bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural determinants of macrocyclization in substrate-controlled lanthipeptide biosynthetic pathways
Authors: Bobeica Silvia C. , Zhu Lingyang , Acedo Jeella Z. , Tang Weixin , van der Donk Wilfred A.
Published: June 2020

To understand factors that determine ring pattern and stereochemistry of thioether cyclization of lanthipeptide natural products, the structures of five prochlorosins (blue) and two enterococcal cytolysins (red) were determined by NMR spectroscopy.
Revealing the molecular mechanisms of proteolysis of SARS-CoV-2 Mproby QM/MM computational methods
Authors: Świderek Katarzyna , Moliner Vicent
Published: June 2020

The molecular mechanism of the proteolysis reaction catalyzed by SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, one of the enzymes essential for the replication process of the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, is described using computational QM/MM methods.
Empowering microfluidics by micro-3D printing and solution-based mineral coating
Authors: Li Hongxia , Raza Aikifa , Ge Qiaoyu , Lu Jin-You , Zhang TieJun
Published: June 2020

This work presents a new approach to additively fabricate functional porous microfluidic devices, by micro-3D printing and solution-based mineral coating, for energy and environmental applications.
Atomic-layer-deposited SnO2 on Pt/C prevents sintering of Pt nanoparticles and affects the reaction chemistry for the electrocatalytic glycerol oxidation reaction
Authors: Lee Daewon , Kim Youngmin , Han Hyunsu , Kim Won Bae , Chang Hyunju , Chung Taek-Mo , Han Jeong Hwan , Kim Hyun Woo , Kim Hyung Ju
Published: June 2020

Here we demonstrate that atomic-layer-deposited SnO2 on Pt/C enhances the catalytic stability and changes product selectivity for the electrocatalytic glycerol oxidation reaction.
3D printing-directed auxetic Kevlar aerogel architectures with multiple functionalization options
Authors: Cheng Qingqing , Liu Yang , Lyu Jing , Lu Qiang , Zhang Xuetong , Song Wenhui
Published: June 2020

Nanofibrous Kevlar aerogel metamaterials have been made using cryo-3D printing with special drying techniques at a high resolution and low energy cost. They possess outstanding auxetic mechanical properties with a controlled Poisson's ratio and are multi-functionalisable.
Enhanced photovoltaic effect from naphtho[2,3-c]thiophene-4,9-dione-based polymers through alkyl side chain induced backbone distortion
Authors: Bi Xiaoman , Zhang Tao , An Cunbin , Bi Pengqing , Ma Kangqiao , Li Sunsun , Xian Kaihu , Lv Qianglong , Zhang Shaoqing , Yao Huifeng , Xu Bowei , Zhang Jianqi , Cao Shaokui , Hou Jianhui
Published: June 2020

Two conjugated polymers with different side chain substituted positions were synthesized to study their photovoltaic performances.
Highly compact nanochannel thin films with exceptional thermal conductivity and water pumping for efficient solar steam generation
Authors: Wei Weiwei , Guan Qingbao , You Chuanting , Yu Jianyong , Yuan Zhanhui , Qiang Peirong , Zhou Chenxin , Ren Yi , You Zhengwei , Zhang Fan
Published: June 2020

Highly compact nano-channelled thin films, assembled from cellulose nanofibers and reduced graphene oxide via van der Waals' interactions, exhibit exceptional thermal conductivity and water pumping, allowing for efficient solar-steam generation.
Synergetic modulation of the electronic structure and hydrophilicity of nickel–iron hydroxide for efficient oxygen evolution by UV/ozone treatment
Authors: Pan Ying , Wu Yanfang , Hsain H. Alex , Su Ran , Cazorla Claudio , Chu Dewei
Published: June 2020

Enhanced OER performance of Ni(Fe) hydroxide through UV/ozone treatment.
Imide-functionalized acceptor–acceptor copolymers as efficient electron transport layers for high-performance perovskite solar cells
Authors: Shi Yongqiang , Chen Wei , Wu Ziang , Wang Yang , Sun Weipeng , Yang Kun , Tang Yumin , Woo Han Young , Zhou Ming , Djurišić Aleksandra B. , He Zhubing , Guo Xugang
Published: June 2020

Acceptor–acceptor type copolymers are developed as electron transport layers for perovskite solar cells achieving efficiency up to 20.8% with improved device stability.
Catalyst design concept based on a variety of alloy materials: a personal account and relevant studies
Authors: Furukawa Shinya , Komatsu Takayuki , Shimizu Ken-ichi
Published: June 2020

An overview of a variety of advanced alloy materials for catalytic use is provided.
Ultralow thermal conductivity and high thermoelectric figure of merit in mixed valence In5X5Br (X = S, and Se) compounds
Authors: Pandey Tribhuwan , Nissimagoudar Arun S. , Mishra Avanish , Singh Abhishek K.
Published: June 2020

We predict that mixed valent indium compounds exhibit a combination of high electrical conductivity, high thermopower, and low thermal conductivity, resulting in a large thermoelectric figure of merit.
Solution processable small molecules as efficient electron transport layers in organic optoelectronic devices
Authors: Kim Jun Tae , Lee Jihoon , Jang Soyeong , Yu Zhongkai , Park Jong Hyun , Jung Eui Dae , Lee Seungjin , Song Myoung Hoon , Whang Dong Ryeol , Wu Sangwook , Park Sung Heum , Chang Dong Wook , Lee Bo Ram
Published: June 2020

