bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversible structural phase transitions and switchable dielectric behaviours in a cyanometallate-based double perovskite-type cage compound: [C3H4NS]2[KCo(CN)6]
Authors: Gong Zhi-Xin , Wang Qin-Wen , Ma Jia-Jun , Jiang Jia-Ying , E Dian-Yu , Li Zheng-Quan , Qi Fang-Wei , Liang Hao
Published: January 2020

Reversible phase transitions in [C3H4NS]2[KCo(CN)6] exhibit switch-type dielectric transitions around 210 K and 237 K. The small displacements and/or thermal vibrations of the cations cause the phase transitions.
Synthesis of α-cyano sulfoneviathermal rearrangement of 1,4-disubstituted triazole mediated by carbene and radical species
Authors: Cen Mengjie , Xiang Qiaoyi , Xu Yiwen , Duan Shengguo , Lv Yaohong , Xu Ze-Feng , Li Chuan-Ying
Published: January 2020

α-Cyano sulfone is produced conveniently from 1,4-disubstituted triazole, which involves carbene, ketenimine and radical species as the key intermediates.
Three-dimensionally printed polylactic acid/cellulose acetate scaffolds with antimicrobial effect
Authors: Zuo Mengdi , Pan Nengyu , Liu Quanjing , Ren Xuehong , Liu Yu , Huang Tung-Shi
Published: January 2020

The three-dimensional and antiseptic-loaded scaffold possessed a high biocidal efficacy.
Biomass-derived activated carbon/sulfur composites as cathode electrodes for Li–S batteries by reducing the oxygen content
Authors: Li Bing , Xie Meng , Yi Guanghai , Zhang Cunman
Published: January 2020

Carbon matrix with low oxygen content can effectively trap the lithium polysulfides within carbon framework, weakening the shuttle effect and slowing down capacity fade in certain degree, improve the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries.
Mechanistic study of N–H- and H–N-codoping of a TiO2 photocatalyst for efficient degradation of benzene under visible light
Authors: Li Minghui , Song Wulin , Zeng Lei , Zeng Dawen , Xie Changsheng , Yang Qun
Published: January 2020

The crystallinity, NiHi dopants and disordered surface layer are of importance to N–H–TiO2 when comparing with the structure and properties of H–N–TiO2.
In vivo toxicity evaluation of two polyoxotungstates with potential antidiabetic activity using Wistar rats as a model system
Authors: Dinčić Marko , Čolović Mirjana B. , Sarić Matutinović Marija , Ćetković Mila , Kravić Stevović Tamara , Mougharbel Ali S. , Todorović Jasna , Ignjatović Svetlana , Radosavljević Branimir , Milisavljević Milan , Kortz Ulrich , Krstić Danijela Z.
Published: January 2020

Study of the in vivo hypoglycemic effect, hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of a donut-shaped polyanion salt (NH4)14[Na@P5W30O110]·31H2O {NaP5W30} and its Ag-containing derivative K14[Ag@P5W30O110]·22H2O·6KCl {AgP5W30}.
The synergy of N-doped and SPR-promoted photocatalytic removal of NO with graphene/Bi nanocomposites
Authors: Feng Zijuan , Lian Deru , Wu Xue , Liu Yi , Jia Wen , Yuan Xiaoya
Published: January 2020

Nitrogen-doped graphene/bismuth (NG/Bi) nanocomposites with different graphene contents were successfully assembled using a one-pot method.
Microscopic dynamics in room-temperature ionic liquids confined in materials for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Osti Naresh C. , Mamontov Eugene
Published: January 2020

Quasielastic neutron scattering uniquely explores the mechanisms to achieve higher capacitance and rate handling in ionic liquid-based supercapacitor materials.
A high tap density perovskite NaTaO3 nanocrystal anode driven by pseudocapacitive conversion/intercalation hybrid mechanisms for advanced Li-ion/dual-ion storage
Authors: Yan Tong , Ding Rui , Ying Danfeng , Huang Yongfa , Huang Yuxi , Tan Caini , Sun Xiujuan , Gao Ping , Liu Enhui
Published: January 2020

A high tap density perovskite NaTaO3 nanocrystal anode powers advanced Li-ion/dual-ion storage with pseudocapacitive conversion/intercalation hybrid mechanisms.
Vertical graphene growth on uniformly dispersed sub-nanoscale SiOx/N-doped carbon composite microspheres with a 3D conductive network and an ultra-low volume deformation for fast and stable lithium-ion storage
Authors: Han Meisheng , Mu Yongbiao , Yuan Fu , Liang Jingbing , Jiang Tao , Bai Xuedong , Yu Jie
Published: January 2020

Vertical graphene growth on subnanoscopically and homogeneously dispersed SiOx and carbon composite microspheres shows fast and stable lithium ion storage behavior.
Highly reversible lithium storage in a conversion-type ZnCo2O4anode promoted by NiCl2−xFxhydrate
Authors: Deng Jiaojiao , Yu Xiaoliang , Tang Jie , Zhang Lihan , Zhang Kun , Lin Shiqi , Li Baohua
Published: January 2020

