bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychomotor and Cognitive Outcome in Very Preterm Infants in Vorarlberg, Austria, 2007–2019
Authors: Jenni Fabio , Konzett Karin , Gang Stefanie , Sparr Verena , Simma Burkhard
Published: February 2024

Aim The aim of this study was to analyze neurodevelopmental outcome of very and extremely preterm infants in Vorarlberg, Austria, accessed with neurodevelopmental testing, at the corrected age of 24 months. This article also compared these results with (inter)national data and analyzed the impact of perinatal parameters.

Methods Population-based, retrospective multicenter study with data on very and extremely preterm infants born in Vorarlberg from 2007 to 2019 assessed with Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID-II/Bayley-III).

Results Included were 264 infants with a mean age of 29.0 (± 2.1) weeks of gestational age and a mean birth weight of 1177 (± 328.26) g; 172 infants underwent a BSID-II, 92 a Bayley-III assessment. The psychomotor developmental index (PDI) and mental developmental index (MDI) showed mean scores of 99.6 (± 14.4) and 91 (± 20.4), respectively. Adverse outcomes (scores <70) were assessed in 4.2% for PDI and 15.5% for MDI. In the extremely preterm group (n = 79), results for mean PDI were 100.1 (± 16.8) and for mean MDI 88.4 (± 22.4). Accordingly, adverse outcomes were assessed in 5.1% for PDI and in 20.3% for MDI. In addition to bronchopulmonary dysplasia and intraventricular hemorrhage Grade 3-4, head circumference at birth and patent ductus arteriosus were also identified as risk factors for poor outcome.

Conclusion This study showed a remarkably good neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm infants with low rates of adverse outcome, similar to (inter)national reports, especially in the group of extremely preterm infants. Research is needed to explore the role of social factors and infants' environment, especially cognitive outcome and language skills.
Systemtherapien bei metastasierten Schilddrüsenkarzinomen – ein Update
Authors: Brandenburg Tim , Machlah Yara Maria , Führer-Sakel Dagmar
Published: February 2024

Was ist neu?

Radiojodrefraktäre differenzierte Schilddrüsenkarzinome Die Wirksamkeit der Multikinase-Inhibitoren Lenvatinib und Sorafenib kann anhand von „Real-world“-Anwendungsdaten verschiedener Krebszentren weltweit gezeigt werden. Zur Behandlung des fortgeschrittenen rrDTC (radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer) steht Cabozantinib als Zweitlinienpräparat nach Progress unter Lenvatinib und/oder Sorafenib zur Verfügung. Bislang zeigte sich weiter eine geringe Wahrscheinlichkeit, dass eine medikamentöse Vorbehandlung zu einer Redifferenzierung mit anschließender erfolgreicher Radiojodtherapie führt. Eine aktuelle französische Studie berichtet hingegen von erfolgreicher Redifferenzierung bei bis zu 95% (20/21) der Patienten mit rrDTC.

Medulläres Schilddrüsenkarzinom Basierend auf einer erfolgten Beobachtungsstudie und einer Neubewertung der ZETA-Studie erfolgte eine Zulassungsänderung für Vandetanib. Die Indikation besteht seit Januar 2023 nur noch beim aggressiven, fortgeschrittenen medullären Schilddrüsenkarzinom mit positivem RET-Mutationsnachweis. Der selektive RET-Kinase-Inhibitor Selpercatinib steht seit 09/2022 auch in Erstlinie zur Behandlung des fortgeschrittenen RET-mutierten medullären Schilddrüsenkarzinoms zur Verfügung. Weitere „Next-Generation-Inhibitoren“ (z.B. LOXO-260) werden bereits in Phase-I-Studien getestet.

Anaplastisches Schilddrüsenkarzinom Das anaplastische Schilddrüsenkarzinom besitzt unverändert eine schlechte Prognose, obwohl einige Fortschritte in der Therapie Zuversicht geben. Von entscheidender Bedeutung sind eine schnelle molekularpathologische Evaluation von Treibermutationen, die Möglichkeit der Durchführung von Immuntherapien sowie der Zugang zu klinischen Studien.
Potassium: A Frontier in Osteoporosis
Authors: Singh Widhilika , Kushwaha Poonam
Published: February 2024

Osteoporosis is a significant public health concern, particularly in aging
populations, leading to fractures, decreased mobility, and reduced quality of
life. While calcium and vitamin D have long been recognized as essential for
bone health, emerging research suggests that potassium may play a crucial role
in maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. This manuscript
explores the relationship between potassium and osteoporosis, delving into the
mechanisms, epidemiological evidence, and potential therapeutic implications of
potassium in bone health. Furthermore, the manuscript discusses the sources of
dietary potassium, its impact on bone metabolism, and the future directions in
research and clinical practice regarding potassium’s role in
osteoporosis management.
Keloids of the Ear
Authors: Thomas P. A.
Published: February 2024

Keloids of the ear particularly lohule are suitable Tor excision. Pre-operative and post-operative irradiation helps 1o reduce the incidence of recurrence of keloid.
Cross leg Flap
Authors: Gupta V. N. , Sethi S. S.
Published: February 2024

