bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alkaline-earth metal embedded expanded phthalocyanine nanosheets with direct band gaps and high power conversion efficiency
Authors: Wang Cui , Yang Li-Ming
Published: June 2024

A new class of alkaline earth metals embedded expanded phthalocyanine nanosheets with high stabilities, direct band gaps, high absorption coefficients and power conversion efficiencies were uncovered. These materials have promising potential applications in nanoelectronics and optoelectronics.
Understanding the growth mechanisms of γ-GeSe for polymorph-selective large-area deposition
Authors: Jung Joong-Eon , Lee Sol , Kang Hani , Jang Myeongjin , Park Jinsub , Petri Mustonen , Lipsanen Harri , Sun Zhipei , Yoon Hoon Hahn , Kim Kwanpyo
Published: June 2024

This work unveils the pivotal roles of Au catalysts and substrates in the polymorph-selective, large-area synthesis of γ-GeSe. The demonstrated synthesis of γ-GeSe will advance energy storage and optoelectronics applications with the new polymorph.
Bioinspired flavin analogues as organic electrode materials for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Mondal Dipayan , Naskar Ishita , Deepa Melepurath , Mishra Ashutosh Kumar
Published: June 2024

With the increasing interest in incorporating redox-active organic molecules as potential materials in energy storage systems, we envisaged a chemical design around naturally occurring redox-active flavin core structure.
Bioactivity, hemocompatibility, and inflammatory response of calcium incorporated sulfonated polyether ether ketone on mouse-derived bone marrow cells
Authors: Saravanabhavan Shanmuga Sundar , Narayanaswamy Venkatesan Prabhu , Jonna Narendranath , Vasantha Palaniappan Kamalakannan , Sarang Zsolt , Natesan Balasubramanian , Sergi Consolato M.
Published: June 2024

Natural and synthetic polymeric materials, particularly soft and hard tissue replacements, are paramount in medicine. We prepared calcium-incorporated sulfonated polyether-ether ketone (SPEEK) polymer membranes for bone applications. The bioactivity was higher after 21 days of immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) due to calcium concentration in the membrane. We present a new biomaterial healing system composed of calcium and sulfonated polyether ether ketone (Ca-SPEEK) that can function as a successful biomaterial without causing inflammation when tested on bone marrow cells. The Ca-SPEEK exhibited 13 ± 0.5% clot with low fibrin mesh formation compared to 21 ± 0.5% in SPEEK. In addition, the Ca-SPEEK showed higher protein adsorption than SPEEK membranes. As an inflammatory response, IL-1 and TNF-α in the case of Ca-SPEEK were lower than those for SPEEK. We found an early regulation of IL-10 in the case of Ca-SPEEK at 6 h, which may be attributed to the down-regulation of the inflammatory markers IL-1 and TNF-α. These results evidence the innovative bioactivity of Ca-SPEEK with low inflammatory response, opening venues for bone applications.
Spatiotemporal regulation of the hepatocyte growth factor receptor MET activity by sorting nexins 1/2 in HCT116 colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Garcia Delgado Laiyen , Derome Amélie , Longpré Samantha , Giroux-Dansereau Marilyne , Basbous Ghenwa , Lavoie Christine , Saucier Caroline , Denault Jean-Bernard
Published: June 2024

Cumulative research findings support the idea that endocytic trafficking is crucial in regulating receptor signaling and associated diseases. Specifically, strong evidence points to the involvement of sorting nexins (SNXs), particularly SNX1 and SNX2, in the signaling and trafficking of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) MET in colorectal cancer (CRC). Activation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor MET is a key driver of CRC progression. In the present study, we utilized human HCT116 CRC cells with SNX1 and SNX2 genes knocked out to demonstrate that their absence leads to a delay in MET entering early endosomes. This delay results in increased phosphorylation of both MET and AKT upon HGF stimulation, while ERK1/2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2) phosphorylation remains unaffected. Despite these changes, HGF-induced cell proliferation, scattering, and migration remain similar between the parental and the SNX1/2 knockout cells. However, in the absence of SNX1 and SNX2, these cells exhibit increased resistance to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. This research underscores the intricate relationship between intracellular trafficking, receptor signaling, and cellular responses and demonstrates for the first time that the modulation of MET trafficking by SNX1 and SNX2 is critical for receptor signaling that may exacerbate the disease.
Data collection in IoT networks: Architecture, solutions, protocols and challenges
Authors: Abba Ari Ado Adamou , Aziz Hamayadji Abdoul , Njoya Arouna Ndam , Aboubakar Moussa , Djedouboum Assidé Christian , Thiare Ousmane , Mohamadou Alidou
Published: June 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the recent technology intended to facilitate the daily life of humans by providing the power to connect, control and automate objects in the physical world. In this logic, the IoT helps to improve our way of producing and working in various areas (e.g. agriculture, industry, healthcare, transportation etc). Basically, an IoT network comprises physical devices, equipped with sensors and transmitters, that are interconnected with each other and/or connected to the Internet. Its main objective is to gather and transmit data to a storage system such as a server or cloud to enable processing and analysis, ultimately facilitating rapid decision‐making or enhancements to the user experience. In the realm of Connected Objects, an effective IoT data collection system plays a vital role by providing several benefits, such as real‐time data monitoring, enhanced decision‐making, increased operational efficiency etc. However, because of the resource limitations linked to connected objects, such as low memory and battery, or even single‐use devices etc. IoT data collecting presents several challenges including scalability, security, interoperability, flexibility etc. for both researchers and companies. The authors categorise current IoT data collection techniques and perform a comparative evaluation of these methods based on the topics analysed and elaborated by the authors. In addition, a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in IoT data collection is provided, highlighting different data types and sources, transmission protocols from connected sensors to a storage platform (server or cloud), the IoT data collection framework, and principles for streamlining the collection process. Finally, the most important research questions and future prospects for the effective collection of IoT data are summarised.
Orbital dynamics in the GG Tau A system: Investigating its enigmatic disc
Authors: Toci Claudia , Ceppi Simone , Cuello Nicolás , Duchêne Gaspard , Ragusa Enrico , Lodato Giuseppe , Farina Francesca , Ménard François , Aly Hossam
Published: June 2024

