bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compact 3‐D eight elements UWB‐MIMO array
Authors: Khan M. S. , Rigobello F. , Ijaz Bilal , Autizi E. , Capobianco A. D. , Shubair R. , Khan S. A.
Published: June 2018

An eight elements, compact, ultra‐wideband multiple‐input‐multiple‐output (MIMO) 3‐D antenna array is reported. The proposed antenna system consists of eight monopole radiators, four elements are designed in planar configuration and four elements are placed perpendicularly to the planar configuration. Four elements are provided with a U‐shaped slot to match the input impedance over the entire bandwidth. All the monopoles are placed strategically to exploit polarization diversity which is believed to improve isolation. Good impedance matching and isolation higher than 15 dB are observed over the 3‐11 GHz frequency range. The proposed MIMO antenna array has a total size of 50
50
25 mm3 and measurements of prototype printed on a 1.524 mm thick Rogers TMM4 laminate resulted in good agreement with full wave numerical simulations. The proposed design provides high degree of isolation without compromise on compactness and also operated over wideband.
Design of ultra wide‐bandwidth double‐layer electromagnetic wave absorbers with square‐loop frequency selective surfaces
Authors: Liu Tian , Kim Sung‐Soo
Published: June 2018

A thin and ultra wide‐bandwidth microwave absorber is demonstrated theoretically and experimentally through simple layering 2 square loop‐frequency selective surfaces (SL‐FSSs) with different geometries on a grounded dielectric substrate. The circuit parameters of the SL‐FSS inductance (L) and capacitance (C) are retrieved using the equivalent circuit model and are utilized in the design of the wide bandwidth absorber. The L and C values increase with increases in the unit cell dimension, and thereby the absorption frequency band can be controlled by the SL‐FSS geometries. The optimal control for the surface resistance of the SL‐FSSs and the spacer (assumed by air) thickness of the double‐layer absorber provide a 10 dB absorption bandwidth of 6.3–38.3 GHz with a total thickness of 6.4 mm. The free‐space measurement with the test samples fabricated by the screen printing process provides a still wide bandwidth of 5.6–30.8 GHz with the same total thickness.
Compact MIMO antenna for application to smart glasses using T‐shaped ground plane
Authors: Ryu Jongin , Kim Hyeongdong
Published: June 2018

A compact multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna design for application to smart glasses is proposed in this letter. The proposed MIMO antenna system is comprised of two symmetrical meander antennas operating in the 2.4‐GHz wireless local area network band and a T‐shaped ground for high isolation. The operation mechanism of the proposed MIMO antennas can be explained using the analysis of a three‐port network. Accordingly, the T‐shaped ground plane operates as a decoupling structure such that the isolation between antennas can be controlled by tuning the T‐shaped ground plane. The reflection coefficient characteristic was measured to be less than −7.5 dB, whereas the isolation obtained was higher than 15 dB. The diversity performance was evaluated using the measured three‐dimensional radiation patterns, and the envelope correlation coefficients in the target band were less than 0.1.
Experimental results of the multi‐Gbps smartphone with 20 multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) antennas in the 20 × 12 MIMO operation
Authors: Tsai Chih‐Yu , Wong Kin‐Lu , Li Wei‐Yu
Published: June 2018

It is experimentally demonstrated that 20 multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) antennas operated in 3.5‐GHz band (3400∼3600 MHz) with acceptable antenna performance and low envelope correlation coefficients (ECCs < 0.1) can be embedded in the smartphone for fifth‐generation (5G) or future mobile communications. Additionally, in a 20 × 12 MIMO system with 12 transmitted MIMO streams, it is shown that the 20‐antenna smartphone as a receiver can achieve 5.5‐Gbps data throughput with 100‐MHz bandwidth (3450∼3550 MHz). That is, the smartphone can have a spectral efficiency of 55 bps/Hz. With the user's hand holding the 20‐antenna smartphone, about 5.3‐Gbps data throughput in the 20 × 12 MIMO operation can still be obtained, indicating that stable multi‐Gbps smartphone is promising to obtain. Details of the 20‐antenna smartphone for MIMO operation are described. Experimental results of the 20‐antenna smartphone in the 20 × 12 MIMO operation including the user's hand presence scenario are also presented and discussed.
Design and analysis of wideband composite antenna with dual‐sense circular polarization characteristics
Authors: Sahu Nikesh Kumar , Sharma Anand , Gangwar Ravi Kumar
Published: June 2018

In this article, a dual‐sense circularly polarized (CP) hybrid antenna is reported. The proposed hybrid antenna comprises of an asymmetrical square ring‐shaped printed line and a rectangular dielectric resonator (RDR). The asymmetricity present in the square ring is responsible for creating CP radiation with the opposite sense characteristics in the proposed antenna. Also, modified printed ring is used to excite TE111 mode in the loaded RDR. This loading enhances the overall impedance bandwidth of the proposed antenna. For practical verification, a prototype of the proposed antenna is fabricated and tested. The measured outcomes indicate a close concurrence with the simulated outcomes. The proposed antenna works over the frequency range 3.28 GHz–5.78 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 55.18%. Dual CP wave with dual‐sense characteristics (Axial Ratio < 3 dB) are created in the frequency range 3.81–4.28 GHz and 4.98–5.28 GHz respectively. These responses make the proposed antenna suitable for WLAN and WiMAX applications.
A novel multifrequency mobile phone antenna with circularly polarized GPS application
Authors: Xi Lei , Zhai Huiqing , Li Long
Published: June 2018