Highly reversible lithium storage in a conversion-type ZnCo2O4anode is achieved by coating ultrafine NiCl2−xFxhydrate on porous ZnCo2O4microspheres.
Flexible and stretchable dual mode nanogenerator for rehabilitation monitoring and information interaction
Authors: Liu Zhuo , Zheng Qiang , Shi Yue , Xu Lingling , Zou Yang , Jiang Dongjie , Shi Bojing , Qu Xuecheng , Li Hu , Ouyang Han , Liu Ruping , Wu Yuxiang , Fan Yubo , Li Zhou
Published: January 2020

Sensors with flexibility and stretchability are the key functional modules of converter between mechanical motions and electric signals for intelligent robots and rehabilitation training systems.
Polypropylene mesh for hernia repair with controllable cell adhesion/de-adhesion properties
Authors: Lanzalaco Sonia , Del Valle Luis Javier , Turon Pau , Weis Christine , Estrany Francesc , Alemán Carlos , Armelin Elaine
Published: January 2020

Herein, a versatile bilayer system, composed by a polypropylene (PP) mesh and a covalently bonded poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) hydrogel, is reported.
Improving the anti-inflammatory efficacy of dexamethasone in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with polymerized stealth liposomes as a delivery vehicle
Authors: Wang Qin , He Liming , Fan Donghao , Liang Wenlang , Fang Jiyu
Published: January 2020

Polymerized stealth liposomes were developed for improving the anti-inflammatory efficacy of dexamethasone in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
New insights into the luminescence properties of a Na stabilized Ga–Ti oxide homologous series
Authors: García-Fernández Javier , García-Carrión Marina , Torres-Pardo Almudena , Martínez-Casado Ruth , Ramírez-Castellanos Julio , Nogales Emilio , González-Calbet Jose , Méndez Bianchi
Published: January 2020

Herein, we achieve the synthesis and structural study of a luminescent Na-stabilized Ga–Ti oxide homologous series by atomically resolved electron microscopy.
Integrated outstanding precision and mechanical performance of transparent 3D photonic crystal devices employing cross-linked nanospheres via thermoforming in a rubbery state
Authors: Chen Dan , Yao Ying , Wang Yunming , Fu Yue , Zheng Jiaqi , Zhou Huamin
Published: January 2020

Transparent photonic crystal devices with preferable optical and mechanical performances fabricated by employing cross-linked photonic crystal nanospheres in a rubbery state.
Recent advances in high performance blue organic light-emitting diodes based on fluorescence emitters
Authors: Xu Zeng , Tang Ben Zhong , Wang Yan , Ma Dongge
Published: January 2020

This review summarizes recent advances in blue OLEDs based on fluorescence emitters, especially focusing on the different mechanisms involving the emitters and devices.
Controlled growth of Cu2−xS sheet-like nanoshells and Cu2−xS–CdS p–n junctions on Au nanorods with coupled plasmon resonances and enhanced photocatalytic activities
Authors: Wang Wei , Ma Song , Chen Kai , Wang Peng-Fei , Liu Qi-Yu , Zhou Li , Wang Qu-Quan
Published: January 2020

Controlled growth of Cu2−xS sheet-like nanoshells and Cu2−xS–CdS p–n junctions on Au nanorods with enhanced photocatalytic activity.
Enhanced piezoelectric property in quenched BiFeO3-based piezoceramics: role of defects and mesophase
Authors: Zhao Haiyan , Hou Yudong , Yu Xiaole , Zheng Mupeng , Zhu Mankang
Published: January 2020

Enhanced piezoelectricity by quenching results from the synergistic effects of increased resistivity and interfacial polarization caused by a mesophase.
Enhancing thermal conductivity via conductive network conversion from high to low thermal dissipation in polydimethylsiloxane composites
Authors: Si Wuyan , Sun Jingyao , He Xiaoxiang , Huang Yao , Zhuang Jian , Zhang Jiaoxia , Murugadoss Vignesh , Fan Jincheng , Wu Daming , Guo Zhanhu
Published: January 2020

Thermal conductivities of polymer composites are enhanced by several orders of magnitude via conductive network conversion from high to low thermal dissipation.
The molecular chaperone β-casein prevents amorphous and fibrillar aggregation of α-lactalbumin by stabilisation of dynamic disorder
Authors: Sanders Henry M. , Jovcevski Blagojce , Carver John A. , Pukala Tara L.
Published: January 2020

Deficits in protein homeostasis (proteostasis) are typified by the partial unfolding or misfolding of native proteins leading to amorphous or fibrillar aggregation, events that have been closely associated with diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Molecular chaperones are intimately involved in maintaining proteostasis, and their mechanisms of action are in part dependent on the morphology of aggregation-prone proteins. This study utilised native ion mobility–mass spectrometry to provide molecular insights into the conformational properties and dynamics of a model protein, α-lactalbumin (α-LA), which aggregates in an amorphous or amyloid fibrillar manner controlled by appropriate selection of experimental conditions. The molecular chaperone β-casein (β-CN) is effective at inhibiting amorphous and fibrillar aggregation of α-LA at sub-stoichiometric ratios, with greater efficiency against fibril formation. Analytical size-exclusion chromatography demonstrates the interaction between β-CN and amorphously aggregating α-LA is stable, forming a soluble high molecular weight complex, whilst with fibril-forming α-LA the interaction is transient. Moreover, ion mobility–mass spectrometry (IM-MS) coupled with collision-induced unfolding (CIU) revealed that α-LA monomers undergo distinct conformational transitions during the initial stages of amorphous (order to disorder) and fibrillar (disorder to order) aggregation. The structural heterogeneity of monomeric α-LA during fibrillation is reduced in the presence of β-CN along with an enhancement in stability, which provides a potential means for preventing fibril formation. Together, this study demonstrates how IM-MS and CIU can investigate the unfolding of proteins as well as examine transient and dynamic protein–chaperone interactions, and thereby provides detailed insight into the mechanism of chaperone action and proteostasis mechanisms.
Translation and Validation of Kannada Version of the Dysphagia Handicap Index
Authors: Krishnamurthy Rahul , Balasubramanium Radish Kumar
Published: January 2020

Background

The Dysphagia Handicap Index (DHI) is a 25-item questionnaire that assesses the quality of life among individuals with dysphagia. The aim of this study was to translate and validate the Kannada version of DHI (DHI-K).

