bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating altered brain development in infants with congenital heart disease using tensor-based morphometry
Authors: Ng Isabel H. X. , Bonthrone Alexandra F. , Kelly Christopher J. , Cordero-Grande Lucilio , Hughes Emer J. , Price Anthony N. , Hutter Jana , Victor Suresh , Schuh Andreas , Rueckert Daniel , Hajnal Joseph V. , Simpson John , Edwards A. David , Rutherford Mary A. , Batalle Dafnis , Counsell Serena J.
Published: September 2020

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging studies have demonstrated reduced global and regional brain volumes in infants with congenital heart disease (CHD). This study aimed to provide a more detailed evaluation of altered structural brain development in newborn infants with CHD compared to healthy controls using tensor-based morphometry (TBM). We compared brain development in 64 infants with CHD to 192 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. T2-weighted MR images obtained prior to surgery were analysed to compare voxel-wise differences in structure across the whole brain between groups. Cerebral oxygen delivery (CDO2) was measured in infants with CHD (n = 49) using phase contrast MR imaging and the relationship between CDO2 and voxel-wise brain structure was assessed using TBM. After correcting for global scaling differences, clusters of significant volume reduction in infants with CHD were demonstrated bilaterally within the basal ganglia, thalami, corpus callosum, occipital, temporal, parietal and frontal lobes, and right hippocampus (p < 0.025 after family-wise error correction). Clusters of significant volume expansion in infants with CHD were identified in cerebrospinal fluid spaces (p < 0.025). After correcting for global brain size, there was no significant association between voxel-wise brain structure and CDO2. This study localizes abnormal brain development in infants with CHD, identifying areas of particular vulnerability.
A biocomposite-based rapid sampling assay for circulating cell-free DNA in liquid biopsy samples from human cancers
Authors: Koo Bonhan , Jun Eunsung , Liu Huifang , Kim Eo Jin , Park Yun-Yong , Lim Seok-Byung , Kim Song Cheol , Shin Yong
Published: September 2020

Cell-free nucleic acids (cfNAs) in liquid biopsy samples are emerging as important biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and monitoring, and for predicting treatment outcomes. Many cfNA isolation methods have been developed recently. However, most of these techniques are time-consuming, complex, require large equipment, and yield low-purity cfNAs because the genetic background of normal cells is amplified during cell lysis, which limits their clinical application. Here, we report a rapid and simple cfNA sampling platform that can overcome the limitations of conventional methods. We synthesised a biocomposite by combining amine-modified diatomaceous earth (DE) and cucurbituril (CB). The biocomposite platform showed high capture efficiency (86.78–90.26%) with genomic DNA and amplified DNA products (777, 525 and 150 bp). The biocomposite platform allowed the isolation of high purity and quantity cfDNAs from the plasma of 13 cancer patients (three colorectal cancer and ten pancreatic cancer samples) without requiring a lysis step or special equipment. The biocomposite platform may be useful to isolate cfNAs for the diagnosis and treatment of cancers in clinical applications.
Interaction dynamics and site-specific electronic recognition of DNA-nicks with 2D solid-state nanopores
Authors: Athreya Nagendra , Milenkovic Olgica , Leburton Jean-Pierre
Published: September 2020

Single-stranded breaks in the DNA backbone caused by many endogenous and exogenous agents often lead to double-stranded breaks that are known causes of chromosomal instabilities leading to copious diseases. We describe a label-free detection technique using two-dimensional (2D) solid-state nanopore field-effect transistors (FETs) to sense and map site-specific nicks in the DNA backbone. We use all-atom molecular dynamics simulations coupled with electronic transport modeling to illustrate the 2D membrane device capability to sense minute structural changes of any translocating biomolecules via their in-plane electronic sheet current signatures, whereas Van der Waals analyses explain the distinct hydrophobic interactions between various DNA-nick types with graphene and MoS2 nanopore membranes. Specifically, we describe the atypical unzipping behavior of DNA strands caused by the biomolecule sticking at nicked site in the graphene nanopore, under the influence of voltage-specific translocations.
CheXaid: deep learning assistance for physician diagnosis of tuberculosis using chest x-rays in patients with HIV
Authors: Rajpurkar Pranav , O’Connell Chloe , Schechter Amit , Asnani Nishit , Li Jason , Kiani Amirhossein , Ball Robyn L. , Mendelson Marc , Maartens Gary , van Hoving Daniël J. , Griesel Rulan , Ng Andrew Y. , Boyles Tom H. , Lungren Matthew P.
Published: September 2020

Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of preventable death in HIV-positive patients, and yet often remains undiagnosed and untreated. Chest x-ray is often used to assist in diagnosis, yet this presents additional challenges due to atypical radiographic presentation and radiologist shortages in regions where co-infection is most common. We developed a deep learning algorithm to diagnose TB using clinical information and chest x-ray images from 677 HIV-positive patients with suspected TB from two hospitals in South Africa. We then sought to determine whether the algorithm could assist clinicians in the diagnosis of TB in HIV-positive patients as a web-based diagnostic assistant. Use of the algorithm resulted in a modest but statistically significant improvement in clinician accuracy (p = 0.002), increasing the mean clinician accuracy from 0.60 (95% CI 0.57, 0.63) without assistance to 0.65 (95% CI 0.60, 0.70) with assistance. However, the accuracy of assisted clinicians was significantly lower (p < 0.001) than that of the stand-alone algorithm, which had an accuracy of 0.79 (95% CI 0.77, 0.82) on the same unseen test cases. These results suggest that deep learning assistance may improve clinician accuracy in TB diagnosis using chest x-rays, which would be valuable in settings with a high burden of HIV/TB co-infection. Moreover, the high accuracy of the stand-alone algorithm suggests a potential value particularly in settings with a scarcity of radiological expertise.
Discovery of four Noggin genes in lampreys suggests two rounds of ancient genome duplication
Authors: Ermakova Galina V. , Kucheryavyy Alexander V. , Zaraisky Andrey G. , Bayramov Andrey V.
Published: September 2020

The secreted protein Noggin1 was the first discovered natural embryonic inducer produced by cells of the Spemann organizer. Thereafter, it was shown that vertebrates have a whole family of Noggin genes with different expression patterns and functional properties. For example, Noggin1 and Noggin2 inhibit the activity of BMP, Nodal/Activin and Wnt-beta-catenin signalling, while Noggin4 cannot suppress BMP but specifically modulates Wnt signalling. In this work, we described and investigated phylogeny and expression patterns of four Noggin genes in lampreys, which represent the most basally divergent group of extant vertebrates, the cyclostomes, belonging to the superclass Agnatha. Assuming that lampreys have Noggin homologues in all representatives of another superclass of vertebrates, the Gnathostomata, we propose a model for Noggin family evolution in vertebrates. This model is in agreement with the hypotheses suggesting two rounds of genome duplication in the ancestor of vertebrates before the divergence of Agnatha and Gnathostomata.
Species-specific sensitivity of Eisenia earthworms towards noble metal nanoparticles: a multiparametric in vitro study
Authors: Bodó Kornélia , Hayashi Yuya , Gerencsér Gellért , László Zoltán , Kéri Albert , Galbács Gábor , Telek Elek , Mészáros Mária , Deli Mária A. , Kokhanyuk Bohdana , Németh Péter , Engelmann Péter
Published: September 2020

This study is focused on the remarkable sensitivity differences of immune cells from two closely-related earthworm species (Eisenia andrei and E. fetida) towards noble metal nanomaterials at cellular and molecular levels.
Dissolving microneedles integrated with pH-responsive micelles containing AIEgen with ultra-photostability for enhancing melanoma photothermal therapy
Authors: Wei Sihui , Quan Guilan , Lu Chao , Pan Xin , Wu Chuanbin
Published: September 2020

NIR950@PMs@MN could achieve satisfactory melanoma tumor ablation through single administration and one-time laser irradiation.
Supramolecular medical antibacterial tissue adhesive prepared based on natural small molecules
Authors: Chen Junying , Yuan Tian , Liu Zuozhen
Published: September 2020

Supramolecular tissue adhesives are synthesized using natural small-molecule monomer lipoic acid.
Recent progress of therapeutic peptide based nanomaterials: from synthesis and self-assembly to cancer treatment
Authors: Guo Ruo-Chen , Zhang Xue-Hao , Ji Lei , Wei Zi-Jin , Duan Zhong-Yu , Qiao Zeng-Ying , Wang Hao
Published: September 2020

This review has described the synthesis, self-assembly and the anti-cancer application of therapeutic peptides and their conjugates, particularly polymer–peptide conjugates (PPCs).
Tuning the electronic structure of Ag3PO4-based composites through a graphene oxide mediator for enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Zhou Tianhong , Huang Xingxing , Zhang Hongwei , Yang Hao , Ma Kai , Zhang Peng , Zhang Guozhen
Published: September 2020

