bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levels of potentially toxic and essential elements in Tocantins River sediment: health risks at Brazil’s Savanna-Amazon interface
Authors: Machado da Silva Acioly Thiago , Francisco da Silva Marcelo , Iannacone José , Viana Diego Carvalho
Published: August 2024

The field study aims to address identified research gaps by providing valuable information on the concentration, spatial distribution, pollution levels, and source apportionment of toxic and essential elements in sediment samples from four sampling sites (P1: Beira Rio (urban area), P2: Bananal (rural area), P3: Embiral (rural area), P4: Cidelândia (rural area) distributed along the middle Tocantins River, Brazil. Samples were collected in 2023 from river sections and analyzed using various contamination índices (geoaccumulation index, contamination factor, enrichment factor, pollution load index, sediment pollution index, potential ecological risk coefficients, and integrated risk index). Results indicated that the levels of aluminum, iron, manganese, and selenium exceeded legal standards in that year. Chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, and lead exceeded guidelines, mainly in section P1 for aluminum and section P3 for nickel and lead. Rainy months showed increased presence, indicating seasonal variability. The geoaccumulation index indicated low pollution levels, with lead and nickel notably present near urban and industrial areas. The enrichment factor highlighted elevated concentrations of lead and zinc in industrial areas. Both PLI and SPI indices raise concerns regarding Pb (P4) and Zn (P3) concentrations at specific times of the year. Overall, potential ecological risks were deemed low for most sites. Continuous monitoring and interventions are crucial to preserve water and environmental quality in the region.
Autofluorescence-based tissue characterization enhances clinical prospects of light-sheet-microscopy
Authors: Jacob Alice M. , Lindemann Anna F. , Wagenpfeil Julia , Geiger Sergej , Layer Yannik C. , Salam Babak , Panahabadi Sarah , Kurt Darius , Wintergerst Maximilian W. M. , Schildberg Frank A. , Kuetting Daniel , Attenberger Ulrike I. , Abdullah Zeinab , Böhner Alexander M. C.
Published: August 2024

Light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) is a transformative imaging method that enables the visualization of non-dissected specimen in real-time 3D. Optical clearing of tissues is essential for LSFM, typically employing toxic solvents. Here, we test the applicability of a non-hazardous alternative, ethyl cinnamate (ECi). We comprehensively characterized autofluorescence (AF) spectra in diverse murine tissues—ocular globe, knee, and liver—employing LSFM under various excitation wavelengths (405–785 nm) to test the feasibility of unstained samples for diagnostic purposes, in particular regarding percutaneous biopsies, as they constitute to most harvested type of tissue sample in clinical routine. Ocular globe structures were best discerned with 640 nm excitation. Knee tissue showed complex variation in AF spectra variation influenced by tissue depth and structure. Liver exhibited a unique AF pattern, likely linked to vasculature. Hepatic tissue samples were used to demonstrate the compatibility of our protocol for antibody staining. Furthermore, we employed machine learning to augment raw images and segment liver structures based on AF spectra. Radiologists rated representative samples transferred to the clinical assessment software. Learning-generated images scored highest in quality. Additionally, we investigated an actual murine biopsy. Our study pioneers the application of AF spectra for tissue characterization and diagnostic potential of optically cleared unstained percutaneous biopsies, contributing to the clinical translation of LSFM.
Convolutional neural network transformer (CNNT) for fluorescence microscopy image denoising with improved generalization and fast adaptation
Authors: Rehman Azaan , Zhovmer Alexander , Sato Ryo , Mukouyama Yoh-suke , Chen Jiji , Rissone Alberto , Puertollano Rosa , Liu Jiamin , Vishwasrao Harshad D. , Shroff Hari , Combs Christian A. , Xue Hui
Published: August 2024

Deep neural networks can improve the quality of fluorescence microscopy images. Previous methods, based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), require time-consuming training of individual models for each experiment, impairing their applicability and generalization. In this study, we propose a novel imaging-transformer based model, Convolutional Neural Network Transformer (CNNT), that outperforms CNN based networks for image denoising. We train a general CNNT based backbone model from pairwise high-low Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) image volumes, gathered from a single type of fluorescence microscope, an instant Structured Illumination Microscope. Fast adaptation to new microscopes is achieved by fine-tuning the backbone on only 5–10 image volume pairs per new experiment. Results show that the CNNT backbone and fine-tuning scheme significantly reduces training time and improves image quality, outperforming models trained using only CNNs such as 3D-RCAN and Noise2Fast. We show three examples of efficacy of this approach in wide-field, two-photon, and confocal fluorescence microscopy.
Nanoscale mesh acts as anti-adhesive surface against particulate contamination in eyes of whiteflies
Authors: Urca Tomer , Lehmann Fritz-Olaf , Gorb Elena V. , Gorb Stanislav N.
Published: August 2024

