bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation der Online-Präsenz (Homepages) plastischer Chirurgien im DACH Raum
Authors: Smolle Christian , Eylert Gertraud , Kronberger Philipp , Mischitz Madeleine , Kamolz Lars-Peter
Published: August 2018

Einleitung In der Europäischen Union ist innerhalb der letzten 10 Jahre der Prozentsatz der Internetanschlüsse von 55 % auf 85 % gestiegen. Das Internet
hat sich inzwischen in vielerlei Hinsicht zum Informations- und Kommunikationsmittel der ersten Wahl entwickelt. In der Chirurgie kann ein gut gestalteter
Webauftritt dazu beitragen, Patienten fachgerecht zu informieren und mit ihnen in Kontakt zu treten. Ziel dieser Studie war es die Homepages der plastischen
Chirurgien im DACH-Raum (Deutschland, Österreich, Schweiz) auf deren Qualität zu prüfen.

Material und Methoden Die Homepages plastisch-chirurgischer Abteilungen im DACH-Raum wurden anhand eines Kriterienkatalogs, welcher 40 Kriterien aus den 5
Kategorien „Allgemeine Informationen“, „Informationsaufbereitung“, „Forschung und Lehre“, „Informationen für Patienten und Angehörige“ und
„Behandlungsspezifische Informationen“ umfasst, beurteilt. Zudem wurden die Homepages mit der Suchmaschine „Google“ gesucht und deren Rang innerhalb der
Google-Sucherergebnisse erfasst. Die Ergebnisse von Abteilungen mit und ohne Universitätsassoziation wurden mithilfe des T-Tests und des Chi2-Test
verglichen.

Ergebnisse Anhand einer Internetrecherche konnten 172 Abteilungen erfasst werden; die meisten davon in Deutschland (77 %), gefolgt von der Schweiz (15 %)
und Österreich (8 %). Auf allen Homepages wurde als Kontaktreferenz eine Telefonnummer angeführt und bei 95 % wurde das Behandlungsspektrum dargestellt. 95 %
der Homepages waren auf Deutsch abrufbar, 22 % verfügten über zusätzlich über ein englisches Sprachangebot. Zumindest wurden 7, maximal 34 der 40 Kriterien
erfüllt. Zu den am seltensten erfüllten Kriterien zählten Informationen zu Erstmaßnahmen bei Verletzungen, mögliche Wartezeiten und die verfügbare
Intensivbettenanzahl für plastisch-chirurgische Patienten (jeweils 4 %). Im Median waren die Abteilungen an der ersten Stelle der Google-Suchergebnisse zu
finden. Abteilungen mit Universitätsbezug erfüllten 14 der 40 untersuchten Kriterien signifikant häufiger (p < 0,05) als nichtuniversitäre.

Schlussfolgerung Der Webauftritt plastisch-chirurgischer Abteilungen im DACH-Raum kann als zufriedenstellend bewertet werden. Im Schnitt enthalten die
Homepages universitärer Abteilungen mehr Informationen als die nicht-universitärer. Vor allem hinsichtlich Angaben zur Ersten Hilfe bei Verletzungen und
bezüglich Mehrsprachigkeit der Website besteht aber noch Verbesserungspotential.
Mesenchymale Stromazellen auf dem Weg zur klinischen Anwendung: Update 2018
Authors: Rojewski Markus , Schäfer Richard , Bieback Karin , Schrezenmeier Hubert , Bönig Halvard
Published: August 2018

Mesenchymale Stromazellen (MSC) besitzen ein großes therapeutisches Potenzial sowohl für Immunmodulation als auch regenerative Therapie. In einigen Indikationen, z. B. Behandlung der schweren Transplantat-gegen-Empfänger-Reaktion nach allogener Stammzelltransplantation, wurden MSC schon vor mehr als 10 Jahren therapeutisch eingesetzt. In weiteren Indikationen haben die MSC in den letzten Jahren nun das Stadium der klinischen Erprobung erreicht. Hier erfolgt eine Evaluation der Sicherheit und Wirksamkeit einer MSC-Therapie in einem sehr breiten Spektrum von Erkrankungen. Diese Übersichtsarbeit stellt den aktuellen Stand der präklinischen und klinischen Forschung zur Anwendung von MSC in der Behandlung der Transplantat-gegen-Empfänger-Reaktion, von Wundheilungsstörungen, von neurodegenerativen Erkrankungen und Knochen- und Knorpeldefekten dar.
Comparison of Prolonged Rowing on Fixed and Free-floating Ergometers in Competitive Rowers
Authors: Kerhervé Hugo , Chatel Benjamin , Reboah Sébastien , Rossi Jérémy , Samozino Pierre , Messonnier Laurent
Published: August 2018

This study aimed to compare the effect of a 40-min submaximal rowing exercise performed on ergometers with fixed and free-floating designs. Heart rate, blood lactate concentration, force and rate of force development (RFD) at the handle, stroke rate, duty factor, movement kinematics of upper and lower limbs, and muscle activity of lumbar spine muscles iliocostalis and erector spinae (IC and ESL) were measured at the beginning and at the end of a 40-min rowing exercise at ~60% of peak power output, in eleven competitive rowers. Force of lumbar extension decreased, and blood lactate increased following submaximal exercise on both ergometers. No changes in RFD, duty factor, and muscle activity of IC occurred in response to submaximal exercise. Rowing on DYN elicited higher heart rate and modified rowing kinematics (stroke rate, acceleration of the lower limbs) without changes in temporal or force application patterns compared to rowing on STAT at the same power output. Rowing on DYN was also associated with increased activity of the lumbar spine muscle ESL, which could originate from a greater range of motion, or from an increased lumbar spine muscle activity, at the same overall power.
Silent Inflammation und Depression
Authors: Rusch Kerstin
Published: August 2018