A novel GO-supported APO/CFO composite was prepared, which exhibited excellent photocatalytic RhB degradation and HER performance under visible-light irradiation.
Earth-abundant Cu-based metal oxide photocathodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Li Changli , He Jingfu , Xiao Yequan , Li Yanbo , Delaunay Jean-Jacques
Published: September 2020

In this review, we discuss the merits and major challenges of p-type binary and ternary Cu-based metal oxide photocathodes and present the latest research effort in modifying the materials towards high-performance photocathodes.
Functionalized porous organic materials as efficient media for the adsorptive removal of Hg(ii) ions
Authors: Modak Arindam , Bhanja Piyali , Selvaraj Manickam , Bhaumik Asim
Published: September 2020

Hg(ii) contamination in water is a major health issue. Functionalized organic materials have huge scope for the large-scale adsorptive removal of Hg(ii). This review summarizes major achievements of POPs and COFs in the water purification purposes.
Coupled electrokinetic and biological remediation method leads to improved treatment of chlorinated solvents at high sulfate, transport limited sites
Authors: Meinel Megan , Krajmalnik-Brown Rosa , Torres César I.
Published: September 2020

The combined biotic and abiotic mechanisms of EK-Bio can result in improved remediation of TCE over traditional bioaugmentation methods.
The chemopreventive effects of Huangqin-tea against AOM-induced preneoplastic colonic aberrant crypt foci in rats and omics analysis
Authors: Shen Jie , Li Pei , Liu Shuangshuang , Liu Qing , Li Yue , Zhang Zheng , Yang Chengmin , Hu Mengying , Sun Yuhua , He Chunnian , Xiao Peigen
Published: September 2020

In the AOM-induced precancerous colorectal lesions rat model, HQT inhibits aberrant crypt foci formation mainly by modulating the gut microbiota composition and improving metabolomic disorders.
Lipid extraction from dried blood spots and dried milk spots for untargeted high throughput lipidomics
Authors: Furse Samuel , Koulman Albert
Published: September 2020

Dried blood spots (DBS) and dried milk spots (DMS) represent convenient matrices for collecting and storing human samples.
Growth and electronic properties of bi- and trilayer graphene on Ir(111)
Authors: Kastorp Claus F. P. , Duncan David A. , Scheffler Martha , Thrower John D. , Jørgensen Anders L. , Hussain Hadeel , Lee Tien-Lin , Hornekær Liv , Balog Richard
Published: September 2020

Interesting electronic properties arise in vertically stacked graphene sheets, some of which can be controlled by mutual orientation of the adjacent layers.
Introduction to Glycosylation: new methodologies and applications
Authors: Fairbanks Antony J. , Flitsch Sabine L. , Galan M. Carmen
Published: September 2020

M. Carmen Galan, Sabine Flitsch and Antony Fairbanks introduce the Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry themed collection on glycosylation: new methodologies and applications.
Nanostructured diatom earth SiO2 negative electrodes with superior electrochemical performance for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Blanco Maria Valeria , Renman Viktor , Vullum-Bruer Fride , Svensson Ann Mari
Published: September 2020

Diatomaceous earth SiO2 anodes with superior electrochemical performance are obtained by ball milling, carbon coating and electrochemical activation of SiO2 particles.
Shape-dependent close-edge 2D-MoS2 nanobelts
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Yang Haiguang , Feng Huimin , Wang Lei , Chen Shengyao , Zhou Zhican , Wang Shu , Liu Qian
Published: September 2020

A very simple mechanical peeling method to obtain various closed and shape-dependent MoS2 edge nanobelt.
Modulation for efficiency and spectra of non-doped white organic light emitting diodes by combining an exciplex with an ultrathin phosphorescent emitter
Authors: Liu Zemei , Zhao Bo , Gao Yuan , Chen Haifeng , Dong Bizheng , Xu Yabo , Wang Hua , Xu Bingshe , Li Wenlian
Published: September 2020

Non-doped WOLED with modulated efficiency and spectra were designed by combining blue exciplex with orange-red phosphorescent ultrathin layer.
Electronic and optical properties of [Au(CH3CSS)]4 cluster. A quantum chemistry study
Authors: Mendizabal Fernando , Miranda-Rojas Sebastián
Published: September 2020

The [Au(dta)]4 (dta = dithioacetate, S2CCH3) cluster is modeled and the electronic and optical properties described.
Efficient tribological properties of azomethine-functionalized chitosan as a bio-lubricant additive in paraffin oil: experimental and theoretical analysis
Authors: Murmu Manilal , Sengupta Sirsendu , Pal Ritam , Mandal Sukdeb , Murmu Naresh Chandra , Banerjee Priyabrata
Published: September 2020