A serics of 15 cases of cross leg ilap have been presented with the donor area from the medial surface of the leg and the anterior surface of the thigh, because of the better vascularity of these areas. An anatomical basis of the vascularity of the medial surface of leg is discussed, and the importance of the preservation: of these cutaneous branches of the posterior tibial arlery, is impressed upon.
Mid-Line Nasal Sinus (Dermoid)
Authors: Chatterji P. , Saxena R. K.
Published: February 2024

A case of median nasal sinus (dermoid) is described. A briel review of the litera tore repading its embryology, clinieal and radiological features has been given. Diflerential dingnosis and different surpical procedures have been described.
Maxillary - Osteotomy (DISH-FACE DLEFORMITY)
Authors: Sethi S. S.
Published: February 2024

A case report s given and - discussed, where a Tow maxillary advancement osteotomy is done for a malunited maxillary fracture causing dish-face deformity with malocclusion. The indications and classification of thelow maxillary osteotomy are discussed.
Effect of Cyclophosphamide (Endoxan-Asta) on Palate Development in Albino Rats
Authors: Singh Shamer , Sanyal A. K. , Singh S. P.
Published: February 2024

Single intraperitoneal injection of varying doses of Cyclophosphamide (Endoxan-Asta) was - piven (o SE pregnant albino rats of Wistar Strain during 12th through 16th days of gestation (the day of sperm positive vaginal smear designated as zero cay of pregnancy). Ten pregnant rats were used as controls where similar amount of saline was injected without the drug. Rats were sacrificed on 21st day of gestation and foetuses removed after uterotomy and examined under the dissecting microscope for presence of any Joft palate. Highly arched palate showing defective closure was observed in most of the litters where injections were given on 12th-15th days of gestation while rats injected on 16th day of gestalion showed normal palate in all the litters. Varying degrees of actual cleftin the palate was found in 27% of foetiises trealed on 12th day. 70% in those of 13th day treatment and 429, in case of 14th day group. No cleft palate was detected in the 15th & 16th day treated foetuses or in the control ones, though the 15th day treated group showed high arched palate in 100% of the foetuses. Mechanism of the production of the developmental defect has been discussed.
Parotid Duet Transfer in Dry Conjunctiva
Authors: Sharma Dr. L. K. , Bhivapurkar Dr. R.
Published: February 2024

(1) Parotid duct transfer to the conjunctival sac for dry conjunctiva is practical.

(2) Eight parotid duct transfers on five patients in 4 years period were cariied out and results are presented.

(3) The length of the duct is short by 1.5 to 2cm. for successful transfer to the conjunctival sac. The additional length may be gained by tubing the mucosal tlap to avoid undue traction on the transferred duct.

(4) Conjunctivo-antrorhinostomy seems to be the answer to relieve the patient from most troublesome complications ol excessive seerctions in conjunctival sac.
Scrotal Flap for Hypospadias Urethroplasty Fistulae
Authors: Singh Dr. Rajinder
Published: February 2024

Sixteen patients having nineteen fistulie following urcthroplasty in hypospadias are described.

The repair of fistulae at various penile sites have been donc by the transposition scrotal flap in single stage. The procedure has been detailed.

The advantages of this method are that it provides additional skin and the suture lines of the two layers do not overlap each other. Therefore, it is a principally sound single stage procedure for the repair o the big postoperative fistulac.

Follow up in this series is for the period varying from of 4 months to 5 years and all the fistulae except one were successtully closed.
Deformity of Nose in Unilateral Clefts
Authors: Khan Masood II , Sharma R. N.
Published: February 2024

The cause of the nasal deformity is the hypoplasia or agenesis of the maxilla and nothing else. If the primary cause, is treated first, the patient will have a normal nose. The other deformities are the sequelae of the primary cause that need correction later on.
Repair of Ventral Hernia by a Simplified Procedure
Authors: Singh Dr. Joginder , Bhardwaj Dr. D. N. , Singh Dr. Bholla
Published: February 2024

1) Fifty cases of ventral hernia, treated by simplified interrupted inverting suture method using cotton suture material, are reported.

2) Opening the hernia sac for adhesions, limited dissection of sheath, wide wound debridement and no provision of any drainage form main features of the procedure.

3) Haematoma, scroma and wound inifection are eliminated, though serum discharge through superficial wound gaping occurred in 8 percent cases of big hernia. Post-operative stay is minimal and no recurrence occurred on follow up.
Treatment of Congenital Rectal Fistulae Associated with Imperforate Anus in Females
Authors: Waklu A. K. , Tandon R. K.
Published: February 2024

The results of perineal proctoplasty in 10 cases of congenital low rectal fistulas associated with imperforate anus in female babies have been presented. The technique of perineal proctoplasty has been outlined with emphasis on the steps which ensure a good result.
Triple Stentriever “Bouquet” Deployment with Zoom 88 Large-Bore Aspiration and Walrus Balloon-Guide Catheter for the Definitive Thrombectomy of a Carotid Free-Floating Thrombus
Authors: Campos Jessica K. , Meyer Benjamen M. , Khan Muhammad W. , Zarrin David A. , Beaufort Jonathan C. Collard de , Amin Gizal , Lin Li-Mei , Coon Alexander L.
Published: February 2024