The coated QPSMs form the interfacial dipole between the active layer and the cathode, which can induce the tuned WF of Al, leading to the enhanced electron transport in OSCs and OLEDs.
Understanding of A-site deficiency in layered perovskites: promotion of dual reaction kinetics for water oxidation and oxygen reduction in protonic ceramic electrochemical cells
Authors: Tang Wei , Ding Hanping , Bian Wenjuan , Wu Wei , Li Wenyuan , Liu Xingbo , Gomez Joshua Y. , Regalado Vera Clarita Y. , Zhou Meng , Ding Dong
Published: June 2020

An A-site deficient layered perovskite PBCC95 is developed as a new oxygen electrode incorporated into a protonic ceramic electrochemical cell. The cell presents superior electrochemical performances and it can reversibly work between the electrolysis and fuel cell mode.
Correction: Cr(vi) removal by magnetic carbon nanocomposites derived from cellulose at different carbonization temperatures
Authors: Qiu Bin , Wang Yiran , Sun Dezhi , Wang Qiang , Zhang Xin , Weeks Brandon L. , O’Connor Ryan , Huang Xiaohua , Wei Suying , Guo Zhanhu
Published: June 2020

Correction for ‘Cr(vi) removal by magnetic carbon nanocomposites derived from cellulose at different carbonization temperatures’ by Bin Qiu et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2015, 3, 9817–9825, DOI: 10.1039/C5TA01227A.
Cleaving DNA by nanozymes
Authors: Fang Ruiqin , Liu Juewen
Published: June 2020

Various nanomaterials can mimic the activities of nucleases for hydrolytic and oxidative DNA cleavage on different sites allowing interesting biomedical and bioanalytical applications.
Layer-structured BaTiO3/P(VDF–HFP) composites with concurrently improved dielectric permittivity and breakdown strength toward capacitive energy-storage applications
Authors: Sun Liang , Shi Zhicheng , Liang Liang , Wei Shuang , Wang Huanlei , Dastan Davoud , Sun Kai , Fan Runhua
Published: June 2020

Layer-structured nanocomposites with concurrently improved dielectric permittivity and breakdown strength, as well as superior energy-storage performances are obtained.
A gas-phase synthesis of Ag-centered phenylenediamine clusters
Authors: Guo Mengdi , Yin Baoqi , Huang Benben , Wu Haiming , Luo Zhixun
Published: June 2020

Gas-phase synthesis of Ag-centered phenylenediamine clusters is achieved by dual sources combined with a flow tube reactor, producing Raman-active soft-landing deposits.
Standardizing Assessment of Spoken Discourse in Aphasia: A Working Group With Deliverables
Authors: Stark Brielle C. , Dutta Manaswita , Murray Laura L. , Bryant Lucy , Fromm Davida , MacWhinney Brian , Ramage Amy E. , Roberts Angela , den Ouden Dirk B. , Brock Kris , McKinney-Bock Katy , Paek Eun Jin , Harmon Tyson G. , Yoon Si On , Themistocleous Charalambos , Yoo Hyunsoo , Aveni Katharine , Gutierrez Stephanie , Sharma Saryu
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The heterogeneous nature of measures, methods, and analyses reported in the aphasia spoken discourse literature precludes comparison of outcomes across studies (e.g., meta-analyses) and inhibits replication. Furthermore, funding and time constraints significantly hinder collecting test–retest data on spoken discourse outcomes. This research note describes the development and structure of a working group, designed to address major gaps in the spoken discourse aphasia literature, including a lack of standardization in methodology, analysis, and reporting, as well as nominal data regarding the psychometric properties of spoken discourse outcomes.

Method

The initial initiatives for this working group are to (a) propose recommendations regarding standardization of spoken discourse collection, analysis, and reporting in aphasia, based on the results of an international survey and a systematic literature review and (b) create a database of test–retest spoken discourse data from individuals with and without aphasia. The survey of spoken discourse collection, analysis, and interpretation procedures was distributed to clinicians and researchers involved in aphasia assessment and rehabilitation from September to November 2019. We will publish survey results and recommend standards for collecting, analyzing, and reporting spoken discourse in aphasia. A multisite endeavor to collect test–retest spoken discourse data from individuals with and without aphasia will be initiated. This test–retest information will be contributed to a central site for transcription and analysis, and data will be subsequently openly curated.

Conclusion

The goal of the working group is to create recommendations for field-wide standards in methods, analysis, and reporting of spoken discourse outcomes, as has been done across other related disciplines (e.g., Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials, Enhancing the Quality and Transparency of Health Research, Committee on Best Practice in Data Analysis and Sharing). Additionally, the creation of a database through our multisite collaboration will allow the identification of psychometrically sound outcome measures and norms that can be used by clinicians and researchers to assess spoken discourse abilities in aphasia.
Exploring the Potential Impact of Sentence-Level Comprehension and Sentence-Level Fluency on Deaf Students' Passage Comprehension
Authors: Zhao Ying , Wu Xinchun , Chen Hongjun , Sun Peng , Xie Ruibo , Feng Jie
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This exploratory study aimed to investigate the potential impact of sentence-level comprehension and sentence-level fluency on passage comprehension of deaf students in elementary school.

Method

A total of 159 deaf students, 65 students (
M
age
= 13.46 years) in Grades 3 and 4 and 94 students (
M
age
= 14.95 years) in Grades 5 and 6, were assessed for nonverbal intelligence, vocabulary knowledge, sentence-level comprehension, sentence-level fluency, and passage comprehension. Group differences were examined using
t
tests, whereas the predictive and mediating mechanisms were examined using regression modeling.

