bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Natural Products on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease through Nrf2 Epigenetic Regulation
Authors: Cao Jiayue
Published: June 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has become one of the common illnesses among urban dwellers worldwide. Many consider natural products as better options for medicine and diet supplements. In recent years, researchers found that natural products can prevent human diseases by reactivating silencing genes through epigenetic regulation. They also discovered nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) as is an important factor in the response of anti-oxidation has a close relation to lipogenesis. Studies showed with the higher expression of DNA methyl-transferases, the higher methylation of Nrf2 promoter occurred. With the high methylation rate of the Nrf2 promoter, the expression of Nrf2 reduced thus enhanced lipid accumulation, which may cause NAFLD. Furthermore, with lower expression of Nrf2, the downstream antioxidant genes’ expression decreased, which may cause oxidative stress to human body cells. Understanding the pathway of Nrf2 and NAFLD can shed a light on discovering new development of drugs. This paper reviews several natural products and their mechanisms of alleviating NAFLD and hopes to bring in new perspectives on the treatment and the development of new drugs on NAFLD.
Essential oils for the treatment of demodex
Authors: Huang Chun-Xia , Li Hai-gang , Luo Huai-Qing , Fu Qing-Ming , He Bin-Sheng , Bao Mei-Hua
Published: June 2021

The Demodex infestation is widely spread among older people. The conventional treatment of demodex involves chemicals and antibiotics. However, these treatments have a number of side effects, such as environmental risks, acaricide resistance, toxicity to humans and animals. Benefit from abundant sources of plants and plant extractions have been a new choice for treating demodex infections. This review summarizes the anti-demodex and side effects of certain botanical essential oils. The high efficacy and low side effects of essential oils, such as TTO and its active ingredient terpinen-4-oil, camphor oil, sage oil, peppermint oil, neem oil, clove oil make them good candidates for the treatment of mites. Further studies on the biological mechanisms of the acaricide effects of these active essential oils and the structure-activity relations are necessary to clarify the functions of these drugs.
Muon radiography to visualise individual fuel rods in sealed casks
Authors: Braunroth Thomas , Berner Nadine , Rowold Florian , Péridis Marc , Stuke Maik
Published: June 2021

Cosmic-ray muons can be used for the non-destructive imaging of spent nuclear fuel in sealed dry storage casks. The scattering data of the muons after traversing provides information on the thereby penetrated materials. Based on these properties, we investigate and discuss the theoretical feasibility of detecting single missing fuel rods in a sealed cask for the first time. We perform simulations of a vertically standing generic cask model loaded with fuel assemblies from a pressurized water reactor and muon detectors placed above and below the cask. By analysing the scattering angles and applying a significance ratio based on the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test statistic we conclude that missing rods can be reliably identified in a reasonable measuring time period depending on their position in the assembly and cask, and on the angular acceptance criterion of the primary, incoming muons.
Le test de concordance de script à l’heure de la réforme du second cycle des études médicales en France : étude pilote en génétique médicale
Authors: Ghoumid Jamal , Smol Thomas , Sige Jerome , Boussion Simon , Brunelle Perrine , Guyart Sabrina , Louvet Alexandre , Lacroix Dominique , Gosset Didier , Manouvrier Sylvie , Petit Florence , Sibert Louis
Published: June 2021

Contexte : Dans les prochaines années, il est prévu d’introduire le test de concordance de script (TCS) dans le cadre des épreuves classantes nationales informatisées (ECNi). Le TCS n’a jamais été évalué pour l’enseignement de la génétique médicale du deuxième cycle. But : Élaborer un TCS pour les étudiants de deuxième cycle et évaluer ses qualités psychométriques. Déterminer les arguments docimologiques étayant la pertinence d’introduire le TCS aux ECNi. Méthode : Création d’un TCS spécifique à la discipline et administration aux étudiants de deuxième cycle et internes de génétique médicale. Administration d’une épreuve type ECNi comportant 3 dossiers progressifs (DP) et 12 questions isolées (QI) aux étudiants de deuxième cycle. Analyse du caractère discriminant du TCS par comparaison des scores obtenus par les différents groupes. Analyse de corrélation entre les scores aux TCS et DP, QI et rang de classement aux ECNi. Résultats : Les réponses de 18 experts et 129 étudiants ont été obtenues. Après optimisation, le TCS contient 15 vignettes cliniques et 34 items. Le coefficient alpha de Cronbach est de 0,67. Le test a pu discriminer le niveau des étudiants et il existe une corrélation entre les scores obtenus au TCS, aux DP, ainsi qu’avec le rang de classement aux ECNi. Conclusion : Cette étude montre la faisabilité d’un TCS standardisé pour évaluer l’enseignement de la génétique médicale, qui pourrait être aisément intégré aux ECNi. Il s’agit d’un exemple supplémentaire de la pertinence de ce type d’épreuve dans l’évaluation du raisonnement clinique des étudiants de médecine.
L’évolution sur 10 ans du profil des étudiants admis en première année à la Faculté de médecine dentaire de Casablanca
Authors: Benkirane Loubna , Hamza Mouna , El Youssoufi Madiha , Essaidi Amina , Elarabi Samira
Published: June 2021