Formation of a carotid free-floating thrombus (CFFT) is a rare and life-threatening condition without an optimal management plan. A 78-year-old woman with a history of prior right internal carotid artery (ICA) mechanical thrombectomy and antiplatelet noncompliance presented with transient ischemic attacks secondary to a recurrent CFFT in the right ICA. Given her symptoms and recurrent CFFT, endovascular mechanical thrombectomy was performed. A balloon guide-catheter (BGC) and a Zoom 88 distal access catheter were brought into the right distal common carotid artery and proximal ICA bulb, respectively. Three 0.021-inch microcatheters, each loaded with a unique stentriever, were navigated beyond the thrombus into the upper cervical ICA and deployed in a bouquet fashion. The BGC was inflated to achieve flow arrest, and the Zoom 88 aspiration catheter was tracked over the three bouquet stentrievers to ingest the thrombus. Follow-up angiography demonstrated recanalization of the proximal cervical ICA without evidence of residual thrombus. Twenty-four-hour postoperative computed tomography imaging did not reveal any evidence of new infarction. The patient was discharged home with an intact neurological examination, compliant on aspirin and apixaban. We demonstrate a novel technique utilizing a large-bore catheter with a triple stentriever “bouquet” to thrombectomize a CFFT.
Prediction of Survival in the Elderly Patients with Glioblastoma using Cumulative Inflammatory Markers Score
Authors: Song Kun , Chen Chunjui , Xu Hao , Chen Lingchao , Xu Hongzhi , Han Xi , Chen Hong , Qin Zhiyong
Published: February 2024

Objectives This retrospective study aimed to explore the prognostic effect of cumulative score based on neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and fibrinogen in older adults diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM).

Design Retrospective study.

Setting Huashan Hospital.

Participants Patients aged over 60 years and diagnosed with GBM between 2010 and 2017.

Main Outcome Measures Results of preoperative routine biochemistry and coagulation blood examinations were reviewed from medical records. Overall survival (OS) was considered a period from first resection surgery until death. Progression-free survival (PFS) was considered a period from initial operation until the date of tumor progression demonstrated in brain magnetic resonance imaging or death from any cause. If no event occurred, the last follow-up appointment was the end of the observation for OS or PFS. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to evaluate survival curves, and prognostic factors were analyzed by the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results A total of 289 patients were included. Patients with higher levels of fibrinogen, NLR, and PLR had significantly shorter median OS (p = 0.001, p = 0.016, and p = 0.002, respectively) and PFS (p = 0.004, p = 0.022, and p = 0.009, respectively) compared with those with lower levels. Multivariate analyses showed a significant association between higher F-NLR-PLR score and reduced OS (adjusted hazard ratios [aHRs]: 1.356, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.009–1.822 for scores 1–2 compared with 0; 5.974, 95% CI 2.811–12.698 for score 3 compared with 0). Similarly, a significant association between higher F-NLR-PLR score and reduced PFS was observed (aHR: 1.428, 95% CI 1.066–1.912 for scores 1–2 compared with 0; aHR: 2.860, 95% CI 1.315–6.223 for score 3 compared with 0).

Conclusion Higher F-NLR-PLR score is associated with reduced OS and PFS in older adults with GBM, which helps identify patients at high risk and guide the individualized treatment in clinical practice.
COVID-19 Impact on Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancers at Regional Cancer Centre, Thiruvananthapuram—An Audit
Authors: Babu Geethu , Rajeev K. R. , Mathew Aleyamma , Arjunan Asha , Priya B. , Bhargavan Rexeena , Augustine Paul , Cherian Kurian , Joseph Rona , Radhakrishnan Neelima , Mathew Beela Sarah
Published: February 2024

The coronavirus pandemic has created havoc in every aspect of life including cancer care and was declared a pandemic. This audit was conducted to study the impact of the pandemic on diagnosis and treatment of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients at a tertiary cancer center in South India. A total of 1,647 patients who registered at Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India for breast cancer during the period April 1, 2020, to September 30, 2020 (COVID-19 period) as well as April 1, 2019, to September 30, 2019 (pre-COVID-19 period) were included in the study. Data regarding the geographic distribution, stage at presentation, time factors for reporting for care, diagnosis, and treatment, referral for care elsewhere were collected and analyzed. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board. Means and ranges were calculated for continuous type variables, and numbers and percentages for categorical variables. To determine whether there were significant differences between the two groups, independent t-test was used for continuous variables and chi-square test for categorical type of variables. A notable reduction (36%) in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients was seen in 2020 when compared with 2019. There was a significant difference in the geographic distribution of patients in both cohorts (p = 0.001) and a notable reduction in the number of patients reporting to RCC for treatment from the northern districts of Kerala (81%) and outside Kerala (89.5%). There was no significant difference in the time (in weeks) since symptom onset and reporting to hospital or the clinical stage at diagnosis between the groups. Also, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) did not seem to negatively impact time intervals between date of registration and pathological diagnosis or start of primary treatment. More patients received neoadjuvant systemic therapy during 2020 compared with 2019, and this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.004). There was no difference in the type of surgery (breast-conserving surgery vs. modified radical mastectomy). The results demonstrate that COVID-19 did not appear to negatively impact the diagnosis and treatment of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. However, this is largely attributable to the significantly less number of patients who registered, for whom the departments were able to maintain timely cancer care despite the difficult pandemic times. Significantly more patients received neoadjuvant systemic therapy in 2020.
Association of Cytogenetics Aberrations and IGHV Mutations with Outcome in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients in a Real-World Clinical Setting
Authors: Muñoz-Novas Carolina , González-Gascón-y-Marín Isabel , Figueroa Iñigo , Sánchez-Paz Laura , Pérez-Carretero Claudia , Quijada-Álamo Miguel , Rodríguez-Vicente Ana-Eugenia , Infante María-Stefania , Foncillas María-Ángeles , Landete Elena , Churruca Juan , Marín Karen , Ramos Victoria , Sánchez Salto Alejandro , Hernández-Rivas José-Ángel
Published: February 2024

Immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (IGHV) region mutations, TP53 mutation, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and cytogenetic analysis are the most important prognostic biomarkers used in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients in our daily practice. In real-life environment, there are scarce studies that analyze the correlation of these factors with outcome, mainly referred to time to first treatment (TTFT) and overall survival (OS). This study aimed to typify IGHV mutation status, family usage, FISH aberrations, and complex karyotype (CK) and to analyze the prognostic impact in TTFT and OS in retrospective study of 375 CLL patients from a Spanish cohort. We found unmutated CLL (U-CLL) was associated with more aggressive disease, shorter TTFT (48 vs. 133 months, p < 0.0001), and shorter OS (112 vs. 246 months, p < 0.0001) than the mutated CLL. IGHV3 was the most frequently used IGHV family (46%), followed by IGHV1 (30%) and IGHV4 (16%). IGHV5-51 and IGHV1-69 subfamilies were associated with poor prognosis, while IGHV4 and IGHV2 showed the best outcomes. The prevalence of CK was 15% and was significantly associated with U-CLL. In the multivariable analysis, IGHV2 gene usage and del13q were associated with longer TTFT, while VH1-02, +12, del11q, del17p, and U-CLL with shorter TTFT. Moreover, VH1-69 usage, del11q, del17p, and U-CLL were significantly associated with shorter OS. A comprehensive analysis of genetic prognostic factors provides a more precise information on the outcome of CLL patients. In addition to FISH cytogenetic aberrations, IGHV and TP53 mutations, IGHV gene families, and CK information could help clinicians in the decision-making process.
A classification and recognition algorithm of key figures in public opinion integrating multidimensional similarity and K-shell based on supernetwork
Authors: Wang Guanghui , Wang Yushan , Liu Kaidi , Sun Shu
Published: February 2024

In online public opinion events, key figures are crucial to the formation and diffusion of public opinion, to the evolution and dissemination of topics, and to the guidance and transformation of the direction of public opinion. Based on the four-dimensional public opinion communication supernetwork (social-psychology-opinion-convergent), this study proposes a classification and recognition algorithm of key figures in online public opinion that integrates multidimensional similarity and K-shell to identify the key figures with differentiation in online public opinion events. The research finds that the evolutionary process of public opinion events is the joint action of key figures with different roles. The opinion leader is the key figure in the global communication of public opinion. The focus figure is the core figure that promotes the dissemination of public opinion on local subnetworks. The communication figure is the “bridge” node in the cross-regional communication of public opinion. Through the algorithm verification of the case “China Eastern Airlines Passenger Plane Crash Event”, we find that the algorithm proposed in this paper has advantages in feasibility, sensitivity, and effectiveness, compared with traditional algorithms such as CI, forwarding volume, degree centrality, K-shell, and multidimensional similarity. The classification and recognition algorithm proposed in this study can not only identify multirole key figures simultaneously but also improve the recognition granularity and eliminate the interference of core-like nodes.
Sweet home or battle of the sexes: who dominates food purchasing decisions?
Authors: Loginova Daria , Mann Stefan
Published: February 2024

By analysing big data collected from 1990 to 2017 on the consumption behaviours of men and women living alone and in heterosexual couples in Switzerland, we classified 75 food items in terms of their consumption within couple versus single households. We defined and quantified the gender dominance exhibited in the food purchasing activities of couples. Our results showed that to form consumption of couples, the average consumption of single women weighted 0.6, while that of men weighted 0.38. In addition, couples were found to consume more drinks and pricier foods than singles. Our findings span various areas, including the socioeconomics of food, food choice, social eating, gender power, eating behaviour and population and consumer studies. The robustness of the findings may be validated for other countries and cultures, and the findings may be of interest to researchers from various fields.
A thematic analysis of the links between multinational enterprises’ corporate social responsibility and the Sustainable Development Goals in Myanmar
Authors: Rao-Nicholson Rekha , Thein Htwe Htwe , Zhong Yifan
Published: February 2024

Adopting textual analysis, we examine the links between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 30 foreign subsidiaries in Myanmar, a Country of Concern (CoC). The analysis covers the period from 2001 up to 2020. Our work contributes to the literature on SDGs and CSR in a CoC. We find that although multinational enterprises (MNEs) address community issues via philanthropy unrelated to their principal business, in some cases CSR is related to their core capability. Despite some diversity in CSR processes, we find that MNEs tackle limited CSR issues. Furthermore, MNEs’ CSR generates positive externalities rather than reduce negative externalities. This finding confirms the discourse in international business policy suggesting MNEs focus on only positive externalities and ignoring negative externalities, and this neglect of negative externalities could result in a net-negative impact from their CSR. Nevertheless, we observe that CSR activities map onto all but one SDG, thus demonstrating the potential for further investment in CSR in Myanmar. Our study highlights that given a CoC is all about institutional weakness, MNEs’ CSR must focus on strengthening institutions to bring about systemic changes in these contexts, as opposed to short-term ‘bandage’ approaches, otherwise, gains to SDGs will be short-lived.
Inverse design and demonstration of on-chip silicon high-order mode pass filter
Authors: Jiang Weifeng , Mao Siqiang , Hu Jinzhu , Wang Jingli , Wan Hongdan
Published: February 2024