In many insects the surface of the eye is nanostructured by arrays of protuberances termed ommatidial gratings which provide the cuticle with anti-reflective, anti-wetting and self-cleaning properties. The hypothesised anti-contamination role of the gratings against dust and pollen results from theoretical predictions on grating geometry and experiments on synthetic replicas of ommatidia surfaces but has not yet been proven in an animal. Whiteflies are biological test beds for anti-contamination surfaces because they deliberately distribute wax particles extruded from abdominal plates over their entire bodies. The numerous particles protect the animal against water evaporation and radiation, but may severely impair vision. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and CryoSEM, we here show that the cornea of whiteflies exhibits ~ 220 nm wide mesh-like structures forming hexagonal gratings with thin ~ 40 nm connecting walls. Quantitative measurements of wax particles on the eye show that the nanostructures reduce particle contamination by more than ~ 96% compared to other areas of the cuticle. Altogether, our study is the first description of a predicted optimized grating geometry for anti-contamination in an arthropod. The findings serve as evidence of the high effectiveness of nanostructured surfaces for reducing contact area and thus adhesion forces between biological surfaces and contaminating particles.
Customised-sampling approach for pipe failure prediction in water distribution networks
Authors: Latifi Milad , Beig Zali Ramiz , Javadi Akbar A. , Farmani Raziyeh
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a new methodology for addressing imbalanced class data for failure prediction in Water Distribution Networks (WDNs). The proposed methodology relies on existing approaches including under-sampling, over-sampling, and class weighting as primary strategies. These techniques aim to treat the imbalanced datasets by adjusting the representation of minority and majority classes. Under-sampling reduces data in the majority class, over-sampling adds data to the minority class, and class weighting assigns unequal weights based on class counts to balance the influence of each class during machine learning (ML) model training. In this paper, the mentioned approaches were used at levels other than “balance point” to construct pipe failure prediction models for a WDN with highly imbalanced data. F1-score, and AUC–ROC, were selected to evaluate model performance. Results revealed that under-sampling above the balance point yields the highest F1-score, while over-sampling below the balance point achieves optimal results. Employing class weights during training and prediction emphasises the efficacy of lower weights than the balance. Combining under-sampling and over-sampling to the same ratio for both majority and minority classes showed limited improvement. However, a more effective predictive model emerged when over-sampling the minority class and under-sampling the majority class to different ratios, followed by applying class weights to balance data.
Template-assisted synthesis of hollow anthraquinone-based covalent organic frameworks for aqueous zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Montes-García Verónica , Valentini Cataldo , Klymovych Denys , Kukułka Wojciech , Shi Linghao , Patroniak Violetta , Samorì Paolo , Ciesielski Artur
Published: August 2024

Anthraquinone-based hollow COFs were synthesized using a template-assisted method with polystyrene nanospheres, demonstrating a promising strategy for improving COF's performance in energy storage applications.
A serendipitous one-pot synthesis of the octahydro-2H-pyrazino[1,2-a]pyrazine core
Authors: Maestri Claudio , Minazzi Paolo , Grell Toni , Colombo Valentina , Lattuada Luciano , Giovenzana Giovanni B. , Travagin Fabio
Published: August 2024

An unprecedented nitro-group displacement-rearrangement provides an efficient one-step synthetic access to the octahydro-2H-pyrazino[1,2-a]pyrazine heterobicyclic system.
2-Phenylbenzothiazolyl iridium complexes as inhibitors and probes of amyloid β aggregation
Authors: Terpstra Karna , Huang Yiran , Na Hanah , Sun Liang , Gutierrez Citlali , Yu Zhengxin , Mirica Liviu M.
Published: August 2024

A series of cyclometalated Ir(iii) complexes are reported to exhibit appreciable inhibition of Aβ aggregation, induce a significant fluorescence increase when binding to Aβ aggregates, and exhibit appreciable blood–brain barrier permeability.
Humidity-enhanced microfluidic plasma separation on Chinese Xuan-papers
Authors: Wu Xianchang , Min Shuqiang , Zhan Tonghuan , Huang Yange , Niu Hui , Xu Bing
Published: August 2024

We propose a humidity-enhanced microfluidic plasma separation method on functionalized Xuan-paper to obtain plasma with high yield from whole blood in a short time (<5 min).
Synthesis and catalysis of a Co13 disk surrounded by vanadium–oxygen crown
Authors: Kikukawa Yuji , Yoshida Isshin , Mitsuhashi Ryoji , Yamane Masaru , Hayashi Yoshihito
Published: August 2024

A cobalt disk surrounded by vanadium–oxygen crowns was synthesized and utilized as an oxidation catalyst for alcohols.
Polyzwitterions: controlled synthesis, soft materials and applications
Authors: Gao Chenchen , Gao Yaning , Liu Qin , Tong Jinhua , Sun Hui
Published: August 2024

This review summarizes the recent advances of polyzwitterions, including synthesis, soft materials and their applications.
Gelation of the electron transport layer to improve the thermal stability of efficient perovskite solar cells
Authors: Wang Xin , Feng Jingyao , Zhang Zaixin , Xing Jiaojiao , Li Wenqin , Cui Yongjie , Wu Zihua , Yu Wei , Chen Lifei
Published: August 2024

We report an gelation strategy in the electron transport layer (ETL) by employing ammonium oxalate (AMO) in SnO2 dispersions. The resulting PSC achieves an improved power conversion efficiency of 21.40% with enhanced thermal stability.
Effects of loosely bound electrons and electron–phonon interaction on the thermoelectric properties of electrenes
Authors: Zhao Yi-Ming , Wang Zishen , Zhou Jun , Zhang Chun , Shin Sunmi , Shen Lei
Published: August 2024