Method

Eighty-eight individuals with dysphagia and an equal number of healthy individuals filled out the DHI-K. Internal consistency and test–retest reproducibility were used for reliability testing. Validity was established by comparing DHI-K scores of patients with dysphagia and healthy controls.

Results

The overall Cronbach's α for DHI-K was .81, indicating good internal consistency. Cohen's κ agreement for test–retest reliability of self-perceived severity was found to be .9. Correlation between subscales of DHI and self-perceived severity was analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficient and was found to very high. The control group has significantly lower scores for all scales when compared to the dysphagia group (physical:
t
(174) = 31.74,
p
< .001; functional:
t
(174) = 32.65,
p
< .001; emotional:
t
(174) = 36.3,
p
< .001; total:
t
(174) = 34.08,
p
< .001).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that DHI-K has good internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and concurrent validity. The results of the study also reveal that it is a reliable and valid tool for assessment of handicap in Kannada-speaking dysphagia population.
Measuring Hyoid Excursion Across the Life Span: Anatomical Scaling to Control for Variation
Authors: Brates Danielle , Steele Catriona M. , Molfenter Sonja M.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

A method for controlling for sex-based differences in measures of hyoid movement using an internal anatomical scalar has been validated in young healthy individuals. Known anatomical changes with aging necessitate validation of this methodology in a mixed-age sample. The primary aim of this study was to validate a method for controlling for sex-based differences in measures of hyoid movement across the life span. Measurement error as a potential source of variability was addressed to inform best practice recommendations.

Method

Two distinct data sets previously collected using identical protocols were combined for this study to achieve a data set of young (< 40 years) and older (> 65 years) healthy adults. Data included videofluoroscopic swallow studies with three swallow trials each of 5 and 20 ml thin liquid barium. Previously reported methodology was replicated to validate the use of an anatomical scalar for measuring hyoid excursion in this sample. Hyoid movement was measured using 2 methods (rest-to-peak displacement and peak only) in 3 planes of movement (anterior, superior, and hypotenuse), was expressed in millimeters and individually scaled units relative to C4, and normalized using the C2–C4 vertebral distance. Mixed-model repeated-measures analyses of variance were run with each of the 6 hyoid measures as the dependent variable (in both millimeters and C2–C4 units), within-subject factors of sex and bolus volume, and a between-subjects factor of age group. We predicted that the C2–C4 scalar would adequately control for sex-based differences across age groups.

Results

Significant differences in absolute hyoid movements (millimeters) were observed by sex, bolus volume, and age group. When measured in %C2–C4 units, all differences between males and females were neutralized. Significant differences between 5- and 20-ml boluses were found for all peak position measures. Significant differences between young and older individuals were found for all peak position measures.

Conclusion

Expressing hyoid excursion as a percentage of the C2–C4 distance appears valid for use across the life span. Peak position is preferable over displacement measures for quantifying hyoid excursion for research and clinical purposes.
Vocal Loudness Variation With Spectral Slope
Authors: Titze Ingo R. , Palaparthi Anil
Published: January 2020

Objective

This investigation addresses the loudness variations in sones achievable with spectral slope variations (higher harmonic energy) in human vocalization and compares it to the sound pressure level (SPL) variations typically reported in the voice range profile (VRP).

Method

The primary methodology was computational. The ISO standard 226 was used to convert SPL values to sones for a 125- to 1000-Hz range of fundamental frequency and a –3 dB/octave to –12 dB/octave range of spectral slope. In addition, a retrospective analysis of human subjects' VRPs was conducted, and the experimental results were compared to the theoretical results.

Results

A very small range of SPL variation (less than 5 dB) in the VRP can produce a large range of loudness. The sensitivity can be on the order of 4 sones per dB SPL change.

Conclusion

For vocalization in the modal register, loudness variation is not well described by SPL change in dB, especially at high fundamental frequencies where the SPL range in the VRP becomes very small but sizeable loudness variations are still possible.
Fast terminal sliding mode control for improved transient state power sharing between parallel VSCs in an autonomous microgrid under different loading conditions
Authors: Prakash Surya , Mishra Sukumar
Published: January 2020