Results

The regression analyses showed that the effect of sentence-level comprehension on passage comprehension was not significant, whereas sentence-level fluency was an independent predictor in Grades 3–4. Sentence-level comprehension and fluency contributed significant variance to passage comprehension in Grades 5–6. Sentence-level fluency fully mediated the influence of sentence-level comprehension on passage comprehension in Grades 3–4, playing a partial mediating role in Grades 5–6.

Conclusions

The relative contributions of sentence-level comprehension and fluency to deaf students' passage comprehension varied, and sentence-level fluency mediated the relationship between sentence-level comprehension and passage comprehension.
Bandwidth and gain enhancement of triple‐band MIMO antenna incorporating metasurface‐based reflector for WLAN/WiMAX applications
Authors: Ameen Mohammad , Ahmad Ozair , Chaudhary Raghvendra Kumar
Published: June 2020

In this work, a compact two‐element triple‐band multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna loaded with reflective type metasurface (MS) for enhancing the gain, isolation and impedance bandwidth (IBW) is presented. The two‐element radiator antenna consists of a microstrip feed line on the upper side of the substrate and defected ground structure (DGS) on the backside on which multiple slots are etched for obtaining triple‐band antenna performance. Due to DGS loading, the entire dimensions of the single radiator antenna are reduced to 22 × 22 × 1.6 mm3 with smaller electrical dimensions of 0.17λ0 × 0.17λ0 × 0.012λ0 at the first resonating frequency. The proposed two‐port MIMO antenna with MS operates at 2.36–2.50, 3.43–3.50 and 5.15–5.88 GHz with percentage bandwidths of 5.76, 2.02 and 13.22% for the three operating bands. Due to MS loading, a gain improvement of 5.49, 4.57 and 0.80 dBi is noticed with a maximum gain of 3.98, 5.25 and 2.66 dBi is obtained at the three operating frequencies of 2.46, 3.51 and 5.32 GHz, respectively. The intended antenna is appropriate for working in IEEE 802.11 b/g/n (2.4–2.484 GHz) WLAN, IEEE 802.11 a/h/j (5.15–5.825 GHz) WLAN, and IEEE 802.16e (3.4–3.5 GHz) WiMAX wireless applications.
Improved modulated model‐predictive control for PMSM drives with reduced computational burden
Authors: Sun Tianfu , Jia Chengli , Liang Jianing , Li Ke , Peng Lei , Wang Zheng , Huang Hui
Published: June 2020

In this paper, an improved modulated model‐predictive control (MMPC) scheme is proposed for the current control of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs). Different from the existing MMPC based motor current control schemes which simply feed the resultant voltage vectors calculated by the finite‐control‐set model predictive control (FCS‐MPC) to the SVPWM module and could not adjust the current control bandwidth, the principle of the proposed MMPC current control scheme is to control the current vector along a predefined trajectory and the resultant current vector is expected to equal the reference current vector at the end of the predictive horizon. Therefore, the control bandwidth of the proposed MMPC can be easily adjusted via the predictive horizon, and the transient performance of the current control can be improved without current overshoot. Moreover, different from existing MMPCs, the proposed control scheme does not need to predict all the resultant currents generated by the basic voltage vector combinations of the six voltage sectors, but only needs to predict the resultant currents generated by the basic voltage vector combinations of three voltage sectors. Therefore, the computational burned is significantly reduced.
Design and implementation of a new unity gain nine‐level active neutral point clamped multilevel inverter topology
Authors: Siddique Marif Daula , Iqbal Atif , Sathik Mohamed Ali Jagabar , Mekhilef Saad , Almakhles Dhafer J.
Published: June 2020

The major issue with the three‐level active neutral point clamped (ANPC) inverter has been the requirement of a higher DC‐link voltage with a lower peak of the output voltage. In this study, a new unity gain ANPC multilevel inverter topology has been proposed with a lower number of switches. The proposed topology generates a nine‐level output voltage with a single DC voltage source, four capacitors, and ten switches. The two floating capacitors have a voltage rating of 0.25V dc which reduces the overall cost and improves the efficiency of the topology. The performance of the proposed topology has been demonstrated using various comparisons and experimental results.
Switched‐capacitor‐based boost multilevel inverter topology with higher voltage gain
Authors: Siddique Marif Daula , Mekhilef Saad , Mohamed Shah Noraisyah , Sathik Mohamed Ali Jagabar , Seyedmahmoudian Mehdi , Horan Ben , Stojcevski Alex
Published: June 2020

This study proposes a new switched‐capacitor‐based multilevel inverter topology with a single dc voltage source. The proposed topology finds its suitability for renewable energy applications with low voltage. Seven‐level (7L) output voltage is achieved across the load with triple‐voltage gain employing 2 capacitors and 12 switches. Self‐voltage balancing of capacitor voltages, parallel operation of capacitors during discharging mode, reduced voltage stress, and bipolar output voltage generation without using backend H‐bridge are the major features of the proposed topology. Furthermore, a generalised structure of the proposed topology has also been discussed here. A comparison with other similar topologies with single‐source 7L configuration has been carried out to show the advantages of the proposed topology with reduced switch count. Experimental results have been provided to verify the performance of the proposed topology with different operating conditions.
Observations of a mix of cold and warm electrons by RPC-MIP at 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Authors: Gilet N. , Henri P. , Wattieaux G. , Traoré N. , Eriksson A. I. , Vallières X. , Moré J. , Randriamboarison O. , Odelstad E. , Johansson F. L. , Rubin M.
Published: June 2020

Context. The Mutual Impedance Probe (MIP) of the Rosetta Plasma Consortium (RPC) onboard the Rosetta orbiter which was in operation for more than two years, between August 2014 and September 2016 to monitor the electron density in the cometary ionosphere of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko. Based on the resonance principle of the plasma eigenmodes, recent models of the mutual impedance experiment have shown that in a two-electron temperature plasma, such an instrument is able to separate the two isotropic electron populations and retrieve their properties.