Introduction :La faculté de médecine dentaire de Casablanca (FMDC) accueille chaque année une centaine de titulaires de baccalauréat scientifique, selon un mode de sélection purement cognitif basé sur une présélection par ordre de mérite et sur les performances aux épreuves écrites portant sur quatre matières scientifiques.Objectif :Documenter l’évolution des profils des étudiants admis selon cette modalité d’admission.Méthodes :Une enquête descriptive rétrospective a été réalisée à la FMDC. Un formulaire a été utilisé pour collecter les données sociodémographiques et académiques des nouveaux inscrits sur une période de 10 ans depuis l’année académique 2006/2007. Les données nécessaires ont été fournies par le service des affaires étudiantes ouviaun contact téléphonique lorsque les données étaient incomplètes.Résultats :Sur dix ans, le nombre total d’étudiants inscrits était de 1263 dont 7,3 % représentés par des étrangers. Il y avait une forte prédominance féminine et 70,3 % des étudiants avaient un niveau socio-économique moyen. La plus grande proportion de personnes admises (71,1 %) avait été inscrite sur la liste d’attente. Le pourcentage des admis ayant réussi au baccalauréat avec la mention très bien est passé de 30,8 % en 2006/2007 à 97,8 % en 2015/2016. Le nombre d’étudiants issus du système public était en diminution continuelle au profit de ceux issus d’établissements privés.Conclusion :Cette étude révèle une tendance constante à la féminisation de la dentisterie parmi les futurs dentistes, une plus grande sélectivité dans l’accès à la FMDC, une prédominance des étudiants inscrits sur la liste d’attente, un niveau socio-économique majoritairement moyen ce qui n’est pas forcément représentatif de la population et de ses besoins. Une révision profonde de la procédure de sélection en vigueur devrait viser à affiner et diversifier les critères d’admission, apprécier la capacité potentielle à faire de la médecine dentaire et favoriser l’égalité des chances.
Stratégies de recrutement et de formation des patients en éducation : une synthèse de la littérature
Authors: Pageau Sandrine , Burnier Isabelle , Fotsing Salomon
Published: June 2021

Introduction : La mise en œuvre du concept de soins centrés sur le patient nécessite que les patients soient inclus tôt dans l’enseignement des futurs professionnels de la santé. L’engagement des patients dans les institutions de formation est un reflet de ce nouveau courant. La mise en place d’un programme de formation de patients en éducation est généralement suggérée, mais les lignes directrices sont rares. But : Cette recherche vise à identifier les stratégies de recrutement et de formation des patients en éducation. Méthode : Une synthèse de la littérature a été effectuée à partir des bases de données bibliographiques ERIC, PubMed et PsychInfo. Certains articles ont été sélectionnés manuellement à l’extérieur de ces sources, dans le but d’inclure les écrits rédigés par des auteurs francophones. Résultats : 25 articles sur 297 ont été retenus selon des critères de sélection spécifiques. L’établissement d’un réseau de recrutement centralisé contribue à la durabilité des programmes concernés. Certains critères spécifiques, liés à la disponibilité d’habiletés de communication et de collaboration, d’un savoir expérientiel et d’une stabilité émotionnelle, doivent être considérés dans la sélection des patients. L’accès à des sessions de formation, avec des objectifs d’apprentissage et un guide de formation, est avantageux pour les patients en éducation. Conclusion : La mise en œuvre d’un réseau de recrutement centralisé, d’entrevues de sélection et d’un programme de formation pour les patients en éducation facilite la mise en place d’un programme de patients en éducation efficace et durable.
Perinatales Outcome bei Frauen mit Gestationsdiabetes unter besonderer Berücksichtigung eines Migrationshintergrundes – Ergebnisse einer prospektiven Studie in Berlin
Authors: Stupin Jens H. , Henrich Wolfgang , David Matthias , Schlembach Dietmar , Razum Oliver , Borde Theda , Breckenkamp Jürgen
Published: June 2021

Hintergrund Etwa 25 % der Bevölkerung Deutschlands haben einen Migrationshintergrund (MH), der mit einem schlechteren perinatalen Outcome einhergehen kann. Der Gestationsdiabetes (GDM) gehört zu den häufigsten Schwangerschaftserkrankungen; von ihm sind Frauen mit MH in höherem Maße betroffen. Bisher liegen keine systematisch erhobenen Daten zur Betreuung von Migrantinnen mit GDM vor.

Fragestellung Ziel der Studie war es, Auswirkungen eines MH auf Schwangerschaften von Frauen mit GDM zu evaluieren: Haben Immigrantinnen und ihre Nachkommen ein schlechteres perinatales Outcome als Frauen ohne MH in den Parametern Geburtseinleitung, Sectio, Makrosomie, Apgar, Nabelschnur-pH-Wert, Verlegung auf eine neonatologische Intensivstation, Frühgeburt und prä-/postpartale Hb-Differenz? Beeinflusst ein MH außerdem den Zeitpunkt der ersten Schwangerenvorsorge sowie die Zahl der Vorsorgeuntersuchungen?

Methoden Datenerhebung an drei Berliner Geburtskliniken 2011/2012 unmittelbar in der Kreißsaalaufnahme über 12 Monate anhand standardisierter Interviews (Fragebogenset) in deutscher, türkischer und anderen Sprachen. Fragen zu soziodemografischen Aspekten, Schwangerenvorsorge sowie ggf. Migration und Akkulturation. Verknüpfung der Befragungsdaten mit Mutterpass- und klinischen Perinataldaten. Adjustierung für Alter, BMI, Parität und sozioökonomischen Status erfolgte in Regressionsmodellen.