The interstitial charge in 2D HfI2 exhibits high mobility due to weak lattice perturbation, and the high mobility induces a high power factor and ZT value.
A multifunctional Si3N4 nanobrick metasurface for sensing
Authors: Wang Huimin , Wang Lu , Wang Tao , Shen Ming , Yue Xinzhao , Lv Enze , Zeng Jinwei , Shu Xuewen , Wang Jian
Published: August 2024

We focus on studying two different sensing applications of Si3N4 metasurfaces, which opens the path to the application of Si3N4 nanobrick arrays as multifunctional metasurfaces for colorimetric sensors, displays, and biosensors.
S2k-Guideline Non-hormonal Contraception, Part 1: Natural Family Planning, Lactational Amenorrhea, Barrier Methods, Coitus Interruptus
Authors: Böttcher Bettina , Beckermann Maria J. , Berger Barbara , Cremers Jann Frederik , DʼCosta Elisabeth , Frank-Herrmann Petra , Freundl-Schütt Tanja , Friedrich Cornelia , Funck Sören , Gathmann Christine , Goeckenjan Maren , Goette Sabine , Hancke Katharina , Leiber-Caspers Christian , Maeffert Jana , Merki Gabriele , Oppelt Patricia , Renteria Saira-Christine , Richter-Unruh Annette , Schäfer Sebastian Daniel , Schardt Anne-Rose , Schernus Nina , Schumann-Doermer Claudia , Seyler Helga , Sieber Christine , Sonntag Barbara , Stöcker Gabriele , Toth Bettina , Tunkel Angela , Wallwiener Lisa-Maria , Segerer Sabine
Published: August 2024

Aim This official guideline was published and coordinated by the DGGG, OEGGG and SGGG with the involvement of other medical societies. The aim was to provide a consensus-based overview of non-hormonal forms of contraception based on an evaluation of the relevant literature. The first part of these summarized statements and recommendations presents natural family planning methods such as lactational amenorrhea, barrier methods and coitus interruptus. The second part will focus on intrauterine devices and sterilization methods.

Methods This S2k-guideline was developed by representative members from different medical professions on behalf of the guidelines commission of the DGGG, OEGGG and SGGG using a structured consensus process.

Recommendations The guideline provides recommendations on the indications for, safety of use, benefits, and limitations of the different methods as well as recommendations on providing advice and other aspects of non-hormonal contraception. Natural family planning methods, lactational amenorrhea, barrier methods and coitus interruptus are discussed.
Contrast Hysterosonographic Evaluation of Niche Prevalence Following a Standardized Suturing Technique for Caesarean Sections
Authors: Hafner Anita , Pohle Marie Christine , Rauh Maximilian , Schnabel Annegret , Meyer Sylvia , Köninger Angela
Published: August 2024

After caesarean section a uterine niche can be detected in 42–84% of all women and in 11–45% large defects with a residual myometrium < 2.2 mm occur. If the niche compromises > 50% of myometrial thickness, risk of uterine rupture during birth increases. The suturing technique might contribute substantially on pathogenesis of niches. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of the suturing technique on niche prevalence by using a standardized two-layer surgical technique.

Women with one previous caesarean section were examined within 6–23 months after caesarean section using contrast medium-supported transvaginal sonography regarding the prevalence, sonomorphological aspect and clinical symptoms of a uterine niche. The surgical technique used was: dilatation of the cervix, interrupted suture of the first layer (excluding the endometrium), continuous closure of the visceral and parietal peritoneum.

Using native vaginal sonography, no niches were visible in the whole cohort. In three cases, there was a small niche detectable with a depth between 2.3 and 3.9 mm by contrast hysterosonography. Regarding the total myometrial thickness, the niche depth compromised less than 50%. All patients were symptom-free.

In our study population, there were only three cases (9.1%) with a small uterine niche. Residual myometrium and niche percentage on myometrial thickness were excellent in all three cases. Thus, our results show that the uterotomy closure technique used in the study cohort might be superior with respect to the development of uterine niches compared with the expected prevalence.
An Acid-Mediated Multicomponent Domino Reaction for the Synthesis of N-Substituted Isoindolinones
Authors: Karu Sudheer Kumar , Malapaka Chandrasekharam , Veludandi Meghanath
Published: August 2024

A one-pot multicomponent reaction of 2-carboxybenzaldehyde, nitriles/anilines and a nucleophile (N,N-disubstituted anilines) for the synthesis of a range of functionalized N-substituted isoindolinone derivatives is described. This metal-free intramolecular cyclization reaction furnishes the desired products in good to excellent yields. The process is environmentally friendly and offers a sustainable method for synthesizing a diverse library of N-substituted isoindolinone derivatives under acidic conditions. This cascade reaction triggers the formation of a C–C and two C–N bonds involving carbonyl and carboxyl groups in the presence of nitriles/anilines. Additionally, in the absence of a nitrogen source, 3-substituted isobenzofuran-1(3H)-ones are synthesized.
The Promise of Artificial Intelligence in Neuroanesthesia: An Update
Authors: Liao Zhenrui , Mathur Niharika , Joshi Vidur , Joshi Shailendra
Published: August 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to transform health care across medical specialties. Although the application of AI to neuroanesthesiology is just emerging, it will undoubtedly affect neuroanesthesiologists in foreseeable and unforeseeable ways, with potential roles in preoperative patient assessment, airway assessment, predicting intraoperative complications, and monitoring and interpreting vital signs. It will advance the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases due to improved risk identification, data integration, early diagnosis, image analysis, and pharmacological and surgical robotic assistance. Beyond direct medical care, AI could also automate many routine administrative tasks in health care, assist with teaching and training, and profoundly impact neuroscience research. This article introduces AI and its various approaches from a neuroanesthesiology perspective. A basic understanding of the computational underpinnings, advantages, limitations, and ethical implications is necessary for using AI tools in clinical practice and research. The update summarizes recent reports of AI applications relevant to neuroanesthesiology. Providing a holistic view of AI applications, this review shows how AI could usher in a new era in the specialty, significantly improving patient care and advancing neuroanesthesiology research.
In eigener Sache: kma startet Podcast „Das Krankenhaus der Zukunft“
Authors: Krick Tobias
Published: August 2024