Aims. The goal of this paper is to identify and characterize regions of the cometary ionized environment filled with a mix of cold and warm electron populations, which was observed by Rosetta during the cometary operation phase.

Methods. To reach this goal, this study identifies and investigates the in situ mutual impedance spectra dataset of the RPC-MIP instrument that contains the characteristics of a mix of cold and warm electrons, with a special focus on instrumental signatures typical of large cold-to-total electron density ratio (from 60 to 90%), that is, regions strongly dominated by the cold electron component.

Results. We show from the observational signatures that the mix of cold and warm cometary electrons strongly depends on the cometary latitude. Indeed, in the southern hemisphere of 67P, where the neutral outgassing activity was higher than in northern hemisphere during post-perihelion, the cold electrons were more abundant, confirming the role of electron-neutral collisions in the cooling of cometary electrons. We also show that the cold electrons are mainly observed outside the nominal electron-neutral collision-dominated region (exobase), where electrons are expected to have cooled down. This which indicates that the cold electrons have been transported outward. Finally, RPC-MIP detected cold electrons far from the perihelion, where the neutral outgassing activity is lower, in regions where no electron exobase was expected to have formed. This suggests that the cometary neutrals provide a more frequent or efficient cooling of the electrons than expected for a radially expanding ionosphere.
Multi-objective optimization of a sports car suspension system using simplified quarter-car models
Authors: Ebrahimi-Nejad Salman , Kheybari Majid , Borujerd Seyed Vahid Nourbakhsh
Published: June 2020

In this paper, first, the vibrational governing equations for the suspension system of a selected sports car were derived using Lagrange's Equations. Then, numerical solutions of the equations were obtained to find the characteristic roots of the oscillating system, and the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and mass and stiffness matrices were obtained and verified. Next, the responses to unit step and unit impulse inputs were obtained. The paper compares the effects of various values of the damping coefficient and spring stiffness in order to identify which combination causes better suspension system performance. In this regard, we obtained and compared the time histories and the overshoot values of vehicle unsprung and sprung mass velocities, unsprung mass displacement, and suspension travel for various values of suspension stiffness (KS
) and damping (CS
) in a quarter-car model. Results indicate that the impulse imparted to the wheel is not affected by the values of CS
and KS
. Increasing KS
will increase the maximum values of unsprung and sprung mass velocities and displacements, and increasing the value of CS
slightly reduces the maximum values. By increasing both KS
and CS
we will have a smaller maximum suspension travel value. Although lower values of CS
provide better ride quality, very low values are not effective. On the other hand, high values of CS
and KS
result in a stiffer suspension and the suspension will provide better handling and agility; the suspension should be designed with the best combination of design variables and operation parameters to provide optimum vibration performance. Finally, multi-objective optimization has been performed with the approach of choosing the best value for CS
and KS
and decreasing the maximum accelerations and displacements of unsprung and sprung masses, according to the TOPSIS method. Based on optimization results, the optimum range of KS
is between 130 000–170 000, and the most favorable is 150, and 500 is the optimal mode for CS
.
FEM based mathematical modelling of thrust force during drilling of Al7075-T6
Authors: Tzotzis Anastasios , García-Hernández César , Huertas-Talón José-Luis , Kyratsis Panagiotis
Published: June 2020

Like most machining processes, drilling is affected by many parameters such as the tool diameter, the cutting speed and feed. The current research investigates the possibility of developing a finite element modelling based prediction model for the generated thrust force during drilling of Al7075-T6 with solid carbide tools. A total of 27 drilling experiments were carried out in order to examine the interaction between three key parameters and their effect on thrust force. In addition, simulations of the experiments were realized with the use of DEFORM3D™ software in order to obtain the necessary numerical data. Finally, a comparison was made between the experimental and the numerical results to verify that reliable modelling is feasible. The mathematical model was acquired with the use of response surface methodology and the verification of the adequacy of the model was performed through an analysis of variance. The majority of the simulations yielded results in agreement with the experimental results at around 95% and the derived model offered an accuracy of 5.9%.
Aging-induced formation of the nano-sized clustered carbides in the weld metal of Co-based alloy/AISI 410 stainless steel dissimilar welded joint
Authors: Zhang Yuanheng , Ding Kai , Wu Guanzhi , Zhao Bingge , Wang Yuanfang , Wei Tao , Gao Yulai
Published: June 2020