Ergebnisse Die Daten von n = 2878 Frauen mit MH (GDM: 4,7 %) und n = 2785 Frauen ohne MH (GDM: 4,8 %) konnten verglichen werden. Eine multiple Regressionsanalyse zeigte keine Unterschiede in den Chancen der beiden Gruppen mit GDM hinsichtlich Sectio, Makrosomie, Apgar, Nabelschnur-pH-Werten, Verlegungen auf eine neonatologische Intensivstation sowie Zeitpunkt der ersten Schwangerenvorsorge ≥ 12 SSW und Zahl der Vorsorgeuntersuchungen < 10. Sowohl für Frauen mit GDM und MH (OR 1,57; 95 %-KI 1,08–2,27) als auch für solche mit GDM ohne MH (OR 1,47; 95 %-KI 1,01–2,14) bestand eine signifikant höhere Chance der Geburtseinleitung.

Schlussfolgerung Frauen mit GDM und MH zeigen ein ähnlich gutes Schwangerschaftsergebnis wie solche mit GDM und ohne MH, was auf eine hohe Qualität der peripartalen Betreuung und Versorgung hinweist. Im Vergleich zu Frauen ohne GDM wird bedingt durch diesen und den höheren BMI unabhängig vom MH vermehrt eingeleitet. Die Ergebnisse für Frauen mit GDM lassen unabhängig vom MH auf einen ähnlichen Standard der Inanspruchnahme von Vorsorgeuntersuchungen in der Schwangerschaft schließen.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Induces Early Alterations in Coagulation and Fibrinolysis Profiles in COVID-19 Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Hékimian Guillaume , Masi Paul , Lejeune Manon , Lebreton Guillaume , Chommeloux Juliette , Desnos Cyrielle , Pineton De Chambrun Marc , Martin-Toutain Isabelle , Nieszkowska Ania , Bréchot Nicolas , Schmidt Matthieu , Leprince Pascal , Luyt Charles-Edouard , Combes Alain , Frere Corinne
Published: June 2021

Hemostatic changes induced by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support have been yet poorly documented in coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) patients who have a baseline complex hypercoagulable state. In this prospective monocentric study of patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) rescued by ECMO, we performed longitudinal measurements of coagulation and fibrinolysis markers throughout the course of ECMO support in 20 COVID-19 and 10 non-COVID-19 patients. Blood was sampled before and then 24 hours, 7, and 14 days after ECMO implantation. Clinical outcomes were prospectively assessed until discharge from the intensive care unit or death. The median age of participants was 47 (35–56) years, with a median body mass index of 30 (27–35) kg/m2, and a Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment score of 12 (8–16). Baseline levels of von Willebrand factor, fibrinogen, factor VIII, prothrombin F1 + 2, thrombin–antithrombin, D-dimer, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were elevated in both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 ARDS patients, indicating that endothelial activation, endogenous thrombin generation, and fibrinolysis shutdown occur in all ARDS patients before ECMO implantation. From baseline to day 7, thrombin generation (prothrombin F1 + 2, p < 0.01) and fibrin formation markers (fibrin monomers, p < 0.001) significantly increased, further resulting in significant decreases in platelet count (p < 0.0001) and fibrinogen level (p < 0.001). PAI-1 levels significantly decreased from baseline to day 7 (p < 0.0001) in all ARDS patients. These changes were more marked in COVID-19 patients, resulting in 14 nonfatal and 3 fatal bleeding. Additional studies are warranted to determine whether monitoring of thrombin generation and fibrinolysis markers might help to early predict bleeding complications in COVID-19 patients supported by ECMO.
The Cost of Care Associated with Microvascular Free Tissue Transfer by Anatomical Region: A Time-Driven Activity-Based Model
Authors: Lindell Jackson S. , Blaschke Breanna L. , Only Arthur J. , Parikh Harsh R. , Gorman Tiffany L. , Vang Sandy X. , Mahajan Ashish Y. , Cunningham Brian P.
Published: June 2021

Background Microvascular free tissue transfer (FTT) is a reliable method for reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects. The goal of this study was to utilize time-driven activity-based cost (TDABC) accounting to measure the total cost of care of FTT and identify modifiable cost drivers.

Methods A retrospective review was performed on patients requiring FTT at a single, level-I academic trauma center from 2013 to 2019. Patient and surgical characteristics were collected, and six prospective FTT cases were observed via TDABC to collect direct and indirect costs of care.

Results When stratified by postoperative stay at intensive care units (ICUs), the average cost of care was $21,840.22, while cases without ICU stay averaged $6,646.61. The most costly category was ICU stay, averaging $8,310.99 (40.9% of nonstratified overall cost). Indirect costs were the second most costly category, averaging $4,388.07 (21.6% of nonstratified overall cost). Overall, 13 of 100 reviewed cases required some form of revision free-flap, increasing cumulative costs to $7,961.34 for cases with non-ICU stay and $22,233.85 for cases with ICU stay, averaging up to $44,074.07 for patients who stayed in the ICU for both procedures. An increase in cumulative cost was also observed within the timeframe of the investigation, with average costs of $8,484.00 in 2013 compared to $45,128 for 2019.