Context. GG Tau is one of the most studied young multiple stellar systems: GG Tau A is a hierarchical triple surrounded by a massive disc and its companion, GG Tau B, is also a binary. Despite numerous observational attempts, a comprehensive understanding of the geometry of the GG Tau A system is still elusive. Given the significant role of dynamical interactions in shaping the evolution of these systems, it is relevant to characterise the stellar orbits and the discs’ properties.

Aims. To determine the best orbital configuration of the GG Tau A system and its circumtriple disc, we provide new astrometric measures of the system and we run a set of hydrodynamical simulations with two representative orbits to test how they impact a disc composed of dust and gas.

Methods. We tested the dynamical evolution of the two scenarios on short and long timescales. We obtained synthetic flux emission from our simulations at different timescales and we compared them with multi-wavelength observations of 1300 µm ALMA dust continuum emission and 1.67 µm SPHERE dust scattering to infer the most likely orbital arrangement.

Results. We extend the analysis of the binary orbital parameters using six new epochs from archival data, showing that the current measurements alone (and future observations coming in the next 5–10 yr) are not capable of fully breaking the degeneracy between families of coplanar and misaligned orbits, but finding that a modest misalignment is probable. We find that the timescale for the onset of the disc eccentricity growth, τecc, is a fundamental timescale for the morphology of the system. Results from the numerical simulations obtained using the representative coplanar and misaligned (∆θ = 30°) orbits show that the best match between the position of the stars, the cavity size, and the dust ring size of GG Tau A is obtained with the misaligned configuration on timescales shorter than τecc. The results exhibit an almost circular cavity and dust ring, favouring slightly misaligned (∆θ ~ 10–30°) low-eccentricity (e ~ 0.2–0.4) orbits. However, for both scenarios, the cavity size and its eccentricity quickly grow for timescales longer than τecc and the models do not reproduce the observed morphology anymore. This implies that either the age of the system is shorter than τecc or that the disc eccentricity growth is not triggered or dissipated in the system. This finding raises questions about the future evolution of the GG Tau A system and, more generally, the time evolution of eccentric binaries and their circumbinary discs.
High-cadence monitoring of the emission properties of magnetar XTE J1810−197 with the Stockert radio telescope
Authors: Bause Marlon L. , Herrmann Wolfgang , Spitler Laura G.
Published: June 2024

Context. Since the detection of a burst resembling a fast radio burst (FRB) from the Galactic magnetar SGR 1935+2154, magnetars have joined the set of favourable candidates for FRB progenitors. However, the emission mechanism of magnetars remains poorly understood.

Aims. Observations of magnetars with a high cadence over extended timescales have allowed for their emission properties to be determined, in particular, their temporal variations. In this work, we present the results of the long-term monitoring campaign of the magnetar XTE J1810−197 since its second observed active phase from December 2018 until November 2021, with the Stockert 25 m radio telescope.

Methods. We present a single pulse search method, improving on commonly used neural network classifiers thanks to the filtering of radio frequency interference based on its spectral variance and the magnetar’s rotation.

Results. With this approach, we were able to lower the signal to noise ratio (S/N) detection threshold from 8 to 5. This allowed us to find over 115 000 spiky single pulses – compared to 56 000 from the neutral network approach. Here, we present the temporal variation of the overall profile and single pulses. Two distinct phases of different single pulse activity can be identified: phase 1 from December 2018 to mid-2019, with a few single pulses per hour, and phase 2 from September 2020 with hundreds of single pulses per hour (with a comparable average flux density). We find that the single pulse properties and folded profile in phase 2 exhibit a change around mid-March 2021. Before this date, the folded profile consists of a single peak and single pulses, with fluences of up to 1000 Jyms and a single-peaked width distribution at around 10 ms. After mid-March 2021, the profile consists of a two peaks and the single pulse population shows a bimodal width distribution with a second peak at 1 ms and fluences of up to 500 Jyms. We also present asymmetries in the phase-resolved single pulse width distributions beginning to appear in 2020, where the pulses arriving earlier in the rotational phase appear wider than those appearing later. This asymmetry persists despite the temporal evolution of the other single pulse and emission properties.