A novel multifrequency mobile phone antenna with circularly polarized Global Position System (GPS) application is presented in this research. The antenna is composed of a gradient T‐type feedline and a ring‐metal patch with 4 different branches. Specifically, T‐shaped feedline and the ring‐metal patch are contributed to resonate in 1300 MHz‐1900 MHz. Meanwhile, the phase difference generated by the four branches of varying lengths, the antenna produces circular polarization at 1575 MHz. The etching slot in the patch can make the antenna work in 2400 MHz–2700 MHz. The experimental results verify the simulations. The designed antenna can be covered in Global System for Mobile Communications/Digital Communication System/GPS/Long Term Evolution/Wireless Local Area Network/Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access and other system operating frequency bands, which is suitable for the current multisystem mobile phone.
Inverted L‐notch loaded hexa band circular patch antenna for X, ku/K band applications
Authors: Singh Vivek , Mishra Brijesh , Dwivedi Ajay Kumar , Singh Rajeev
Published: June 2018

A novel hexa band circular shape patch antenna with four inverted L‐shape notches is proposed. The antenna results are discussed in terms of reflection coefficient, surface current density, radiation pattern (co and cross polarization), three‐dimensional gain distribution, and voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR). Measured resonating frequencies are observed at 11.6, 13.92, 17.11, 19.47, 21.11, and 23.05 GHz. Simulated gain of 7.39 dBi (11 GHz), 2.25 dBi (13.3 GHz), 6.65 dBi (16.6 GHz), 5.83 dBi (19 GHz), 6.02 dBi (20.6 GHz), and 7.31 dBi (22.2 GHz), respectively, is observed and the antenna is suitable for X‐band, Ku‐band, and K‐band applications. The performance of the proposed antenna is validated in terms of return loss (dB), VSWR, and radiation pattern by measurement.
Circularly polarized microstrip antenna with bidirectional radiation using dual‐layered arrow‐shape slot perturbation for CubeSat application
Authors: Lee Sunghee , Pyo Seongmin , Kim Jae‐Hyun
Published: June 2018

This article proposes a novel circularly polarized microstrip antenna supported with bidirectional opposite‐sense radiation using a dual‐layered arrow‐shaped slot perturbation. Unlike a conventional perturbation which is etched only on one side, the arrow‐shaped slot perturbation of the proposed antenna is divided into two diagonal half‐arrows and etched on both the top and bottom side. Consequently, the counter‐clockwise rotation of electric surface currents at the radiator side for right‐handed circular polarization and the clockwise rotation of those at the ground side for left‐handed circular polarization are successfully achieved. The measurement results of the proposed antenna show good agreement with the simulations of reflection coefficients, axial ratios, antenna gains, and radiation patterns.
Wide band compact coplanar waveguide with interdigital capacitor using left‐handed metamaterial
Authors: Yoon Ki‐Cheol , Ahn Seungyoung , Lee Jong‐Chul
Published: June 2018

In this article, a compact wide‐band transmission line (TL) with coplanar waveguide (CPW) using left‐handed metamaterial is presented. The proposed CPW TL has an interdigital capacitor and meander line inductor and shows compact size, low loss, and broad bandwidth. The proposed wide bandwidth CPW TL has a bandwidth of 180% from 12.03 to 30.0 GHz and a size of 1.46 × 3.43 mm2. Also, it shows insertion and return losses of 0.13 and 15.1 dB, respectively.
CEST MRI of sepsis‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Liu Jing , Han Zheng , Chen Guoli , Li Yuguo , Zhang Jia , Xu Jiadi , van Zijl Peter C.M. , Zhang Shuixing , Liu Guanshu
Published: June 2018

Sepsis‐induced acute kidney injury (SAKI) is a major complication of kidney disease associated with increased mortality and faster progression. Therefore, the development of imaging biomarkers to detect septic AKI is of great clinical interest. In this study, we aimed to characterize the endogenous chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI contrast in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced SAKI mouse model and to investigate the use of CEST MRI for detecting such injury. We used a SAKI mouse model that was generated by i.p. injection of 10 mg/kg LPS. The resulting kidney injury was confirmed by the elevation of serum creatinine and histology. MRI assessments were performed 24 h after LPS injection, including CEST MRI at different B1 strengths (1, 1.8 and 3 μT), T1 mapping, T2 mapping and conventional magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) MRI. The CEST MRI results were analyzed using Z‐spectra, in which the normalized water signal saturation (Ssat/S0) is measured as a function of saturation frequency. Substantial decreases in CEST contrast were observed at both 3.5 and − 3.5 ppm frequency offset from water at all B1 powers, with the most significant difference obtained at a B1 of 1.8 μT. The average Ssat/S0 differences between injured and normal kidneys were 0.07 (0.55 ± 0.04 versus 0.62 ± 0.04, P = 0.0028) and 0.07 (0.50 ± 0.04 versus 0.57 ± 0.03, P = 0.0008) for 3.5 and − 3.5 ppm, respectively. In contrast, the T1 and T2 relaxation times and MTC contrast in the injured kidneys did not show a significant change compared with the normal control. Our results showed that CEST MRI is more sensitive to the pathological changes in injured kidneys than the changes in T1, T2 and MTC effect, indicating its potential clinical utility for molecular imaging of renal diseases.
Essential considerations in developing attention control groups in behavioral research
Authors: Aycock Dawn M. , Hayat Matthew J. , Helvig Ashley , Dunbar Sandra B. , Clark Patricia C.
Published: June 2018