Conclusion Primary drivers for cost in this study were ICU stay and revision/reoperation. Better understanding the cost of FTT allows for cost reduction through the development of new protocols that drive intraoperative efficiency, reduce ICU stays, and optimize outcomes.
Successful Microsurgical Reconstruction for Limb Salvage in a COVID-19-Positive Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Fleury Christopher M. , Chang Brian L. , Slamin Robert P. , Schwitzer Jonathan A. , Kanuri Arjun , Masden Derek L.
Published: June 2021

Background Although the novel 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic delayed elective microsurgical reconstruction cases, traumatic injuries requiring microsurgical reconstruction for limb salvage still presented to our hospital. Recent data suggests a link between COVID-19 and increased venous and arterial thromboembolic events, theoretically increasing the risk of microvascular anastomotic thrombosis and flap failure.

Methods We provide a single case report of microsurgical limb salvage in a COVID-19-positive patient with a Gustilo IIIb open tibial-fibular fracture.

Results A free latissimus dorsi muscle flap was used to successfully cover a Gustilo IIIb open tibial-fibular fracture with exposed orthopedic hardware and large soft tissue defect, with 5-month follow-up demonstrating a well-healed flap allowing for preserved ambulation.

Conclusion Although there is a theoretical increased incidence of venous and arterial thrombotic microvascular failure in COVID-19-positive patients, microsurgical reconstruction is occasionally the lone option for salvage. Microsurgical reconstruction in this population must be carefully considered, meticulously executed, and closely monitored.
Rotational Thromboelastometry in Neonates Admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Large Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tsantes Andreas G. , Sokou Rozeta , Konstantinidi Aikaterini , Ioakeimidis Georgios , Lampridou Maria , Parastatidou Stavroula , Theodoraki Martha , Piovani Daniele , Iliodromiti Zoe , Boutsikou Theodora , Iacovidou Nicoletta , Douramani Panagiota , Poulis Aristarchos , Kokoris Styliani , Kriebardis Anastasios G. , Bonovas Stefanos , Tsantes Argirios E.
Published: June 2021

The aim of the present study was to assess the coagulation profile in neonatal critical illness using rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), and to investigate its association with disease severity and its potential prognostic role in this clinical setting. Over a period of 67 months (July 2014–February 2020) 423 critically ill neonates with confirmed or suspected sepsis, perinatal hypoxia, or respiratory distress syndrome, hospitalized in our neonatal intensive care unit were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were recorded on admission day and arterial blood was analyzed on ROTEM analyzer using the standard extrinsically activated rotational thromboelastometry assay (EXTEM). Neonatal illness severity scores (Modified NEOMOD [Neonatal Multiple Organ Dysfunction] and SNAPPE [Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology with Perinatal Extension]) were calculated at the same time as ROTEM analysis. Mortality during in-hospital stay was the main outcome measure. Multivariable analyses showed that a 10 mm decrease in EXTEM clot amplitude recorded at 10 minutes (A10) is significantly associated with a higher mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33–2.08). Higher modified NEOMOD (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.26–1.47) and higher SNAPPE scores (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04–1.08) were also associated with increased mortality. The CT and A10 variables demonstrated the best prognostic performance among the EXTEM parameters for mortality (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.69–0.86 and AUC = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.66–0.85, respectively), showing an optimal cut-off CT ≥63 seconds and A10 ≤37 mm. Using optimal cut-off values of the EXTEM parameters for prediction of mortality, neonates with CT ≥63 seconds were 7.4 times more likely to die (OR = 7.40, 95% CI: 3.50–15.65), while neonates with A10 ≤37 mm were 5.8 times more likely to die (OR = 5.88, 95% CI: 2.94–12.50). An EXTEM hypocoagulable profile on disease onset was shown to be an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality in neonatal critical illness.
Evaluation of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, and C-Reactive Protein in Tension-Type Headache Patients
Authors: Özdemir Hasan Hüseyin , Dönder Ahmet
Published: June 2021

Objectives A tension headache is the most common type of headache, and its causes are multifactorial. A relationship has been shown between migraine headaches and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and C-reactive protein (CRP). In this study, we investigated the NLR, PLR, and serum CRP levels in frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETTH) and chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) patients.

Materials and Methods This retrospective study included 64 patients with FETTH, 80 patients with CTTH, and 60 healthy controls who were followed up in the neurology clinic. Hematological parameters were compared between the patient and control groups.

Results In CTTH patients, platelets, NLR, PLR, and CRP values were statistically higher than in FETTH patients and patients in the control group. In FETTH patients, the PLR value was higher than in patients in the control group, but there was no statistically significant difference in NLR and CRP values between FETTH patients and patients in the control group. Also, there was no correlation between these values and age and gender.

Conclusion Increase platelet count might have an effect on tension-type headache pathophysiology. Systemic inflammation parameters were shown to be significantly higher in CTTH patients. More comprehensive studies are needed to evaluate the effect of systemic inflammation on the chronicity of tension headaches.
Isolated CNS Relapse in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): An Experience from a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Tevatia Manvir Singh , Sharma Isha , Jadhav Toyaja , Somasundaram Venkatesan , Sharma Sanjeevan
Published: June 2021

Aims and Objectives In this study the various parameters of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), including the clinical features, peripheral blood and bone marrow (BM) findings, immunophenotypic and cytogenetic details in ALL cases who had isolated relapse involving the central nervous system (CNS), were studied.