We propose a concept of a high-order mode (HOM) pass filter based on the inverse-designed mode-routing, which enables an ultra-compact footprint and broad bandwidth. To validate the concept, we experimentally demonstrate two types of HOM pass filters using the direct-binary search topology optimization algorithm. In the first HOM pass filter, the mode-routing region is constructed using an inverse-designed adiabatic coupler, while the second filter utilizes a tapered asymmetric directional coupler. The subwavelength units based on the functional regions of both filters have an ultra-compact footprint of 4 µm × 800 nm. The experimental results indicate that the insertion losses of two HOM-pass filters are 3.13 and 1.94 dB, respectively, and their mode cross-talks are −15.8 and −27.36 dB at the center wavelength of 1550 nm. Both HOM pass filters exhibit high performance over a broad bandwidth of 130 nm.
Calibration improvements expand filterscope diagnostic use
Authors: Herfindal J. L. , Unterberg E. A. , Davda K. M. , Garren E. W. , Groth M. , Scotti F. , Sontag A. C. , Truong D. D. , Wilcox R. S.
Published: February 2024

The filterscope diagnostic on DIII-D utilizes photomultiplier tubes to measure visible light emission from the plasma. The system has undergone a substantial upgrade since previous attempts to cross-calibrate the filterscope with other spectroscopic diagnostics were unsuccessful. The optics now utilize a dichroic mirror to initially split the light at nearly 99% transmission or reflectance for light below or above 550 nm. This allows the system to measure Dα emission without degrading visible light emission from the plasma for wavelengths below 550 nm (to measure Dβ, Dγ, W–I, C-III, etc.). Additional optimization of the optical components and calibration techniques reduce the error in the signal up to 10% in some channels compared to previous methods. Cross-calibration measurements with two other high resolution spectroscopic diagnostics now show excellent agreement for the first time. This expands the capabilities of the filterscope system allowing measurement of divertor detachment, emission profiles, edge-localized mode behavior, and plasma–wall interactions. It also enables direct comparisons against calculations from boundary plasma simulations. These were not possible before.
Analysis of single-mode Richtmyer–Meshkov instability using high-order incompressible vorticity—streamfunction and shock-capturing simulations
Authors: Latini Marco , Schilling Oleg , Meiron Daniel I.
Published: February 2024

Two- and three-dimensional simulation results obtained using a new high-order incompressible, variable-density vorticity–streamfunction (VS) method and data from previous ninth-order weighted essentially nonoscillatory (WENO) shock-capturing simulations [M. Latini and O. Schilling, “A comparison of two- and three-dimensional single-mode reshocked Richtmyer-Meshkov instability growth,” Physica D 401, 132201 (2020)] are used to investigate the nonlinear dynamics of single-mode Richtmyer–Meshkov instability using a model of a Mach 1.3 air(acetone)/SF6 shock tube experiment [J. W. Jacobs and V. V. Krivets, “Experiments on the late-time development of single-mode Richtmyer–Meshkov instability,” Phys. Fluids 17, 034105 (2005)]. A comparison of the density fields from both simulations with the experimental images demonstrates very good agreement in the large-scale structure with both methods but differences in the small-scale structure. The WENO method captures the small-scale disordered structure observed in the experiment, while the VS method partially captures such structure and yields a strong rotating core. The perturbation amplitude growth from the simulations generally agrees well with the experiment. The simulation bubble and spike amplitudes agree well at early times. At later times, the WENO bubble amplitude is smaller than the VS amplitude and vice versa for the spike amplitude. The predictions of nonlinear single-mode instability growth models are shown to agree with the simulation amplitudes at early-to-intermediate times but underpredict the amplitudes at later times in the nonlinear regime. Visualizations of the mass fraction and enstrophy isosurfaces, velocity and vorticity fields, and baroclinic vorticity production and vortex stretching terms from the three-dimensional simulations indicate that, with the exception of the small-scale structure within the rollups, the VS and WENO results are in good agreement.
Heat transfer behavior of graphene-based photothermal conversion materials prepared with tube array-porous network composite structure
Authors: Wang Chongyang , Qing Jiahao , Zong Huzeng , Guo Hu , Zhou Hao , Hu Yubing , Wang Suwei , Jiang Wei
Published: February 2024