Über die Darm-Hirn-Achse können somatische Ursachen auf das Gehirn und die Psyche wirken. So hängen chronische subklinische Entzündungen nicht nur mit
Adipositas, Typ-2-Diabetes und Autoimmunerkrankungen zusammen, sondern auch mit depressiven Verstimmungen. Die niedriggradigen systemischen Entzündungen bringen
die Kynurenin-Tryptophan-Ratio aus dem Gleichgewicht. Entsteht mehr Kynurenin, bilden sich auch mehr depressionsfördernde Metaboliten. Gleichzeitig verringert
sich der Serotoninspiegel und nachfolgend das Schlafhormon Melatonin. Der vorgestellte Patientenfall zeigt, wie mit gezielter Diagnostik und Therapie der
Teufelskreis einer seit Jahren bestehenden Depression durchbrochen werden konnte.
Do Exercise Trials for Hypertension Adequately Report Interventions? A Reporting Quality Study
Authors: Hacke Claudia , Nunan David , Weisser Burkhard
Published: August 2018

Non-pharmacological treatment, including exercise, is an important therapy option for patients with hypertension. The study assessed the reporting quality of exercise-based interventions included in the latest meta-analysis on that topic in order to evaluate the transferability of findings into clinical practice. Reporting quality of 24 randomised controlled trials from a meta-analysis assessing blood pressure lowering effects of endurance training in 1,195 hypertensive patients was evaluated using TIDieR (Template for Intervention Description and Replication) and CERT (Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template) guidelines. Associations between reporting quality, publication year and impact factor of the publishing journals were examined. None of the studies described all intervention components completely. On average 61% (95%CI: 52-69) (TIDieR) and 57% (95%CI: 49-64) (CERT) of core items required for replication were reported. Frequent shortcomings were the reporting of adherence, intervention provider, and adverse events. Details about exercise dosage were missing in 22% (95%CI: 4-40). Publication year was related to the adherence to TIDieR (r=0.549, P=0.007) but not to CERT. No associations with journal impact factor were found. Reporting of exercise-based interventions for hypertension is not sufficient to allow for replication and limits translation of evidence into clinical practice. Researchers should apply, and review authors, journal editors and reviewers should check adherence to reporting guidelines.
Treatment of Unilateral PA by Adrenalectomy: Potential Reasons for Incomplete Biochemical Cure
Authors: Yang Yuhong , Reincke Martin , Williams Tracy
Published: August 2018

The importance of an early diagnosis and appropriate management of patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) has become increasingly clear because of the adverse impact of the disorder on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events and target organ damage. Adrenalectomy potentially cures patients with unilateral PA resulting in normalisation of blood pressure or significant clinical improvements in the majority of patients. Different criteria have been used to evaluate outcomes of unilateral adrenalectomy. Clinical remission (cure of hypertension) is observed in 6% to 86% of patients and clinical benefits from surgery are seen in the majority. Several factors have been identified that predict clinical success after surgery such as age, sex, anti-hypertensive medication dosage and known duration of hypertension. Biochemical remission of PA after unilateral adrenalectomy, characterised by the resolution of hyperaldosteronism and correction of pre-surgical hypokalaemia, is observed in 67% to 100% of patients with unilateral PA. In only a small proportion of patients, adrenalectomy fails to resolve hyperaldosteronism and inappropriate aldosterone production persists after surgery. In this review we discuss the potential reasons for failing to cure hyperaldosteronism after unilateral adrenalectomy for unilateral primary aldosteronism.
“The Adrenal Gland: Central Relay in Health and Disease - Current Challenges and Perspectives 2018” – Cushing’s Disease
Authors: Stalla Günter , Ciato Denis , Dimopoulou Christina
Published: August 2018

Background Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approach, Cushing’s disease (CD) presents a challenging situation for the treating physician.

Aims To elucidate current challenges, present strengths and pitfalls of existing diagnostic tests, enlighten the need for new diagnostic approaches, appraise the effects of surgery and available pharmacological agents and identify future perspectives regarding CD.

Materials and methods Systematic search to PubMed and Medline databases for publications mainly over the last five years.

Results Mutations in the ubiquitin specific peptidase 8 gene have been recently identified in functional sporadic corticotroph adenomas causing CD. Since the prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome is rapidly increasing, new diagnostic tests are necessary to differentiate these conditions. Next to the traditional tests, a cutoff of preoperative ACTH/cortisol ratio, an ultrasensitive late night salivary cortisol assay and the desmopressin test have been suggested as valid tools for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of CD. Transsphenoidal surgery with variable remission and recurrence rates presents the treatment of choice for CD. Medical therapy consists of adrenal-targeted drugs e. g. ketoconazole, metyrapone, etomidate and mitotane and pituitary-targeted drugs e. g. pasireotide, cabergoline and retinoic acid.