Conclusions. We argue that a drift in the emission region in the magnetosphere may explain this observed behaviour. Additionally, we find that the fluence of the detected single pulses depends on the rotational phase and the highest fluence is found in the centre of the peaks in the profile. While the majority of the emission can be linked to the detected single pulses, we cannot exclude another weak mode of emission. In contrast to the pulses from SGR 1935+2154, we have not found any spectral feature or bursts with energies in the order of magnitude of an FRB during our observational campaign. Therefore, the question of whether this magnetar is capable of emitting such highly energetic bursts remains open.
HD 110067 c has an aligned orbit
Authors: Zak J. , Boffin H. M. J. , Sedaghati E. , Bocchieri A. , Changeat Q. , Fukui A. , Hatzes A. , Hillwig T. , Hornoch K. , Itrich D. , Ivanov V. D. , Jones D. , Kabath P. , Kawai Y. , Mugnai L. V. , Murgas F. , Narita N. , Palle E. , Pascale E. , Pravec P. , Redfield S. , Roccetti G. , Roth M. , Srba J. , Tian Q. , Tsiaras A. , Turrini D. , Vignes J. P.
Published: June 2024

Planetary systems in mean motion resonances hold a special place among the planetary population. They allow us to study planet formation in great detail as dissipative processes are thought to have played an important role in their existence. Additionally, planetary masses in bright resonant systems can be independently measured via both radial velocities and transit timing variations. In principle, they also allow us to quickly determine the inclination of all planets in the system since, for the system to be stable, they are likely all in coplanar orbits. To describe the full dynamical state of the system, we also need the stellar obliquity, which provides the orbital alignment of a planet with respect to the spin of its host star and can be measured thanks to the Rossiter–McLaughlin effect. It was recently discovered that HD 110067 harbors a system of six sub-Neptunes in resonant chain orbits. We here analyze an ESPRESSO high-resolution spectroscopic time series of HD 110067 during the transit of planet c. We find the orbit of HD 110067 c to be well aligned, with a sky-projected obliquity of
λ =6+24-26
deg. This result indicates that the current architecture of the system was reached through convergent migration without any major disruptive events. Finally, we report transit-timing variation in this system as we find a significant offset of 19 ± 4 min in the center of the transit compared to the published ephemeris.
The Logic and Pathway of Green Finance in Advancing the Development of New Quality Productivity
Authors: Wang Xiang
Published: June 2024

Against the dual backdrop of economic globalization and ecological environmental crisis, green finance has become a key force in driving the development of new quality productive forces. This paper first defines the concept, constituent elements, and characteristics of new quality productive forces, and then explores the promotional role of green finance in their development through theoretical analysis. The research finds that green finance can effectively promote the development of new quality productive forces by mechanisms such as providing financial support, guiding technological innovation, and optimizing industrial structure. The paper specifically outlines the pathways through which green finance can drive the development of new quality productive forces and proposes strategic recommendations on how to enhance the functions of green finance and stimulate the vitality of new quality productive forces. The study emphasizes that constructing an effective green finance system can promote the development of new quality productive forces and achieve sustainable development.
Update zu COVID-19 und Impfungen gegen respiratorische Erreger bei entzündlich-rheumatischen Erkrankungen
Authors: Hasseli-Fräbel Rebecca
Published: June 2024

Derzeit steigen die Zahlen der Atemwegserkrankungen in der Wintersaison wieder deutlich an. Trotz des Endes der Pandemie spielt COVID-19 (Coronavirus-Infektion 2019) weiterhin eine wichtige Rolle. Vor allem Menschen ab dem 60. Lebensjahr haben weiterhin ein erhöhtes Risiko, einen schweren COVID-19-Verlauf zu entwickeln. Etwa 33 % der COVID-19-Fälle mussten seit der 40. Kalenderwoche 2023 stationär behandelt werden. Basierend auf der Entwicklung der SARS-CoV-2-Infektion und der Virusvarianten wird seit Januar 2024 eine jährliche Auffrischimpfung gegen COVID-19 mit den adaptierten Impfstoffen für Personen mit entsprechendem Risikoprofil empfohlen. Darüber hinaus soll erneut auf die Anwendung von Schutzmaßnahmen insbesondere in der Wintersaison zur Reduzierung des Infektionsrisikos hingewiesen werden. Für die antivirale Therapie stehen bei erhöhtem Risiko für schwere COVID-19-Verläufe Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir und Remdesivir zur Verfügung. Neben COVID-19 spielen Influenza-, Pneumokokken- und Respiratory-Syncytial-Virus-Infektionen eine wichtige Rolle. Auch hier kann eine Impfprävention schwere Infektionsverläufe verhindern.
Wie impfe ich im Alter bzw. bei anderen Risikogruppen und sollte man den Impferfolg kontrollieren?
Authors: Krasselt Marco
Published: June 2024

