bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electromagnetic metamaterials for biomedical applications: short review and trends
Authors: Tzarouchis Dimitrios C. , Koutsoupidou Maria , Sotiriou Ioannis , Dovelos Konstantinos , Rompolas Dionysios , Kosmas Panagiotis
Published: April 2024

This mini-review examines the most prominent features and usages of metamaterials, such as metamaterial-based and metamaterial-inspired RF components used for biomedical applications. Emphasis is given to applications on sensing and imaging systems, wearable and implantable antennas for telemetry, and metamaterials used as flexible absorbers for protection against extreme electromagnetic (EM) radiation. A short discussion and trends on the metamaterial composition, implementation, and phantom preparation are presented. This review seeks to compile the state-of-the-art biomedical systems that utilize metamaterial concepts for enhancing their performance in some form or another. The goal is to highlight the diverse applications of metamaterials and demonstrate how different metamaterial techniques impact EM biomedical applications from RF to THz frequency range. Insights and open problems are discussed, illuminating the prototyping process.
New pipe element based on Hermite-Jackson interpolation
Authors: Zafati Eliass , Le Nguyen Khuong
Published: April 2024

A new pipe finite element is proposed for piping analysis within the framework of linear shell theory. The approach involves the use of a mixed interpolation of classical polynomial and trigonometric polynomial spaces, with trigonometric interpolation performed via Hermite-Jackson polynomials along the mid-surface section. Error estimates are provided and a convergence analysis is performed under specific assumptions on the regularity of the solution. The proposed element is validated through several numerical examples, which demonstrate its accuracy and efficiency in terms of computational cost. This method represents a promising approach for addressing the challenges of piping analysis.
Broncho biliary fistula following interventional radiology for hepatic metastases
Authors: Sliwinski Svenja , Sammons Mary Katherine , Koca Faruk , El Youzouri Hanan , Vogl Thomas , Bechstein Wolf
Published: April 2024

Bronchobiliary fistulas are defined as an abnormal communication between the biliary system and the bronchial tree. They are extremely rare complications of radiofrequency or microwave ablation. A 39-year-old woman with a history of neuroendocrine pancreatic carcinoma suffering from liver metastasis was treated with microwave ablation (MWA). In this case report, we present a case of intractable biliptysis from a bronchobiliary fistula secondary to an MWA. The patient was diagnosed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatograph and hepatobiliary scintigraphy. Treatment involved a right hemihepatectomy, a redo-hepaticojejunostomy, and the surgical placement of a transhepatic drain. After 6 weeks of drain placement, this could be removed. The fistula was thus successfully treated.
Angst- oder furchtbezogene Störungen in der ICD-11
Authors: Ertle Andrea , Lüken Ulrike
Published: April 2024

Die Neuordnung der Angst- oder furchtbezogenen Störungen in der ICD-11 wird, auch im Vergleich zum DSM-5, beschrieben. Wichtigste Veränderungen sind die gleichberechtigt nebeneinanderstehenden Kategorien „Panikstörung“ und „Agoraphobie“, die Einordnung von „Trennungsangststörung“ und „Selektiver Mutismus“ in das Kapitel sowie die Auflösung der meisten Hierarchieregeln. Die Veränderungen werden die Diagnosestellung in der Praxis vereinfachen, von empirisch nicht haltbaren theoretischen Annahmen befreien und gleichzeitig zu einem Anstieg der Prävalenz von Angststörungen und deren Komorbiditätsraten führen.
International Roadshow: New Advances in Endocrinology and Metabolic
Diseases
Authors: Steenblock Charlotte , Saber-Ayad Maha M. , Bornstein Stefan R.
Published: April 2024

Dear Readers,

Currently, there is a myriad of new developments in the field of endocrinology. In
particular, significant strides have been made in the development of poly-agonists
for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity 1
2. Poly-agonists represent a
novel therapeutic approach by combining multiple actions within a single molecule,
targeting multiple receptors simultaneously to achieve enhanced efficacy. These
innovative compounds aim to address the complex interplay of hormonal pathways
involved in glucose regulation and metabolism, offering potential breakthroughs in
the management of diabetes and obesity.
Senolytika und Senomorphika im Kampf gegen neurodegenerative
Erkrankungen
Authors: Gröber Uwe , Friedrichsen Hans-Peter
Published: April 2024

In der Pathobiochemie von Neurodegeneration und Seneszenz spielen genomische
Instabilität, Verkürzung der Telomere, epigenetische Mechanismen sowie reaktive
Sauerstoff- und Stickstoffspezies eine zentrale Rolle. Seneszente Zellen sind
charakteristisch für die Alterung. Sie regulieren antiapoptotische Signalwege
und verhindern so Absterben und Elimination von Zellen mit Läsionen an DNA und
Zellorganellen. In der Altersforschung stehen Senolytika im Mittelpunkt, die die
Apoptose oder die Lyse seneszenter Zellen induzieren und zudem neuroprotektiv
wirken. Das senolytische Flavonol Fisetin kommt in verschiedenen Obst- und
Gemüsesorten vor und kann seit 1904 synthetisiert werden. Es schützt
Nervenzellen vor Neurotoxizität, Inflammation und apoptotischer Degeneration;
die Wirkung muss noch durch weitere Studien belegt werden. Auch Senomorphika wie
Metformin werden zur Unterdrückung der Seneszenz eingesetzt.
Efficacy and Safety of Once-Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide in
Overweight or Obese Adults: A Systematic Review with
Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dorneles Gilson , Algeri Ellen , Lauterbach Gerhard , Pereira Marcelo , Fernandes Brigida
Published: April 2024

Background To evaluate the efficacy and safety of once-weekly subcutaneous
semaglutide treatment in overweight or obese patients without type 2
diabetes.