Conclusions CD is associated to a significant clinical burden, since numerous comorbidities persist after long-term biochemical control. These chronically ill patients show an increased mortality despite disease remission. Clinicians should treat comorbidities aggressively and seek for appropriate consultations. Structured consultation hours and expert excellence networks are needed in order to allow optimal, individualized care for affected patients, reverse increased morbidity and mortality and identify tumor recurrence early.
Consensus on Postoperative Recommendations After Transsphenoidal Surgery
Authors: Knappe Ulrich , Moskopp Dag , Gerlach Rüdiger , Conrad Jens , Flitsch Jörg , Honegger Jürgen
Published: August 2018

Background Guidelines for patient behavior following transsphenoidal surgery do not exist. To gain generally recommendations, the German pituitary working group conducted a study among pituitary surgeons to elucidate their opinions and customs of patients’ counselling.

Methods Questions concerning daily activities, exertion of sports and work life were addressed. It was asked to provide the postoperative time interval after which specific activities can be resumed both after a routine or an extended approach.

Results Fourteen pituitary surgeons returned the completed questionnaire. Following routine operations, washing the hair was allowed within one week, blowing the nose after 3, flying on an airplane and driving a car after one, lifting heavy weights after 4, playing wind instruments after 6, use of CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device after 3, permit leisure sports after 2 to 4 weeks (except for scuba diving). Competitive sports can be resumed after 6 weeks. Occupation with mental demands was considered feasible after 2 weeks, with physical labor after 4 weeks. After extended transsphenoidal surgery, the recommended time interval was roughly twice as long compared to the routine approach. Driving a car was allowed within the first 4 weeks after surgery by some pituitary surgeons, while others allow driving only after 3 months analogous to the regulations after craniotomy. The risk of scuba diving was considered high.

Conclusions The data of our study and the literature, and expert opinions from related scientific fields resulted in a consensus on recommendations for patients’ conduct to minimize risks after transsphenoidal surgery.
Augmented Procoagulant Activity in Cancer Patients, Treated with Recombinant Interferon-γ in Addition to Recombinant Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and Melphalan
Authors: Mulder André B , Zwaveling Jan H , Martin Smid W , Maring John K , van Ginkel Robert J , Girbes Armand R J , Schraffordt Koops Heimen , Meer Jan van der
Published: August 2018

Several investigators have reported that interferon-gamma (IFN³) can alter tumor necrosis factor alpha induced effects in vitro. We assessed in vivo effects of recombinant interferon-gamma (rIFN³) on recombinant tumor necrosis factor-alpha (rTNF±) induced activation of systemic blood coagulation in a non-randomized study in 20 consecutive cancer patients. Eight patients were treated with rIFN³ prior to and during hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion with rTNF± and melphalan (IFN³ group). They were compared with twelve patients who did not additionally receive rIFN³ (non-IFN³ group)

Before start of perfusion, higher levels of TNFa, F1+2 and TAT levels were found in the IFN³ group. Fibrinogen and ATIII levels tended to be lower in this group. High TNF± levels, due to leakage during perfusion, were associated with activation of coagulation in all patients, that became obvious after the end of perfusion, when heparin treatment had been antagonized. Activation, measured by increased F1+2 and TAT levels, was significantly stronger in the IFN³y group. Monocytic TF remained low, possibly due to shedding of TF positive vesicles and/or sequestration of TF positive activated monocytes against the vessel wall. In both groups F1+2 and TAT levels declined 24 h after the perfusion, whereas monocytic TF increased to levels that were higher in the IFN³ group.

In conclusion, our data confirm a strong activation of coagulation induced by rTNF± in cancer patients. They suggest that rIFN³ may lead to a slight activation of coagulation and augments TNFa induced procoagulant activity. These effects may be due to rIFN³ induced sustained monocytic TF activity.
Effect of Carbohydrate Modifications of Factor VIII/ von Willebrand Factor on Binding to Platelets
Authors: Goudemand Jenny , Mazurier Claudine , Samor B , Bouquelet S , Montreuil J , Goudemand M
Published: August 2018

This study compares the ability of unmodified and carbohydrate-modified forms of factor VIII/von Willebrand factor (FVIII/vWF) protein to bind to platelets in the presence of ristocetin or thrombin. Treatment of intact FVIII/vWF with α-D- neuraminidase results in more than 95% desialylation. Asialo FVIII/vWF retains total activity in ristocetin- and thrombin- mediated binding to platelets as demonstrated by direct and competitive binding assays. Examination of its multimeric pattern by sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose electrophoresis reveals a normal multimeric structure. Treatment of intact FVIII/vWF with β-D-galactosidase results in the removal of 20% of galactose (agalacto FVIII/vWF) whereas 55% of galactose is released from asialo FVIII/vWF (asialo agalacto FVIII/vWF). Agalacto and asialo-agalacto FVIII/vWF are both unable to bind to platelets in the presence of ristocetin. In contrast, they still bind to thrombin- stimulated human (except thrombasthenic) platelets. Removal of either ultimate (agalacto FVIII/vWF) or ultimate and penultimate (asialo-agalacto FVIII/vWF) galactose results in the same loss of the larger molecular weight multimers and in an increase of smaller multimers. These results suggest (1) that sialic acid does not play a significant role in ristocetin- or thrombin-mediated FVIII/vWF-platelets interactions and multimeric structure of FVIII/vWF (2) that ultimate β-linked galactose residues are essential for the maintenance of a normal multimer organization (3) that ristocetin- and thrombin-mediated binding of FVIII/vWF to platelets differ in FVIII/vWF galactose requirement.
Immunologic Identification of the Cleavage Products from the Aα- and Bβ-Chains in the Early Stages of Plasmin Digestion of Fibrinogen
Authors: Liu C Y , Sobel Joan H , Weitz J I , Kaplan Karen L , Nossel H L
Published: August 2018