For low‐voltage autonomous microgrids, the essential goal is maintaining stable voltage and frequency throughout its network for the smooth operation of distributed loads. The other goal is to maintain proportionate power‐sharing between multiple sources connected through voltage source converters (VSCs). For the particular case of a heavily loaded microgrid, any further increase in demand poses new problems. The VSCs proximate to the loads may overshoot beyond its maximum ratings. Owing to which the stability of the power supply, as well as the longevity of VSCs, may get compromised. Also, these sources provide power under varying composite loading conditions comprising both linear and non‐linear loads resulting in unbalancing in its network. To overcome these problems, a decentralised fast terminal sliding mode control strategy for active power‐sharing between parallel VSCs has been proposed. A detailed mathematical model based on Lyapunov's stability theory‐based study is designed to establish the operating stability of the proposed controller. To validate the proposed control strategy, MATLAB‐based simulation results are provided for possible loading scenarios. A comparative study for performance evaluation between the proposed controller and a conventional proportional ‐integral‐based controller is further carried out. Finally, the performance of the proposed controller is also validated in real‐time scenario.
Hic sunt dracones: Cartography of the Milky Way spiral arms and bar resonances with Gaia Data Release 2
Authors: Khoperskov S. , Gerhard O. , Di Matteo P. , Haywood M. , Katz D. , Khrapov S. , Khoperskov A. , Arnaboldi M.
Published: January 2020

In this paper we introduce a new method for analysing Milky Way phase-space which allows us to reveal the imprint left by the Milky Way bar and spiral arms on the stars with full phase-space data in Gaia Data Release 2. The unprecedented quality and extended spatial coverage of these data allowed us to discover six prominent stellar density structures in the disc to a distance of 5 kpc from the Sun. Four of these structures correspond to the spiral arms detected previously in the gas and young stars (Scutum-Centaurus, Sagittarius, Local, and Perseus). The remaining two are associated with the main resonances of the Milky Way bar where corotation is placed at around 6.2 kpc and the outer Lindblad resonance beyond the solar radius, at around 9 kpc. For the first time we provide evidence of the imprint left by spiral arms and resonances in the stellar densities not relying on a specific tracer, through enhancing the signatures left by these asymmetries. Our method offers new avenues for studying how the stellar populations in our Galaxy are shaped.
Why binary interaction does not necessarily dominate the formation of Wolf-Rayet stars at low metallicity
Authors: Shenar T. , Gilkis A. , Vink J. S. , Sana H. , Sander A. A. C.
Published: January 2020

Context. Classical Wolf-Rayet (WR) stars are massive, hydrogen-depleted, post main-sequence stars that exhibit emission-line dominated spectra. For a given metallicity Z, stars exceeding a certain initial mass MsingleWR(Z) can reach the WR phase through intrinsic mass-loss or eruptions (single-star channel). In principle, stars of lower masses can reach the WR phase via stripping through binary interactions (binary channel). Because winds become weaker at low Z, it is commonly assumed that the binary channel dominates the formation of WR stars in environments with low metallicity such as the Small and Large Magellanic Clouds (SMC, LMC). However, the reported WR binary fractions of 30−40% in the SMC (Z = 0.002) and LMC (Z = 0.006) are comparable to that of the Galaxy (Z = 0.014), and no evidence for the dominance of the binary channel at low Z could be identified observationally. Here, we explain this apparent contradiction by considering the minimum initial mass MspecWR(Z) needed for the stripped product to appear as a WR star.

Aims. By constraining MspecWR(Z) and MsingleWR(Z), we estimate the importance of binaries in forming WR stars as a function of Z.

Methods. We calibrated MspecWR using the lowest-luminosity WR stars in the Magellanic Clouds and the Galaxy. A range of MsingleWR values were explored using various evolution codes. We estimated the additional contribution of the binary channel by considering the interval [MspecWR(Z), MsingleWR(Z)], which characterizes the initial-mass range in which the binary channel can form additional WR stars.

Results. The WR-phenomenon ceases below luminosities of log L ≈ 4.9, 5.25, and 5.6 [L⊙] in the Galaxy, the LMC, and the SMC, respectively, which translates to minimum He-star masses of 7.5, 11, 17 M⊙ and minimum initial masses of MspecWR = 18, 23, 37 M⊙. Stripped stars with lower initial masses in the respective galaxies would tend not to appear as WR stars. The minimum mass necessary for self-stripping, MsingleWR(Z), is strongly model-dependent, but it lies in the range 20−30, 30−60, and ≳40 M⊙ for the Galaxy, LMC, and SMC, respectively. We find that that the additional contribution of the binary channel is a non-trivial and model-dependent function of Z that cannot be conclusively claimed to be monotonically increasing with decreasing Z.

Conclusions. The WR spectral appearance arises from the presence of strong winds. Therefore, both MspecWR and MsingleWR increase with decreasing metallicity. Considering this, we show that one should not a-priori expect that binary interactions become increasingly important in forming WR stars at low Z, or that the WR binary fraction grows with decreasing Z.
Orbit classification in exoplanetary systems
Authors: Zotos Euaggelos E. , Érdi Bálint , Saeed Tareq , Alhodaly Mohammed Sh.
Published: January 2020