Wie zukunftstauglich ist unser Gesundheitswesen? Und welche Vision können die Kliniken verfolgen, um sich nachhaltig und krisenfest aufzustellen? Expertinnen und Experten aller Gesundheitsbereiche stehen Host Dr. Tobias Krick dazu im Podcast „Das Krankenhaus der Zukunft“ monatlich Rede und Antwort.
Schlüsselposition: Kurze Halbwertszeiten in der Chefetage
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: August 2024

Die hohe Wechselbereitschaft von Krankenhausgeschäftsführern liegt auch in den Trägerstrukturen begründet. Aber beschleunigen aktuelle Herausforderungen wie die Krankenhausreform diese Vorgänge und was für Auswirkungen hat das für die Häuser?
Vier-Tage-Woche: Innovative Arbeitszeitmodelle: Top oder Flop?
Authors: Heeser Alexandra
Published: August 2024

Die Vier-Tage-Woche ist ein Weg, den mittlerweile viele Kliniken gehen, um als Arbeitgeber attraktiver zu werden. kma sprach mit einigen Geschäftsführern über ihre Erfahrungen mit einer neuen und flexibleren Dienstplangestaltungen.
Ambulantes Operieren: Verzicht auf Umbettschleusen
Authors: Bonn Georg , Hoheisel Reimund
Published: August 2024

Die Ambulantisierung in den Krankenhäusern erfordert auch bauliche Maßnahmen, die sich aber nicht überall realisieren lassen. Mit mobilen Transportmitteln, die sich bereits in anderen Ländern bewährt haben, können Krankenhäuser auf die Einrichtung von Umbettschleusen verzichten.
Ernährungsmedizin: Lebensbedrohlicher Mangel
Authors: Hohnstein Aileen
Published: August 2024

Unbehandelt verursacht Mangelernährung durch höhere Komplikationsraten und längere Verweilzeiten zusätzliche Krankenhaus-Kosten. Doch nur wenige Häuser kümmern sich strukturiert und interdisziplinär um das Problem. Dabei ließe sich damit Geld sparen.
Developing a BOPPPS (Bridge-in, Objectives, Pre-assessment, Participatory Learning, Post-assessment and Summary) model combined with the OBE (Outcome Based Education) concept to improve the teaching outcomes of higher education
Authors: Xu Zhiwei , Ge Liping , He Wei , Song Guiqin , Liu Jie , Hou Lijuan , Zhang Xiaoyun , Chang Xiaotong , Yin Lan , Li Xiaoming
Published: August 2024

The teaching objectives of traditional approaches in higher education emphasize mostly students’ mastery of knowledge and have insufficient directionality to social needs. In this study, we developed a BOPPPS (Bridge-in, Objectives, Pre-assessment, Participatory Learning, Post-assessment and Summary) teaching model combined with the OBE (Outcome Based Education) concept to enhance the teaching outcomes. Firstly, based on the graduation requirements and professional training objectives of students, we divided the course objectives into three dimensions (knowledge, ability and quality), and further specified into index points. Then, the teaching content of each chapter was set to correspond with the index points. Finally, the BOPPPS teaching model was used to meet each requirement. Clinical biochemistry testing course was used as a model to assess the effects of the teaching reform. After the class, the teaching effect was analyzed based on the questionnaire surveys from the students and their scores of both the chapter and final examinations. The results showed that compared with the traditional approach, the BOPPPS teaching model combined with the OBE concept has demonstrated a notable enhancement in student engagement, and significant improvement of their mastery of knowledge, application skills, and problem-solving abilities. The examination scores of the BOPPPS group were markedly higher than those of the traditional group. Moreover, the difference between the two groups diverse assessment scores was much bigger than that between the two group examination scores. Our study indicates that the BOPPPS teaching model combined with the OBE concept is a highly effective teaching model for enhancing the learning effectiveness of students.
In-depth investigation of phase transition phenomena in network models derived from lattice models
Authors: Ding Yonglong
Published: August 2024