The microstructure evolution in Co-based alloy/AISI 410 stainless steel dissimilar welded joints by aging at 566 °C for 200, 400, 600, and 800 h was systematically investigated. In particular, the specimen aging treated for 800 h was emphasized in the present study for its nano-sized clustered characteristic microstructure. The results showed that the microstructure of the weld metal (WM) was mainly γ-Co matrix with dendritic morphology. Before aging treatment, the elements Cr and W segregated slightly in the interdendritic regions. Nevertheless, a large amount of nano-sized clustered carbides rich in elements Cr and W precipitated along grain boundaries after aging treatment. The element segregation during solidification and element diffusion under high-temperature condition could trigger the carbide formation. Though the precipitated carbides revealed a negligible influence on the microhardness of weld (∼ 275 HV), yet a stable performance under high-temperature condition was anticipated for this weldment considering the grain boundary strengthening effect of the nano-sized carbides.
Prevalence and genotypic identification of Cryptosporidium in free-ranging and farm-raised donkeys (Equus asinus asinus) in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Wang Wen , Zhang Zhenjie , Zhang Ying , Zhao Aiyun , Jing Bo , Zhang Longxian , Liu Pengtao , Qi Meng , Zhao Wei
Published: June 2020

The prevalence and zoonotic potential of Cryptosporidium in donkeys is poorly understood. Here, 680 fecal specimens were collected from 178 free-ranging and 502 farmed donkeys in Xinjiang, China. Cryptosporidium was identified using PCR amplification of the small subunit of ribosomal DNA. Cryptosporidium-positive isolates were subtyped using PCR analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene (gp60). The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium was 2.4% (16/680), with 3.2% (16/502) in farmed donkeys and 0% (0/178) in free-ranging donkeys. Cryptosporidium hominis (n = 13), C. parvum (n = 1) and Cryptosporidium horse genotype (n = 2) were identified. The C. hominis isolates belonged to two subtypes, IkA16 (n = 9) and IkA16G1 (n = 4). The subtype of C. parvum was IIdA15G1, whereas the two Cryptosporidium horse genotype isolates were of subtype VIaA15G4. The predominance of C. hominis in donkeys suggests that these animals are infected through human contact.
Correlation between anthropometric measurements and activity level on length and diameter of semitendinosus tendon autograft in knee ligament surgery: A prospective observational study
Authors: Goyal Tarun , Paul Souvik , Das Lakshmana , Choudhury Arghya Kundu
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Preoperative estimation of graft parameters can be useful while using hamstring grafts in knee ligament surgeries. Anthropometric parameters may be an easy way to predict the length and diameter of hamstring tendons. A prospective study was conducted to find the correlation between different anthropometric parameters and activity level of the patient on the length and diameter of the graft. Separate regression equations for males and females were also derived for easy prediction.Methods: Data were obtained from 95 patients who underwent arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with autologous hamstring tendon graft. Variables studied were age, sex, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), thigh circumference, thigh length, Tegner activity level, diameter (double and quadruple) and length of semitendinosus tendon graft.Results: Height of the patient had strong correlation with graft length (r = 0.41,p < 0.001), double diameter (r = 0.29,p = 0.008) and quadruple diameter (r = 0.3,p = 0.006). Weight of the patients had strong positive correlation with graft length (r = 0.34,p = 0.002) and quadruple diameter (r = 0.34,p = 0.002). Thigh length was found to be positively correlating with graft length (r = 0.43,p < 0.001), double diameter (r = 0.29,p = 0.007) and quadruple diameter of graft (r = 0.34,p = 0.002). BMI and thigh circumference of the patients were not found to correlate with graft size. Male patients were found to have longer semitendinosus graft and larger double and quadruple diameter of the graft. There was no association between the Tegner activity scale and graft size. Regression equations between graft length and quadruple diameter and the anthropometric parameters are also derived.Conclusion: Height, weight and thigh length are useful anthropometric parameters in the prediction of hamstring tendon size. However, the patient’s Tegner activity level was not found to be associated with size of the hamstring tendon.
Spondylosen und Organopathien – Wie hängen sie zusammen?
Authors: Kasper Markus
Published: June 2020

Spondylosen sind in der röntgenologischen Bildgebung der Brust-, Lenden- und Schwanzwirbelsäule einfach darstellbar. Schon aufgrund dieser röntgenologisch-pathologischen Prominenz können sie uns zu wichtigen Erkenntnissen über den Patienten führen. Um der klinischen Bedeutung der Spondylosen, ihrer Korrelation mit chronischen Organopathien, der praktischen Relevanz und der sich daraus ergebenden therapeutischen Optionen näher zu kommen, muss man ihre Ätiologie und Pathogenese verstanden haben.
Predictive Effect of Inflammatory Response and Foot Ulcer
Localization on Outcome in Younger and Older Individuals with Infected Diabetic
Foot Syndrome
Authors: Dörr Stefan , Schlecht Michael , Chatzitomaris Apostolos , Weisser Gregor , Lucke-Paulig Lara , Friedl Alexander , Joachim Regina , Lobmann Ralf
Published: June 2020

The diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is the most important cause for non-traumatic
major amputation in adult individuals and actually one of the most frightening
events in diabetics’ life. Despite the often protracted treatment of
infected DFS at the end patients are often confronted with amputation. We
investigated 352 individuals with infected DFS in two age separated-groups.
Older individuals presented with significant worse renal function and lower
HbA1c on day of admittance. Most detected ulcers involved the plantar sides of
the metatarsal heads (MTH) and the toes. We saw an age-dependent translocation
of foot ulcers from plantar and hindfoot to the forefoot and toes. In average
every third wound provoked amputation, in the majority (94%) minor
amputations, only 1.9% major amputations occurred. Lesions of the
5th toe or its MTH and interdigital or interphalangeal joint
ulcers led to amputation in more than 60%. Worse renal function and WBC
above 11 tsd/µl were linked with higher amputation risk. But in
particular current scoring systems like SINBAD or Wagner-Armstrong scale and
thus finally clinician’s assessment of the wound situation gave a
substantial hint for subsequent amputation – regardless of age.
Ernährung von Kindern im Vorschulalter
Authors: Kersting Mathilde , Voss Susanne
Published: June 2020