Patients/Materials and Methods Duration of the study is from 2015 to 2019 in which 5 ALL cases were presented to this tertiary care center. The presenting symptoms varied from headache, fever, and distension of abdomen. These cases were either on therapy or post completion of chemotherapy. The diagnosis of CNS relapse followed after the examination of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Patients also underwent BM examination to rule out systemic relapse.

Results Age of patients ranged from 7 months to 42 years. There were three female patients. Two patients had isolated CNS relapse 3.5 years after completing therapy and succumbed to their illness. Two patients had t(9;22) while one patient had t(1;14) cytogenetic abnormality at diagnosis. One patient was diagnosed as T-ALL. Treatment offered was German Multicentre ALL protocol for induction along with 10 cycles of maintenance.

Conclusion The most common hematolymphoid malignancy in children namely ALL accounts for 75% of childhood leukemias. Complete remission rates reach up to 70 to 80%. CNS involvement is known to occur in these cases. CNS relapse may occur alone or with systemic relapse. Advances in therapeutic protocols along with CNS prophylaxis have drastically brought down the rates of CNS relapse. It is essential to maintain a high degree of suspicion so that these cases of isolated CNS relapse can be identified at the earliest and definitive therapy can be offered.
Adjuvant versus Neoadjuvant Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Clinical and Immunologic Perspectives
Authors: Su Yung-Yeh , Li Chia-Chen , Lin Yih-Jyh , Hsu Chiun
Published: June 2021

Advancement in systemic therapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based combination regimens, has transformed the treatment landscape for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The advancement in systemic therapy also provides new opportunities of reducing recurrence after curative therapy through adjuvant therapy or improving resectability through neoadjuvant therapy. Improved recurrence-free survival by adjuvant or neoadjuvant ICI-based therapy has been reported in other cancer types. In this article, developments of systemic therapy in adjuvant and neoadjuvant settings for HCC were reviewed. The design of adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy using ICI-based regimens and potential challenges of trial conduct and result analysis was discussed. Results from these trials may extend the therapeutic benefit of ICI-based systemic therapy beyond the advanced-stage disease and lead to a new era of multidisciplinary management for HCC.
Cue-Based Feeding as Intervention to Achieve Full Oral Feeding in Preterm Infants Primarily Managed with Bubble CPAP
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed A. , Teumer Kirsten K. , Leone Mariana , Akram Nabi , Rahamn Mohamed H. , Abdelatif Dinan , Condie Kimberly
Published: June 2021

Objective Cue-based feeding aims at matching introduction of per oral (PO) feeding with physiological readiness of preterm infants to facilitate PO intake and avoid oral aversion. It was claimed that cue-based feeding may lead to delay in the initiation or achieving full PO feeding in clinical setting primarily using bubble nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The study aimed to examine the association of cue-based feeding with time of introduction and completing oral feeding in infants primarily managed with bubble CPAP.

Study Design A retrospective analysis where outcomes of preterm infants ≤32 weeks' gestational age (GA) and ≤2,000 g birth weight (BW) were compared after a practice change from volume-based feeding advancement to cue-based feeding. Continuous variables were compared by using t-test and multilinear regression analysis to control for confounding variables.

Results Of the 311 preterm infants who met inclusion and exclusion criteria, 194 were in the cue-based feeding group and 117 were in the volume-based advancement historical comparison group. There were no differences between groups regarding demographic or clinical variables. Postmenstrual age (PMA) of initial feeding assessment was less in the cue-based feeding group. Age of first PO feeding and when some PO was achieved every feed was mildly delayed in the cue-based feeding compared with comparison group, 34 (±1.3) versus 33.7 (±1.2) weeks, and 36.2 (±2.3) versus 36.0 (±2.4) weeks, (p < 0.01) respectively. However, the age of achieving full PO did not differ between groups, 36.8 (±2.2) versus 36.4 (±2.4) weeks (p = 0.13). There was no difference between groups regarding growth parameters at 36 weeks' PMA or at discharge. Similar results were obtained when examining subcategories of infants ≤1,000 g and 1,001 to 2,000 g.

Conclusion Cue-based feeding may not be associated with a delay in achieving full oral feeding or prolongation of the length of stay in preterm infants managed with CPAP.

Key Points
Early detection of thermoacoustic instabilities in a cryogenic rocket thrust chamber using combustion noise features and machine learning
Authors: Waxenegger-Wilfing Günther , Sengupta Ushnish , Martin Jan , Armbruster Wolfgang , Hardi Justin , Juniper Matthew , Oschwald Michael
Published: June 2021

We present a data-driven method for the early detection of thermoacoustic instabilities. Recurrence quantification analysis is used to calculate characteristic combustion features from short-length time series of dynamic pressure sensor data. Features like recurrence rate are used to train support vector machines to detect the onset of instability a few hundred milliseconds in advance. The performance of the proposed method is investigated on experimental data from a representative LOX/H2 research thrust chamber. In most cases, the method is able to timely predict two types of thermoacoustic instabilities on test data not used for training. The results are compared with state-of-the-art early warning indicators.
Analysis of plasma activated water by gliding arc at atmospheric pressure: Effect of the chemical composition of water on the activation
Authors: Wartel M. , Faubert F. , Dirlau I. D. , Rudz S. , Pellerin N. , Astanei D. , Burlica R. , Hnatiuc B. , Pellerin S.
Published: June 2021