Lattice models exhibit significant potential in investigating phase transitions, yet they encounter numerous computational challenges. To address these issues, this study introduces a Monte Carlo-based approach that transforms lattice models into a network model with intricate inter-node correlations. This framework enables a profound analysis of Ising, JQ, and XY models. By decomposing the network into a maximum entropy component and a conservative component, under the constraint of detailed balance, this work derives an estimation formula for the temperature-dependent magnetic induction in Ising models. Notably, the critical exponent β in the Ising model aligns well with the established results, and the predicted phase transition point in the three-dimensional Ising model exhibits a mere 0.7% deviation from numerical simulations.
Stronger together: different community science platforms all contribute to wildlife research
Authors: Forti Lucas Rodriguez , Passetti Ana Marta P. R. da Silva , Oliveira Talita , Freitas Kauane , Costa Guilherme de Freitas , Lima Maia Juan Victor de , Queiros Arthur , Lopes Maria Alice Dantas Ferreira , Szabo Judit K.
Published: August 2024

Context Engaging the general public can increase spatio-temporal coverage of wildlife monitoring. Given the potentially substantial costs, we need to evaluate the contribution of known and planned initiatives and confirm whether multiple platforms increase the efficiency of data collection. As observer behaviour affects data quantity and quality, users of specialised and generalist platforms are expected to behave differently, resulting in more connected networks for specialised and higher nestedness for generalist platforms. Specialist observers are expected to contribute a balanced ratio of rare and common species, whereas non-specialist contribution will depend more on species detectability. Aims We aim to evaluate whether the combined contribution of observers from different platforms can improve the quality of occurrence and distribution data of 218 endemic Atlantic Forest bird species in Brazil. We also describe and compare observer-bird species interaction networks to illustrate observer behaviour on different platforms. Methods On the basis of data from five community science platforms in Brazil, namely, eBird, WikiAves, Biofaces, iNaturalist and Táxeus, we compared the spatial distribution of bird observations, the number of observers, the presence of the same observers on various platforms, bird species coverage, and the proportion of duplicate observations within and among platforms. Key results Although species coverage of the joint dataset increased by up to 100%, spatial completeness among the five platforms was low. The network of individual platforms had low values of clustering, and the network of the joint dataset had low connectance and high nestedness. Conclusions Each platform had a somewhat unique contribution. Pooling these datasets and integrating them with standardised data can inform our knowledge on bird distributions and trends in this fragile biome. Nevertheless, we encourage observers to provide precise coordinates, dates and other data (and platforms to accommodate such data) and recommend submitting data from all platforms into the Global Biodiversity Information Facility to support wildlife research and conservation. Implications If new platforms engage more and different people, new initiatives can cover poorly represented areas and successfully expand monitoring effort for Atlantic Forest endemic bird species.
Phase velocity shifts of shear surface waves in flexoelectric wave-guide clamped on piezomagnetic base
Authors: Biswas Mahargha , Sahu Sanjeev A
Published: August 2024

Surface acoustic wave devices featuring periodic layers of piezomagnetic and piezoelectric-flexoelectric layers are subject to intense investigation. In miniaturized devices, large strain gradients are possible that produce significant flexoelectric fields in piezoelectric components. In the present theoretical research, surface acoustic wave transference has been manifested in a flexoelectric waveguide clamped over a piezomagnetic base. This endeavor involves the formulation and solution of coupled magneto-electro-elastic field equations governing the structure’s behavior. Coupled magneto-electro-elastic field equations for the structure have been derived and solved utilizing analytical techniques. By accounting for pertinent boundary conditions, the dispersion relations characterizing the velocity of surface waves, both in scenarios with and without electrodes have been obtained. Based on proper numerical examples, the frequency and phase velocity spectrum have been plotted offering insights into key parameters i.e. modal frequency, phase velocity, and wave attenuation. The outcomes of the theoretical study may be helpful in providing insights into mechanical wave propagation in coupled piezoelectric/piezomagnetic structures.
Photoelectron momentum distributions of triatomic CO2 molecules by circularly polarized attosecond pulses
Authors: Zhang 张 Si-Qi 思琪 , Zhang 张 Jun 军 , Hao 郝 Xin-Yu 欣宇 , Guo 郭 Jing 静 , Liu 刘 Aihua 爱华 , Liu 刘 Xue-Shen 学深
Published: August 2024

Molecular-frame photoelectron momentum distributions (MF-PMDs) have been studied for imaging molecular structures. We investigate the MF-PMDs of CO2 molecules exposed to circularly polarized (CP) attosecond laser pulses by solving the time-dependent Schrödinger equations based on the single-active-electron approximation frames. Results show that high-frequency photons lead to photoelectron diffraction patterns, indicating molecular orbitals. These diffraction patterns can be illustrated by the ultrafast photoionization models. However, for the driving pulses with 30 nm, a deviation between MF-PMDs and theoretically predicted results of the ultrafast photoionization models is produced because the Coulomb effect strongly influences the molecular photoionization. Meanwhile, the MF-PMDs rotate in the same direction as the helicity of driving laser pulses. Our results also demonstrate that the MF-PMDs in a CP laser pulse are the superposition of those in the parallel and perpendicular linearly polarized cases. The simulations efficiently visualize molecular orbital geometries and structures by ultrafast photoelectron imaging. Furthermore, we determine the contribution of HOMO and HOMO-1 orbitals to ionization by varying the relative phase and the ratio of these two orbitals.
Effective regulation of the interaction process among three optical solitons
Authors: Yi 伊 Houhui 厚会 , Li 李 Xiaofeng 晓凤 , Zhang 张 Junling 俊玲 , Zhang 张 Xin 鑫 , Ma 马 Guoli 国利
Published: August 2024