Methods Randomized clinical trials that assessed the impact of once-weekly
semaglutide on body weight and safety outcomes in overweight or obese patients
were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and Lilacs up to November 2023. Risk of bias
was assessed with RoB 2.0, and certainty of evidence (CoE) with GRADE. A
random-effects meta-analysis was conducted.

Results Ten publications, with 22.155 patients, were included. Semaglutide
decreased relative body weight (MD: −11.80; 95%CI: −13.53 to −10.07; CoE: High),
absolute body weight (MD: −11.58; 95%CI: −13.25 to −9.90; CoE: High) and BMI
(MD: −4.15; 95%CI: −4.85 to −3.45; CoE: High). Semaglutide also increased the
proportion of patients who achieved 5%, 10%, and 15% of weight loss ([weight
loss≥5%: RR 2.29, 95% CI: 1.88 to 2.80; CoE: High]; [weight loss≥10%: RR 4.54,
95% CI: 3.45 to 5.98; CoE: High]; [weight loss≥15%: RR 8.29, 95%CI: 5.54 to
12.39; CoE: High]). Semaglutide leads to small risk to adverse events (RR: 1.03;
95%CI: 1 to 1.06; CoE: High), no difference in the serious adverse events (RR:
1.07; 95%CI: 0.70 to 1.62; CoE: Low), but increases in the risk to discontinued
treatment (RR: 2.03; 95%CI: 1.87 to 2.20; CoE: High) and gastrointestinal
adverse events (RR: 3.26; 95%CI: 1.99 to 5.34; CoE: Moderate).

Conclusion This up-to-date systematic review highlights that once-weekly
semaglutide treatment resulted in clinically important weight loss, becoming a
promising adjuvant therapy for obesity.
Relationship between Workload, Psychological State and Recovery in
Female Soccer Athletes
Authors: Long John William , Brown Denver , Farrell John , Gonzalez Matthew , Cheever Kelly
Published: April 2024

This study assessed the multifaceted relations between measures of workload,
psychological state, and recovery throughout an entire soccer season in female
collegiate soccer athletes (19.8±1.2 yrs, 132±12.3 lbs, 63±3.2 in). A
prospective longitudinal study was utilized to measure workload (GPS training
load, Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE), psychological state (mental stress,
mental fatigue, and mood), and recovery (sleep duration, sleep quality, and
soreness), during 90 observations (59 training sessions and 21 games). Separate
linear-mixed effect models were used to assess outcomes of RPE, soreness, and
sleep duration. A linear mixed-effects model explained 59% of the variance in
RPE following each session. Specifically, each standard deviation increase in
GPS load and mental stress in the morning prior to training increased RPE by
1.46 (SE=0.08) and 0.29 (SE=0.07), respectively, following that day’s training.
Furthermore, a significant interaction was found between several predictor
variables and chronological day in the season while predicting RPE.
Specifically, for each standard deviation increase in GPS load, RPE went up by
0.0055 per day during the season suggesting that load had a higher impact on RPE
as the season progressed. In contrast, the interaction of day by mental stress,
sleep duration, and soreness continued to be stronger as the season progressed.
Each linear mixed-effect model predicted a larger amount of variance when
accounting for individual variations in the random effects.
Effekte eines einwöchig-stationären Gesundheitsprogramms für
pflegende Angehörige gemeinsam mit ihrer pflegebedürftigen Person (Pflege-Tandem
der SVLFG) – eine quasiexperimentelle Studie
Authors: Hetzel Christian , Schaller Julia , Michel Wolfgang , Froböse Ingo
Published: April 2024

Ziel Ziel war es, den Effekt eines einwöchig-stationären
Gesundheitsprogramms für pflegende Angehörige gemeinsam mit ihrer
pflegebedürftigen Person (Pflege-Tandem) auf das Wohlbefinden der pflegenden
Angehörigen zu schätzen. Zudem wurden Akzeptanz und subjektiver Nutzen erhoben.
Kostenträger der Intervention ist die Sozialversicherung für Landwirtschaft,
Forsten und Gartenbau (SVLFG).

Methodik Zentral für die Intervention sind (1) die häusliche
Pflegeberatung vor dem Seminar, (2) das einwöchige Seminar im Setting einer
Rehaklinik eines Kurortes insbesondere mit Pflegekurs, Bewegungs- und
Entspannungseinheiten und Anwendung der ortsgebundenen Heilmittel, (3) die
Ersatzpflege der pflegebedürftigen Personen in räumlicher Nähe zum Seminarort
sowie (4) die niederschwellige telefonische Nachsorge durch SVLFG-Fachpersonal.
In einer kontrollierten prospektiven Panelstudie (IG n=35, VG n=67, Zuteilung
nicht randomisiert) wurde das Wohlbefinden (WHO-5, Spannweite 0–100) zu mehreren
Messzeitpunkten erhoben (IG: 0, 1, 9, 17, 28 und 43 Wochen nach Seminarbeginn;
VG 0, 17, 28 und 43 Wochen). Die Statistik erfolgte mittels fixed-effects
Panelregression unter Kontrolle von zeitveränderlichen Kovariaten
(Periodeneffekte, externe Belastungen).