Plasma activated water is a chemically active aqueous medium characterized by the presence of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species created by plasma exposure. This particular chemical composition is the starting point of extensive research studies in several domains such as bio-disinfectant in biomedical applications or as fertilizer in agricultural applications. These various applications need adjustments of the PAW properties and consequently require a better control of the PAW chemical composition. To achieve this aim, a UV spectrophotometric method (190–255 nm) is implemented to simultaneously detect the nitrate and nitrite ions in plasma activated water by a gliding arc discharge reactor at atmospheric pressure. The method, tested in plasma activated distilled water (PADW) and in plasma activated tap water (PATW), shows significant increases of nitrite and nitrate concentrations. Preliminary results on PADW and PATW kinetics evolutions highlight a different behavior of the temporal post-discharge reactions leading to non-conversion of the nitrite ions in the case of PATW. The near non-existence of acidification during and after plasma activation encountered in PATW is due to high levels of carbonate species in tap water acting as a buffer solution. Indeed, the presence of hydrogen carbonate (HCO3−) leads to the acidity consumption during plasma activation whereas the presence of non-dissolved limestone in hard water (CaCO3) acts as carbonates reserve, and this induces the acidity consumption after plasma treatment.
A high-dynamic-range digital RF-over-fiber link for MRI receive coils using delta–sigma modulation
Authors: Fan Mingdong , Brown Robert W. , Gao Xi , Mandal Soumyajit , Petropoulos Labros , Yang Xiaoyu , Handa Shinya , Fujita Hiroyuki
Published: June 2021

Coaxial cables commonly used to connect radio-frequency (RF) coil arrays with the control console of an MRI scanner are susceptible to electromagnetic coupling. As the number of RF channels increases, such coupling could result in severe heating and pose a safety concern. Non-conductive transmission solutions based on fiber-optic cables are considered to be one of the alternatives but are limited by the high dynamic range (>80 dB) of typical MRI signals. A new digital fiber-optic transmission system based on delta–sigma modulation (DSM) is developed to address this problem. A DSM-based optical link is prototyped using off-the-shelf components and bench-tested at different signal oversampling rates (OSRs). An end-to-end dynamic range (DR) of 81 dB, which is sufficient for typical MRI signals, is obtained over a bandwidth of 200 kHz, which corresponds to OSR = 50. A fully integrated custom fourth-order continuous-time DSM is designed in 180 nm CMOS technology to enable transmission of full-bandwidth MRI signals (up to 1 MHz) with an adequate DR. Initial electrical test results from this custom chip are also presented.
Optical cloaking and invisibility: From fiction toward a technological reality
Authors: Lee Kyu-Tae , Ji Chengang , Iizuka Hideo , Banerjee Debasish
Published: June 2021

Optical invisibility, which started in the pages of fiction before becoming an intriguing quest of humankind for over a century, has blossomed into a remarkable scientific journey toward reality over the last two decades. Perfect optical cloaking requires the total scattering of electromagnetic waves around an object at all angles, all polarizations, over a wide frequency range, irrespective of the medium. Such a device is still far-fetched, requiring the transformation of space around a cloaked region such that the phase velocity is faster than other areas to preserve the phase relationships. However, by simplifying the invisibility requirements, pioneering work on spherical transformation cloaks, carpet cloaks, plasmonic cloaks, and mantle cloaks has been realized in narrowband microwave, infrared, and even optical wavelengths. In this Tutorial, we review the theoretical basis for invisibility cloaking, from spherical transformational optics to non-Euclidian cases, and discuss their limitations. Subsequently, we highlight the recent trends in realizing reconfigurable intelligent cloaks to overcome the traditional limitations of wideband operation and parallel efforts in unidirectional cloaking. Because the human eye is insensitive to the phase and polarization of visible light, a class of ray optics cloaking devices has been recently developed by eliminating phase preservation requirements. Notably, we focus on the recent progress achieved on invisibility cloaks that function in natural incoherent light and can be realized using standard optical components. We conclude this Tutorial with a prospective of potential applications and the practicality of optical cloaks in everyday life.
Building process design rules for microstructure control in wide-bandgap mixed halide perovskite solar cells by a high-throughput approach
Authors: Akhundova Fatima , Lüer Larry , Osvet Andres , Hauch Jens , Peters Ian Marius , Forberich Karen , Li Ning , Brabec Christoph
Published: June 2021

Wide bandgap mixed halide perovskites ABX3, in which X can be I, Br, or Cl, are promising materials to form highly efficient optoelectronic devices, because the optical bandgap can be controlled over a wide range by variation of the halogen composition. However, significant nonradiative losses must be overcome to approach the efficiency limit of single-junction solar cells. Here, we present a high throughput-based investigation of the influence of processing parameters on nonradiative losses in the perovskite bulk. We perform antisolvent crystallization during spin coating and vary the solvent type, its volume, and the temperature of the subsequent annealing step. We use the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) as a proxy to the presence of nonradiative losses and PL spectra as a qualitative probe for sample morphology. Using Gaussian process regression, we find that we can reliably predict PLQY from the PL spectral shape. This means that the PL spectral shape conveys the essential photophysics controlling PL quenching and thus nonradiative charge recombination. In comparison with scanning electron micrographs and x-ray diffraction data, we find that nonradiative losses in polycrystalline perovskite films are caused by increased domain size dispersion. Our method provides a simple and fast structure-sensitive in-line probe for fast morphology optimization in a high-throughput fashion.
Dynamic behaviors of multiple-soliton pulsation in an L-band passively mode-locked fiber laser with anomalous dispersion
Authors: Wang Xiaojie , Zhang Chunxiang , Wang Zhenhong , Liu Jun , Zhang Han , Fan Dianyuan
Published: June 2021