Impfungen leisten einen unschätzbaren Beitrag zur Verhinderung von Infektionen und reduzieren damit die Mortalität, insbesondere im Alter. Die erfolgreichen Impfkampagnen während der COVID-19-Pandemie haben diese Tatsache eindrücklich unterstrichen. Die Alterung des Immunsystems (Immunoseneszenz) einerseits und die Zunahme von Komorbiditäten andererseits begünstigen mit zunehmendem Alter Infektionen. Die Immunoseneszenz führt darüber hinaus zu einer eingeschränkten Impfantwort. Infektiologische Erkrankungen des Respirationstraktes – wie eine Pneumokokken-Pneumonie oder Influenza – spielen mit fortschreitendem Alter eine besondere Rolle. Bei der Pneumokokken-Pneumonie betrifft die Mortalität beispielsweise fast ausschließlich ältere Menschen. In jüngster Vergangenheit finden auch Infektionen mit dem Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) zunehmend Beachtung, erste Empfehlungen hierzu gibt es von der Sächsischen Impfkommission. Auch wenn eine Kontrolle des Impferfolges im klinischen Alltag verlockend erscheint und manchmal auch aktiv nachgefragt wird, besteht hierzu selten eine Indikation. Dies begründet sich u. a. dadurch, dass häufig gar keine serologischen Schutzkorrelate bekannt sind und die Interpretation der Befunde damit schwierig ist. Die Serologie sollte besonderen Situationen (z. B. Immunsuppression) vorbehalten bleiben.
Reaktanz: Missing Link der Bewegungsförderung?
Authors: Huber Gerhard
Published: June 2024

Es besteht eine große Diskrepanz zwischen dem Wissen um den gesundheitlichen Wert
der körperlichen Aktivität und der tatsächlichen Umsetzung in der Bevölkerung.
Dies gilt in besonderer Ausprägung für das von uns untersuchte Personal in der
stationären Altersversorgung. Der sozialpsychologische Ansatz der Reaktanz und
die die dazugehörige Theorie hilft uns, dieses Phänomen besser zu verstehen. In
dem Beitrag wird dieses Konzept kurz erläutert und seine Bedeutung für die
Bewegungsförderung vor dem Hintergrund der Erfahrungen im Modellvorhaben POLKA
dargestellt.
Stimmungsberichte
Authors: Buchhalter Andreas
Published: June 2024

Die Projektbeteiligten im Modellvorhaben POLKA legen sehr viel Wert darauf, dass die
Ergebnisse der Anwendungen abschließend getestet und, neben Ergebnissen aus dem
Spiel selbst, auf Förderfaktoren und Barrieren untersucht werden. Die Auswertung der
Anwendbarkeit (Usability) und des Spaßes während der Anwendung (User Experience),
welche auf Vorgaben des Leitfadens Prävention gemäß Kapitel 5 & 7 basieren, ist
bei unseren digitalen Interventionen genauso wichtig wie bei den analogen.
Grußwort
Authors: Storm Andreas
Published: June 2024

Sehr geehrte Leserinnen und Leser,

die Stärkung der Pflege bleibt insbesondere nach der Pandemie eine der großen
Herausforderungen für unsere Gesellschaft: Das Personal ist erschöpft und leidet
mehr denn je unter dem Personalmangel. Der demografische Wandel verschärft die
Situation weiter: Einer wachsenden Zahl Pflegebedürftiger steht eine stetig
abnehmende Zahl an Nachwuchskräften gegenüber.
Duodenal Atresia in Finland from 2004 to 2017: Prevalence, Mortality, and Associated Anomalies—A Population-Based Study
Authors: Alikärri Suvi , Helenius Ilkka , Heiskanen Susanna , Syvänen Johanna , Kemppainen Teemu , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Gissler Mika , Raitio Arimatias
Published: June 2024

Introduction Duodenal atresia (DA) is the most common atresia of the small bowel. This study aims to assess the prevalence, mortality, and associated anomalies related to DA in Finland from 2004 to 2017.

Material and Methods A nationwide study based on registers maintained by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare and Statistics Finland containing data on all live births and stillbirths and terminations of pregnancy. The cases were identified based on the ICD-9 and 10 (International Classification of Diseases revisions 9 and 10) codes. Associated anomalies were classified based on the EUROCAT criteria; minor anomalies were excluded.

Results There were 249 DA cases including 222 (89.2%) live births, 16 (6.4%) stillbirths, and 11 (4.4%) terminations. There was no significant change in the prevalence rates between 2004 and 2017. Live birth prevalence was 2.75/10,000 and total prevalence was 3.08/10,000 births. A total of 100 (40.2%) cases were isolated, 67 (26.9%) had other multiple congenital anomalies, and 83 (33.3%) were syndromic. There were no terminations in isolated DA. Most associated anomalies were cardiac (36.1%), followed by other gastrointestinal tract anomalies (23.7%) and limb deformities/defects (7.2%). Trisomy 21 was observed in 63 cases (25.3%). Neonatal mortality was 3.6% (n = 8) and at 1 year 95.0% were alive. Both neonatal and infant mortalities were associated with cardiac anomalies (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). All neonatal deaths had associated cardiac defect(s).

Conclusions The prevalence of DA in Finland remains stable and among the highest reported. DA is often associated with cardiac anomalies, which portend a high risk for mortality. Despite the burden of associated anomalies, overall survival is high.
Is a 3 mm Surgical Margin Safe for Basal Cell Carcinoma in the Head and Neck that is Less than 2 cm, Considering Different Risk Factors?
Authors: Yong Min-Jun , Yoo Seok-Ju , Shin Hea-Kyeong
Published: June 2024

Background Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Typically, resection requires a safety margin of ≥4 mm. When removing tumor cells, achieving complete excision with minimal safety margins and reconstructing the defect to preserve the original appearance are important. In this study, we used a 3-mm resection margin to confirm recurrence and re-resection rates.