Epidemiologische Daten zeigen, dass die Prävention von Kinderübergewicht vor allem im Vorschulalter erfolgversprechend ist. Eine gesunde Ernährung mit Wasser als Regelgetränk, zu jeder Mahlzeit Rohkost, Gemüse oder Obst und mindestens einmal am Tag eine Familienmahlzeit kann dazu wesentlich beitragen. Als Orientierung kann das Präventionskonzept der Optimierten Mischkost für Kinder und Jugendliche dienen, das sich auch für Eltern und Betreuer eignet.
Avaliação radiográfica da consolidação das fraturas desviadas do colo cirúrgico do úmero tratadas com fixação percutânea
Authors: Simionato Ivan Fadanelli , Brunelli João Pedro Farina , Ferreira Marco Tonding , Matsumoto Fabio Yoshihiro , Britto Almiro Gerszon , Mothes Fernando Carlos
Published: June 2020

Objetivo Avaliar radiograficamente os resultados pós-operatórios dos pacientes com fratura da extremidade proximal do úmero em duas partes do colo cirúrgico tratados com fixação percutânea com fios rosqueados.

Métodos Avaliamos radiograficamente os resultados da fixação percutânea com fios rosqueados das fraturas da extremidade proximal do úmero realizadas em nosso serviço. Foram avaliadas as imagens pré- e pós-operatórias de 42 pacientes, avaliando-se radiografias com até 8 semanas de pós-operatório. Consideramos na avaliação o desvio da fratura pré-operatório, a perda da redução e a consolidação da fratura.

Resultados O índice de consolidação nos casos avaliados foi de 90,4%, com perda da redução em 16,6% dos casos e não obtida a consolidação em apenas 4 casos. Foi observada uma predominância de determinado padrão de fratura nos casos que perderam a redução.

Conclusão O estudo permitiu considerar a técnica de fixação percutânea com fios rosqueados uma alternativa no arsenal terapêutico da fratura da extremidade proximal do úmero do colo cirúrgico, com contraindicação para os traços de fratura baixos na metáfise e com acometimento da cortical medial/lateral.
Synthesis of a Water-Soluble, Soft N-Donor BTzBP Ligand Containing Only CHON
Authors: Friese Seth J. , Labb Samantha A. , Masteran Conner J. , Albright Savannah G. , Ali Bakr , Chapman Hayley A. , Cheng Yijie , Cusic Rachel M. , Hartlove Nathan B. , Marr Alissa N. , Timmons Miranda
Published: June 2020

A hydrophilic ligand that contains only C, H, O, and N substituents and uses a 6,6′-bis(1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-2,2′-bipyridine (BTzBP) structural core has been synthesized. The effect of adding water-soluble groups onto extractant ligands has been extensively studied to facilitate the efficient partitioning of 4f and transuranic 5f elements for the treatment of spent nuclear fuel. Soft, N-donor ligands exhibit greater binding affinities for the trivalent actinides over the trivalent lanthanides, making BTzBP ligands an ideal candidate in the search for extractants to be used on an industrial scale. To date, hydrophobic BTzBPs have been shown to exhibit physical and chemical properties that might be conducive to nuclear waste processing conditions. However, hydrophilic BTzBPs have yet to be reported. Herein, we show the synthesis of a hydrophilic BTzBP ligand featuring cationic water solubilizing groups attached to the bipyridal rings.
7-Siloxy-Substituted Hexahydronaphthalene Derivatives: Samarium Diiodide Promoted Synthesis and Typical Reactions
Authors: Reissig Hans-Ulrich , Niermann André
Published: June 2020

The samarium diiodide promoted reductive cyclization of a series of γ-aryl ketones with acetoxy, alkoxy, and siloxy groups in ortho-, meta-, and para-positions was investigated. Only precursors with p-acetoxy, p-tert-butoxy, or p-siloxy substituents furnished decent yields of the desired 7-oxy-1,2,3,4,6,8a-hexahydronaphthalene derivatives. The products were formed without contamination with the regio­isomeric bicyclic products containing conjugated double bonds. Typical reactions exploiting the silyl enol ether moiety of the 7-(tert-butyl­dimethylsiloxy)-1,2,3,4,6,8a-hexahydronaphthalene derivative were performed, allowing stereoselective access to highly substituted hexahydro­-, octahydro-, or decahydronaphthalene derivatives.
Moral Features of the Therapeutic Relationship with Adults: Dignity, Trust, Autonomy, Vulnerability, and Resilience
Authors: Horner Jennifer
Published: June 2020

Using dignity as a foundational value of morality, this article defines trust, autonomy, vulnerability, and resilience in relational terms. A fictional narrative illustrates these attributes as well as solidarity and care, two core tenets of relational ethics. Medicine and rehabilitation are described as moral enterprises with respect for persons at the core of our professional obligations to patients—namely, duties of care, trustworthiness, and loyalty. Clinically, promoting autonomy, decreasing vulnerability, and fostering resilience are encouraged, with particular emphasis on avoiding words or actions (or inactions) that could cause patients to feel discouraged or depersonalized. In conclusion, the purpose of our work with persons with aphasia and other communication disorders is to help them live their lives as fully as possible, despite their life-changing losses. Viewing our therapeutic relationships with them in relational moral terms can enhance our work.
Autonomy and the Patient with Right Hemisphere Cognitive-Communication Deficits: Ethical Considerations in Rehabilitation Practice
Authors: Cherney Leora R. , Kinsey Laura , Larkin Conlon Elissa
Published: June 2020