Fragment X components (Mr 225,000 to 333,000) were distinguished on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. Western blotting with monoclonal antibodies to Aα-chain segments demonstrated that the Aα-chains of fibrinogen and the largest fragment X components (Mr 285,000-340,000) contained both Aα 259-276 and Aα 540-554. Fragment X components of Mr 270.000-285,000 contained Aα 259-276 but lacked Aα 540-554, whereas the smallest fragment X components (Mr 225.000-270,000) contained neither Aα 540-554 nor Aα 259-276. Studies of the small peptides generated during fragment X formation complemented the studies of the large molecules, by demonstrating peptides containing both Aα 259-276 and Aα 540-554 (Mr 41,600-41,800 and Mr 38,700-38,900), peptides containing Aα 540-554 but not Aα 259-276 (Mr 20,500-21,000 and Mr 17,300-17,500) and peptides containing only Aα 259-276 (Mr 23,600-24,000 and Mr 20,500-21,000). Cleavage of Bβ 1-42 from the amino terminal ends of the Bβ-chains, measured with a specific radioimmunoassay, was linear until 1.6 moles per mole of fibrinogen had been relased, and coincided with loss of the central and carboxy terminal Aα-chain regions, i. e. Aα 259-276 and Aα 540-554. Based on present and previously reported data, a model is proposed for the evolution of the heterogenous group of fragment X derivatives from fibrinogen with the simultaneous release of small peptides. Features of this model include

1. asymmetric cleavage of the fibrinogen dimer and

2. proteolyses of several different bonds occurring simultaneously but at distinct rates.
A Monoclonal Antibody that Does Not Recognize Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator Bound to Its Naturally Occurring Inhibitor
Authors: Schleef Raymond R , Wagner Nancy V , Sinha Manjula , Loskutoff David J
Published: August 2018

Hybridoma clones specific for tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) were screened in solid-phase radioimmunoassays for their reactivity toward free tPA and tPA complexed to the endothelial cell-derived, (3-migrating plasminogen activator inhibitor (β-PAI). Two monoclonal antibodies (MABs) were identified with quite distinct properties. The first, MAB LI72D1, bound to free tPA but did not recognize tPA complexed to the β-PAI, whereas the second, MAB HI72C1, bound both to free tPA and to tPA in complex with β-PAI. These properties were maintained when the MABs were immobilized to plastic micro- titer wells, thus permitting the development of immunoradiometric assays (IRMAs) to quantitate free tPA and total tPA antigen in various samples. The IRMAs were employed to analyze the tPA in media conditioned by several human cell types. The results indicate that in some cases, tPA may be present entirely as a free and active enzyme, while in others it apparently exists entirely in complex with β-PAI. Interestingly, some cells appear to contain both forms of tPA.
A Meta-Analysis of Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair: Inside-Out versus Outside-In versus All-Inside Techniques
Authors: Elmallah Randa , Jones LaRita C. , Malloch Lacy , Barrett Gene R.
Published: August 2018

Meniscal repair has been introduced to preserve knee function and limit the accelerated degenerative changes associated with meniscal tissue resection. Arthroscopic techniques have evolved to improve morbidity. However, there are few clinical outcome studies in the peer-reviewed literature that compare the use of these approaches. Therefore, our purpose was to perform a meta-analysis of the existing literature on arthroscopic meniscal repair techniques. Specifically, we evaluated differences in: (1) operating time; (2) incidence of postoperative meniscal healing; (3) functional outcomes, using various scoring systems; and (4) incidence of complications. We searched the peer-reviewed literature using SCOPUS, Medline, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Eight studies were eligible for the meta-analysis. These included one prospective, randomized trial (level I), three prospective, comparative studies (level II), and four retrospective, comparative studies (level III). There were a total of 476 patients who had a mean follow-up between 3 and 156 months. When evaluating objective outcomes, the inside-out technique had a significantly higher mean operating time than the all-inside technique. The inside-out and all-inside techniques had comparable meniscal healing rates, but the outside-in repair had a significantly higher rate of meniscal healing than the all-inside repair. Upon assessment of functional outcomes, the inside-out and all-inside methods had comparable International Knee Documentation Committee and Tegner activity scores, but the all-inside method had greater improvements in Lysholm scores. The inside-out and all-inside repairs had similar overall complication rates. All-inside repair may demonstrate lower operating times, but the outside-in repair may have superior meniscal healing rates. Functional outcomes are overall comparable between the techniques. However, there are limited clinical data on the outcome differences between these procedures, and further comparative studies with longer follow-up are needed.
Combined Extradural and Intradural Pterional Transzygomatic Approach to Large Sphenoid Wing Meningiomas. Operative Technique and Surgical Results
Authors: González-Darder José M.
Published: August 2018

Objectives Describe a unique and safe surgical procedure for the microsurgical management of large sphenoid wing meningiomas (SWMs) aimed to a radical resection of these tumors.

Design A prospective series of 26 cases with SWMs larger than 3 cm in one of its main diameter is presented. All patients were studied following the same clinical and imaging procedures. The surgical approach was through a pterional transzygomatic craniotomy. The surgical procedure has the following steps: 1. Extradural tumor devascularization and resection of the hyperostotic and/or infiltrated bone and then intradurally; 2. Intradural tumor debunking; 3. Microdissection of vascular branches and perforators from the capsule; 4. Identification of the optic and oculomotor nerves and internal carotid artery; 5. Tumor capsule dissection and resection; 6. Dural resection or cauterization; 7. Dural and bone reconstruction and closing.