As a universal phenomenon in nonlinear optical systems, the soliton pulsating behavior is useful to achieve high pulse energy and can further enrich the complex soliton dynamics. To the best of our knowledge, herein we have demonstrated the observation of multiple-soliton pulsations in an L-band mode-locked fiber laser based on a nonlinear amplifying loop mirror with anomalous dispersion for the first time. Based on the dispersive Fourier transform method, we find that the pulsations in the multi-soliton regime are accompanied with the pulse width breathing and spectrum oscillation. In addition, the corresponding number of pulsating solitons increases linearly from 8 to 16 with the pump power. Our findings can facilitate a better understanding of the complex mechanism of soliton pulsations.
Geometric invariance of determining and resonating centers: Odd- and any-number limitations of Pyragas control
Authors: de Wolff B. , Schneider I.
Published: June 2021

In the spirit of the well-known odd-number limitation, we study the failure of Pyragas control of periodic orbits and equilibria. Addressing the periodic orbits first, we derive a fundamental observation on the invariance of the geometric multiplicity of the trivial Floquet multiplier. This observation leads to a clear and unifying understanding of the odd-number limitation, both in the autonomous and the non-autonomous setting. Since the presence of the trivial Floquet multiplier governs the possibility of successful stabilization, we refer to this multiplier as the determining center. The geometric invariance of the determining center also leads to a necessary condition on the gain matrix for the control to be successful. In particular, we exclude scalar gains. The application of Pyragas control on equilibria does not only imply a geometric invariance of the determining center but surprisingly also on centers that resonate with the time delay. Consequently, we formulate odd- and any-number limitations both for real eigenvalues together with an arbitrary time delay as well as for complex conjugated eigenvalue pairs together with a resonating time delay. The very general nature of our results allows for various applications.
Large microwave inductance of granular boron-doped diamond superconducting films
Authors: Oripov Bakhrom , Kumar Dinesh , Garcia Cougar , Hemmer Patrick , Venkatesan T. , Ramachandra Rao M. S. , Anlage Steven M.
Published: June 2021

Boron-doped diamond granular thin films are known to exhibit superconductivity with an optimal critical temperature of Tc=7.2 K. Here, we report the measured in-plane complex surface impedance of boron-doped diamond films in the microwave frequency range using a resonant technique. Experimentally measured inductance values are in good agreement with estimates obtained from the normal state sheet resistance of the material. The magnetic penetration depth temperature dependence is consistent with that of a fully gapped s-wave superconductor. Boron-doped diamond films should find application where high kinetic inductance is needed, such as microwave kinetic inductance detectors and quantum impedance devices.
Design criteria to fabricate plasmonic gold nanomaterials for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-based biosensing
Authors: De Silva Indrasekara A. Swarnapali
Published: June 2021

The discovery of noble metal plasmonic nanoparticles (PNPs) has introduced surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) as a highly sensitive and specific bioanalytical technique with greater potential in point-of-need disease diagnosis. This Tutorial provides an overview of the principles governing a gold PNP-based biosensor design for sensitive and reliable SERS-based detection of disease biomarkers. First, we will highlight the optical transducer properties of PNPs, the principles of SERS, the benefits of SERS detection, and the modes of SERS for biomarker detection. The analytical performance (sensitivity and specificity) and the reliability (accuracy and reproducibility) of a SERS biosensor are mainly dictated by (i) the chemical and optical transducer properties of PNPs, (ii) the functional nano interface, where the interaction(s) between PNPs and target biomolecules take place, and (iii) SERS data acquisition and evaluation metrics. Maintaining a balance between SERS signal enhancement and reproducibility is critical for advancing the field deployment of SERS technologies. However, the reproducibility of SERS biosensors is often overlooked in lieu of the assay sensitivity. Consequently, next, we will discuss the systematic optimization strategies for fabricating gold PNPs as SERS substrates and designing their functional interface to design SERS biosensors with sufficient sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility. We will highlight the choice of PNPs and their integration into biosensing platforms depending on the mode of SERS detection. Last, we will discuss the SERS data acquisition and performance evaluation as an integral part of the SERS biosensors development workflow.
Forward and reverse current transport mechanisms in tungsten carbide Schottky contacts on AlGaN/GaN heterostructures
Authors: Greco G. , Fiorenza P. , Spera M. , Giannazzo F. , Roccaforte F.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, the forward and reverse current transport mechanisms in as-deposited and 400 °C annealed tungsten carbide (WC) Schottky contacts on AlGaN/GaN heterostructures have been studied. In particular, under forward bias, the WC/AlGaN Schottky contacts exhibited a deviation from the ideal thermionic emission model due to the occurrence of a tunneling component of the current. From the temperature dependence of the ideality factor, a characteristic tunneling energy E00 in the range of 33–36 meV has been estimated. On the other hand, two different transport mechanisms have been identified under reverse bias. At low reverse bias (VR < 2 V), Poole–Frenkel emission rules the current transport, with an emission barrier ϕt = 0.68 eV in the as-deposited contact, which increases up to ϕt = 0.79 eV upon annealing at 400 °C. This behavior has been correlated with the improvement of the metal/AlGaN electronic properties. At higher reverse bias (VR > 2 V), the leakage current is dominated by a thermally activated process with an activation energy (0.27 eV) that is independent of the Schottky contact fabrication process. In this case, the temperature dependence of the leakage could be well described by a two-dimensional variable range hopping conduction associated with the presence of surface defects in the material.
Multidimensional electronic spectroscopy in high-definition—Combining spectral, temporal, and spatial resolutions
Authors: Tiwari Vivek
Published: June 2021