The circular version of the restricted three-body problem, along with the method of grid classification are used to determine the character of the trajectories of a test particle, which move in a binary exoplanetary system. The binary system can be either a parent star-exoplanet or an exoplanet–exoplanet or exomoon, while the test particle is considered to be an asteroid or comet, a space probe, or even a small exomoon in the case where the primary body is a star. By using modern two-dimensional color maps, we succeeded in classifying the starting conditions and distinguishing between bounded, escaping, and collision type of motion for the test particle. Furthermore, in the case of bounded regular motion, we further classify the starting conditions by considering their geometry (revolving around one or both main bodies) and orientation (prograde or retrograde, with respect to a rotating coordinate system of the primaries). For the initial setup of the test particle we consider two starting conditions: the launch from pericenter or apocenter. The final states are qualitatively visualized through two-dimensional basin diagrams. This approach allowed us to systematically investigate and extract dynamical information on the dependency of the test particle final state as a function of the particle’s initial semi-major axis and eccentricity for a given primary and secondary mass ratio. Finally, we applied the restricted three-body model on several exoplanetary systems with observed mass-ratios and studied the dynamical behavior of a test-mass.
A minimal predictive model for better formulations of solvent phases with low viscosity
Authors: Pleines Maximilian , Hahn Maximilian , Duhamet Jean , Zemb Thomas
Published: January 2020

The viscosity increase of the organic phase when liquid–liquid extraction processes are intensified causes difficulties for hydrometallurgical processes on industrial scale. In this work, we have analyzed this problem for the example ofN,N-dialkylamides in the presence of uranyl nitrate experimentally. Furthermore, we present a minimal model at nanoscale that allows rationalizing the experimental phenomena by connecting the molecular, mesoscopic and macroscopic scale and that allows predicting qualitative trends in viscosity. This model opens broad possibilities in optimizing constraints and is a further step towards knowledge-based formulation of extracting microemulsions formed by microstructures with low connectivity, even at high load with heavy metals.
Posture prediction and optimization for a manual assembly operation involving lifting of weights
Authors: Rout Biswaranjan , Dash Rati Ranjan , Dhupal Debabrata
Published: January 2020

The present work combines ergonomics with the posture prediction in the assembly process to avoid musculoskeletal issues of human operator. For improved productivity the operator should be in a better work environment and in sound health. The purpose of this paper is to provide a different perspective to avoid ergonomic risk factors in manual assembly. Here, a human is modeled as 20-DOF as modeled in robotic analysis and simulated in a virtual environment. In the present study, two objective cost functions i.e. joint discomfort function and energy expenditure function have been employed for evaluating the optimized posture. For posture prediction, a combined multi-objective optimization (MOO) method is used and the objective cost functions are minimized i.e. less joint discomfort and less energy in MOO method required to do the manual assembly operation and consequently, the results are compared and finally the movements are tested using REBA technique.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty in the management of weight regain after sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: de Moura Diogo Turiani Hourneaux , Barrichello Jr Sérgio , de Moura Eduardo Guimarães Hourneaux , de Souza Thiago Ferreira , dos Passos Galvão Neto Manoel , Grecco Eduardo , Sander Bruno , Hoff Anna Carolina , Matz Felipe , Ramos Flávio , de Lima João Henrique Felício , Teixeira Leonardo , Dib Victor , Falcão Marcelo , Potti Helmut , Baretta Giorgio , Jirapinyo Pichamol , Thompson Christopher C.
Published: January 2020

Background Sleeve gastrectomy is a well-standardized surgical treatment for obesity. However, rates of weight regain after sleeve gastrectomy in long-term follow-up are relatively high. This multicenter study is the first to evaluate the use of an endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) technique for the management of this population.

Methods This was a multicenter retrospective study, including patients with weight regain following sleeve gastrectomy who underwent ESG for weight loss. Primary outcomes included absolute weight loss, percent total weight loss (%TWL), change in body mass index (BMI), percent excess weight loss (%EWL) at 6 and 12 months, and safety profile. Clinical success was defined as achieving ≥ 25 % EWL at 1 year, ≤ 5 % serious adverse event (SAE) rate following society-recommended thresholds, and %TWL ≥ 10 %.

Results 34 patients underwent ESG after sleeve gastrectomy. Technical success was 100 %. At 1 year, 82.4 % and 100 % of patients achieved ≥ 10 %TWL and ≥ 25 % EWL, respectively. Mean (SD) %TWL was 13.2 % (3.9) and 18.3 % (5.5), and %EWL was 51.9 % (19.1) and 69.9 % (29.9) at 6 months and 1 year, respectively. Mean (SD) %TWL was 14.2 % (12.5), 19.3 % (5.3), 17.5 % (5.2), and 20.4 % (3.3), and %EWL was 88.5 % (52.8), 84.4 % (22.4), 55.4 % (14.8), and 47.8 % (11.2) for BMI categories of overweight and obesity class I, II, and III, respectively, at 1 year. No predictors of success were identified in the multivariable regression analysis. No SAEs were reported.

Conclusion ESG appears to be safe and effective in the management of weight regain following sleeve gastrectomy.
Comparison of preoperative infraorbital block with peri-incisional infiltration for postoperative pain relief in cleft lip surgeries
Authors: Gaonkar V. , Daftary Swati R.
Published: January 2020

In this prospective, randomized study, children undergoing cleft lip surgery were either given infra-orbital nerve block (n=25) or peri-incisional infiltration (n=25) pre-operatively with 0.25% bupivacaine in 1:2,00,000 adrenaline.

The overall course of anesthesia in both the groups was smooth, with excellent hemodynamic stability, indicating better pain relief during the intra-operative period. The concentration of the anesthetic agent required was reduced and recovery from anesthesia was rapid and complete. There was excellent postoperative analgesia. The children were calm and comfortable postoperatively.