Results All lesions were completely removed. Most complications were transient. The most relevant complication was a large middle cerebral artery infarct with permanent hemiplegia despite a decompressive craniotomy.

Conclusion Large SWMs can be considered as a single pathology regarding the surgical approach and intraoperative microsurgical procedure strategies. The pterional transzygomatic approach allows an extradural devascularization of the tumor and an extensive bone resection that facilitates the intradural stage of tumor resection. The proposed approach allows a wide and radical resection of the duramater and bone that increases the Simpson grade. However, surgery does not control other biological or molecular prognostic factors involved in tumor recurrence.
Telemonitoring of Neonatal Intensive Care Units: Preliminary Experience in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Santos Alaneir , Alves Humberto , Queiroz Thaís , Silva Nara , Melo Maria
Published: August 2018

Objective This article describes the implementation and functioning of a telemonitoring center of neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) organized by the Telehealth Center of the Medical School of the Federal University of Minas Gerais who signed an agreement with the Minas Gerais State Department of Health (SES/MG, in Portuguese), Brazil.

Study Design This is a descriptive retrospective study from December 2012 to June 2014 of a NICU telemonitoring project.

Results Twelve Web conferences have been performed. Six thousand, eight hundred and thirty nine (6,839) online teleconsultations of pediatricians and nurses with experience in neonatology and intensive care have been performed, of which 174 were with subspecialists, with an average response time of 6 hours.

Discussion The project has demonstrated to be satisfactory, with fast response in relation to the demands of subspecialists, promoting care, and management support to the NICU. The qualification via Web conferences prevents the displacement of the professionals to big centers for continuous medical education.

Conclusion The telemonitoring of NICU can contribute in the process of management, regulation of beds, reduction of displacements and transferences, adhesion to best practices, care support, and qualification of the involved professionals.
O uso de whey protein no manejo da síndrome consumptiva em pacientes HIV+
Authors: Naidu Soujanya
Published: August 2018

O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a literatura científica disponível sobre a utilização do whey protein (WP) no tratamento da síndrome consumptiva do HIV. Bases de dados completas da PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, na sigla em inglês), Scielo, ScienceDirect, EuropePubMedCentral, LILACS (BIREME) e BVSalud foram avaliadas, e buscas foram realizadas utilizando combinações entre os seguintes termos: whey protein, síndrome consumptiva, HIV e massa muscular, em inglês, português e espanhol. Três artigos foram identificados para análise; um artigo foi publicado na revista AIDS, um no BMJ, e o terceiro no American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. As três pesquisas foram quantitativas (100%), com um total de 407 participantes (média de participantes = 135,7). Os voluntários de estudo foram, em sua maioria, do sexo feminino (60,7% do total), e não eram portadores de outras doenças crônicas causadoras de consumo proteico, nem usuários de tratamentos de efeito anabólico. Os ensaios foram conduzidos em dois países diferentes, Estados Unidos (n = 2) e Etiópia (n = 1). Um estudo avaliou os efeitos de WP isoladamente, um comparou os efeitos do WP com os do exercício físico, isoladamente, e com uma associação entre WP e exercício, e o terceiro comparou WP à proteína da soja. As principais variáveis investigadas foram peso corporal (n = 3), massa celular corpórea (n = 2), massa livre de gordura ou massa magra (n = 3), massa de gordura (n = 2), e força muscular (n = 2). Dois estudos ainda avaliaram alguns parâmetros imunológicos, como CD4+ (n = 2) e carga viral (n = 1). Os estudos demonstraram que o WP pode levar a ganho de peso, mas não possui efeito significativo sobre massa muscular na síndrome consumptiva do HIV.
A note on exceptional groups and Reidemeister torsion
Authors: Hezenci Fatih , Sozen Yasar
Published: August 2018

Let Σ be a closed orientable surface of genus at least 2 and G be one of the exceptional groups G2, F4, and E6. The present article considers the set Rep(Σ, G) of G-valued representations from the fundamental group π1(Σ) of the surface Σ to the exceptional group G. It proves that for such representations the notion of Reidemeister torsion is well-defined. It also establishes a formula for computing Reidemeister torsion of such representations in terms of the well-known symplectic structure on Rep(Σ, G), namely, the Atiyah-Bott-Goldman symplectic form for the Lie group G. Moreover, it applies to G-valued Hitchin representations.
The electrical properties of carrier transport between lead selenide polycrystallites manipulated by iodine concentration
Authors: Yang Hao , Li Xiaojiang , Wang Guodong , Zheng Jianbang
Published: August 2018

We provide the carrier transport properties of the polycrystalline PbSe material prepared by iodine concentration manipulation. We discover that the activation energy of the crystallite boundary barrier can be modulated the iodine concentrations. The electronic structure indicates some acceptor energy levels near the valence band at about -0.26 eV below the Fermi level. The temperature dependences of the conductivities with different iodine concentrations over the range 150–360 K reveal that a high crystalline boundary barrier is constructed with the activation energy as high as 108.2 meV induced by iodine treatment to reduce the dark current of the device. The carrier transport will all deviate from the Arrhenius thermally driven behavior below a transition temperature of 217.4 K, indicating the acceptor levels in the polycrystalline PbSe film with p-type surface microlayer. The structural and compositional properties reveal that the activation energy is highly affected by the phase orientations of PbSeO3 (002) and (110). We believe these results will be helpful for understanding the carrier transport across the crystallite boundaries, and may promote the material optimization of the polycrystalline lead chalcogenides in optoelectronics.
Recurrence quantification analysis for the identification of burst phase synchronisation
Authors: Lameu E. L. , Yanchuk S. , Macau E. E. N. , Borges F. S. , Iarosz K. C. , Caldas I. L. , Protachevicz P. R. , Borges R. R. , Viana R. L. , Szezech J. D. , Batista A. M. , Kurths J.
Published: August 2018