Attention control groups strengthen randomized controlled trials of behavioral interventions, but researchers need to give careful consideration to the attention control activities. A comparative effectiveness research framework provides an ideal opportunity for an attention control group as a supplement to standard care, so participants potentially receive benefit regardless of group assignment. The anticipated benefit of the control condition must be independent of the study outcome. Resources needed for attention control activities need to be carefully considered and ethical considerations carefully weighed. In this paper we address nine considerations for the design and implementation of attention control groups: (1) ensure attention control activities are not associated with the outcome; (2) avoid contamination of the intervention or control group; (3) design comparable control and intervention activities; (4) ensure researcher training to adequately administer both treatment arms; (5) design control activities to be interesting and acceptable to participants; (6) evaluate attention control activities; (7) consider additional resources needed to implement attention control activities; (8) quantifying the effects of attention control and intervention groups; and (9) ethical considerations with attention control groups. Examples from the literature and ongoing research are presented. Careful planning for the attention control group is as important as for the intervention group. Researchers can use the considerations presented here to assist in planning for the best attention control group for their study.
Teachers as obligated bystanders: Grading and relating administrator support and peer response to teacher direct intervention in school bullying
Authors: Farley Jennifer
Published: June 2018

This study applied a theory of bystander intervention to teachers and has proven to have much utility in understanding how other bystanders may influence a teacher's direct intervention in instances of school bullying. Middle‐school teachers (n = 63) completed an online survey, which utilized video scenarios, and quantitative methods were utilized in analysis. Factors analyzed in relation to direct intervention included teacher accuracy in identifying bullying behavior, intended teacher response, perception of administrator support and peer response, and self‐efficacy. Results indicate that peer response (F(8, 58) = 6.067, p = .014) and administrator support (F(14, 58) = 6.515, p = .009) have significant impact on a teacher's direct intervention in incidents of school bullying. Results also suggest that all teachers do not perceive administrator support or effective peer response in incidents of school bullying.
Quantitative Secretomics Reveals Extrinsic Signals Involved in Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Cardiomyogenesis
Authors: Wolling Hanna , Konze Sarah A. , Höfer Anne , Erdmann Jelena , Pich Andreas , Zweigerdt Robert , Buettner Falk F. R.
Published: June 2018

Human pluripotent stem cells can be differentiated in vitro into cardiomyocytes (CMs) but the molecular mechanisms behind this process are still not fully understood. In particular, the identification of morphogens remained elusive because the mass spectrometry–based identification of secreted proteins from cell culture supernatants is impeded by high levels of albumin present in common differentiation media. An albumin‐free cardiomyogenic differentiation medium is established in this study and applied for secretomics at seven different time points during in vitro differentiation. By this analysis 4832 proteins are identified with 1802 being significantly altered during differentiation and 431 of these are annotated as secreted. Numerous extrinsic components of Wnt, TGFβ, Activin A, Nodal, BMP, or FGF signaling pathways are quantitatively assessed during differentiation. Notably, the abundance of pathway agonists is generally lower compared to the respective antagonists but their curves of progression over timer were rather similar. It is hypothesized that TGFβ, Activin A, and Nodal signaling are turned down shortly upon the initiation of cardiac differentiation whereas BMP signaling is switched on. Wnt and FGF signaling peaks between d0 and d3 of differentiation, and interestingly, Activin A and TGFβ signaling seem to be reactivated at the cardiac progenitor stages and/or in early CMs.
Predicting solvent effects in ionic liquids: Extension of a nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction on a benzene to a pyridine
Authors: Hawker Rebecca R. , Haines Ronald S. , Harper Jason B.
Published: June 2018

A nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction involving a halopyridine electrophile was examined in a series of ionic liquid solvents. This reaction was chosen to test the known solvent effects of ionic liquids on this type of reaction mechanism, previously described with a halobenzene electrophile. The effect of varying the proportion of the ionic liquid in solution was determined, and it was shown that the more ionic liquid present in the reaction mixture, the greater the rate constant enhancement. Temperature‐dependent kinetic analyses yielded activation parameters that showed that the rate constant enhancements are controlled by a balance between enthalpic and entropic effects, depending upon the proportion of ionic liquid present. Overall, the rate enhancement is entropically driven, due to organisation of the ionic liquid about the electrophile. These results are consistent with what has been observed previously for the nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction involving a halobenzene electrophile, demonstrating that the solvent effects observed for ionic liquids are general for this type of reaction mechanism and opening the possibility for extending their use through rational selection for reaction control.
Naturalistically observing noncancer conversations among couples coping with breast cancer
Authors: Robbins Megan L. , Karan Alexander , López Ana María , Weihs Karen L.
Published: June 2018

Objective

This study revealed the landscape of noncancer conversations, identifying topics and types of everyday conversation, and examined links to psychological adjustment among couples coping with breast cancer.