The interaction between three optical solitons is a complex and valuable research direction, which is of practical application for promoting the development of optical communication and all-optical information processing technology. In this paper, we start from the study of the variable-coefficient coupled higher-order nonlinear Schrödinger equation (VCHNLSE), and obtain an analytical three-soliton solution of this equation. Based on the obtained solution, the interaction of the three optical solitons is explored when they are incident from different initial velocities and phases. When the higher-order dispersion and nonlinear functions are sinusoidal, hyperbolic secant, and hyperbolic tangent functions, the transmission properties of three optical solitons before and after interactions are discussed. Besides, this paper achieves effective regulation of amplitude and velocity of optical solitons as well as of the local state of interaction process, and interaction-free transmission of the three optical solitons is obtained with a small spacing. The relevant conclusions of the paper are of great significance in promoting the development of high-speed and large-capacity optical communication, optical signal processing, and optical computing.
The Energy Sources and the Explosion Mechanism of Ca-rich Supernova PTF 10iuv
Authors: Huang 黄 Qiu-Ping 秋萍 , Wang 王 Shan-Qin 善钦 , Wang 王 Tao 涛 , Gan 甘 Wen-Pei 文沛 , Shi 石 Deng-Wang 登旺 , Wang 王 Liu-Yi 浏毅 , Liang 梁 En-Wei 恩维
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we perform the detailed modeling for the light curves (LCs) of PTF 10iuv which is a calcium-rich (Ca-rich) supernova (SN) to constrain the physical properties of its ejecta and the energy sources, as well as the explosion mechanism. We find that the 56Ni model and the 56Ni plus circumstellar interaction model fail to explain the LCs, while the four-element (56Ni, 48Cr, 52Fe, and 44Ti) model can account for the LCs. The ejecta mass of PTF 10iuv derived by the model (

1.52

−
0.25

+
0.34

M
⊙) is consistent with that of the merger of a sub-Chandrasekhar mass white dwarf. The early-time LCs were mainly powered by 56Ni whose mass is ∼0.03 M
⊙, while the contributions of 48Cr and 52Fe can be neglected. The derived 44Ti mass (∼0.25 M
⊙) is ∼1.8 times the upper limit of the derived 44Ti mass of Ca-rich SN 2005E. We suggest that subtracting the contributions of the host-galaxy, which are unknown, and including the flux from other long-lived elements (e.g., 57Co, 55Fe, 60Co) can reduce the amount of 44Ti, and that this value can be regarded as an upper limit.
Fractional diffusion equations interpolate between damping and waves
Authors: Manapany Andy , Fumeron Sébastien , Henkel Malte
Published: August 2024

The behaviour of the solutions of the time-fractional diffusion equation, based on the Caputo derivative, is studied and its dependence on the fractional exponent is analysed. The time-fractional convection–diffusion equation is also solved and an application to Pennes bioheat model is presented. Generically, a wave-like transport at short times passes over to a diffusion-like behaviour at later times.
A Plastic Kavi?
Authors: Ghosh Ranjan
Published: August 2024

This chapter conceptualizes the radical idea of ‘plastic kavi’ in relation to Tagore and his thoughts. A plastic kavi exists in the singularities of plastic moments where the flashpoints in thinking and formation are explosions that construct forms, develop their points of ignition from forms that are difficult to destroy, and initiate differentiations in critical thinking and aesthetic-ethical experiences. The chapter taps into the possibilities of Tagore to be other than what he is considered to be and what he thought he possibly could be. Plastic Tagore is the love for a Tagore who has always been restive, tensional, withdrawn, and recluse—a creative surplus that meant more but communicated less, achieved less in meaning but produced possibilities of agonistic life worlds.
The Plastizität of Visva Sāhitya
Authors: Ghosh Ranjan
Published: August 2024

This chapter gives a completely new reading of Tagore’s idea of the world of literature, world literature, and the principle of the comparative. Ghosh introduces his ideas of plasticity and plastic theory to open up a fresh area of intervention in Tagore’s engagement with comparative/world literature. Also, plasticity questions the local and the global bind in literary understanding and the chapter argues for an understanding that extends Tagorean thinking in this area and gives it a new meaning. The chapter argues how visva sāhitya becomes plastic sahitya in the sense of littérature-monde, as being a high entropy event and having its own immanence. The plasticization of world literature creates corresponding worlds in visva of sahitya and visva sahitya. The chapter also exemplifies Ghosh’s exposition of trans-worlding.
Adipose stem cell-derived exosomes in the treatment of wound healing in preclinical animal models: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Jing-tao , He Ting , Shen Kuo , Xu Zhi-gang , Han Jun-tao , Yang Xue-kang
Published: August 2024

Background

Wound healing has always been a serious issue for doctors and primary health care systems. In addition, adipose stem cell-derived exosomes have been proven to play a positive and effective role in tissue repair and regeneration. A systematic review of these preclinical studies was performed to assess the efficacy of adipose stem cell-derived exosomes (ADSC-Exos) in treating wounds. This article aimed to study the effectiveness of ADSC-Exos for the treatment of animal skin wounds and includes a meta-analysis of exosomes from general wounds and diabetic ulcer wounds in in vitro models of animals to provide a theoretical basis for clinical translation.