Over the past two decades, coherent multidimensional spectroscopies have been implemented across the terahertz, infrared, visible, and ultraviolet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. A combination of coherent excitation of several resonances with few-cycle pulses, and spectral decongestion along multiple spectral dimensions, has enabled new insights into wide ranging molecular scale phenomena, such as energy and charge delocalization in natural and artificial light-harvesting systems, hydrogen bonding dynamics in monolayers, and strong light–matter couplings in Fabry–Pérot cavities. However, measurements on ensembles have implied signal averaging over relevant details, such as morphological and energetic inhomogeneity, which are not rephased by the Fourier transform. Recent extension of these spectroscopies to provide diffraction-limited spatial resolution, while maintaining temporal and spectral information, has been exciting and has paved a way to address several challenging questions by going beyond ensemble averaging. The aim of this Perspective is to discuss the technological developments that have eventually enabled spatially resolved multidimensional electronic spectroscopies and highlight some of the very recent findings already made possible by introducing spatial resolution in a powerful spectroscopic tool.
Spatial–temporal evolution of ultrashort laser pulse second harmonic generation in β-barium borate (β-BBO) crystal
Authors: Hong Li-Hong , Chen Bao-Qin , Hu Chen-Yang , Li Zhi-Yuan
Published: June 2021

We establish an effective and efficient theoretical approach called the spatial–temporal broadband nonlinear coupled wave theory (ST-BNCWT) to evaluate the spatial and temporal evolution behaviors of femtosecond laser pulse second harmonic generation (SHG) in a nonlinear medium. In this method, all the frequency components comprising the fundamental-wave laser pulse participate in a series of complicated three-wave mixing nonlinear coupling, including sum-frequency generation, difference-frequency generation, and the usual SHG, to create a second harmonic wave pulse. The contribution from each three-wave mixing process is strongly influenced by the corresponding phase matching or mismatching. We have used this method to analyze systematical transmission evolution characteristics of ultrashort laser pulses in a β-barium borate crystal and disclose the variation of a number of critical physical quantities. Our ST-BNCWT methodology can greatly facilitate the deep understanding of the SHG and various pulse transmission characteristics of ultrashort laser pulses and provide great support and guidance for experimental prediction. Moreover, our scheme opens up a promising path to explore and visualize novel nonlinear optical interactions in solid-state materials spanning the spatial and temporal domain, which are very helpful for building versatile ultrafast lasers in various spectral windows via powerful nonlinear frequency conversion technology against a basic high-performance ultrafast laser such as a Ti:sapphire femtosecond laser.
Numerical analysis of drag reduction characteristics of biomimetic puffer skin: Effect of spinal arrangement
Authors: Feng Xiaoming , Jia Changfeng , Fan Dongliang , Hu Yushen , Tian Guizhong
Published: June 2021

In this paper, biomimetic spines on puffer skin were taken as the study object, and numerical simulation was used to study the effect of the spinal arrangement on drag reduction characteristics. The results showed that the drag reduction decreased with the increasing arrangement position (AP) and inflow angle (β), and the drag reduction of the average arrangement was obviously better than that of the staggered arrangement. Moreover, drag reduction increased gradually as the arrangement quantity-R/T (AQR/AQT) increased. The drag reduction increased first and then decreased with the increasing arrangement spacing-R (ASR), and the drag reduction increased as the arrangement spacing-T (AST) increased. In short, the greater the spinal quantity and spacing, the better the drag reduction effect; however, it was affected by the arrangement position, which made the drag reduction effect reduce. More notably, the optimal drag reduction reached 23.1% when the arrangement parameters were the average arrangement, β = 0°, AP = 0 mm, AQR = 11, AQT = 5, ASR = 6.5 mm, and AST = 3.5 mm. Overall, the spinal arrangement parameters can be effectively regulated until the optimal drag reduction was realized, and this work provides a valuable reference for future studies on drag reduction for engineering applications.
Dynamic behavior of the cavitation bubbles collapsing between a rigid wall and an elastic wall
Authors: Zhang Chao , Yin Zhaoqin , Tu Chengxu , Huang Zeming , Chen Taohou , Bao Fubing , Lu Junliang , Ge Xianfu
Published: June 2021

There are various bubble cavitation phenomena in daily production and life, and near-wall cavitation is the most common one. This paper studies the bubble cavitation dynamics between a rigid wall and an elastic wall, and by changing the distance between the two walls and the initial position of the bubble, several different bubble collapse patterns are obtained. Then, we discuss the changes in the migration distance, gravity, and maximum radius during the cavitation. Finally, numerical simulation is used to successfully acquire the satellite bubbles appearing in the process of the bubble collapse between the rigid wall and the elastic wall, which is in good agreement with the experimental results. We obtained the pressure of the satellite bubble and the elastic wall from the numerical simulation and explained the formation of the satellite bubble.