mangalore City Corporation.
The Effect of Location of a Unicortical Defect on the Mechanical Properties of Rabbit Tibiae: A Model of the Distal Jig Pin Hole in Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy
Authors: Lloyd Max J. , Wills Daniel J. , Crowley James D. , Wang Tian , Tan Christopher J. , Walsh William R.
Published: January 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a unicortical defect at either the mid-diaphysis (MD) or distal metaphysis (DM) on the torsional properties of tibiae in an in vitro rabbit model, and to further examine optimal distal jig pin position for the canine tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) procedure.

Study Design Thirty-eight tibiae from 19 skeletally mature female New Zealand White rabbits were assigned to one of three groups; Group 1: intact, Group 2: MD defect and Group 3: DM defect. Defects were created using a 1.6 mm Ellis pin. Pure torsion was applied to each sample and peak torque and angular displacement recorded.

Results All tibiae fractured in a spiral configuration. Fracture lines involved the defect in 33% of the MD samples and 0% of the DM samples. No differences were detected for peak torque and stiffness between groups. However, energy (mean ± standard deviation) was significantly reduced (p = 0.028) in the MD group (0.18 ± 0.07) relative to the intact tibia group (0.31 ± 0.14). Angle was also significantly reduced (p = 0.040) in the MD group (0.17 ± 0.05) compared with the intact group (0.23 ± 0.07). Placement of a DM defect had no significant effect on mechanical properties of the rabbit tibiae.

Conclusion Defects placed in the MD significantly reduced energy and angle in comparison to intact samples. No significant difference in peak torque or stiffness was observed between groups. If canine tibiae were similarly affected, our findings suggest jig pin placement in the DM to have a lesser effect on the torsional properties of the tibiae.
Practical Considerations of Perioperative Assessment and Optimization in Major Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Hawkins Alexander T. , McEvoy Matthew D.
Published: January 2023

Successful outcomes after colorectal surgery result not only from technique in the operating room, but also from optimization of the patient prior to surgery. This article will discuss the role of preoperative assessment and optimization in the colorectal surgery patient. Through discussion of the various clinical models, readers will understand the range of options available for optimization. This study will also present information on how to design a preoperative clinic and the barriers to success.
The role of social capital in subjective quality of life
Authors: Imbulana Arachchi Janaki , Managi Shunsuke
Published: January 2023

This paper investigates the role of social capital (SC) in subjective quality of life to address the limitations of existing observable indicators as evidence for public policy. We use a large-scale survey of 100,956 respondents across 37 countries, including both developed and less developed countries. The empirical results suggest that higher SC is more strongly associated with better subjective health and higher satisfaction in low-income countries than in high-income countries. Moreover, while low-income countries show a lower level of perceived economic inequality at the community level with higher SC, high-income countries present a higher level. We further find that higher levels of educational attainment increase the perception of economic inequality and that this impact decreases with SC. Enhancing SC may lead to improved quality of life in most low-income countries, and lifestyle and cultural factors also play a crucial role. These findings indicate that noneconomic factors underpin better lives, and further research is needed to address the social aspects of life.
Stochastic decoherence induced by polarization mode dispersion
Authors: Liu Yiwen
Published: January 2023

We address the propagation of entanglement in fibers and investigate the decoherence of polarization-entangled photon pairs caused by polarization mode dispersion (PMD). We devise a decoherence model starting from the statistical properties of polarization mode dispersion and obtain the density matrix describing initially maximally entangled states at any time. Using these results, we derive how decoherence depends on the length of the fibers. We calculate the mean concurrence of the entangled states with PMD effects as a function of fiber length, bandwidth, and other parameters in different cases.
Strong traveling wave solutions for a nonlocal diffusive susceptible–infectious–recovered model with spatiotemporal delay
Authors: Zhang Ran , Zhao Hongyong
Published: January 2023

In general, a Lyapunov functional is one of the main approaches to show the existence of strong traveling wave solutions. However, introducing a spatiotemporal delay into a nonlocal diffusive epidemic model will bring great difficulties to the construction of a Lyapunov functional. In this paper, a new Lyapunov functional will be constructed to solve the problem of strong traveling wave solutions for a nonlocal diffusive SIR model with a spatiotemporal delay. Our results improve some known results in Wu et al. [J. Math. Phys. 61, 061512 (2020)] and Yang et al. [Appl. Anal. (in press)] by removing an a priori condition.
Machine learning of an implicit solvent for dynamic Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Checkervarty Ankush , Sommer Jens-Uwe , Werner Marco
Published: January 2023

The Bond Fluctuation Model (BFM) is a highly efficient and versatile method for simulating polymers, membranes, and soft matter. Due to its coarse-grained nature, the BFM is employed to understand the universal properties of polymers. Solvent effects are often mediated by explicit solvent particles, while implicit solvent models have had limited use as they may lead to frozen states and, thus, ergodicity-related problems. In simulation setups, such as coagulated multiple homopolymers chains, explicit solvent models are computationally expensive because the region of interest can be localized in a small space compared to the dimension of the periodic box. We introduce an implicit solvent model based on an artificial neural network (NN) that was trained with BFM simulation data for single homopolymers in an explicit solvent. We demonstrate that NN-based simulations that take into account only the information of the local environment of monomers reproduce the expected universal macroscopic properties of the polymer under varying solvent conditions. The homopolymer chains simulated using the NN reproduce the coil–globule transition, the static and dynamic bond autocorrelation, and the mean square displacement of chain monomers. We show that the learned parameters from a single chain system can be transferred to a system containing multiple homopolymers, indicating that the learned parameters are transferable to considerably different systems.
Tutorial: Modeling of the extraction and acceleration of negative ions from plasma sources using particle-based methods
Authors: Garrigues L. , Fubiani G.
Published: January 2023