Methods Electronic medical records and photographic data were obtained for patients with primary BCC lesions less than 2 cm in diameter who underwent wide excision with a 3-mm surgical margin from January 2015 to November 2021. We analyzed factors determining recurrence and re-resection rates, such as tumor size, location, age, sex, underlying diseases (including immunosuppression state), ethnicity, subtypes, tumor borders, etc.

Results This study included 205 patients. The mean age and follow-up period were 73.0 ± 11.5 years and 10.2 ± 8.0 months, respectively. The recurrence and re-resection rates were 1.95% and 25.85%, respectively.

A statistically significant correlation was found between recurrence rate and tumor border (p = 0.013) and the re-resection rate was correlated statistically with location (p = 0.022) and immunosuppressed patients (p = 0.006).

Conclusion We found that a 3-mm excision margin provided sufficient safety in small facial BCC, resulting in ease of surgery and better aesthetic outcomes.

However, surgical margins must be determined case by case by integrating various patient factors. In particular, a surgical margin of ≥4 mm is required for BCC in high-risk areas, immunosuppressed patients, or poorly defined border.
Tandem Diboration–Protoboration of Terminal Alkynes: A Practical Route to α-Substituted Alkenyl Boronates
Authors: Morken James P. , Kong Ziyin , Park Jimin , Fei Muchun , Warfield Josephine , Wang Dunwei
Published: June 2024

A practical method is introduced for the catalytic conversion of terminal alkynes into α-substituted vinyl boronic esters. The process employs catalytic amounts of nanoparticle-supported gold catalysts and catalytic amounts of copper to effect the overall transformation.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Somatosensory Evoked Potential and Transcranial Motor Evoked Potential in Detection of Neurological Injury in Intradural Extramedullary Spinal Cord Tumor Surgeries: A Short-Term Follow-Up Prospective Interventional Study Experience from Tertiary Care Center of India
Authors: Mishra Manish Kumar , Pandey Nityanand , Sharma Hanjabam Barun , Prasad Ravi Shankar , Sahu Anurag , Pradhan Ravi Shekhar , Yadav Vikrant
Published: June 2024

Objective Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) is an acknowledged tool for real-time neuraxis assessment during surgery. Somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) and transcranial motor evoked potential (MEP) are commonest deployed modalities of IONM. Role of SSEP and MEP in intradural extramedullary spinal cord tumor (IDEMSCT) surgery is not well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of SSEP and transcranial MEP, in detection of intraoperative neurological injury in IDEMSCT patients as well as their postoperative limb-specific neurological improvement assessment at fixed intervals till 30 days.

Materials and Methods Symptomatic patients with IDEMSCTs were selected according to the inclusion criteria of study protocol. On modified McCormick (mMC) scale, their sensory-motor deficit was assessed both preoperatively and postoperatively. Surgery was done under SSEP and MEP (transcranial) monitoring using appropriate anesthetic agents. Gross total/subtotal resection of tumor was achieved as per IONM warning alarms. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of SSEP and MEP were calculated considering postoperative neurological changes as “reference standard.” Patients were followed up at postoperative day (POD) 0, 1, 7, and 30 for convalescence.

Statistical Analysis With appropriate tests of significance, statistical analysis was carried out. Receiver-operating characteristic curve was used to find cutoff point of mMC for SSEP being recordable in patients with higher neurological deficit along with calculation of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of SSEP and MEP for prediction of intraoperative neurological injury.

Results Study included 32 patients. Baseline mean mMC value was 2.59. Under neuromonitoring, gross total resection of IDEMSCT was achieved in 87.5% patients. SSEP was recordable in subset of patients with mMC value less than or equal to 2 with diagnostic accuracy of 100%. MEP was recordable in all patients and it had 96.88% diagnostic accuracy. Statistically significant neurological improvement was noted at POD-7 and POD-30 follow-up.

Conclusion SSEP and MEP individually carry high diagnostic accuracy in detection of intraoperative neurological injuries in patients undergoing IDEMSCT surgery. MEP continues to monitor the neuraxis, even in those subsets of patients where SSEP fails to record.
The Prevalence of the Middle Clinoid Process: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study in Patients with and without Pathology of the Sella Turcica
Authors: Anukulsampan Suppaluk , Tansirisithikul Chottiwat , Sitthinamsuwan Bunpot
Published: June 2024

Background The middle clinoid process (MCP), particularly caroticoclinoid ring (CCR) type of the MCP, is an important part of the sphenoid bone for skull base surgery. Previous studies have shown a wide range of MCP prevalence affected by various factors. However, no study has investigated the association between the MCP and the presence of sellar lesions.

Objectives The main aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of the MCP in the Thai population and factors associated with its presence.

Materials and Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study on 400 sides from 200 patients (100 with and 100 without sellar lesions) using cranial computerized tomography scans. Demographic data and MCP characteristics were collected. The association between individual variables and the presence of the MCP was determined by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results The MCP was identified in 168 of 400 sides (42%). Patients with sellar lesions had a significantly lower prevalence of the MCP compared with normal controls (29.5% versus 54.5%, p < 0.001). Of all MCP only 6% were the CCR type. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that the absence of the sellar lesion was the only factor significantly associated with presence of the MCP (odds ratio: 2.86; 95% confidence interval: 1.90–4.32; p< 0.001).