In order to solve the problems of low energy utilization and poor structural stability of photothermal conversion materials, a graphene-based photothermal conversion material was prepared, which was structurally integrated with a light-absorbing upper layer and a heat insulating base. During the preparation process, a tightly arranged nanotube array upper layer was constructed on the basis of graphene films by microimprinting technology, and a porous aerogel base was molded by a fixed-point titration and multiple-foaming method. The results show that the light trap constructed from graphene hollow nanotubes can significantly increase the number of light reflections and reduce light reflectivity. Meanwhile, the length of the nanotubes is directly proportional to the light-absorbing capacity of the material, which can increase the light-absorbing rate to more than 98% under the embossing conditions of 85 kN and 8h. In addition, the porous aerogel insulation base can effectively improve the photothermal conversion effect, and a photothermal conversion efficiency of 87% and a water evaporation rate of 1.3 kg/(m2 h) can be achieved at a base thickness of 6 mm.
On biomimetic surface texturing and its impact on turbulent flow and hydrodynamic forces acting on an early-stage bio-fouling organism
Authors: Peyvastehnejad A. , Regan F. , Richards C. , Delgado A. , Daly P. , Grande J. , Delaure Y. M. C.
Published: February 2024

Recent marine anti-fouling research efforts have sought inspiration from bio-mimetic strategies to develop nontoxic solutions. Surface modifications have shown promising results in their ability to disrupt attachment and growth of early-stage organisms under static immersion conditions but very limited research has attempted to explore the interaction between surface textures and flow under turbulent conditions. The study presented in this article focuses on a simple texture, inspired by the growth rings of the Brill fish Scophthalmus rhombus and developed for applications on the blades of tidal stream turbine. A series of Large Eddy Simulations of fully developed turbulent channel flow were performed to assess the influence of the spacing between the texture elements on turbulent stresses. The aim is to characterize the impact of the texture on turbulent stresses by comparison to a smooth surface and identify whether shelters may form within the gaps between textures. The study clarifies the role of dispersive and Reynolds stresses in terms of their impact on hydrodynamic forces acting on a simplified model of a marine diatom. Reynolds shear stresses predominantly govern the intensity of forces, while dispersive shear stress affects the mean hydrodynamic forces acting on the organism at the early stage of settlement.
A novel maximum power point tracking with hybrid control algorithm for automotive thermoelectric generator system
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Ruochen , Wang Yuefei , Jia Yongfei , Ding Renkai , Luo Ding
Published: February 2024

To dynamically track the maximum power of an automotive thermoelectric generator (ATEG) system in real-time, this study introduces a novel maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm that integrates Kalman filtering and fuzzy control. Employing a two-phase interleaved parallel DC–DC boost converter in the MPPT controller effectively reduces current ripple and switch loss. Results demonstrated a significant improvement in tracking time compared to the traditional incremental conductance algorithm, attributed to the elimination of high-frequency components in output power by the Kalman filter. The novel algorithm exhibits enhanced tracking stability through the application of fuzzy control. Ultimately, the tracking accuracy of the novel algorithm surpasses that of the incremental conductance algorithm by 5.2%, achieving an impressive 94.9%. This study, therefore, presents a valuable contribution to a novel MPPT algorithm for precisely and rapidly tracking the global maximum power points of the ATEG system throughout the entire vehicle driving cycle.
Rapidly switchable x-ray orbital angular momentum from a free electron laser oscillator
Authors: Huang Nanshun , Deng Haixiao
Published: February 2024

X-ray vortices carrying tunable orbital angular momentum (OAM) are an emerging tool for x-ray characterization. However, in contrast to the generation of vortex beams in the visible wavelength region, the generation of x-ray vortices in a controlled manner has proved challenging. Here, we demonstrate an x-ray free-electron laser oscillator (XFELO) can adjust only the kinetic energy of the electron beam to produce vortex beams that can be programmed to dynamically change between different OAM modes, without the need for additional optical elements. With the nominal parameters of currently constructing 1 MHz repetition rate facility (i.e., Shanghai high-repetition-rate XFEL and Extreme Light Facility), the active formation of the OAM modes of l=±1 and l=±2 and the rapid switching between them by detuning the electron beam energy of the XFELO are numerically illustrated. The real-time switching can be achieved within 200 μs, while the output pulse energy can reach the 100 μJ level. This result extends the capabilities of XFELOs and paves the way for advanced at-source applications using x-ray vortex beams.
Self-assembly of graphene hollow microspheres anchored with FeNi3/NiFe2O4 nanocrystal for highly efficient electromagnetic wave absorption
Authors: Yu Qi , Tang Yiming , Nie Weicheng , Du Chenglong , Wang Yunlong
Published: February 2024

The graphene-based electromagnetic wave absorption materials have attracted extensive attention due to their lightweight, strong absorption, broadband, and thin thickness. In this work, graphene hollow microspheres anchored with FeNi-coupled nanocrystal (GHMs@FeNi3/NiFe2O4) were synthesized using water-in-oil (W/O) emulsification and high-temperature calcination. The GHMs@FeNi3/NiFe2O4 microspheres have a homogeneous spherical morphology and a pronounced hollow structure, and the FeNi-coupled nanocrystals are homogeneously embedded in a spongy shell assembled by rGO nanosheets. Owing to the optimized impedance matching and enhanced attenuation, the GHMs@FeNi3/NiFe2O4 composites exhibit outstanding microwave absorption ability, particularly in the Ku band. The minimum reflection loss (RLmin) value can reach −58.96 dB at 14.43 GHz with a matching thickness of 2.25 mm, and the effective absorption bandwidth (lower than −10 dB) is up to 6.29 GHz (11.71–18 GHz) covering the whole Ku band. We believe that our work provides an idea for the design of high-performance absorbing composite materials.
Experimental study of the evaporation characteristics of unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine in a sub-supercritical environment
Authors: Wu Gangqiang , Wang Zongyang , Yang Congling , Wang Hui , Nie Wansheng
Published: February 2024