Ergebnisse In der IG (80 Prozent Frauen, mittleres Alter 66,5 Jahre)
zeigen zu Beginn 69 Prozent der pflegenden Angehörigen Hinweise auf eine
klinisch relevante Depressivität. Bei den pflegebedürftigen Personen sind alle
Pflegegrade vertreten, überwiegend 2 und 3, mit ärztlich diagnostizierter Demenz
bei 37 Prozent. Die VG ist ähnlich strukturiert. Unter der Bedingung stabiler
externer Belastungen ist der Anfangseffekt sehr deutlich (delta=+19 Punkte).
Danach flacht die Wirkung ab, bleibt aber recht stabil bei etwa 10 Punkten über
dem Ausgangsniveau. Die letzte Messung (43 Wochen) ist zwar nicht mehr
statistisch signifikant erhöht, aber sie ist unabhängig von der Entwicklung
externer Belastungen. Die Akzeptanz und der subjektive Nutzen sind sehr
hoch.

Schlussfolgerungen Die Stärke der Intervention ist der dyadische Ansatz.
Die Intervention fördert das Wohlbefinden und ist hochakzeptiert. Das Design
erlaubt zumindest vorsichtige kausale Schlussfolgerungen. Für die verbleibenden
Limitationen wären größere Fallzahlen und eine randomisiert kontrollierte Studie
erforderlich.
A Novel Methodology for the Asymmetric Synthesis of 2,3,5-Trisubstituted Piperazine Derivatives
Authors: Doğan Özdemir , Beksultanova Nurzhan , Özdemir Özge , Çakır Sıdıka Polat , Aygün Muhittin
Published: April 2024

Piperazines constitute an important structural feature of many pharmaceuticals. For the discovery of new drugs, the ability to modify the lead compound’s structure is crucial. Herein, we provide an efficient method for the synthesis of chiral 2,3,5-trisubstituted piperazine structures. Our route enables the synthesis of several novel chiral aryl aziridinyl ketones that could be converted into aziridine-fused bicyclic imines. The reduction of these imines and the nucleophilic ring-opening reaction of the aziridine ring allowed us to synthesize highly functionalized piperazine derivatives.
Extranodal Rosai-Dorfman Disease of Breast Mimicker of Breast Malignancy
Authors: Suthar Pokhraj Prakashchandra , Sivakumar Adithya , Scaria Gladson , Singh Jagadeesh S.
Published: April 2024

Rosai-Dorfman-Destombes (RDD) disease is also known as sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy. It is an uncommon heterogeneous disease of children and young adults. Most of the patients with RDD generally present with painless lymphadenopathy, while extranodal and multisystem manifestation of the disease is unusual. The diagnosis is based on the imaging with clinicopathological correlation. Flourine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography is useful for the initial staging of the RDD lesions, which have similar appearance and avidity like intermediate and high-grade lymphomas. Here, we present the case of a 55-year-old female presented with left breast mass that turned out to be the extranodal Rosai-Dorfman disease.
Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia: Noninvasive Mechanical Ventilation, Intubation, and HFNT
Authors: Ferrer Miquel , De Pascale Gennaro , Tanzarella Eloisa S. , Antonelli Massimo
Published: April 2024

Severe acute respiratory failure (ARF) is a major issue in patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Standard oxygen therapy is the first-line therapy for ARF in the less severe cases. However, respiratory supports may be delivered in more severe clinical condition. In cases with life-threatening ARF, invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) will be required. Noninvasive strategies such as high-flow nasal therapy (HFNT) or noninvasive ventilation (NIV) by either face mask or helmet might cover the gap between standard oxygen and IMV. The objective of all the supporting measures for ARF is to gain time for the antimicrobial treatment to cure the pneumonia. There is uncertainty regarding which patients with severe CAP are most likely to benefit from each noninvasive support strategy. HFNT may be the first-line approach in the majority of patients. While NIV may be relatively contraindicated in patients with excessive secretions, facial hair/structure resulting in air leaks or poor compliance, NIV may be preferable in those with increased work of breathing, respiratory muscle fatigue, and congestive heart failure, in which the positive pressure of NIV may positively impact hemodynamics. A trial of NIV might be considered for select patients with hypoxemic ARF if there are no contraindications, with close monitoring by an experienced clinical team who can intubate patients promptly if they deteriorate. In such cases, individual clinician judgement is key to choose NIV, interface, and settings. Due to the paucity of studies addressing IMV in this population, the protective mechanical ventilation strategies recommended by guidelines for acute respiratory distress syndrome can be reasonably applied in patients with severe CAP.
Radiocarpal Osteochondral Allografts for Wrist Pain Postproximal Row Carpectomy
Authors: Bagdady Kazimir R. , Slovacek Cedar , Firouzbakht Peter K. , Mailey Brian A.
Published: April 2024

Background Surgical options for patients with recurrent wrist pain after salvage procedures, such as proximal row carpectomy (PRC), are limited and primarily result in total wrist arthrodesis (TWA). Osteochondral allografting (OCA) offers an additional option to address refractory wrist pain due to arthritis while preserving some range of motion.