We conclude that infra-orbital nerve block with 0.25% bupivacaine with adrenaline provides more prolonged analgesia than peri-incisional infiltration in cleft lip repair. Infra-orbital block given by modified approach is easy to perform and free of side-effects.
Machinery injury to the breast- a case report
Authors: Basu Adhish , Jagdish S. , Pai Dinker
Published: January 2020

Index case of injury to the breast by a sugarcane crushing machine is being reported.
Profile of Laryngeal Microsurgeries in Patients Over 60 Years Old
Authors: Rimoli Caroline Fernandes , Macedo Filho Evaldo Dacheux , Patrial Maria Theresa Costa Ramos Oliveira , Klas Cynthia Fontoura , Nascimento Giovana Aryane
Published: January 2020

Introduction The increase in life expectancy is an incentive to the development of researches with the elderly population aiming at actions that may ensure healthy and active aging.

Objective To analyze the profile of laryngeal microsurgery performed in patients > 60 years old.

Methods A retrospective observational study, with a cross-sectional design. A retrospective analysis of the medical records of elderly patients submitted to laryngeal microsurgery was performed at a private hospital in Curitiba, state of Paraná, Brazil, between January 2004 and December 2016. Were included all of the patients > 60 years old that underwent laryngeal microsurgery during this period.

Results During the studied period, 213 laryngeal microsurgeries were performed in 181 patients > 60 years old. There was a preponderance of male patients. The mean age was 67.6 years old. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) was the most prevalent disorder (26%), followed by Reinke edema (20%), papillomatosis (14%), polyps (11%), leukoplakia (8%), minor structural alterations (8%), associated lesions (9%), and others (4%). Men presented a higher probability of SCC diagnosis, regardless of the age group, while Reinke edema was more frequently observed in women. A directly proportional relation between the frequency of laryngeal cancer and age increase was also observed. No significant differences were observed in professional voice users.

Conclusion Further researches are required to properly comprehend the factors associated with laryngeal lesions and determine prevention and treatment approaches.
Circumferential skin defect - Ilizarov technique in plastic surgery
Authors: Madhuri Vrisha , Kurpad R Shankar , Nithyananth Manasseh , Jepegnanam S Thilak , Titus V. T.K. , Dhanraj Prema
Published: January 2020

A young man had an open fracture of the tibia with bone and soft tissue loss in the distal part of the left leg following a crush injury. The circumferential skin defect was successfully treated with controlled lengthening of the distal skin by the Ilizarov technique using nylon wires and skin staples to apply traction. This was combined with limb reconstruction done simultaneously using orthofix external fixator. This case report highlights the use of an orthopaedic technique to provide skin cover in distal leg.
Large lateral thoracic defect by chondrosarcoma resection chest wall reconstruction using myocutaneous latissimus dorsal flap without parietal rigid repair
Authors: Guerrissi Jorge O
Published: January 2020

A case of a 66 year-old women, with a large chondrosarcoma arising from right lateral chest wall is presented. Parietal pleura, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th ribs (lateral arch), underlying muscle, subcutaneous tissues and the right breast were also involved by the tumor. Surgical resection was planned including skin, right breast, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th lateral rib arches and parietal pleura; a wide defect was created with exposure of lung. Reconstruction was planned by means of an extensive myocutaneous dorsal flap pedicled on right thoracodorsal vessels; alloplastic mesh for parietal chest wall reconstruction was not used. Two years postoperative results showed no local recurrence and excellent aesthetic and functional results were evident; respiratory function remained unaltered.

The progressive rigidity reached by the reconstructed lateral chest wall, allowed us to conclude that the use of myocutaneous flap is enough to avoid paradoxical respiratory movements and any type of alloplastic mesh is unnecessary.
Mammograms in cosmetic breast surgery
Authors: Shiffman M A
Published: January 2020

Mammograms are necessary as preoperative preparation for breast surgery in certain patients. There is a definite need for mammograms preoperatively in patients over 40 who should be obtaining mammograms on an annual basis. Under the age of 40 mammograms are up to the discretion of the surgeon. Postoperative mammograms should be obtained as a baseline 6-12 months after breast surgery.
Wound coverage of plantar metatarsal ulcers in leprosy using a toe web flap
Authors: Joshua J , Chakraborthy V
Published: January 2020

Plantar metatarsal ulcers and sinuses are frequently seen problems in anaesthetic feet in leprosy. They may occur singly or as multiple sinuses. Many flaps have been described in the management of small defects of the forefoot. During the course of four years, from March 2000 to February 2004, a total of 708 plantar metatarsal ulcers in anaesthetic feet due to leprosy were seen. 280 surgeries were performed on 257 cases. Most of these were debridement and or excision of the metatarsophalangeal joints through a dorsal incision. Thirteen cases were dealt with by a toe web flap, using the plantar metatarsal artery as the source of supply to the flap. Nine were to cover defects under the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint. Three were to cover defects under the second and third metatarsophalangeal joints and one involved coverage of a defect under the 5th metatarsophalangeal joint. In all cases except the last, the big toe contributed the flap. In the last case the fourth toe was the donor. In all cases the flaps survived and did well. The secondary defects were covered with split thickness skin graft. Wound dehiscence was seen in one case and recurrence of a sinus, was seen in one case. Hyperkeratosis of the secondary defect was seen in three cases. Follow up ranged from 3 years to six months. We found this flap to be durable and safe with little chance of recurrence when used to cover plantar metatarsal ulcers.
′Sure closure′-skin stretching system, our clinical experience
Authors: Subramania K I , Mohit S , Sasidharan P R , Abraham M K , Arun P , Kekatpure V
Published: January 2020

Objective: In clinical practice of reconstructive surgery one of the problems one routinely comes across is skin and soft tissue defects, which require coverage. Coverage of such wounds requires primary/secondary closure, skin grafting or flaps. The objective of our clinical series was to assess the efficacy of sure closure skin stretching system for closure of defects which otherwise would have required major flap cover or skin grafting.