Methods

A total of 19 studies with 356 animals were identified by searching the PubMed, Cochrane, MEDLINE Complete, Web of Science, CNKI and Wanfang databases from inception to 15 November 2022. No language or time restrictions were applied. Stata17 was used for all the data analyses.

Results

The meta-analysis showed that ADSC-Exo therapy significantly improved the wound healing rate in the control group, except in the diabetes group on day 7. Day 7 of general wounds [standard mean difference (SMD) 2.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.91–3.83)] and day 14 (SMD 2.89, 95%CI 1.47–4.30). Day 14 (SMD 3.43, 95%CI 1.28–5.58) of diabetic wounds. Other outcomes, such as blood vessel density, collagen deposition and wound re-epithelization, improved with the administration of ADSC-Exos.

Conclusions

A meta-analysis showed that ADSC-Exo therapy applied to general and diabetic wounds can promote neovascularization, improve epithelization and collagen fiber deposition, promote healing, and reduce scar formation. ADSC-Exos have broad potential in preclinical research and clinical fields.
Patient-Related Factors Associated With Long-Term Outcomes After Successful Endoscopic Balloon Dilation For Crohn’s Disease-Associated Ileo-Colic Strictures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Menezes Nascimento Filho Hiram , Kum Angelo So Taa , Bestetti Alexandre Moraes , da Silva Pedro Henrique Veras Ayres , Gallegos Megui Marilia Mansilla , Damião Adérson Omar Mourão Cintra , Navaneethan Udayakumar , de Moura Eduardo Guimarães Hourneaux
Published: August 2024

Background

Successful Crohn’s disease (CD) therapy relies on timely and precise management strategies. Endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) has been applied as a first-line treatment for symptomatic CD-associated strictures due to its minimally invasive nature and the possibility of preserving intestinal length.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to determine patient-related predictive factors associated with the need for surgery for CD-associated ileocolic strictures after technically successful EBD.

Methods

All original studies published before December 2023 that reported the outcomes of patients treated with EBD for ileocolic strictures secondary to CD and described follow-up for at least 1 year were included. The difference in risk of needing surgery was calculated for 8 different patient characteristics (Sex, smoking habit, previous surgery, biologic therapy, steroids, immunosuppressors, nature of the stricture, and endoscopic disease activity).

Results

There were significant differences in the risk of needing surgery after EBD among patients who underwent surgery and patients without a history of surgery (RD: −0.20 [−0.31, −0.08]), patients with endoscopic mucosal activity and patients in remission at the time of EBD (RD: 0.19 [0.04, 0.34]), patients using biologics at the time of EBD and patients not using biologics (RD: −0.09 [−0.16, −0.03]), and patients using steroids and those not using steroids at the time of EBD (RD: 0.16 [0.07, 0.26]).

Conclusions

The use of biologics and endoscopic disease remission at the time of EBD were protective factors against the need for surgery. No previous surgery or use of steroids at the time of EBD was associated with the need for surgery during follow-up.
Girk3 deletion increases osteoblast maturation and bone mass accrual in adult male mice
Authors: Weaver Samantha R , Torres Haydee M , Arnold Katherine M , Zars Elizabeth L , Peralta-Herrera Eduardo , Taylor Earnest L , Yu Kanglun , Marron Fernandez de Velasco Ezequiel , Wickman Kevin , McGee-Lawrence Meghan E , Bradley Elizabeth W , Westendorf Jennifer J
Published: August 2024

Osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases are prevalent in the aging population. While bone has the capacity to regenerate throughout life, bone formation rates decline with age and contribute to reduced bone density and strength. Identifying mechanisms and pathways that increase bone accrual in adults could prevent fractures and accelerate healing. G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels are key effectors of G protein-coupled receptor signaling. Girk3 was recently shown to regulate endochondral ossification. Here, we demonstrate that deletion of Girk3 increases bone mass after 18 weeks of age. Male 24-week-old Girk3-/- mice have greater trabecular bone mineral density and bone volume fraction than wildtype (WT) mice. Osteoblast activity is moderately increased in 24-week-old Girk3-/- mice compared to WT mice. In vitro, Girk3-/- bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) are more proliferative than WT BMSCs. Calvarial osteoblasts and BMSCs from Girk3-/- mice are also more osteogenic than WT cells, with altered expression of genes that regulate the wingless-related integration site (Wnt) family. Wnt inhibition via Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) or β-catenin inhibition via XAV939 prevents enhanced mineralization, but not proliferation, in Girk3-/- BMSCs and slows these processes in WT cells. Finally, selective ablation of Girk3 from cells expressing Cre recombinase from the 2.3 kb-Col1a1 promoter, including osteoblasts and osteocytes, is sufficient to increase bone mass and bone strength in male mice at 24 weeks of age. Taken together, these data demonstrate that Girk3 regulates progenitor cell proliferation, osteoblast differentiation, and bone mass accrual in adult male mice.
Autonomy and critique in the goal-oriented university: the paradox of teaching reflexivity
Authors: Berglund Leo
Published: August 2024