Case Description A 65-year-old, right hand dominant male developed chronic wrist pain, secondary to untreated scapholunate and triangular fibrocartilage complex ligament tears. The patient underwent a PRC, radial styloidectomy, and partial wrist denervation with good initial pain relief. Two years later, symptoms returned with radiographs demonstrating capitate sclerosis. A salvage arthroplasty with OCA produced relief of symptoms.

Literature Review Refractory wrist pain after salvage procedures have traditionally been managed with TWA or less commonly, wrist arthroplasty. Capitate resurfacing and interposition have expanded indications for PRC. OCA is a chondral replacement procedure that utilizes cadaveric cartilage allograft plugs to replace damaged cartilage in various articular joint surfaces. Although OCA used in the lower extremity and shoulder has demonstrated improved pain relief and return of function, it has not been reported in the wrist.

Clinical Relevance There are limited options for refractory wrist pain after salvage procedures. We present an additional alternative to TWA, by resurfacing the radiocarpal joint affected by chondromalacia after a PRC. This option offers another treatment modality for recurrent wrist pain while still preserving some element of range of motion.
Abstracts of the Diabetes and Ramadan International Alliance (Virtual) Conference 2024, 12 to 13 January, 2024
Authors: Hassanein Mohamed , Afandi Bachar
Published: April 2024

The Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) International Alliance was created to coordinate the research work and align the expert opinion on the subject worldwide. DAR holds an annual conference for the early presentation of new studies, consensus statements, and clinical practice guidelines. This year’s conference was held virtually to attract a larger audience. The conference was held on the 12th and 13th of January 2024. This article presents the advance abstracts of the conference’s communications. The abstracts are grouped under themes to facilitate reading. In conclusion, diabetes remains the most extensively studied health impact of Ramadan fasting. Continued interest is evolving around the newer therapeutic agents and technologies.
Diabetes and Ramadan Fasting (2023): The Year in Review
Authors: Abusahmin Hussam , Abdelgadir Elamin , Eledrisi Mohsen S. , Hafidh Khadija , Beshyah Salem A.
Published: April 2024

Introduction We aimed to provide an overview of the global literature production on diabetes and Ramadan in the past year (2023).

Materials and Methods This is a narrative, nonsystematic review of the international literature from two major medical online databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) in 2023. The search term “Diabetes AND Ramadan fasting” was used, and the relevant literature was narrated in a concise thematic account.

Results The publications spanned a vast array of topics related to diabetes and Ramadan fasting (RF), including physiology and nutrition, risk assessment stratification tools and their validation, assessments of safety and efficacy profiles of older and newer diabetes therapies, diabetes education, use of advanced technology for the treatment, and monitoring and impact on pregnancy. Some reports covered the interaction between Ramadan and COVID-19 concerning diabetes, pregnancy, complications, and unique characteristics of diabetes and fasting by young and older people.

Conclusion The current narration presents this year's global scholarly production on the safety of fasting practices, care models, and patients' experiences and perspectives.
Exploring the Significance of Cognitive Motor Dissociation on Patient Outcome in Acute Disorders of Consciousness
Authors: Lejeune Nicolas , Fritz Pauline , Cardone Paolo , Szymkowicz Emilie , Vitello Marie M. , Martial Charlotte , Thibaut Aurore , Gosseries Olivia
Published: April 2024

Cognitive motor dissociation (CMD) is characterized by a dissociation between volitional brain responses and motor control, detectable only through techniques such as electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging. Hence, it has recently emerged as a major challenge in the assessment of patients with disorders of consciousness. Specifically, this review focuses on the prognostic implications of CMD detection during the acute stage of brain injury. CMD patients were identified in each diagnostic category (coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state, minimally conscious state minus) with a relatively similar prevalence of around 20%. Current knowledge tends to indicate that the diagnosis of CMD in the acute phase often predicts a more favorable clinical outcome compared with other unresponsive non-CMD patients. Nevertheless, the review underscores the limited research in this domain, probably at least partially explained by its nascent nature and the lack of uniformity in the nomenclature for CMD-related disorders, hindering the impact of the literature in the field.
FLAG with Bortezomib Salvage Therapy in Relapsed/Refractory Childhood Leukemia—A Reliable Bridge to Transplantation with Limited Toxicity
Authors: Cherulil Sreedhar Jayakrishnan , Melarcode Ramanan Kesavan , Gangadharan KV , Sreelesh KP , Chandrashekaran Arun , Vaniyath Sudeep , KV Karthika
Published: April 2024