In this work, we apply the spatial recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) to identify chaotic burst phase synchronisation in networks. We consider one neural network with small-world topology and another one composed of small-world subnetworks. The neuron dynamics is described by the Rulkov map, which is a two-dimensional map that has been used to model chaotic bursting neurons. We show that with the use of spatial RQA, it is possible to identify groups of synchronised neurons and determine their size. For the single network, we obtain an analytical expression for the spatial recurrence rate using a Gaussian approximation. In clustered networks, the spatial RQA allows the identification of phase synchronisation among neurons within and between the subnetworks. Our results imply that RQA can serve as a useful tool for studying phase synchronisation even in networks of networks.
Optimal design of hybrid energy system based on persuasive policies for renewable resources in Iran (case study: University of Bojnord)
Authors: Saebi Javad , Seyyed Mahdavi Saeed
Published: August 2018

Governments all over the world are tending to accelerate the process of replacing fossil based energies with renewable energy sources through developing incentive or punitive policies. In Iran, various incentive and punitive guidelines are regulated to persuade governmental and nongovernmental organizations to use renewable energy resources. In this paper, optimal planning and sizing of distributed renewable energy resources for governmental organizations in Iran, under persuasive policies, is proposed. This design includes a techno-economic analysis on the basis of total Net Present Cost (NPC) to obtain the optimal configuration of the hybrid energy system for governmental institutes among all possible combinations of distributed diesel generators (consisting of internal combustion engines with diesel fuel) as well as renewable energy resources such as wind energy conversion systems and solar photovoltaics. In order to evaluate the economic and technical aspects of the persuasive policies for governmental institutes in Iran, an optimal hybrid energy system is designed to provide for the energy consumption of the University of Bojnord. The proposed hybrid energy system consists of 100 kW photovoltaic panels, 20 kW wind turbines, a 10 kW diesel generator, and 10 one kW h batteries. The total NPC of the system is estimated to be 1.04 $M. In addition, a sensitivity analysis is carried out to investigate the impact of economic indicators on the design. The results show that the University of Bojnord would benefit from investing in the proposed design after six years.
The metal-matrix composites reinforced by the fullerenes
Authors: Sizonenko O. , Prokhorenko S. , Torpakov A. , Żak D. , Lypian Y. , Wojnarowska-Nowak R. , Polit J. , Sheregii E. M.
Published: August 2018

The method of the high voltage electric discharge (HVED) treatment in the kerosene (the dispersion, the activation and the synthesis) is proposed to obtain the new anti-friction alloys based on TiC – AlC – and FeC with inclusions of the Cn0 (n=6 or 7) phases which are characterized by the high heat resistance, the strength and the durability to be used in the aircraft and in the rocket technology. The method is distinguished by the hardening particles, which are not mechanically added to the powder mixture, but instead they are synthesized during the HVED treatment of the “kerosene – Fe (Al) – Ti powder mixture” the disperse system with its simultaneous grinding what enable us to create the composite material with the increased mechanical and performance characteristics. The obtained alloys contain the refractory components (the fullerenes, the carbides), the MAX-phases of the Ti-Al-C system as shown by the micro-Raman data.
Velocity distribution functions for O+(4S3/2) ions drifting in helium and cross section for reaction of O+(4S3/2) with N2(v = 0)
Authors: Viehland Larry A. , Johnsen Rainer
Published: August 2018

The Gram-Charlier method for solving the Boltzmann equation is used to compute velocity distribution functions for O+(4S3/2) ions drifting under the influence of an electric field through helium or argon gas containing small amounts of N2. This allows us to reassess the accuracy of the commonly used reaction cross section for the O+(4S3/2) +N2 reaction, perhaps the most important reaction in the upper ionosphere. It is found that the cross sections that were derived from flow-drift measurements are in considerable error for relative kinetic energies of 0.3-3 eV between the reacting species. Using the best available transport theory, flow-drift tube data of the reaction rate coefficient are inverted to obtain a better cross section.
New candidates for the global minimum of medium-sized silicon clusters: A hybrid DFTB/DFT genetic algorithm applied to Sin, n = 8-80
Authors: Heydariyan Shima , Nouri Mohammad Reza , Alaei Mojtaba , Allahyari Zahed , Niehaus Thomas A.
Published: August 2018

In this study, we perform a systematic search to find the possible lowest energy structure of silicon nanoclusters Sin (n = 8-80) by means of an evolutionary algorithm. The fitness function for this search is the total energy of density functional tight binding (DFTB). To be on firm ground, we take several low energy structures of DFTB and perform further geometrical optimization by density functional theory (DFT). Then we choose structures with the lowest DFT total energy and compare them with the reported lowest energy structures in the literature. In our search, we found several lowest energy structures that were previously unreported. We further observe a geometrical transition at n = 27 from elongated to globular structures. In addition, the optical gap of the lowest energy structures is investigated by time-dependent DFTB (TD-DFTB) and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT). The results show the same trend in TD-DFTB and TD-DFT for the optical gap. We also find a sudden drop in the optical gap at n = 27, precisely where the geometrical transition occurs.
A novel density functional theory for atoms, molecules, and solids
Authors: Theophilou Andreas K.
Published: August 2018