In this study, the temperature–pressure separation technique was used to successfully obtain the process of the unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine droplet diameter variation with time during evaporation in subcritical, supercritical, and far-supercritical environments at temperatures and pressures of 473–773 K and 1–9 MPa, respectively. The results show that unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine droplet evaporation has two characteristic stages, transient heating and steady-state evaporation, under low-pressure and low-temperature environments; the steady-state evaporation stage influences droplet evaporation life more than the transient heating stage. Under high-pressure and high-temperature environments, droplet evaporation shows only a single feature of steady-state evaporation, and the droplet expansion process in the transient heating stage disappears. The normalized droplet lifetime decreased exponentially with temperature and decreased linearly and monotonically with pressure. The evaporation rate constant increases linearly and monotonically with temperature and exponentially with pressure.
The effect of In(Ga)As/GaAs quantum dots on the optical loss of photonic crystal cavities
Authors: Lodde Matteo , van Veldhoven Rene P. J. , Verhagen Ewold , Fiore Andrea
Published: February 2024

We present a systematic investigation of the optical losses in GaAs photonic crystal cavities with and without embedded self-assembled In(Ga)As quantum dots (QDs) to shed light on additional loss mechanisms related to the presence of the QDs. To clarify the role of the measurement method, we propose an experimental configuration where the optical properties can be evaluated simultaneously through reflection and photoluminescence measurements. Independently of the measurement method, we observe a reduced quality (Q) factor in cavities with embedded QDs when compared to the passive counterparts. Our analysis indicates that these additional losses—about 7 GHz—are unrelated to direct excitonic absorption for the investigated areal QD densities of 175 μm−2. We analyze several mechanisms which could explain our observations and suggest that a possible origin could be unsaturable absorption from midgap defects introduced by the QD growth.
Thermocapillary migration of a droplet on a substrate with wettability difference: A comparison between slip and precursor film models in three dimensions
Authors: Li Chunxi , Xie Xiongfei , Xiong Tiantong , Ye Xuemin
Published: February 2024

Moving contact line dynamics calculations include two models: precursor film models and slip models. The lubrication approximation method is used to establish a three-dimensional mathematical model to analyze the droplet thermocapillary migration behavior on a non-uniformly heated solid substrate with a wettability track. The contact line dynamics in the slip model and the disjoining pressure effect in the precursor model are proposed to regulate the substrate wettability. Both models are numerically implemented to investigate droplet spreading for three cases: free spreading on an isothermal substrate, thermocapillary migration on a uniform wettability substrate, and thermocapillary migration on a wettability-confined track. For the case of free spreading on an isothermal substrate, the three-dimensional results of the slip and precursor contact line models are essentially consistent with two-dimensional slip model results. For the case of thermocapillary migration on a uniform wettability substrate, the results of the two models essentially agree with the experimental results. Decreasing the thermal gradient reduces the discrepancies between the two models that result from the coordinate transformation method used in the slip model, which reduces the contact angles measured in the y-direction and enlarges the advancing contact angle in the migration direction. For the case of thermocapillary migration on a wettability-confined track, the slip model gradually shows a “dynamic-pinning” behavior with increasing equilibrium contact angle in the hydrophobic region. By contrast, the precursor film model maintains a stationary pinning behavior but separates a residual liquid outside the track. The precursor film model is preferred over the slip model in lubrication approximations for three-dimensional fluids when calculating complex moving contact dynamics caused by wettability differences. However, the precursor film model must be further optimized to prevent numerical instability.
Flow analysis of screw extrusion in three-dimensional concrete printing
Authors: Polychronopoulos Nickolas D. , Sarris Ioannis E. , Vlachopoulos John
Published: February 2024

Recent advances in three-dimensional concrete printing necessitated the detailed understanding of the operation and performance of screw extruders. This paper shows that the volumetric output rate can be approximated using the rotating barrel and stationary screw assumption (drag flow equation), which is used routinely in polymer melt extrusion calculations. Verification is provided by comparisons to experimental results available in the literature and to computer flow simulations for fluids with yield stress. Significant insight is obtained using fully three-dimensional simulations. This includes particle pathlines, which form “a helix within a helix,” axial pressure profiles, and the effect of yield stress, which is relatively small on the output rate but large on torque and power. The computer simulation also predicts unyielded flow zones in the extruder channel at low screw rotation speeds.
Causally estimating the effect of YouTube’s recommender system using counterfactual bots
Authors: Hosseinmardi Homa , Ghasemian Amir , Rivera-Lanas Miguel , Horta Ribeiro Manoel , West Robert , Watts Duncan J.
Published: February 2024