Relapsed refractory leukemia represents a difficult-to-treat population of patients. The balance between perceived benefit and potential side effects along with the significant financial burden of managing multidrug-resistant sepsis are factors that determine the choice of salvage regimen. Here, we present our experience with the combination of fludarabine, cytarabine, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor with bortezomib. The morphological complete response rate was 58% with 50% of the patients achieving complete remission. With only three patients requiring intensive care unit admission during remission induction, 66.6% of the patients went on to undergo successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Thus, it proved to be a possible, safer alternative to other salvage regimens, while enabling a significant percentage of patients to achieve remission and proceed to allogenic stem cell transplantation.
The Effect of Supplementary Staple Fixation on Biomechanical Properties of Soft Tissue Graft Tibial Fixation in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Yıldırım Cem , Demirel Mehmet , Koraman Emre , Muratoğlu Osman Görkem , Yamak Fatih , Bozdağ Süreyya Ergün , Kocabey Yavuz
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to test and compare the biomechanical properties of three tibial fixation methods of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tendon grafts under cyclic load and load-to-failure testing in the bovine proximal tibiae, comprising (1) staple fixation alone, (2) interference screw fixation alone, and (3) interference screw fixation with a supplementary staple. Twenty-four bovine tibiae used in the study were divided into three groups (eight proximal tibiae in each group) based on tibial fixation methods of ACL tendon grafts: group A (a spiked ligament staple alone), group B (a cannulated interference screw alone), and group C (a cannulated interference screw with a supplementary staple). Each graft fixation was exposed to cyclic loading conditions. Significant differences were determined in failure load among the three groups (p = 0.008). The mean failure load was significantly higher in group B (717.04 ± 218.51 N) than in group A (308.03 ± 17.22 N) (p = 0.006). No significant differences were observed among the groups regarding axial stiffness (p = 0.442). Cyclic displacement differed significantly among the three groups (p = 0.005). In pairwise comparisons, the mean cyclic displacement was significantly higher in group A (8.22 ± 3.24 mm) compared with group C (1.49 ± 0.41 mm) (p = 0.005). Failure displacement varied considerably among the groups (p = 0.037). Although group B (15.53 ± 6.43 mm) exhibited a greater mean failure displacement than both group A (4.9 ± 0.75 mm) and group C (8.84 ± 4.65 mm), these differences did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.602 and p = 0.329, respectively). Interference screw fixation alone and supplementary staple fixation have biomechanically similar characteristics in terms of initial strength and stiffness of tibial ACL soft tissue graft fixation. Regardless of staple use, an interference screw with the same diameter as the tibial tunnel can ensure sufficient tensile strength in tibial ACL graft fixation.
Epidemiology, Technology, and Professional Perspectives on Diabetes in the United Arab Emirate: A Focused Review
Authors: Dahmani Khaled M. Al. , Suliman Mohamed , Hafidh Khadija , Beshyah Salem A.
Published: April 2024

Introduction The United Arab Emirates (UAE), among the rest of the Arab Gulf countries, exhibits a high prevalence of diabetes, primarily type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods We aimed to provide an overview of the epidemiology, complications, and quality of care, including the use of technology in diabetes care. Also, we wished to explore the challenges of diabetes management and future directions in clinical practice and research. This is a focused review of the literature of selected relevant themes to serve the above objectives of the work.

Results Several epidemiological studies have documented the increased prevalence of diabetes in the native population and expatriates. The vast majority focused on T2D. The prevalence of diabetes in the UAE is estimated at 12.3% for the 20 to 79 age group. Although the high prevalence was recognized and acknowledged as a national priority, several challenges exist in standardizing care across the population. There are gaps in research about the nationwide prevalence of all forms of diabetes. Some research studies have evaluated the role of technology in diabetes care, genetic predilection to complications, and particular aspects such as diabetes during pregnancy, neonatal diabetes, monogenic diabetes, and cardiovascular risk in diabetes. UAE recently became a focal point for health-related Ramadan fasting research, including diabetes.

Conclusion Diabetes in the UAE considerably burdens the health care system. A concerted effort is needed to adopt more uniformity of diabetes care and research nationwide. This should address the use of unified methods to document the nationwide burden, explore possible differences in various epidemiological phenomena, access to health care, and impact on outcomes, and evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of different models of care.
Non-coresident family as a driver of migration change in a crisis: the case of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kan Unchitta , McLeod Jericho , López Eduardo
Published: April 2024

Changes in U.S. migration during the COVID-19 pandemic show that many moved to less populated cities from larger cities, deviating from previous trends. In this study, building on prior work in the literature showing that the abundance of family ties is inversely related to population size, we analyze these migration changes with a focus on the crucial, yet overlooked factor of extended family. Employing two large-scale data sets, census microdata and mobile phone GPS relocation data, we show a collection of empirical results that paints a picture of migration change affected by kin. Namely, we find that people migrated closer to family at higher rates after the COVID-19 pandemic started. Moreover, even controlling for factors such as population density and cost of living, we find that changes in net in-migration tended to be larger and positive in cities with larger proportions of people who can be parents to adult children (our proxy for parental family availability, which is also inversely related to population size). Our study advances the demography-disaster nexus and amplifies ongoing literature highlighting the role of broader kinship systems in large-scale socioeconomic phenomena.
Design principles for integrating science practices with conceptual understanding: an example from a digital learning environment on microbial resistance to antibiotics
Authors: Constantinou Constantinos P. , Rybska Eliza
Published: April 2024

We aim to illustrate the use of generic design principles to attain the integrated promotion of conceptual understanding and science competences in online enquiry-oriented learning environments. Engaging students in the development of competences related to science practices in unison with nurturing rigorous understanding of the mechanisms underpinning phenomena is thought to be valuable both for making science education more relevant to students’ interests and for attaining meaningful learning outcomes. We describe the design and development of a learning environment on the socio-scientific issue of microbial resistance to antibiotics. Our effort is situated in reflective enquiry, a framework for teaching and learning in science. The learning environment seeks to promote argumentation skills and conceptual understanding of evolutionary adaptation, in unison. On the basis of theoretical grounds, we have chosen to work with five design principles, integration of epistemic practices, making evidence-based inferences, competence-oriented design, authentic and relevant context and scaffolding. The first part of the study presents the design principles that have been embedded in the learning environment and the second part provides a description of the learning environment linking the various features to the corresponding design principles. Finally, we discuss the implications of this study for research and teaching practice.
Physics of porous materials under extreme laser-generated conditions
Authors: Tikhonchuk V. T. , Weber S.
Published: April 2024