Methods: Our series included five patients with different causes and types of wound defects namely:

1. Post-traumatic soft tissue defect on dorsum of hand.

2. Post fasciotomy wound on leg (anterolateral aspect).

3. Abdominal wound dehiscence following surgery for enterocutaneous fistula.

4. Leg soft tissue defect following dehiscence of fasciocutaneous flap.

5. Secondary defect following harvesting a lateral arm/forearm free flap.

The device was applied to skin edges after preparing the wound under local anesthesia and the skin edges were brought together by turning the skin-stretching knob. After adequate approximation of the edges of the wound it was sutured by conventional suturing techniques.

Results: All the wounds could be successfully closed using the skin stretching system in our series. The time taken for the closure ranged from 2 to 48 h.

Conclusions: Sure closure skin stretching system is an effective device for closing some of the skin defects which otherwise would have required skin flaps or grafts. In all the patients wound closure could be achieved by this method and was carried out under local anesthesia. Use of this technique is simple and helps to reduce the morbidity and cost of treatment by allowing the reconstructive surgeon to avoid using major flaps or grafts.
Arterial variations of upper limb: a case report
Authors: Vollala V R , Rao M , Deepthinath Prasad
Published: January 2020

Variations of upper limb arteries are common and there are many reports about this subject. We report multiple variations in arterial pattern of upper extremity, which were encountered in a single cadaver.
Helical reconstruction in a post human bite defect
Authors: Soni A , Sheoran S , Rajput A
Published: January 2020

A case of a post traumatic partial defect of the helix of ear and its reconstruction by using a post auricular bipedicled tube flap, in stages is reported.
Giant trochanteric pressure sore: Use of a pedicled chimeric perforator flap for cover
Authors: Mehrotra Sandeep
Published: January 2020

Pressure sores are increasing in frequency commensurate with an ageing population with multi-system disorders and trauma. Numerous classic options are described for providing stable wound cover. With the burgeoning knowledge on perforator anatomy, recent approaches focus on the use of perforator-based flaps in bedsore surgery. A giant neglected trochanteric pressure sore in a paraplegic is presented. Since conventional options of reconstruction appeared remote, the massive ulcer was successfully managed by a chimeric perforator-based flap. The combined muscle and fasciocutaneous flaps were raised as separate paddles based on the anterolateral thigh perforator branches and provided stable cover without complications. Perforators allow versatility in managing complex wounds without compromising on established principles.
An Internet-based discussion forum as a useful resource for the discussion of clinical cases and an educational tool
Authors: Foong Deborah P. S. , McGrouther Duncan A.
Published: January 2020

Introduction: An Internet-based group of plastic surgeons was formed in India in February 2001. It has 1290 members and seeks to facilitate online discussion. These discussions were reviewed to assess their value in education and aiding patient management. Materials and Methods: All messages and discussions between August 2007 and July 2008 were examined retrospectively. Data were collected regarding topics, replies, and use of clinical images. Results: A total of 2217 messages were exchanged within 330 separate discussions (mean = 6.7 messages per discussion, range = 0–45). A total of 164 discussions contained photographs (50%). Mean number of photographs per discussion was five (range = 0–34). Discussions included requests for advice on complex cases (40%), interesting cases and their management/outcome (25%) and courses/conferences (30%). Topics discussed include training/courses (26.7%), cleft (15.4%), aesthetics (13.1%), trauma (12.5%), head and neck (8.4%), cutaneous (6.4%), perineal/genital reconstruction (6.1%), and scar management (4.7%). Discussion: Forums like this facilitate discussion between individuals in remote locations. They provide easy access to the expertise of a large cohort of highly experienced surgeons. Most discussions were clinical, involving challenging situations. The discussions are open and nonjudgmental, hence encouraging contribution and healthy debate. We encourage its use as an educational tool and a platform for discussion.
“Nara” knot for suturing of cleft lip in children to make removal easy
Authors: Obaidullah G , Mohammed Aslam
Published: January 2020

Cleft patients usually go through a lifetime of repeated hospital admissions and multiple procedures. Suture removal at a tender age and on a sensitive area like the lip becomes a challenge for the nursing staff. It is also emotionally demanding on the part of the parents. Hence, in most centres these patients are at least sedated if not anaesthetised. We have been using a simple knot and running prolene material so that undoing of the knot becomes easy and suture removal more or less atraumatic. We would like to share our experience with readers through this article. An analysis of 53 cleft lip repairs has shown that this knot is safe and easily removable.
Notes on the care, restoration and repair of microsurgical instruments
Authors: Robert D Acland
Published: January 2020

The high cost of microsurgical instruments is multiplied by failure to care for them appropriately. This paper describes effective practical measures for the care of microsurgical instruments; and shows detailed procedures for restoring and repairing the instruments most often damaged: jewelers′ forceps and scissors.
Spectrum-clean S1 AlN Lamb wave resonator with damped edge reflectors
Authors: Zou Jie , Gao Anming , Pisano Albert P.
Published: January 2020