Methods

Fifty‐two couples wore the Electronically Activated Recorder (EAR) over 1 weekend and self‐reported psychological adjustment while patients were on treatment. The EAR sampled 50 s of ambient sound every 9 minutes to estimate the frequency of noncancer conversation and reveal topics and types of conversation.

Results

Analyses revealed noncancer conversations comprised over 93% of conversations. The most common topic discussed was people. Substantive conversation was associated with better, while emotional disclosure was associated with worse, well‐being for patients, but not spouses.

Conclusions

Results revealed that ordinary conversations are frequent among couples who face breast cancer, and they are associated with patients' psychological adjustment, providing a foundation for potential interventions for coping with cancer that do not focus on illness.
25‐hydroxyvitamin D and health service utilization for asthma in early childhood
Authors: Omand Jessica A. , To Teresa , O'Connor Deborah L. , Parkin Patricia C. , Birken Catherine S. , Thorpe Kevin E. , Maguire Jonathon L.
Published: June 2018

Background

Asthma is the most common chronic illness of childhood and a common reason for hospital admission. Studies suggest that low vitamin D levels may be associated with health service utilization (HSU) for childhood asthma. The primary objective was to determine if vitamin D serum levels in early childhood were associated with HSU for asthma including: a) hospital admissions; b) emergency department visits; and c) outpatient sick visits. Secondary objectives were to determine whether vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy or childhood were associated with HSU for asthma.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of children participating in the TARGet Kids! practice‐based research network between 2008 and 2013 in Toronto, Canada. HSU was determined by linking each child's provincial health insurance number to health administrative databases. Multivariable quasi‐Poisson and logistic regression were used to evaluate the association between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations, vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy, and childhood and HSU for asthma.

Results

A total of 2926 healthy children aged 0‐6 years had 25‐hydroxyvitamin D data available and were included in the primary analysis. Mean (IQR) 25‐hydroxyvitmain D level was 84 nmol/L (65‐98 nmol/L), 218 and 1267 children had 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations <50 nmol/L and <75 nmol/L, respectively. In the adjusted models, there were no associations between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations (continuously or dichotomized at 50 and 75 nmol/L), vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy or childhood and HSU for asthma.

Conclusions

Vitamin D blood values do not appear to be associated with HSU for asthma in this population of healthy urban children.
Regenerating Spent Solutions of Vanadium‐containing Heteropoly Acids in the Presence of Additives
Authors: Zhizhina Elena G. , Rodikova Yulia A. , Podyacheva Olga Yu. , Pai Zinaida P.
Published: June 2018

Vanadium‐containing heteropoly acid solutions of Keggin H3+xPMo12–xVxO40 and modified HaPzMoyVxOb types (P‐Mo‐V HPAs) are promising nanosized inorganic metal‐oxygen cluster compounds with the property of reversible oxidability (VV ↔ VIV). The oxidation of reduced P‐Mo‐V HPAs at a temperature of 130–170 °C and an oxygen pressure of 4 atm is a convenient method for their regeneration, but results in regeneration degree of only 75–88 %. Various materials with electron transfer or oxidative properties, such as nitrogen doped carbon nanofibers (N‐CNFs), Sibunit‐4, HNO3, and MoO2, were investigated as additives to facilitate and accelerate the regeneration of HPA solutions. Among the studied additives HNO3 was found to show the best efficiency, resulting in regeneration degree of higher 95 %. Rapid and efficient regeneration of spent HPA catalysts is an important criterion for achieving high productivity and sustainability of oxidative processes on their basis.
Board leadership and governance for clear-sighted CEO succession at Air New Zealand
Authors: Cikaliuk Monique , Eraković Ljiljana , Jackson Brad , Noonan Chris , Watson Susan
Published: June 2018

In this case study we address the issue of CEO succession drawing directly on the experience of the board of directors of Air New Zealand. Despite extensive literature on CEO-board relations, there has been a scarce number of studies on managing the processes of CEO succession and appointment from the board perspective. Drawing on documentary sources as well as in-depth interviews with all board members and CEOs appointed in the period 2002–2013, we shed light on this important governance process primarily for teaching purposes. We emphasise the board’s role in the context of the transformation of the airline into an award-winning, financially performing company in a highly competitive and mature industry. The case study examines how the board developed, implemented, and managed a succession process for three CEOs that was sound in design and achieved its desired benefits. By focusing on board leadership and board processes our case study provides evidence that independent boards can shape a specific combination of governance practices which contribute to successful CEO transitions.
Going with the Flow in Outer Space
Authors: Ganushkina Natalia
Published: June 2018

Near-Earth space is a dynamic electric environment containing different types of current that are continually changing over time and space.
Rare Glacial River Drains Potentially Harmful Lakes
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: June 2018