In recent years, critics of online platforms have raised concerns about the ability of recommendation algorithms to amplify problematic content, with potentially radicalizing consequences. However, attempts to evaluate the effect of recommenders have suffered from a lack of appropriate counterfactuals—what a user would have viewed in the absence of algorithmic recommendations—and hence cannot disentangle the effects of the algorithm from a user’s intentions. Here we propose a method that we call “counterfactual bots” to causally estimate the role of algorithmic recommendations on the consumption of highly partisan content on YouTube. By comparing bots that replicate real users’ consumption patterns with “counterfactual” bots that follow rule-based trajectories, we show that, on average, relying exclusively on the YouTube recommender results in less partisan consumption, where the effect is most pronounced for heavy partisan consumers. Following a similar method, we also show that if partisan consumers switch to moderate content, YouTube’s sidebar recommender “forgets” their partisan preference within roughly 30 videos regardless of their prior history, while homepage recommendations shift more gradually toward moderate content. Overall, our findings indicate that, at least since the algorithm changes that YouTube implemented in 2019, individual consumption patterns mostly reflect individual preferences, where algorithmic recommendations play, if anything, a moderating role.
“People should get their booster”
Authors: Zou Hang (Joanna) , Hyland Ken
Published: February 2024

Debates around the efficacy and dangers of vaccination have taken on critical importance with the Covid pandemic and WHO naming vaccine hesitancy as a major global health threat. We explore how writers use two types of blog, academic and journalistic, to promote key public health messages around the effectiveness and necessity of Covid-19 vaccinations to a broad, heterogeneous audience. Examining 120 Covid-19 vaccination themed posts from reputable news and academic blog sites, we compare the different ways writers present a stance and take a position towards vaccines and vaccinations in these different interactional contexts. Findings show that both types of bloggers are clearly aware of the need to convey a stance towards their topic and audiences feel entitled to position themselves in relation to vaccination issues, but with different emphases. The study has important implications for how healthcare information is disseminated and persuasion accomplished in these public arenas of discourse.
Applying the approach of narrative agency
Authors: Kinnunen Eevastiina , Meretoja Hanna , Kosonen Päivi
Published: February 2024

In this article, we discuss a dialogue between narrative theory, reading group practices, and analysis of reading
group participants’ experiences. Hanna Meretoja’s theory of narrative agency has informed us in developing a new reading group
model that aims to enhance the participants’ narrative agency, and, in turn, the analysis of the reading group experiences
provides us with new knowledge on the reading group model, as well as on the theoretical approach. We explore narrative agency
analysis as a tool to analyze interviews, and our analysis of three participants’ experiences illustrates how narrative agency can
manifest itself in various forms. It also demonstrates that the enhanced ability to navigate narrative environments can be highly
meaningful on a personal level. The article suggests that, despite its challenges, this kind of research approach, combining
theory and practice, enriches and expands the possibilities of literary studies.
Periodic changes of cyclin D1 mRNA stability are regulated by PC4 modifications in the cell cycle
Authors: Pan Qimei , Luo Peng , Hu Kaishun , Qiu Yuntan , Liu Gaoyu , Dai Shijie , Cui Bokang , Yin Dong , Shi Chunmeng
Published: February 2024

The cell cycle is a highly regulated process in which proteins involved in cell cycle progression exhibit periodic expression patterns, controlled by specific mechanisms such as transcription, translation, and degradation. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the oscillations of mRNA levels in cell cycle regulators are not fully understood. In this study, we observed that the stability of cyclin D1 (CCND1) mRNA fluctuates during the cell cycle, with increased stability during interphase and decreased stability during the M phase. Additionally, we identified a key RNA binding protein, positive coactivator 4 (PC4), which plays a crucial role in stabilizing CCND1 mRNA and regulating its periodic expression. Moreover, the binding affinity of PC4 to CCND1 mRNA is modulated by two cell cycle–specific posttranslational modifications: ubiquitination of K68 enhances binding and stabilizes the CCND1 transcript during interphase, while phosphorylation of S17 inhibits binding during the M phase, leading to degradation of CCND1 mRNA. Remarkably, PC4 promotes the transition from G1 to S phase in the cell cycle, and depletion of PC4 enhances the efficacy of CDK4/6 inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma, suggesting that PC4 could serve as a potential therapeutic target. These findings provide valuable insights into the intricate regulation of cell cycle dynamics.
The weak gravity conjecture, overcharged shells and gravitational traps
Authors: Kehagias Alex , Kokkotas Kostas D , Riotto Antonio , Taskas John , Tringas George
Published: February 2024

The Weak Gravity Conjecture (WGC) predicts that in quantum gravity there should exist overcharged states, that is states with charge larger than their mass. Extending this to large masses and charges, we are expecting similar overcharged classical solutions. This has been demonstrated in higher-derivative extensions of General Relativity. In this paper we investigate the existence of overcharged solutions in General Relativity. We study the dynamics of a thin shell of massmand chargeQunder the action of its own gravitational andU(1) fields. We show that shells with surface energyσand pressurePobeyingP=wσwith0⩽w⩽1are necessarily underchargedm⩾|Q|and always collapse to form Reissner–Nordström black holes. Nevertheless, if−1⩽w<0, we find that overchargedm⩽|Q|shells exist, which however, are inevitably stabilized at finite radial distance. Therefore they never form naked singularities in accordance with cosmic censorship and the conjectured relation between cosmic censorship and the WGC. An intriguing consequence of the existence of such overcharged shells is that gravitational modes may form bound states due to the peculiar form of the Regge–Wheeler–Zerilli potential. This might lead to gravitational traps close the surface of near-overcharged shells.