Conclusion The prevalence of the MCP was relatively high in the Thai population, while the prevalence of the CCR was relatively low compared with previous studies. The absence of sellar lesions was the only factor associated with the presence of the MCP.
Use of Ambient Light Compatible Fluorescence-Guided Surgical Technology for Objective Assessment of Flap Perfusion in Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Shaffrey Ellen C. , Moura Steven P. , Seitz Allison J. , Jupitz Sydney , Seets Trevor , Kawahara Tisha , Uselmann Adam , Lin Christie , Poore Samuel O.
Published: June 2024

Background Decreased autologous flap vascular perfusion can lead to secondary procedures. Fluorescence angiography during surgery reduces the probability of repeat surgery but suffers from interpretation variability. Recently, the OnLume Avata System was developed, which evaluates real-time vascular perfusion in ambient light. This study aims to predict complications in autologous breast reconstruction using measures of relative intensity (RI) and relative area (RA).

Methods Patients undergoing autologous breast reconstruction underwent intraoperative tissue perfusion assessment using the OnLume Avata System. Post-hoc image annotation was completed by labeling areas of the flap interpreted to be “Well Perfused,” “Questionably Perfused,” and “Under Perfused.” RIs and RAs were calculated for the marked areas. Primary complications of interest were overall complication rate, fat and mastectomy skin flap necrosis, and surgical revision. Logistic regression was applied to determine the odds of developing a complication based on RI and RA for each image.

Results A total of 25 patients (45 flaps) were included. In total, 17 patients (68%) developed at least one complication. Patients who developed any complication (p = 0.02) or underwent a surgical revision for complications (p = 0.02) had statistically lower RI of under-perfused portions of the flap. Patients with greater areas of under-perfused flap had a significantly higher risk of developing fat necrosis (odds ratio [OR]: 5.71, p = 0.03) and required a revision operation (OR: 1.10, p = 0.01).

Conclusion Image-based interpretation using the OnLume Avata System correlated with the risk of developing postoperative complications that standard fluorescence imaging systems may not appreciate. This information can benefit surgeons to improve perfusion assessment and intraoperative decision-making.
“Flap-in-Flap” Technique: Double V-Y Flap in Fingertip Injury Management
Authors: Jayachandiran Anand Prasath , Rajendran Suresh , Ananthappan Manoj , Mahipathy Surya Rao Rao Venkata , Durairaj Alagar Raja
Published: June 2024

Background Fingertip injuries with amputation are one of the common hand injury problems. Several reconstructive options are available for fingertip injury. V-Y advancement flap is one of the common flaps. In some cases, their advancement capacities are not sufficient to cover the whole defect, resulting in flexion deformity of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint, loss of finger pulp shape, or hooked deformity. The double V-Y flap consists of harvesting two cutaneous flaps on the same neurovascular digital palmar bundle. The first V-Y flap is raised as a neurovascular flap and the second flap is an advancement V-Y plasty.

Objective This article evaluates the outcomes of the double V-Y advancement flap for the fingertip reconstruction.

Materials and Methods This is a prospective study on 19 patients with zone II and III fingertip amputation tip defects between December 2021 and June 2023. The majority were workplace injuries.

Results There were 16 males and 3 females. The average static two-point discrimination was 6 mm. Average advancement of first flap is 8.5 mm and the average advancement of second flap is 4.3 mm. The average total advancement of a double V-Y flap is 12.94 mm (10–15 mm). All of them had “good” total active motion with movement > 210. One patient had flexion deformity at the DIP joint without causing any functional disturbance. All the flaps settled well except for one patient who had superficial partial necrosis of flap which was managed conservatively.

Conclusion This is simple and safe for the reconstruction of zone II and III fingertip amputations with the advantage of like-for-like tissue with near-normal sensation. The second flap increased the advancement of the proximal flap, restoring the pulp shape, and thereby reconstructing a functional and aesthetic fingertip.
Could a Habitual Sleep Restriction of One-two Hours Be Detrimental to the Benefits of Resistance Training?
Authors: Borba Diego de Alcantara , Facundo Lucas Alves , Brant Valdênio Martins , Costa Carlos Magno Amaral , Guerreiro Renato de Carvalho , Narciso Fernanda Veruska , da-Silva Andressa , De-Mello Marco Túlio
Published: June 2024