A concept for the development of spectrum-clean S1 Lamb wave resonator (LWR) utilizing an aluminum nitride (AlN) plate with damped edge reflectors is demonstrated. Numerical analysis is performed on the dispersive characteristics of the Lamb modes propagating in AlN plates, and the design parameters to enable zero group velocity (vg) for the S1 mode are identified. The simulation results based on finite element analysis verify that the use of the damped edge reflectors, instead of the conventional edge reflectors, can efficiently de-couple most of the Lamb waves such as the S0 mode by mode conversion upon edges, but not the S1 mode characterizing zero vg. Specifically, the measured frequency response of a 1.38-GHz AlN S1 LWR with damped edge reflectors yields a clean spectrum up to 6 GHz and excellent resonance passband performance.
Optical pulling force on nonlinear nanoparticles with gain
Authors: Chen Hongli , Gao Lei , Zhong Chonggui , Yuan Guoqiu , Huang Yanyan , Yu Zhongwei , Cao Min , Wang Meng
Published: January 2020

We investigate the optical force on the nonlinear nanoparticles with gain based on nonlinear Mie theory and Maxwell’s stress tensor method. For the nonlinear susceptibility χ(3) = 0 (i.e., the linear nanoparticle), the threshold gain to obtain the optical pulling force increases when the permittivity of the surrounding medium εm deviates from the real part of the permittivity of the nanoparticles εcr. For χ(3) > 0, one or two threshold fields exist for the switch of optical pulling and pushing force. However, for χ(3) < 0, only one threshold field is found. Moreover, the optical pulling force may be enhanced by tuning the incident field intensity. Our results for the optical force on the nonlinear nanoparticle will have potential applications in nonlinear optical manipulations and optical transportation.
Dependence of stability and electronic and optical properties of perovskite quantum dots on capping ligand chain length
Authors: Vickers Evan Thomas , Xu Ke , Li Xueming , Zhang Jin Zhong
Published: January 2020

Methylammonium lead bromide (MAPbBr3) perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) passivated with capping ligands with different chain length, including butylamine-valeric acid (BUTY-VA), octylamine-caprylic acid (OCTY-CA), and dodecylamine-lauric acid (DODE-LA), are investigated to determine an optimized capping layer thickness for maximizing both electronic and antimoisture properties of perovskite materials in optoelectronic devices. The photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) is observed to be chain length dependent, where the PLQY of BUTY-VA, OCTY-CA, and DODE-LA MAPbBr3 PQDs is 82% ± 4%, 68% ± 7%, and 18% ± 2%, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements of each PQD film reveal that there is a slight increase in conductivity from reducing the capping ligand chain length from 8 carbon atoms (OCTY-CA) to 4 carbon atoms (BUTY-VA). Using the Butler-Volmer equation, the charge transfer factor β for BUTY-VA and OCTY-CA MAPbBr3 PQD films in a tetrabutylammonium hexafluorophosphate-dichloromethane electrolyte solution was calculated to be 0.36 and 0.31, respectively. From an Arrhenius analysis, the activation energy (Ea) for charge transport between the PQD film and the electrolyte was calculated to be 77 and 90 meV for BUTY-VA and OCTY-CA MAPbBr3 PQD films, respectively. Moreover, passivating PQDs with capping ligands with 12 carbon atoms (DODE-LA) almost completely insulates the PQDs and diminishes charge transport. This is also observed in transient photocurrent density measurements. The results suggest that the inter-PQD distance in this solid film is too long for effective tunneling to occur. However, using BUTY-VA capping ligands to improve electronic properties of PQD solid film comes with a cost of stability.
One-electron oxidation of TAT-motif triplex DNA and the ensuing Hoogsteen hydrogen-bonding dissociation
Authors: Zhou Qian , Wang Yinghui , Dai Xiaojuan , Yang Chunfan , Jie Jialong , Su Hongmei
Published: January 2020

One-electron oxidation of adenine (A) leads initially to the formation of adenine radical cation (A•+). Subsequent deprotonation of A•+ can provoke deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage, which further causes senescence, cancer formation, and even cell death. However, compared with considerable reports on A•+ reactions in free deoxyadenosine (dA) and duplex DNA, studies in non-B-form DNA that play critical biological roles are rare at present. It is thus of vital importance to explore non-B-form DNA, among which the triplex is an emerging topic. Herein, we investigate the deprotonation behavior of A•+ in the TAT triplex with continuous A bases by time-resolved laser flash photolysis. The rate constants for the one-oxidation of triplex 8.4 × 108 M−1 s−1 and A•+ deprotonation 1.3 × 107 s−1 are obtained. The kinetic isotope effect of A•+ deprotonation in the TAT triplex is 1.8, which is characteristic of a direct release of the proton into the solvent similar to free base dA. It is thus elucidated that the A•+ proton bound with the third strand is most likely to be released into the solvent because of the weaker Hoogsteen H-bonding interaction and the presence of the highly mobile hydration waters within the third strand. Additionally, it is confirmed through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy that the deprotonation of A•+ results in the dissociation of the third strand and disruption of the secondary structure of the triplex. These results provide valuable kinetic data and in-depth mechanistic insights for understanding the adenine oxidative DNA damage in the triplex.