Antarctic lakes have contributed to ice shelf breakup in the past, but a glacier in Greenland appears safe from a similar fate, thanks to a river that drains away water.
Identification of active and taxonomically diverse 1,4-dioxane degraders in a full-scale activated sludge system by high-sensitivity stable isotope probing
Authors: Aoyagi Tomo , Morishita Fumiaki , Sugiyama Yutaka , Ichikawa Daisuke , Mayumi Daisuke , Kikuchi Yoshitomo , Ogata Atsushi , Muraoka Kenji , Habe Hiroshi , Hori Tomoyuki
Published: June 2018

1,4-Dioxane is one of the most common and persistent artificial pollutants in petrochemical industrial wastewaters and chlorinated solvent groundwater plumes. Despite its possible biological treatment in natural environments, the identity and dynamics of the microorganisms involved are largely unknown. Here, we identified active and diverse 1,4-dioxane-degrading microorganisms from activated sludge by high-sensitivity stable isotope probing of rRNA. By rigorously analyzing 16S rRNA molecules in RNA density fractions of 13C-labeled and unlabeled 1,4-dioxane treatments, we discovered 10 significantly 13C-incorporating microbial species from the complex microbial community. 16S rRNA expression assays revealed that 9 of the 10 species, including the well-known degrader Pseudonocardia dioxanivorans, an ammonia-oxidizing bacterium and phylogenetically novel bacteria, increased their metabolic activities shortly after exposure to 1,4-dioxane. Moreover, high-resolution monitoring showed that, during a single year of operation of the full-scale activated sludge system, the nine identified species exhibited yearly averaged relative abundances of 0.001–1.523%, and yet showed different responses to changes in the 1,4-dioxane removal efficiency. Hence, the co-existence and individually distinct dynamics of various 1,4-dioxane-degrading microorganisms, including hitherto unidentified species, played pivotal roles in the maintenance of the biological system removing the recalcitrant pollutant.
Abnormal expressions of AGEs, TGF-β1, BDNF and their receptors in diabetic rat colon–Associations with colonic morphometric and biomechanical remodeling
Authors: Sha Hong , Tong Xiaolin , Zhao Jingbo
Published: June 2018

Present study aims to investigate the role of AGEs, TGF-β1, BDNF and their receptors on diabetes-induced colon remodeling. Diabetes was induced by a single tail vein injection 40 mg/kg of STZ. The parameters of morphometric and biomechanical properties of colonic segments were obtained from diabetic and normal rats. The expressions of AGE, RAGE, TGF- β1, TGF- β1 receptor, BDNF and TrkB were immunohistochemically detected in different layers of the colon. The expressions of AGE, RAGE, TGF-β1 and TGF- β1 receptor were increased whereas BDNF and TrkB were decreased in the diabetic colon (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). AGE, RAGE and TGF-β1 receptor expressions were positively correlated whereas the BDNF expression was negatively correlated with most of the morphometry and biomechanical parameters (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, P < 0.001). AGE, TGF- β1 and BDNF in different layers correlated with their receptors RAGE, TGF- β1 receptor and TrkB respectively. STZ-induced diabetes up-regulated the expression of AGE, RAGE, TGF- β1 and TGF- β1 receptors and down-regulated BDNF and TrkB in different layers of diabetic colon mainly due to hyperglycemia. Such changes maybe important for diabetes-induced colon remodeling, however it is needed to further perform mechanistic experiments in order to study causality or approaches that explain the relevance of the molecular pathways.
Influence of cement substitution by calcareous fly ash on the mechanical properties of polymer-cement composites
Authors: Jaworska Beata , Łukowski Paweł , Jaworski Jerzy
Published: June 2018

The aim of the presented research was to determine the influence of cement substitution with calcareous fly ash on the mechanical properties of polymer-cement composites. Coal combustion products such as calcareous fly ash have been already used in traditional cement composites as a part of cement and considered potential additions for concrete but its introduction into polymer-cement composites is still under preliminary investigation. The morphology of fly ash causes problems with its compatibility with polymer-cement binders but its insertion into those building materials is another way to utilize mineral combustion products that are cumbersome in storage and recycling. The influence of the mineral addition on polymer-cement composites containing 20% of polymer was especially taken into consideration. Mechanical properties of polymercement mortars modified with calcareous fly ash were tested after 28 and 90 days of curing. As a part of preliminary study, activity index of mineral addition was determined. Polymer-cement composites containing calcareous fly ash were characterized by higher flexural and tensile strength comparing to standardized mortar, even for the mortars containing 40% of mineral addition. The negative effect of the polymer-cement composites modification with calcareous fly ash was especially observed on the compressive strength of this composites.
Effect of redispersible polymer powder on setting time of thin-bed mortars
Authors: Kulesza Marcin , Dębski Dawid , Fangrat Jadwiga
Published: June 2018