This article explores the meaning of the task of teaching students to formulate critique in relation to the so-called ‘pedagogical paradox’, according to which the educational ideal of individual autonomy is contradicted by the practice of planning and control, which is particularly pronounced in the influential model of ‘constructive alignment’. Taking Kant’s idea of enlightenment and autonomy as a starting point, I introduce Luc Boltanski’s concept of reflexivity and link it to Jon Elster’s discussion of ‘states that are essentially by-products’. In doing so, I advance the view that genuine critique typically emerges from a shift in perspective, from the pragmatic realization of goals according to institutionalized practices to a metapragmatic reflection on those practices. Since teaching is itself an institutionalized practice, personal reflexivity can only be understood as a by-product of teaching, and, contra the logic of models like constructive alignment, it cannot be set as a direct objective. Emerging from the subject itself, rather than from the influence of an educational technique, personal reflexivity should be recognized as an important aspect of the subject’s transition from youth to maturity.
Sexual function, health functionality, and quality of life in females with pulmonary arterial hypertension: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Oliveira Leticia Fernanda Tavares Sousa , Arakaki Jaquelina Sonoe Ota , Vieira Elaine Brito , Lopes Juliana de Lima , Lopes Camila Takao , Abuchaim Erika da Silva , Santos Vinicius Batista
Published: August 2024

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) can have several consequences on sexual function, which can lead to worsened quality of life.

Aim

The study sought to assess sexual function and its association with health functionality and quality of life in females with PAH.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in pulmonary circulation outpatient clinics from January 2022 to March 2023 in females diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension. Assessment was carried out through the application of the Female Sexual Function Index, the 36-item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule, and the Medical Outcome Study 36-Item Short Form Survey.

Outcomes

Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 and JASP, and Spearman’s correlation tests were applied between the instruments, with a P value <.05 considered significant.

Results

A total of 91 females were assessed. It was identified that 90.1% of females had sexual dysfunction, with worse scores in females with sexual dysfunction in the domains of satisfaction, arousal, and desire, with average health functionality and quality of life. There were significant correlations between the domains of mobility, getting along, life activities, and the overall functionality score with some domains of sexual function, especially arousal and satisfaction. We found significant correlations between some domains of quality-of-life assessment with the domains of desire, arousal, and satisfaction, and with the overall score of sexual function assessment, as well as strong correlations between health functionality and quality of life.

Clinical Implication

The data reinforce the need for rehabilitation programs and social support for this population.

Strengths and Limitations

This is one of the few studies to evaluate sexual function, quality of life, and health functionality in women with PAH. Due to limitations in data collection, we were unable to assess certain factors such as hormone levels and a history of sexual abuse.

Conclusion

We identified a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in females with PAH with mild functional impairment and a moderate quality-of-life score with correlations between sexual function, health functionality, and quality of life.
Jesus vs Seth-Typhon: An Audience-Critical Approach to Mark 4:35–5:20
Authors: Lee Sanghwan
Published: August 2024

Scholars have approached the Gerasene Demoniac pericope (Mark 5:1–20; = GDP) in light of various traditions, such as the Homeric parallels, the Watcher (i.e. Enochic) story, the scapegoat motif, and imperial-critical and gendered perspectives. Without denying the validity of these attempts, I suggest that there is still an important—but largely ignored—set of traditions that deserves our attention: the Seth-Typhon traditions. Based on an audience-critical perspective, this article suggests that several elements in GDP could allude to the Seth-Typhon traditions in the minds of the Greco-Roman audience of Mark. The strength of this method is twofold. First, it accounts for the close relationship between GDP and its preceding pericope (i.e. the Storm-Stilling pericope; Mark 4:35–41). Second, it coherently explains multiple critical motifs—the crossing of the sea, the sleeping Jesus, the attempt to drown Jesus, the sea-storm, the foreign area, the legion of demons, and the death of the pigs—featured in Mark 4:35–5:20. According to this approach, Jesus in Mark 4:35–5:20 can be read as a divine warrior who outshines his pagan counterparts (i.e. Zeus and Osiris) as he battles against the cosmic forces of evil and eventually conquers them.
Disc novae: thermodynamics of gas-assisted binary black hole formation in AGN discs
Authors: Whitehead Henry , Rowan Connar , Boekholt Tjarda , Kocsis Bence
Published: August 2024

We investigate the thermodynamics of close encounters between stellar mass black holes (BHs) in the gaseous discs of active galactic nuclei (AGNs), during which binary black holes (BBHs) may form. We consider a suite of 2D viscous hydrodynamical simulations within a shearing box prescription using the Eulerian grid code athena++. We study formation scenarios where the fluid is either an isothermal gas or an adiabatic mixture of gas and radiation in local thermal equilibrium. We include the effects of viscous and shock heating, as well as optically thick cooling. We co-evolve the embedded BHs with the gas, keeping track of the energetic dissipation and torquing of the BBH by gas and inertial forces. We find that compared to the isothermal case, the minidiscs formed around each BH are significantly hotter and more diffuse, though BBH formation is still efficient. We observe massive blast waves arising from collisions between the radiative minidiscs during both the initial close encounter and subsequent periapsis periods for successfully bound BBHs. These ‘disc novae’ have a profound effect, depleting the BBH Hill sphere of gas and injecting energy into the surrounding medium. In analysing the thermal emission from these events, we observe periodic peaks in local luminosity associated with close encounters/periapses, with emission peaking in the optical/near-infrared (IR). In the AGN outskirts, these outbursts can reach 4 per cent of the AGN luminosity in the IR band, with flares rising over 0.5–1 yr. Collisions in different disc regions, or when treated in 3D with magnetism, may produce more prominent flares.