Clinicians must often contend with ethical issues that arise during rehabilitation. When a patient has right hemisphere damage (RHD), these concerns may be exacerbated because of the presence of cognitive deficits. In this article, we focus on the ethical principle of respect for autonomy, which raises issues relevant to patients with RHD who have impaired executive control functions. Respect for autonomy involves respecting others in terms of their decision-making and subsequent actions. Disagreements may occur between members of the rehabilitation team, the patient, and family about the decisions that the patient makes. Clinicians may have concerns about the patient's capacity to make informed decisions. Indeed, in some cases, because the patient is “talking,” the verbal skills may mask the impairments in underlying cognitive processes. We provide two case examples of patients with RHD with sufficient language skills to express their choices, but cognitive deficits that affect their decision-making abilities. We use a clinical decision-making model adapted from Jonsen et al to discuss the cases. In both cases, the rehabilitation team strives to balance what they deem to be in the best interest of the patient while continuing to respect the patient's autonomy.
Increased Prevalence, Complications, and Costs of Smokers Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Rajaee Sean S. , Debbi Eytan M. , Paiement Guy D. , Spitzer Andrew I.
Published: June 2020

Given a national push toward bundled payment models, the purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence as well as the effect of smoking on early inpatient complications and cost following elective total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the United States across multiple years. Using the nationwide inpatient sample, all primary elective TKA admissions were identified from 2012 to 2014. Patients were stratified by smoking status through a secondary diagnosis of “tobacco use disorder.” Patient characteristics as well as prevalence, costs, and incidence of complications were compared. There was a significant increase in the rate of smoking in TKA from 17.9% in 2012 to 19.2% in 2014 (p < 0.0001). The highest rate was seen in patients < 45 years of age (27.3%). Hospital resource usage was significantly higher for smokers, with a length of stay of 3.3 versus 2.9 days (p < 0.0001), and hospital costs of $16,752 versus $15,653 (p < 0.0001). A multivariable logistic model adjusting for age, gender, and comorbidities showed that smokers had an increased odds ratio for myocardial infarction (5.72), cardiac arrest (4.59), stroke (4.42), inpatient mortality (4.21), pneumonia (4.01), acute renal failure (2.95), deep vein thrombosis (2.74), urinary tract infection (2.43), transfusion (1.38) and sepsis (0.65) (all p < 0.0001). Smoking is common among patients undergoing elective TKA, and its prevalence continues to rise. Smoking is associated with higher hospital costs as well as higher rates of immediate inpatient complications. These findings are critical for risk stratification, improving of bundled payment models as well as patient education, and optimization prior to surgery to reduce costs and complications.
Estimation of Profunda Artery Perforator Flap Weight Using Preoperative Computed Tomography Angiography
Authors: Greige Nicolas , Nash David , Salibian Ara A. , Sultan Steven M. , Ricci Joseph A. , Thanik Vishal D. , Weichman Katie E.
Published: June 2020

Background Given the relatively small size of thigh-based flaps and the possible necessity for a multiflap reconstruction, it is imperative to arrive at an accurate estimation of flap weight during preoperative planning. It was our objective to develop a novel technique for the preoperative estimation of profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap weight.

Methods All patients that underwent transverse PAP flap breast reconstruction at two institutions were retrospectively reviewed. Subcutaneous tissue thicknesses were measured on axial computed tomography angiography scans at several predetermined points. The distance from the inferior gluteal crease to the PAP was also recorded. Linear regression was used to estimate flap weight.

Results A total of 18 patients (32 flaps) were analyzed. The median intraoperative flap weight was 299 g (interquartile range [IQR]: 235–408). The parsimonious model (R
2 = 0.80) estimated flap weight using the Eq. 77.9x + 33.8y + 43.4z – 254.3, where x is subcutaneous tissue thickness (cm) at the lateral border of long head of the biceps femoris at a level 4.5 cm caudal to the inferior gluteal fold, y is distance (cm) from the inferior gluteal fold to the dominant PAP, and z has a value of 1 if the patient was scanned in the supine position or 0 if prone. The aforementioned formula yielded a median estimated flap weight of 305 g (IQR: 234–402) and a median percent error of 10.5% (IQR: 6.1–16.2).

Conclusion The authors demonstrate a simple and accurate formula for the preoperative estimation of transverse PAP flap weight for breast reconstruction.
Prevalence of Accessory Branches and Other Anatomical Variations in the Radial Artery Encountered during Radial Forearm Flap Harvest: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Hoffman Ryan D. , Danos Denise M. , Lin Samuel J. , Lau Frank H. , Kim Peter S.
Published: June 2020

Background Harvest of the radial forearm flap (RFF) for reconstructive surgery is proceeded by the Allen test to assess for adequate contralateral perfusion of the hand, yet the Allen test may fail to detect anatomical variations in the radial artery such as aberrant branching. Therefore, the goal of this study was to systematically review the literature regarding anatomical abnormalities of the radial artery that can affect flap harvest and to perform a meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of such abnormalities.

Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted using five online databases to identify all instances of radial artery anatomical variations. Abstracts were reviewed and categorized into either (1) large cohort studies of anatomical variations identified by angiogram or (2) case reports specifically mentioning anomalous or accessory branches of the radial artery. Data from the large cohort studies were included in a random effect meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of such variations.

Results Eighteen angiogram cohort studies containing a total of 18,115 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Accessory branches were the least common anatomical variant reported, with an estimated average prevalence of 0.5%. Prevalence estimates for more common anatomical variants, including radial artery loops (0.9%), stenosis (1.3%), hypoplasia (1.9%), tortuosity (4.3%), and abnormal origin (5.6%), were also calculated. Thirteen case reports detailing anomalous branches of the radial artery were identified, seven of which involved accessory branches encountered during RFF harvest with no incidence of flap loss.

Conclusion Radial artery accessory branches are exceedingly rare, but the prevalence of other anatomical variations that can affect harvest of the RFF warrants consideration. We recommend surgeons consider comprehensive screening prior to RFF harvest to avoid intraoperative discovery of anatomical variants and suggest a low threshold for repeat perfusion testing intraoperatively if radial artery accessory branches are encountered.
Evaluation of Staging at Diagnosis and Its Relationship with Survival Duration in Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Cases in Southern India
Authors: Hosmane Giridhar Belur , Venkataram Rajesh , Shetty Vijith , Jacob Ankeeta Menona , Chakraborty Anirban
Published: June 2020

Introduction Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of malignancies worldwide. It is usually diagnosed in late stages due to overlapping symptoms with other respiratory illnesses. Identifying the stage at presentation to tertiary care determines the prognosis of a patient to large extent.

Methods Histologically/cytologically confirmed cases of nonsmall cell lung cancer subjects were included for prospective observational study. Stages of the disease at presentation and survival duration in the patients were studied and the data were compared between two groups: those that accepted and those that refused standard treatment.

Results Ninety-two percent of our patients presented either stage IIIB or stage IV disease at the time of diagnosis. Median duration of survival in the group that took standard treatment was 6 months, whereas in the group that refused standard treatment, it was 4 months. Based on their smoking status, the median duration of survival was 4 months among smokers, whereas it was 9 months among nonsmokers with a log rank test value of 3.040 and an insignificant p-value of 0.081.

Conclusion More than 90% patients presented in later stages of the disease and there was no survival benefit in patients who were treated with palliative care.
Reducible KAM tori for higher dimensional wave equations under nonlocal and forced perturbation
Authors: Chen Yin , Geng Jiansheng , Xue Shuaishuai
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we prove an infinite dimensional Kolmogorov-Arnold-Moser theorem. As an application, it is shown that there are many small-amplitude linearly-stable quasi-periodic solutions for higher dimensional wave equations with a real Fourier multiplier, which are under nonlocal and forced perturbations with a special structure in space and short range property.
Microfluidic accumulation assay identifies successful anti-biofilm coatings
Authors: Mandel Savannah
Published: June 2020

Researchers compare four anti-biofilm coatings with different properties and thicknesses to identify options that can prevent bacterial attachment on the hulls of ships.
Ultra-low spectral reflectances of InP Mie resonators on an InGaAs/InP focal plane array
Authors: He Wei , Shao Xiumei , Ma Yingjie , Gu Yi , Li Tao , Yang Bo , Li Xue , Gong Haimei
Published: June 2020

Numerical investigations of an InGaAs/InP focal plane array (FPA) integrated with periodic InP nanostructures are reported. It has been found that column-shape textured FPAs exhibit reflectances of ≤1% over the entire response range of 900 nm–1700 nm. Meanwhile, incident angle-dependent behaviors of the spectral reflectances have been observed. Numerical calculations reveal that such ultra-low reflection characteristics originate from the overlapping of the magnetic and the electric dipole resonances. The optimized structure design of InP nanosphere Mie resonators for minimum backscattering at different wavelengths is also applicable for nano-antennas, introducing a promising route to improve the performance of short wavelength infrared InGaAs FPAs.
Axisymmetric viscous flow between two horizontal plates
Authors: Hinton Edward M.
Published: June 2020

The flow of viscous fluid injected from a point source into the space between two horizontal plates initially filled with a second fluid of lesser density and different viscosity is studied theoretically and numerically. The volume of the dense input fluid increases with time in proportion to tα. When the fluid has spread far from the source, lubrication theory is used to derive the governing equations for the axisymmetric evolution of the interface between the fluids. The flow is driven by the combination of pressure gradients associated with buoyancy and pressure gradients associated with the input flux. The governing equation is integrated numerically, and we identify that with a constant input flux, the flow is self-similar at all times with the radius growing in proportion to t1/2. In the regimes of injection-dominated and gravity-dominated currents, we obtain asymptotic approximations for the interface shape, which are found to agree well with the numerical computations. For a decreasing input flux (0 < α < 1), at short times, the flow is controlled by injection; the current fills the depth of the channel spreading with radius r ∼ tα/2. At long times, buoyancy dominates and the current becomes unconfined with the radius growing in proportion to t(3α+1)/8. The sequence of regimes is reversed in the case of an increasing input flux (α > 1) with buoyancy dominating initially while the pressure associated with the injection dominates at late times. Finally, we consider the release of a fixed volume of fluid (α = 0). The current slumps under gravity and transitions from confined to unconfined, and we obtain asymptotic predictions for the interface shape in both regimes.