The aim of work is to describe and to complement the existing knowledge on the effect of redispersible polymer powder on the setting time of cement mortar as measured by means of ultrasonic apparatus. The mortars were simple mixtures of filler in the form of quartz sand, Portland cement CEM I 42.5 R as binder and methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. The mortar additives were two commercially available redispersible polymer powders in an amount of 0-5% of total weight. The chosen polymers had different chemical structure: styrene-acrylic copolymer (SA), vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer (ET), and minimum film forming temperature (MFFT). The amount of water was constant and equal to 20% of the total weight of the mortar. Conclusions: - even the small amount of redispersible polymer powder added to the cement mortar has a significant influence on mortar’s initial and final setting time and this effect strongly depends on the percentage of the additive, - the chemical structure of the studied redispersible polymer powders did not influence the behaviour of the whole chemical system, - the further studies on technical properties, such as mechanical strength and permeability are planned in order to find more information on the structure of hardened mortar.
Similar function and complications for patients with short versus long hip nailing for unstable pertrochanteric fractures
Authors: Galanopoulos Ioannis P. , Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Megaloikonomos Panayiotis D. , Vottis Christos T. , Mitsiokapa Evanthia , Koulouvaris Panayiotis , Mastrokalos Dimitrios S. , Papagelopoulos Panayiotis J. , Kontogeorgakos Vasilios A.
Published: June 2018

Purpose: To compare short with long intramedullary hip nailing for elderly patients with unstable pertrochanteric fractures.

Methods: We prospectively studied 50 patients (33 women, 17 men; mean age, 80 years; range, 74–93 years) with unstable pertrochanteric fractures admitted and treated with a short (group A) or a long (group B) intramedullary hip nail from January 2013 to 2017. The patients were randomly allocated into each group according to their order of admission. The mean follow-up was 2 years (range, 1–5 years). We evaluated operative time, function, fracture healing, varus/valgus loss of reduction, and distance between the distal line of the fracture and the distal locking screw of the nail.

Results: Operative time was significantly shorter in group A. Function, fracture healing and varus/valgus loss of reduction was similar between the two groups. The mean distance between the distal fracture line and distal locking screw was 7.2 cm (range, 3–10 cm) in patients of group A; in all patients of group B, an appropriate nail length was chosen so that the distal locking screw was inserted at least 3 times the diameter of the bone at the distal fracture line. Complications included periprosthetic fracture (one patient of group A), and z-effect phenomenon (one patient of group B); complications rate was similar between the two groups.

Conclusion: Short intramedullary hip nailing is associated with similar function and complications, but shorter operative time compared to long intramedullary hip nails for patients with unstable pertrochanteric fractures.
Comparison of Hand-Sewn versus Coupled Venous Anastomoses in Traumatic Lower Extremity Reconstruction
Authors: Rifkin William , Lee Z-Hye , Anzai Lavinia , Jacoby Adam , Ceradini Daniel , Thanik Vishal , Saadeh Pierre , Levine Jamie , Stranix John
Published: June 2018

Background Microvascular reconstruction of the lower extremity has the highest reported complication and flap failure rates of any anatomical region. Despite widespread adoption of the mechanical anastomotic venous coupler and encouraging results in other anatomical regions, there are limited reports examining its use in the lower extremity. This study compares outcomes between coupled and hand-sewn venous anastomoses in traumatic lower extremity reconstruction.

Methods Retrospective review of our institutional flap registry from 1979 to 2016 identified soft tissue free flaps performed for the reconstruction of Gustilo type IIIB/IIIC open tibial fractures. Patient demographics, flap characteristics, use of a venous anastomotic coupler, and perioperative outcomes were examined. Analysis was performed using chi-square and Student's t-tests.

Results A total of 361 patients received a microvascular free flap for coverage of a Gustilo type IIIB or IIIC tibial fracture following traumatic injury. After excluding cases that lacked adequate information on coupler use, 358 free flaps were included in the study. There were 72 (20%) free flaps performed using a venous coupler and 286 (80%) performed with hand-sewn venous anastomoses. There were comparable rates of major complications (22.2 vs. 26.1%; p = 0.522), total flap failure (6.5%, vs. 10.2%; p = 0.362), and partial flap failure (9.7 vs. 12.2%; p = 0.579) between venous coupler and hand-sewn anastomoses, respectively. Furthermore, use of the venous coupler was not associated with increased rates of operative take backs (22.8 vs. 23.0%; p = 0.974). However, reconstructions performed using a venous coupler were significantly more likely to have a second venous anastomosis performed (37.5 vs. 21.3%; p = 0.004).

Conclusion Complication and flap failure rates were similar between reconstructions performed with a venous coupler and those performed with hand-sewn venous anastomoses. These findings suggest that use of the venous anastomotic coupler is safe and effective in lower extremity reconstruction, with comparable outcomes to conventional sutured anastomoses.
Phonon-kink scattering effect on the low-temperature thermal transport in solids
Authors: van Ostaay J. A. M. , Mukhin S. I.
Published: June 2018

We consider contribution to the phonon scattering, in the temperature range of 1 K, by the dislocation kinks pinned in the random stress fields in a crystal. The effect of electron-kink scattering on the thermal transport in the normal metals was considered much earlier.1 The phonon thermal transport anomaly at low temperature was demonstrated by experiments in the deformed (bent) superconducting lead samples2 and in helium-4 crystals3,4 and was ascribed to the dislocation dynamics. Previously, we had discussed semi-qualitatively the phonon-kink scattering effects on the thermal conductivity of insulating crystals in a series of papers.5,6 In this work it is demonstrated explicitly that exponent of the power low in the temperature dependence of the phonon thermal conductivity depends, due to kinks, on the distribution of the random elastic stresses in the crystal, that pin the kinks motion along the dislocation lines. We found that one of the random matrix distributions of the well known Wigner–Dyson theory is most suitable to fit the lead samples experimental data.2 We also demonstrate that depending on the distribution function of the oscillation frequencies of the kinks, the power low-temperature dependences of the phonon thermal conductivity, in principle, may possess exponents in the range of 2–5.
Developing pilgrimage itineraries: the way of St Francis in Umbria as case in point.
Authors: Sal P. de
Published: June 2018