Porous materials offer unique possibilities for the production of plasmas with controlled density profiles for experiments on laser–matter interaction. They are of growing relevance to many applications, such as inertial confinement fusion, fundamental research, and secondary sources. Understanding the processes of transformation of a porous solid into a plasma is of fundamental interest and is needed for producing materials with desired properties.
Optimization of methyl ester synthesis using gas/liquid phase pulsed discharge plasma in a novel oscillatory slug flow reactor
Authors: Asghari Mohammadreza , Samani Bahram Hosseinzadeh , Ebrahimi Rahim , Rostami Sajad , Fayyazi Ebrahim
Published: April 2024

In the present research, an innovative oscillatory slug flow reactor (OSFR) under the treatment of gas–liquid phase pulsed discharge plasma was developed for biodiesel production. The main goal was continuous production of high quality biodiesel at low temperature and pressure. Experimental tests were carried out under the influence of four main operating parameters including applied voltage, molar ratio, reactant flow rate, and catalyst concentration. The response surface method was employed to optimize experimental tests. The results showed that the proposed technology provided 94% production efficiency under the optimal conditions of voltage 19.4 kV, molar ratio 6.4, flow rate 2.7 ml/s, and catalyst 0.9 wt. %. According to the statistical analysis, increasing the applied voltage and reducing the flow rate have a strong effect on the Fatty Acid Methyl Ester yield, while the concentration of potassium hydroxide and methanol have less effect on the overall efficiency. In addition, the characteristics of the produced biodiesel were in accordance with ASTM D6751 standards. Surprisingly, the optimal energy consumption in this system was 95 kJ/l, which is more economically viable. In general, this study showed that the combined system of gas/liquid phase plasma in the OSFR reactor has a high synergistic potential for the transesterification reaction.
Blast wave pressure measurement and analysis in air and granular media inside a shock tube using a fiber Bragg grating sensor
Authors: Hegde Gautam , Mondal Suraj Kumar , Hegde Gopalkrishna , Jagadeesh G. , Asokan S.
Published: April 2024

In this work, we have demonstrated the use of a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor to measure the pressure profile of blast waves generated inside a vertical shock tube (VST). An FBG pressure sensor probe has been designed and developed that can be incorporated into the wall of the VST. The VST facility is used to generate blast waves with decay times of the order of a few milliseconds to simulate explosive events. Pressure measurement experiments have been carried out at different incident blast wave peak pressures inside the VST. The FBG pressure sensor measurements are validated against a standard piezoelectric pressure transducer at an acquisition rate of 1 MHz. The pressure signals of both sensors are found to match well with similar rise times and decay profiles. The validated FBG pressure sensor is then incorporated into a sand column mounted in the test section of the VST to measure the pressure profile of blast wave-induced stress waves in granular media. The FBG and piezoelectric pressure sensor data are compared using fast Fourier transform analysis and continuous wavelet transform. The feasibility of FBG sensors for blast pressure measurement under harsh conditions imposed inside shock tube environments is established.
Large-database cross-verification and validation of tokamak transport models using baselines for comparison
Authors: Abbate J. , Fable E. , Grierson B. , Pankin A. , Tardini G. , Kolemen E.
Published: April 2024

State-of-the-art 1D transport solvers ASTRA and TRANSP are verified, then validated across a large database of semi-randomly selected, time-dependent DIII-D discharges. Various empirical models are provided as baselines to contextualize the validation figures of merit using statistical hypothesis tests. For predicting plasma temperature profiles, no statistically significant advantage is found for the ASTRA and TRANSP simulators over a baseline empirical (two-parameter) model. For predicting stored energy, a significant advantage is found for the simulators over a baseline empirical model based on confinement time scaling. Uncertainty in the results due to diagnostic and profile fitting uncertainties is approximated and determined to be insignificant due in part to the large quantity of discharges employed in the study. Advantages are discussed for validation methodologies like this one that employ (1) large databases and (2) baselines for comparison that are specific to the intended use-case of the model.
Low noise near-concentric optical cavity design
Authors: Adam Florentin , Chiew Wen Xin , Utama Adrian Nugraha , Kurtsiefer Christian
Published: April 2024

Near-concentric cavities are excellent tools for enhancing an atom–light interaction as they combine a small mode volume with a large optical access for atom manipulation. However, they are sensitive to longitudinal and transverse misalignments. To address this sensitivity, we present a compact near-concentric optical cavity system with a residual cavity length variation δLC,rms = 0.36(2) Å. A key part of this system is a cage-like tensegrity mirror support structure that allows us to correct for longitudinal and transverse misalignments. The system is stable enough to allow the use of mirrors with a higher cavity finesse to enhance the atom–light coupling strength in cavity-QED applications.
Prediction of phonon properties of cubic boron nitride with vacancy defects and isotopic disorders by using a neural network potential
Authors: Zhang Jingwen , Zhang Junjie , Bao Guoqiang , Li Zehan , Li Xiaobo , Liu Te-Huan , Yang Ronggui
Published: April 2024