A theorem is proved stating that in atoms, molecules, and solids, only the set of the spherical parts of the density around each nucleus determines uniquely the external potential. Therefore, the induced Kohn and Sham (KS) potential has spherical symmetry around each nucleus, and furthermore, it has the symmetry of the external potential. In this way, the inconsistencies of standard density functional theory (DFT) concerning the asymmetry of the KS potential are remedied. As a result of the above, the ground state is uniquely determined by this set of spherical densities. In the case of a symmetry group G of a Hamiltonian H, the minimizing subspace of the Hamiltonian for each irreducible representation of G is uniquely determined by this set of spherical densities. Thus, the present theory opens the way for new density functionals and more accurate molecular calculations as it exploits local symmetries. Moreover, the theory of “Atoms in Molecules” formulated by Bader, by using the open quantum mechanics theory, can be explained in terms of DFT [R. F. W. Bader, Atoms in Molecules. A Quantum Theory (Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1990)].
Apparatus for soft x-ray table-top high harmonic generation
Authors: Johnson Allan S. , Wood David , Austin Dane R. , Brahms Christian , Gregory Andrew , Holzner Konstantin B. , Jarosch Sebastian , Larsen Esben W. , Parker Susan , Strüber Christian , Ye Peng , Tisch John W. G. , Marangos Jon P.
Published: August 2018

There has been considerable recent interest in tabletop soft X-ray attosecond sources enabled by the new generation of intense, few-cycle laser sources at operating wavelengths longer than 800 nm. In our recent work [Johnson et al., Sci. Adv. 4(5), eaar3761 (2018)], we have demonstrated a new regime for the generation of X-ray attosecond pulses in the water window (284-540 eV) by high-harmonic generation, which resulted in soft X-ray fluxes of ≈109 photons/s and a maximum photon energy of 600 eV, an order of magnitude and 50 eV higher, respectively, than previously attained with few-cycle drivers. Here we present the key elements of our apparatus for the generation and detection of soft X-ray high harmonic radiation in the water window. Of critical importance is a differentially pumped gas target capable of supporting the multi-atmospheric pressures required to phase-match the high energy emission while strongly constraining the gas density, suppressing the effects of ionization and absorption outside the interaction region.
Heat transfer foot print on ceramics after thermal shock with droplet impingement: Development of thermal shock tolerant material with hydrophobic surface
Authors: Prakash Divya J. , Lee Youho
Published: August 2018

We perform a systematic study of the thermal shock experienced by the alumina during quenching by cold water droplet impingement with heated surface temperature ranging from 125°C to 475°C for Weber number ≈32. We explore the effect of surface heat transfer mode on the thermal shock experienced by the material. It is found that the variation of residual strength translates into the mode of boiling heat transfer, hence surface heat flux. The material remembers the degree of thermal shock; the heat transfer foot print is embedded in the residual strength. This finding speaks to a possibility of developing a ceramic detector for heat transfer modes in extreme environments. This study finds that superior thermal shock tolerance can be achieved by removing the heat transfer footprint with reduced heat flux. By promoting the film boiling with nano-fractal hydrophobic surface, we achieved superior thermal shock tolerance for alumina substrates. This is a novel approach to reduce thermal shock by controlling the heat transfer with surface modification, different from conventional, yet expensive, method of improving the bulk material properties.
A one-dimensional axisymmetric model for time-varying electromagnetic mitigation of plasma for alleviation of radio communication blackout
Authors: Liu Donglin , Li Xiaoping , Liu Yanming , Xu Jiahao , Lei Fan , Chen Xi
Published: August 2018

A high speed vehicle passing through the atmosphere may encounter radio communication blackout, a phenomenon which is caused by the high plasma density in the plasma layer surrounding the vehicle. To alleviate blackout, a method known as time-varying electromagnetic mitigation of the plasma (TEMP) is proposed. The principle of TEMP is based on a one-dimensional axisymmetric model consisting mainly of the ion mass conservation equation, the ion momentum conservation equation, the generalized Ohm's law and the electromagnetic induction law. Numerical simulations were performed to examine the plasma mitigation effects under various conditions by assuming a linearly decreasing magnetic field. Simulation results suggested that the plasma density at the center was reduced to less than 0.2 times the original plasma density but was of sufficient size (about 3 cm) and time duration (about 50 μs) to permit data transmission at pressures as high as 50 Pa. Furthermore, it is suggested that a lower pressure, stronger magnetic field and shorter duration are helpful for plasma mitigation, achieving nearly the same effect as that obtained at different plasma densities. Given that a dc magnet or a dc electric field is not required, and the power requirement and weight are modest, the TEMP approach based on applying a periodic magnetic pulse may be a promising way to alleviate radio communication blackout.
Phase engineering of rare earth nickelates by digital synthesis
Authors: Middey S. , Meyers D. , Kumar Patel Ranjan , Liu X. , Kareev M. , Shafer P. , Kim J.-W. , Ryan P. J. , Chakhalian J.
Published: August 2018