This chapter reflects on new forms of religious tourism, at both the theoretical and scientific levels, in examining the Way of St Francis, which, through the involvement of political and religious authorities, was awarded the 'pilgrim's licence'. In 2011, a new entrepreneurial initiative was created, the 'Umbria and Francesco's Ways' consortium, co-financed by the Region of Umbria (Italy), whose mission is to develop, promote and market the Way of St Francis.
Fighting for the saint: ritual rivalries in traditional pilgrimages.
Authors: Fournier L. S.
Published: June 2018

This chapter analyses a number of local pilgrimages in Provence (France), where excesses and rivalry among the parishioners were evident, to the extent of violent combat, as they fought for the honour of serving the saint. The ritual battles have now become an instrument of tourism development, with religious and civil authorities finding ways to make use of this historical and ritualistic heritage.
Globalizing romani culture: the pilgrimage to the sea in Les-Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer (France).
Authors: Loiseau G.
Published: June 2018

This chapter examines the cult of Saint Sarah in Saintes Maries de la Mer, in the Camargue (France), where the gypsy saint, who is not officially recognized by the Catholic Church, is the subject of strong devotion among Roma communities. Romani pilgrims return each year to pay homage to Sarah at Saintes Maries de la Mer. The chapter also describes how the cult of Saint Sarah has been exported by tourist-pilgrims to Brazil, and has become an element of Umbanda rituals.
Mixing sport and religion in the landes area of France.
Authors: Lamothe M.
Published: June 2018

This chapter explores how certain features of Landes (France) offer a surprising connection between religion and sport, manifested through sites such as the 'Chapel of Our Lady of Rugby' at Larrivière-Saint-Savin, the 'Chapel of Our Lady of the Course Landaise' in Bascons and the 'Chapel of Our Lady of the Cyclists' at Labastide-d'Armagnac. These chapels are real places of worship, dating from the mid-20th century, where tributes are made to both sports and athletes, while attracting many visitors during annual pilgrimages.
Reactive Attachment Disorder and Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder
Authors: Scott Eric L. , Keary Christopher , King Jennifer M. , Zeanah Charles H. , McDougle Christopher J.
Published: June 2018

Although social abnormalities in young children raised in abnormal environments have been described for many years, it was not until the publication of the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) that reactive attachment disorder (RAD) appeared in psychiatric nosologies. The disorder described aberrant social behaviors in young children that were believed to derive from being reared in caregiving environments lacking in species-typical nurturance and stimulation, such as in instances of maltreatment or institutional rearing. Subsequent to the original description of the disorder, criteria in the fifth edition of the DSM have been revised, bifurcating RAD into separate diagnoses. This chapter describes features, characteristics, and treatment considerations for RAD and disinhibited social engagement disorder.
Neurobiology and Neuroimaging of PTSD
Authors: Milad Mohammed R. , Moore Kylie N.
Published: June 2018

This chapter provides a broad overview of the fear circuitry implicated in the development and maintenance of posttraumatic stress disorder. It begins by reviewing evidence from animal models of fear conditioning and extinction that unveiled the neural structures incorporated in the fear circuitry. Then it explores the translation of these findings to healthy human models of fear conditioning and finally examines the neural dysfunctions highlighted by neuroimaging studies of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in order to conceptualize mechanisms of fear extinction and the role of impaired fear extinction in contributing to the pathology of PTSD. The chapter ends with the potential therapeutic interventions for the treatment of PTSD in the scope of this model but with a note of caution regarding some of its limitations.
Intraoperative Events
Authors: Alsulaimy Mohammad , Saleh Adel Alhaj
Published: June 2018

Various potentially catastrophic complications can occur intraoperatively during the performance of a laparoscopic bariatric procedure. They can be divided broadly into laparoscopic access injuries and complications related to pneumoperitoneum. Most injuries occur at the time of abdominal access for camera and port placement. Access injuries can be attributed to Veress needle and/or trocar insertions. Injuries can occur to vessels (major and minor) with significant hemorrhage, solid organs (liver, spleen), and viscera. Such injuries can be devastating and are a source of significant morbidity and mortality related to laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Abdominal insufflation can cause hemodynamic and pulmonary-related complications. This chapter discusses the prevention, recognition, and management of such complications. Furthermore, the bariatric surgeon may face unexpected intraoperative findings of hiatal hernia, abdominal wall defects, and liver cirrhosis—a discussion of the management of such scenarios is also included.
Nutritional Deficiencies and Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Mozer Anthony B. , Spaniolas Konstantinos , Pories Walter J.
Published: June 2018