Cubic boron nitride (c-BN) is a promising ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor for high-power electronic devices. Its thermal conductivity can be substantially modified by controlling the isotope abundance and by the quality of a single crystal. Consequently, an understanding of the phonon transport in c-BN crystals, with both vacancy defects and isotopic disorders at near-ambient temperatures, is of practical importance. In the present study, a neural network potential (NNP) for c-BN has been developed, which has facilitated the investigation of phonon properties under these circumstances. As a result, the phonon dispersion and the three- and four-phonon scattering rates that were predicted with this NNP were in close agreement with those obtained from density-functional theory (DFT) calculations. The thermal conductivities of the c-BN crystals were also investigated, with boron (B) vacancies ranging from 0.0% to 0.6%, by using equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations based on the Green-Kubo formula. These simulations accurately capture vacancy-induced phonon softening, localized vibration modes, and phonon localization effects. As has previously been experimentally prepared, four isotope-modified c-BN samples were selected for analyses in the evaluation of the impact of isotopic disorders. The calculated thermal conductivities aligned well with the DFT benchmarks. In addition, the present study was extended to include a c-BN crystal with a natural abundance of B atoms, which also contained B vacancies. Reasonable thermal conductivities and vibrational characteristics, within the temperature range of 250–500 K, were then obtained.
Nanopore/pillar formation induced by ion irradiation with a controlled projected range via Au deposition on Ge
Authors: Oishi Naoto , Higashide Natsumi , Nitta Noriko
Published: April 2024

Nanopore/pillar formation on a Ge substrate can be induced by ion irradiation, which activates the ion beam sputtering and self-organization of point defects. Considering that the size and morphology of nanostructures are dependent on damage production, the irradiation parameters significantly affect nanostructuring. Here, the projected range of incident ions was selected as a parameter to be investigated. The projected range was modified by adding an Au buffer layer on the surface of the substrate, enabling the ions to stop in a shallower layer. The experimental results showed that the deposited Au layer affected the size and morphology of the nanostructures produced by ion irradiation. As a unique morphology, network-like structures were observed on the Au-deposited substrates. These structures were larger than ordinary porous structures.
A new class of single-phase multiferroics: Bismuth-based layered supercell oxide thin films—Current progress and future perspectives
Authors: Shen Jianan , Barnard James P. , Wang Haiyan
Published: April 2024

Multiferroic materials, where ferroelectric and magnetic orders coexist, have ignited substantial research interest due to the achievable manipulation of magnetic orders using external electric fields, a feature that has garnered serious interest for memory storage applications. Nonetheless, naturally occurring single-phase multiferroic materials are scarce, thus constraining options for practical use. Over the last decade, bismuth-based layered supercell (LSC) oxides have emerged as novel candidates for multiferroics, catalyzing extensive investigations in this domain. Additionally, these LSC systems are known for their anisotropic structures and optical properties, making them promising for application in optics such as polarizers, beam splitters, and modulators. This thorough review explores the development and current advancements in multiferroic bismuth-based LSC materials. It covers the diverse nature of LSCs, detailing their microstructure, properties, and the mechanics of self-assembly formation. It also highlights the remarkable multifunctional characteristics of LSC-based nanocomposites, with a particular focus on their applications in electronics and optics. Moreover, this review examines the significant potential of LSCs in practical applications, particularly through their integration onto silicon and flexible substrates via heteroepitaxy and film transfer techniques. Finally, it offers insights into potential future research avenues and the broader implications of these versatile LSC materials.
Characterization on properties of Al7050/TiC/BN hybrid metal matrix composite
Authors: Muthukumaran R. , Daniel Ajith Arul , Nithya M. , Parthiban A. , Sathish T. , Giri Jayant , Al-Lohedan Hamad A.
Published: April 2024

Aluminum alloy and its allied composites are gaining popularity and find their exclusive application in all industries for more than two decades. Due to their increased usage, Al metal matrix composites were experimented by reinforcing them with variety of particles. The current study attempted the use of titanium carbide (TiC) and boron nitride (BN) as reinforcing materials for the Al7050 alloy through the stir casting technique. The percentage of reinforcement of TiC was kept constant as 8% by wt., and the BN was varied as 2% and 3% by wt. Mechanical properties, such as compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, impact energy, microhardness (Vickers), the microstructure were studied using an optical microscope and by corrosion tests using polarization techniques. The results conclude that the Al hybrid composite with 8% TiC and 3% BN provides superior performance.
Flow visualization experiments of argon injection in a molten salt natural circulation loop
Authors: Reis Jadyn , Seo Joseph , Hassan Yassin
Published: April 2024

Off-gas systems are implemented in molten salt reactor designs to control the release of gaseous fission products. Two-phase flow in molten salt must be studied to understand how the system will behave in comparison to traditional working fluids like water. Flow visualization experiments and particle image velocimetry measurements were performed for three argon bubble sizes injected into a co-current stream of molten salt in a natural circulation loop facility. Similar bubble sizes were injected in experiments with water to compare the bubble shape, trajectory, and wake flow behavior of the fluids. The bubble region of interest was used to calculate the equivalent diameter and terminal velocity. Results for water showed a wobbling bubble surface and less stable bubble trajectory due to lower surface tension and viscosity compared with molten salt. Particle image velocimetry results demonstrated the increased viscosity of salt dampens turbulent fluctuations for the smaller bubble size. For a cap bubble, turbulent fluctuations were larger and longer lasting than in results for the wake flow of an argon cap bubble in water.
Ruminal degradation of maize starch is affected by sowing date
Authors: Rusoci Nicolás E. , Cerrudo Aníbal , Montiel María Delfina , Izquierdo Natalia G. , Pavan Enrique
Published: April 2024