We report on the electronic and magnetic properties of a series of [m EuNiO3/p LaNiO3] superlattices (thickness m and/or p = 1 unit cell) epitaxially grown on single crystalline NdGaO3 substrates. The structural symmetry of these films has been investigated by the combination of in-situ reflection high energy electron diffraction and X-ray diffraction measurements. The metal-insulator transition and the magnetic transition temperatures of the short-period superlattices with m ≥ p are modified from the corresponding bulk Eu1–xLaxNiO3 (x=pm+p) composition. In contrast to the corresponding bulk doped compound with x = 0.67, the [1 EuNiO3/2 LaNiO3] film remains metallic down to at least 2 K without signs of electronic or magnetic transitions. These findings demonstrate the power of the digital synthesis approach to realize electronic and magnetic phases of perovskite nickelates, unattainable in bulk.
Increase in local crystalline order across the limit of stability leads to cubic-hexagonal stacking in supercooled monatomic (mW) water
Authors: Pingua Nandlal , Apte Pankaj A.
Published: August 2018

At the limit of stability of a supercooled tetrahedral liquid modeled by monatomic (mW) water potential, it was recently shown that relaxation occurs across a unique value of per particle potential energy (ϕmid), which corresponds to a dynamical (non-stationary) condition of Gibbs free energy function G(T, P, N, ϕ): [∂2(G/N)/∂ϕ2 = 0] and [∂(G/N)/∂ϕ ≠ 0]. In this work, we explore the inherent structures responsible for the formation of the amorphous states through such a mechanism of relaxation of mW liquid. We first identify 6-member boat and chair shaped rings using a criterion based on the internal dihedral angles. We then consider the stacking of the cubic diamond (10-atom cluster with 4 chair shaped rings) and hexagonal wurtzite (12-atom cluster with 3 boat and 2 chair shaped rings) units through a shared chair ring. We find that the local crystalline (tetrahedral) order is exhibited by the eclipsed bond particles of the laterally connected wurtzite units which are stacked from both sides with the diamond units (DWD stacking). Increasingly longer range crystalline order is obtained as the number of stacked wurtzite layers increases: the particles shared by the stacked (laterally connected) wurtzite layers in DWWD show a longer range crystalline order. An even longer range crystalline order is exhibited by the eclipsed bond particles of the middle (laterally connected) wurtzite layer of DWWWD stacking. We find that cubic-hexagonal stacking occurs primarily in the form of DWD layers across the limit of stability. The local tetrahedral order of the purely cubic (diamond) network particles (which are not shared with wurtzite units) deviates significantly from that of the hexagonal crystal. Nonetheless, the average length of the bonds in the purely cubic network approaches that in the hexagonal crystal very closely. Thus a large increase in the purely cubic ice across the instability also leads to an increase in the local crystalline order in the form of bond-lengths. Our results are consistent with previous experimental and simulation studies which find a significant fraction of cubic ice along with cubic-hexagonal stacking layers in deeply supercooled water.
Spin Diffusion in 3He, Adsorbed Nanostructured Material MCM-41
Authors: Birchenko A. P. , Mikhin N. P. , Rudavskii E. Ya. , Fysun Ya. Yu.
Published: August 2018

The pulsed nuclear magnetic resonance method was used for the first time to study diffusion processes in 3He, adsorbed nanostructured material MCM-41. The material contained bundles of nanotubes with internal cylindrical channels whose diameter was 2.5 nm. The measurements were made using the Hahn–Carr–Purcell spin echo method with a sequence of 90°–τ–180° probing pulses, where τ is the time interval between pulses. Two different diffusion processes were detected in the system, with diffusion coefficients differing by an order of magnitude. This result was confirmed by an independent multi-echo method with a pair of 90°–τ–120° probing pulses, and with a noticeable increase in the duration of the pulses themselves. It was also found that both diffusion coefficients depend on the value of τ, which is a characteristic feature of restricted diffusion. The results obtained set new directions for the further study of this system.
Dielectric properties of ferromagnetic Ni nanoparticles added (Cu0.5Tl0.5)Ba2Ca2Cu3O10-δ superconducting phase
Authors: Mumtaz M. , Asghar Mian A.
Published: August 2018

Ferromagnetic nickel (Ni) nanoparticles were added in (Cu0.5Tl0.5)Ba2Ca2Cu3O10–δ (CuTl-1223) superconducting matrix to get Nix/CuTl-1223; x = 0–1.00 wt% nanoparticles-superconductor composites. Temperature- and frequency-dependent dielectric properties of CuTl-1223 superconducting phase with different contents of Ni nanoparticles were studied. Different dielectric parameters such as dielectric constant (εr′, εr′′), dielectric tangent loss (tan δ) and ac conductivity (σac) were determined from experimentally measured capacitance and conductance at different frequencies from 10 kHz to 10 MHz and at different operating temperatures from 78 to 290 K. The values of εr′ and εr′′ were found maximal at smaller frequencies and started to decrease at higher frequencies. The value of σac is high at high frequency unlike to εr′ and εr′′, which is due to release of space charges at high frequencies. Peaks in tan δ graphs represent the resonance phenomenon at certain frequencies in these samples. Non-monotonic behavior in variation of dielectric parameters with temperature of Nix/CuTl-1223 samples was observed particularly at high temperatures which was due to thermal instability of the system at high temperatures.
Precessing solitons in the stripe domain structure
Authors: Borisov A. B. , Kiselev V. V. , Raskovalov A. A.
Published: August 2018

New solutions have been found for the Landau-Lifshitz equation for a ferromagnet with easy-axis anisotropy that describe magnetic solitons strongly associated with stripe domain structure. They serve as elementary carriers of macroscopic shifts of the structure and are, under certain conditions, nuclei of the magnetic reversal of a material. It is shown that the inhomogeneous elliptic precession of magnetization in a soliton nucleus leads to perturbations of the adjacent domain walls of a structure. Modulated instability of solitons near the boundaries of their existence is investigated.