The absence or decrease in sleep time can affect different mechanisms associated with changes in body composition and physical exercise performance. However, it is unclear in the literature how chronically sleep-restricted individuals respond to strength training. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of reducing between one and two hours of recommended sleep time (7 hours) on the response to resistance training. The study included 12 subjects who slept on average 2 hours less than the recommended 7 hours per day (42 ± 8 years; 84.9 ± 11.6 kg; 27.9 ± 3.5 kg/m2; 6:17 ± 22 total sleep time/day and 5: 47 ± 29 sleep time/night) and 12 subjects with recommended sleep time (38 ± 11 years; 78.3 ± 9.5 kg; 25.1 ± 3.5 kg/m2; 7:47 ± 38 total sleep time/day and 7:16 ± 54 sleep time/night) and a control group (42 ± 7 years; 81 ± 12.2 kg; 26.2 ± 4.0 kg/m2; 7:30 ± 40 total sleep time/day and 7: 17 ± 51 sleep time/night) that did not perform resistance training. A total of 16 resistance training sessions were performed, 3 times a week (Sessions= 4 exercises; 2 sets; maximum repetitions to failure). The maximum number of repetitions, arm circumference, and arm muscle area increased, while triceps skinfold decreased after training in the experimental groups (p < 0.05), with no changes for the control group. There was no difference in muscle mass, body mass index, or sleep variables (sleep time, latency, efficiency) after the training period in either group (p> 0.05). Thus, the chronic 1–2-hour reduction in average recommended sleep time was not able to affect the positive effects of resistance training.
Classroom communications post pandemic: a case study
Authors: Abdelmonem Marwa , Karawia Sherin
Published: June 2024

This cross-sectional case study (n = 20) took place in Qatar over a 3-month period spanning from September until the end of November in 2021. It examined the impacts of a post-COVID classroom arrangement that incorporated preventive measures like social distancing and the use of face coverings. Using the case study methodology, we employed two qualitative research methods, namely non-participant observation and semi-structured interviews, to gather primary data. We also conducted an extensive literature review to identify the key themes for investigation in the field. The primary focus of our study was on proxemics (personal space and crowding), technology (Zoom), non-verbal communication, and ergonomics (lighting and acoustics). Our study uncovered new areas for future research, particularly in how proxemics change in socially distanced classrooms, affecting personal space and perceptions of crowding. Additionally, it highlighted themes in post-pandemic classroom design, emphasizing the impact of factors like seating arrangements and available amenities (e.g., pinup walls) on student engagement, especially in design-studio classrooms. The study also revealed unexpected challenges, such as issues with microphone usage due to users’ lack of familiarity with their operation. In summary, the research underscores the ongoing importance of adaptable learning methods and communication strategies, particularly in response to preventive measures like social distancing and face-covering, which have reshaped our concept of personal space and emphasized the crucial role of telecommunication in crisis resilience for communities and organizations.
Failure behavior of tantalum electrolytic capacitors under extreme dynamic impact: Mechanical–electrical model and microscale characterization
Authors: Han Xiangyu , Yu Da , Chen Cheng , Dai Keren
Published: June 2024

Tantalum electrolytic capacitors have performance advantages of long life, high temperature stability, and high energy storage capacity and are essential micro-energy storage devices in many pieces of military mechatronic equipment, including penetration weapons. The latter are high-value ammunition used to strike strategic targets, and precision in their blast point is ensured through the use of penetration fuzes as control systems. However, the extreme dynamic impact that occurs during penetration causes a surge in the leakage current of tantalum capacitors, resulting in a loss of ignition energy, which can lead to ammunition half-burst or even sometimes misfire. To address the urgent need for a reliable design of tantalum capacitor for penetration fuzes, in this study, the maximum acceptable leakage current of a tantalum capacitor during impact is calculated, and two different types of tantalum capacitors are tested using a machete hammer. It is found that the leakage current of tantalum capacitors increases sharply under extreme impact, causing functional failure. Considering the piezoresistive effect of the tantalum capacitor dielectric and the changes in the contact area between the dielectric and the negative electrode under pressure, a force–electric simulation model at the microscale is established in COMSOL software. The simulation results align favorably with the experimental results, and it is anticipated that the leakage current of a tantalum capacitor will experience exponential growth with increasing pressure, ultimately culminating in complete failure according to this model. Finally, the morphological changes in tantalum capacitor sintered cells both without pressure and under pressure are characterized by electron microscopy. Broken particles of Ta–Ta2O5 sintered molecular clusters are observed under pressure, together with cracks in the MnO2 negative base, proving that large stresses and strains are generated at the micrometer scale.
Dynamic convergent shock compression initiated by return current in high-intensity laser–solid interactions
Authors: Yang Long , Rehwald Martin , Kluge Thomas , Laso Garcia Alejandro , Toncian Toma , Zeil Karl , Schramm Ulrich , Cowan Thomas E. , Huang Lingen
Published: June 2024

We investigate the dynamics of convergent shock compression in solid cylindrical targets irradiated by an ultrafast relativistic laser pulse. Our particle-in-cell simulations and coupled hydrodynamic simulations reveal that the compression process is initiated by both magnetic pressure and surface ablation associated with a strong transient surface return current with density of the order of 1017 A/m2 and lifetime of 100 fs. The results show that the dominant compression mechanism is governed by the plasma β, i.e., the ratio of thermal pressure to magnetic pressure. For targets with small radius and low atomic number Z, the magnetic pressure is the dominant shock compression mechanism. According to a scaling law, as the target radius and Z increase, the surface ablation pressure becomes the main mechanism generating convergent shocks. Furthermore, an indirect experimental indication of shocked hydrogen compression is provided by optical shadowgraphy measurements of the evolution of the plasma expansion diameter. The results presented here provide a novel basis for the generation of extremely high pressures exceeding Gbar (100 TPa) to enable the investigation of high-pressure physics using femtosecond J-level laser pulses, offering an alternative to nanosecond kJ-laser pulse-driven and pulsed power Z-pinch compression methods.
Detecting local perturbations of networks in a latent hyperbolic embedding space
Authors: Longhena A. , Guillemaud M. , Chavez M.
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces two novel scores for detecting local perturbations in networks. For this, we consider a non-Euclidean representation of networks, namely, their embedding onto the Poincaré disk model of hyperbolic geometry. We numerically evaluate the performances of these scores for the detection and localization of perturbations on homogeneous and heterogeneous network models. To illustrate our approach, we study latent geometric representations of real brain networks to identify and quantify the impact of epilepsy surgery on brain regions. Results suggest that our approach can provide a powerful tool for representing and analyzing changes in brain networks following surgical intervention, marking the first application of geometric network embedding in epilepsy research.
Numerical assessment of the drag force and Nusselt number during droplet impingement onto a particle
Authors: Xu Dan , Shen Yansong
Published: June 2024