Context Delaying sowing date of maize allows producers to achieve stabilised yield. Delays in the sowing date generate changes in the grain structure, which may affect the ruminal degradability of the maize starch. Aims The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of maize sowing date on ruminal starch degradability, and how it is related with grain physical characteristics and source:sink ratio during the grain-filling period. Methods To study the effects of maize sowing date on grain physical characteristics and on starch in situ effective degradability (ED; 6%/h passage rate from the rumen), eight treatments were defined on the basis of eight different sowing dates in Argentina of a commercial semi-dentate maize hybrid (Dekalb 7210 VT3P), as follows: Treatment 1 (13 October), Treatments 2, 3, and 4 (4, 17 and 26 November respectively), Treatments 5, 6 and 7 (3, 15 and 28 December, respectively) and Treatment 8 (5 January). For each sowing date, three plots of maize were sown in a complete randomised-block design and harvested at grain physiological maturity. Key results Starch ED of ground (2.0-mm) grains ranged from 631 to 801 g/kg and showed a ‘J’-shape response, being lower for the sowing dates from 17 November to 3 December and highest on the sowing date of 5 January. Grain density increased until the sowing date of 17 November, and then decreased. Grain vitreousness and hardness were initially not affected, but started to decline after the sowing date of 17 November. Grain test weight was not affected until the sowing date of 15 December, when it started to decline. The source:sink ratio during the grain-filling period decreased as the sowing date was delayed. Effective starch degradability was negatively correlated with the physical characteristics evaluated and the source:sink ratio. Conclusions Delaying sowing date affected the maize source:sink ratio during the grain-filling period; this was associated with changes in grain physical characteristics and with an increase in ruminal starch degradability. Implications Delaying sowing date increases dry matter (DM) and starch effective degradability, and therefore could affect cattle weight gain and feed conversion efficiency.
Linking crown fire likelihood with post-fire spectral variability in Mediterranean fire-prone ecosystems
Authors: Fernández-Guisuraga José Manuel , Calvo Leonor , Quintano Carmen , Fernández-Manso Alfonso , Fernandes Paulo M.
Published: April 2024

Background Fire behaviour assessments of past wildfire events have major implications for anticipating post-fire ecosystem responses and fuel treatments to mitigate extreme fire behaviour of subsequent wildfires. Aims This study evaluates for the first time the potential of remote sensing techniques to provide explicit estimates of fire type (surface fire, intermittent crown fire, and continuous crown fire) in Mediterranean ecosystems. Methods Random Forest classification was used to assess the capability of spectral indices and multiple endmember spectral mixture analysis (MESMA) image fractions (char, photosynthetic vegetation, non-photosynthetic vegetation) retrieved from Sentinel-2 data to predict fire type across four large wildfires Key results MESMA fraction images procured more accurate fire type estimates in broadleaf and conifer forests than spectral indices, without remarkable confusion among fire types. High crown fire likelihood in conifer and broadleaf forests was linked to a post-fire MESMA char fractional cover of about 0.8, providing a direct physical interpretation. Conclusions Intrinsic biophysical characteristics such as the fractional cover of char retrieved from sub-pixel techniques with physical basis are accurate to assess fire type given the direct physical interpretation. Implications MESMA may be leveraged by land managers to determine fire type across large areas, but further validation with field data is advised.
Isomer-resolved unimolecular dynamics of the hydroperoxyalkyl intermediate (•QOOH) in cyclohexane oxidation
Authors: Qian Yujie , Roy Tarun Kumar , Jasper Ahren W. , Sojdak Christopher A. , Kozlowski Marisa C. , Klippenstein Stephen J. , Lester Marsha I.
Published: April 2024

The oxidation of cycloalkanes is important in the combustion of transportation fuels and in atmospheric secondary organic aerosol formation. A transient carbon-centered radical intermediate (•QOOH) in the oxidation of cyclohexane is identified through its infrared fingerprint and time- and energy-resolved unimolecular dissociation dynamics to hydroxyl (OH) radical and bicyclic ether products. Although the cyclohexyl ring structure leads to three nearly degenerate •QOOH isomers (β-, γ-, and δ-QOOH), their transition state (TS) barriers to OH products are predicted to differ considerably. Selective characterization of the β-QOOH isomer is achieved at excitation energies associated with the lowest TS barrier, resulting in rapid unimolecular decay to OH products that are detected. A benchmarking approach is employed for the calculation of high-accuracy stationary point energies, in particular TS barriers, for cyclohexane oxidation (C
6
H
11
O
2
), building on higher-level reference calculations for the smaller ethane oxidation (C
2
H
5
O
2
) system. The isomer-specific characterization of β-QOOH is validated by comparison of experimental OH product appearance rates with computed statistical microcanonical rates, including significant heavy-atom tunneling, at energies in the vicinity of the TS barrier. Master-equation modeling is utilized to extend the results to thermal unimolecular decay rate constants at temperatures and pressures relevant to cyclohexane combustion.