Dietary intolerance and poor oral intake account for a disproportionate number of emergency department visits and readmissions after bariatric surgery. Micronutrient, vitamin, and protein deficiencies can occur after both malabsorptive and restrictive weight-loss operations, and they are best mitigated against by conscientious preoperative counseling and vigilance in follow-up. Routine vitamin supplementation can prevent the need for unnecessary laboratory testing, while symptoms of dumping syndrome can frequently be managed with dietary and behavioral modification alone. Alternative enteral feeding access for alimentary supplementation can be safely performed surgically or with assistance by interventional radiology, and should be considered in the management of perforation, early anastomotic leak, surgical revision, or patients with refractory malnourishment.
Endoscopic Management of Complications
Authors: Guerron A. Daniel , Rodriguez John H. , Kroh Matthew
Published: June 2018

Bariatric surgery has been proven to be safe and durable for treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases. Although complication rates continue to decrease, complications occur and may impart significant morbidity. Treatment of complications often includes combinations of medical therapies and surgical or endoscopic interventions. Endoscopic techniques to treat complications of bariatric surgery have evolved, with improved tools and devices, as well as increased experience and expertise. Methods of dilation, hemostasis, suturing, clip placement, stenting, and feeding tube placement have given practitioners less-invasive ways to treat complications and also to provide durable enteral access. In patients with high reoperative complexity, endoscopic access may circumvent the abnormal pathology, with a less-invasive route. This chapter focuses on endoluminal management of common complications of bariatric surgery, including techniques employed and outcomes.
Reflux, Esophagitis, and Chronic Nausea
Authors: Altieri Maria S. , Gentile Christopher , Pryor Aurora
Published: June 2018

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has emerged as a popular procedure for treatment of morbid obesity, with weight loss comparable to that with other procedures and with a relatively low number of postoperative complications. The benefits of LSG include its technical simplicity and its proven efficacy for reversal of obesity-related comorbidities. The association between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and LSG has been controversial. After LSG, GERD is described as either de novo GERD or an exacerbation of previous symptoms. This chapter reviews the current literature on reflux, esophagitis, and chronic nausea after LSG, as well as the proposed mechanisms responsible for exacerbating or improving GERD after LSG and techniques to minimize reflux after LSG.
Complications of Gastric Plication
Authors: Khorgami Zhamak , Lagardere Ariel Ortiz
Published: June 2018

Laparoscopic gastric plication is infolding of the greater curvature of the stomach to reduce gastric volume. This chapter covers the complications of the procedure, their causes, and their management. The most common complication is gastric obstruction, and it is the main reason for reoperation. Most mild obstructions can be managed conservatively. Patients with signs of ischemia and those with poor response to medical treatment need reoperation. Mild bleeding is not infrequent after gastric plication but severe bleeding is rare. Gastric perforation can occur, and treatment options include conservative management of a minimal contained leak, or surgical exploration with plication reversal and repair. Loss of restriction and weight regain are a result of insufficient reduction of the stomach capacity or plication breakdown. Other complications include persistent heartburn, gastric wall herniation (which can lead to ischemia and perforation), gastric intussusception, and gastric ulcers.
Economic Costs Associated with Bariatric Surgery Complications
Authors: Bour Eric S.
Published: June 2018

Surgical complications in bariatric procedures occur despite all efforts to minimize their incidence. This chapter examines the costs and expenses associated with four complications: bleeding, stricture, staple-line leak, and internal hernia. In addition, it defines the relationship between the expense of techniques designed to reduce the incidence of complications and the cost of caring for the patient who sustains a complication. Last, it explores the medicolegal and financial implications of any surgical complication in the changing healthcare landscape of the future. Through a better understanding these issues, surgeons should be able to tailor their practice by determining the cost/benefit and “value” of interventions used to prevent or treat complications.
Contraception Options in Neurologic Disease
Authors: Reisinger Tessa L. , Harrington Amy Robinson
Published: June 2018

Unplanned pregnancy has particular implications for women with chronic disease, including increased risk of adverse health events during pregnancy and potential impact on disease course or treatment options. While preventing unplanned pregnancy is especially important in this population, both medications and sequelae of chronic disease must be considered in choosing safe and effective contraceptive options. The US Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use were established to provide guidance on contraceptive use for women with various disease conditions; however, specific guidelines for many neurologic conditions are limited. This chapter reviews evidence and recommendations for contraception options in women with a wide range of neurologic conditions. Considerations include interactions with medications, the risk of venous thromboembolism in the setting of reduced mobility, and the impact of hormonal contraception on symptom frequency and disease progression. In many cases, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods offer highly effective, well-tolerated contraception for women with neurologic disease.
Hemorrhagic Stroke Management in Pregnancy
Authors: Loochtan Aaron I. , Dodds Jodi , Bushnell Cheryl D.
Published: June 2018

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) during pregnancy and the puerperuim is a rare but potentially devastating complication of pregnancy. It is a condition that requires emergent medical attention and inclusion of multiple medical and or surgical specialists. Accurate diagnosis based on clinical exam and supported by neuroimaging techniques is essential. Medical management is the mainstay in most cases including post-hemorrhage blood product consideration, reversal agents if on anti-coagulation, blood pressure control, cerebral edema management, and treatment of seizures. Circumstances also arise in which surgical intervention is needed. It is important to also discuss optimal timing of delivery. Postpartum care including close blood pressure control, deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis (DVT), and risk factor modification are important. Ethical situations sometimes arise and must also be considered with respect to the mother and child.