In this Tutorial, we consider plasma sources with applications to fusion devices and high energy accelerators. These ion sources typically produce negative ions from hydrogen-isotope gases, which are extracted through one or multiple apertures and accelerated to high kinetic energies. Next, they are either double stripped of two electrons to form positive ions used as precursors in accelerator devices or neutralized to produce a neutral beam injected in tokamak reactors. Contrary to the working conditions of most ion sources where volume production prevails, the mechanism of negative ion production by dissociative electron attachment on vibrationally excited molecules inside the plasma volume of fusion-type hydrogen-fueled high power discharges is mostly balanced by their destruction by detachment before being extracted rendering this means of producing negative ions rather inefficient. Surface production through the transfer of electrons from low work function metallic materials to the impacting atoms is the alternative solution to fulfill the requirements for the applications concerned. Negative ions are produced close to the aperture from which they are extracted. As a result, the analysis and understanding of the extraction mechanisms through experimental diagnostics is rather difficult due to the lack of accessibility and can only give a partial view. In addition, most of the experimental work is focused on the validation of requirements for the applications and not to the investigation of the fundamental processes that take place inside these types of sources. This Tutorial is focused on the description and understanding of the physical mechanisms behind the extraction and acceleration of negative ions from hydrogen plasma sources through modeling methods. We describe the numerical techniques of particle-based methods with a specific emphasis on particle-in-cell Monte Carlo collision algorithms. An analysis of the physical processes involved in driving the negative ions from the plasma source, across the apertures and inside the accelerator as reported in the literature, is presented in detail. This Tutorial concludes with additional and future works to be addressed in the coming years.
Dynamic correlations in lipid bilayer membranes over finite time intervals
Authors: Schoch Rafael L. , Haran Gilad , Brown Frank L. H.
Published: January 2023

Recent single-molecule measurements [Schoch et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 118, e2113202118 (2021)] have observed dynamic lipid–lipid correlations in membranes with submicrometer spatial resolution and submillisecond temporal resolution. While short from an instrumentation standpoint, these length and time scales remain long compared to microscopic molecular motions. Theoretical expressions are derived to infer experimentally measurable correlations from the two-body diffusion matrix appropriate for membrane-bound bodies coupled by hydrodynamic interactions. The temporal (and associated spatial) averaging resulting from finite acquisition times has the effect of washing out correlations as compared to naive predictions (i.e., the bare elements of the diffusion matrix), which would be expected to hold for instantaneous measurements. The theoretical predictions are shown to be in excellent agreement with Brownian dynamics simulations of experimental measurements. Numerical results suggest that the experimental measurement of membrane protein diffusion, in complement to lipid diffusion measurements, might help to resolve the experimental ambiguities encountered for certain black lipid membranes.
Optimization of overshoot in the pulsed radio frequency inductively coupled argon plasma by step waveform modulation
Authors: Lv Xiang-Yun , Zhang Quan-Zhi , Jiang Ke , Gao Fei , Wang You-Nian
Published: January 2023

The pulsed inductively coupled plasma (ICP) has considerable potential to satisfy multiple stringent scaling requirements for use in the semiconductor industry. However, overshoot of plasma parameters during the rising period of the pulse affects the stability and uniformity of the plasma and can lead to a breakdown of the wafer and over-sputtering of the film. In this study, a step waveform modulation method is used to reduce the overshoot at the initial stage of the pulse. The behavior of the discharge is monitored by measuring (i) the modulated step waveform signal on the function generator, (ii) the input power (by a time-resolved VI-probe), and (iii) the amplitudes of the coil voltage and current (by voltage and current probes, respectively), as well as (iv) the plasma parameters including the electron density, the effective electron temperature, and the electron energy probability distribution function (by a time-resolved Langmuir probe). It was found that the state of the plasma can be controlled by changing the waveform, such as varying the time of the rising edge, varying the initial amplitude, and varying the duration of the low-high amplitude. The results indicated that the overshoot value of the electron density can be reduced by using a low-high step waveform. When the amplitude of the waveform was 500/550 mV and the duration was 200/300 μs, the overshoot value observed was 1/4 of that of the conventional ICP pulse discharge. In addition, increasing the duty cycle of the pulse could also reduce the overshoot value due to the high electron density that occurs during the afterglow period. Moreover, the plasma can reach a steady state more quickly at high pressure by using a step waveform of high amplitude.
Tuned band offset in homogenous TMDs via asymmetric ferroelectric semiconductor gates toward simultaneous rectification and memory
Authors: Jiang Yurong , Zhao Yu , Wang Ruiqi , Su Jian , Song Xiaohui , Yan Yong , Li Xueping , Kou Liangzhi , Xia Congxin
Published: January 2023

Band alignment engineering is crucial and feasible to enrich the functionalities of van der Waals heterojunctions (vdWHs) for rectifying functions in next-generation information storage technologies. However, band alignment tunability is volatile as it needs a sustained external field to maintain the Femi level of single components, which hinders the implementation of nonvolatile functions. Here, the ferroelectric semiconducting nature of alpha-In2Se3 is utilized to design vdWHs based on two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs)/alpha-In2Se3, where TMDs are used as the channel, and the ferroelectric semiconductor alpha-In2Se3 is assembled as an asymmetric gate. A density functional theory validates that the band offset in a homogeneous TMDs channel is tuned by coupling the effect of the semiconducting nature and asymmetric ferroelectric gate of alpha-In2Se3, which induces simultaneous rectifying and memory functions. This includes a programmable rectifying ratio of up to 104, ultra-large memory window (110 V), programming/erasing of 104, and good endurance. The tuned band offset from the asymmetric ferroelectric semiconductor gate is conceptualized as a guideline to realize a simultaneous rectifying and memory device with high programmability.