The dynamics of droplet impingement onto solid particles play a crucial role in various engineering applications, yet a fundamental understanding of the intricate momentum and heat transfer characteristics within the processes remains unclear. In this work, we numerically investigate and quantify the drag force and Nusselt (Nu) number during the process using a volume of fraction model. After model validations, it is employed to simulate the processes of molten iron ore spreading over a coke particle for demonstration. The results show that the drag force exhibits rapid initial growth, followed by significant fluctuations marked by two peaks, ultimately decreasing to a low value. The Nu number undergoes a sharp ascent to an immediate peak, followed by a two-stage decline with varying rates. Furthermore, the effect of three key operating parameters is quantified. The comparative analysis unveils that a larger droplet size significantly contributes to an augmented drag force, especially during the first peak. The Nu numbers under various droplet sizes follow a similar trajectory, rising and then decreasing until the wetter surface reaches the maximum. The larger droplets show a slower Nu number decrease. A higher initial droplet position can remarkably increase the drag force and Nu number with more rapid fluctuations. Conversely, the effect of gas velocity under the symmetrical and steady flow field is limited and can be practically disregarded. The present work reveals the fundamental characteristics of momentum and heat transfer process during droplets impact particles.
Reflected shear wave computed tomography for elasticity imaging of 3D cell cultures using a single-element transducer
Authors: Chen Ting-Wei , Chen You-Chuan , Li Pai-Chi
Published: June 2024

Shear wave elasticity imaging (SWEI) has long been used to quantify tissue stiffness in clinical diagnoses. In comparison with conventional bulk-based measurement methods, SWEI offers the distinct advantage of nondestructive sampling, thereby enabling the spatiotemporal monitoring of stiffness variations. However, applying SWEI to assessing millimeter-scale three-dimensional (3D) cell environments has faced limitations despite its potential in mechanobiology, and the existing techniques are insufficient for imaging inhomogeneous media environments. In this study, we investigated a computed tomography technique specifically designed for reflected SWEI (called R-SWCT) by rotational scanning in a sample using a 20-MHz ultrasound single-element transducer. We focused on samples containing a single inclusion with higher stiffness than the surrounding medium, mimicking the situation of a tumor sphere embedded in a 3D gel. Our method reconstructs the stiffness distribution using a curve-fitting method, wherein coefficients of Gaussian curves are fitted to the wavefronts of simulated signals. This reconstruction method yielded coefficients that closely approximated the wavefronts obtained experimentally, with a maximum difference between the measured and predicted shear wave speeds of only 0.1 m/s for phantom samples and 0.2 m/s for cell samples. The system and methodologies proposed in this research have demonstrated the feasibility of employing R-SWCT to study the remodeling dynamics of a cell group within its surrounding matrix in an in vitro setting. This noninvasive method also facilitates an exploration of how irradiation dosage used in radiation therapy can induce temporal alterations in the shear wave speed in 3D cancer cell cultures.
Heterostructures enhance the absorption of lanthanides
Authors: Tew Alasdair , van Turnhout Lars , Deng Yunzhou , Arul Rakesh , Ye Junzhi , Liu Tianjun , Jiang Zhao , Dai Linjie , Zhu Huangtianzhi , Zhang Yan , Rao Akshay , Yu Zhongzheng
Published: June 2024

Lanthanide-doped nanoparticles (LnNPs) show unique optical properties and have been demonstrated in various applications, including imaging, optogenetics, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, light-controlled release/cross-linking, anticounterfeiting, lasing, sensing, and super-resolution microscopy. One of the key and urgent limitations of LnNPs is the weak and narrow absorption of lanthanides. Fabrication of heterostructures will overcome this hurdle and enhance the performance of LnNPs. Developing novel heterostructures to enhance the absorption of lanthanides and studying the energy transfer pathways and efficiencies are of broad interest to the chemical and physical research community. There is currently no systematic review to summarize different types of LnNP heterostructures. Thus, this review will summarize five types of heterostructures combining LnNPs with organic and inorganic dyes, plasmonics, semiconducting quantum dots, and metal–organic frameworks. The enhancement of absorption and the improvement of light conversion performance are compared and discussed. This review also discusses the energy transfer pathways and efficiencies between LnNPs and other components and provides suggestions to form heterostructures with enhanced absorption and efficient energy transfer for future applications. We hope this review will further inspire active development and study of lanthanide-based heterostructures with stronger absorption, better light conversion performance, and ease of multifunctionality.