Schiff base derivative of chitosan as biolubricant additive explored in paraffin lube oil.
Model development for enzymatic reactive crystallization of β-lactam antibiotics: a reaction–diffusion-crystallization approach
Authors: Salami Hossein , Lagerman Colton E. , Harris Patrick R. , McDonald Matthew A. , Bommarius Andreas S. , Rousseau Ronald W. , Grover Martha A.
Published: September 2020

A mathematical model for production of β-lactam antibiotics via enzymatic reactive crystallization is developed, and its application for catalyst and process design is discussed.
Identification of a nanomolar affinity α-synuclein fibril imaging probe by ultra-high throughput in silico screening
Authors: Ferrie John J. , Lengyel-Zhand Zsofia , Janssen Bieneke , Lougee Marshall G. , Giannakoulias Sam , Hsieh Chia-Ju , Pagar Vinayak Vishnu , Weng Chi-Chang , Xu Hong , Graham Thomas J. A. , Lee Virginia M.-Y. , Mach Robert H. , Petersson E. James
Published: September 2020

Ultra-high throughput in silico screening identified molecules that bind to α-synuclein fibrils, which were analyzed by photo-crosslinking, structure-activity studies, and radioligand binding to validate this approach for finding imaging probes.
Proteomimetic surface fragments distinguish targets by function
Authors: Tököli Attila , Mag Beáta , Bartus Éva , Wéber Edit , Szakonyi Gerda , Simon Márton A. , Czibula Ágnes , Monostori Éva , Nyitray László , Martinek Tamás A.
Published: September 2020

Foldameric local surface mimetics (LSMs) detect spots at protein surfaces and are promising building blocks in a fragment-centric design of xenobiotic structures and protein–protein interaction inhibitors.
Light-intensity switch enabled nonsynchronous growth of fluorinated raspberry-like nanoparticles
Authors: Han Shantao , Gu Yu , Ma Mingyu , Chen Mao
Published: September 2020

Nonsynchronous growth of raspberry-like (RB) nanoparticles in a one-pot and bottom-up fashion, enabling simple post-modification of RB colloids through both covalent bond formation and supramolecular interaction.
Design and synthesis of chiral and regenerable [2.2]paracyclophane-based NAD(P)H models and application in biomimetic reduction of flavonoids
Authors: Zhu Zhou-Hao , Ding Yi-Xuan , Wu Bo , Zhou Yong-Gui
Published: September 2020

With the rapid development of biomimetic asymmetric reduction, the demand for efficient chiral and regenerable NAD(P)H models is growing rapidly.
Phosphinoborylenes as stable sources of fleeting borylenes
Authors: Pranckevicius Conor , Weber Marco , Krummenacher Ivo , Phukan Ashwini K. , Braunschweig Holger
Published: September 2020

A room-temperature stable phosphinoborylene provides a source of a reactive two-coordinate borylene via dissociation of a labile phosphine upon gentle heating. Ligand exchange, the capture of unsaturated molecules, and oxidation have been explored.
Design optimization, sensitivity analysis and operational comparison of a duplex helical elliptical tube metal hydride reactor
Authors: Wang Di , Li Shanshan , Huang Zhuonan , Liu Zhiru , Wang Yuqi , Yang Fusheng , Wu Zhen , Zhang Zaoxiao , Wu Jinqiao , Shi Lei , Yuan Jie
Published: September 2020

The outstanding performance of DHER is confirmed and the radial projected area of its tubes is determined as the key design factor.
Photocatalytic, structural and optical properties of mixed anion solid solutions Ba3Sc2−xInxO5Cu2S2 and Ba3In2O5Cu2S2−ySey
Authors: Limburn Gregory J. , Stephens Matthew J. P. , Williamson Benjamin A. D. , Iborra-Torres Antonio , Scanlon David O. , Hyett Geoffrey
Published: September 2020

Nine members of two contiguous solid solutions, Ba3Sc2−xInxO5Cu2S2 and Ba3In2O5Cu2S2−ySey (x, y = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2), were synthesised at temperatures between 800 °C and 900 °C by stoichiometric combination of binary precursors.
In silico design of 2D polymers containing truxene-based platforms: insights into their structural and electronic properties
Authors: Gámez-Valenzuela Sergio , Echeverri Marcelo , Gómez-Lor Berta , Martínez José I. , Ruiz Delgado M. Carmen
Published: September 2020

A total of 27 different 2D truxene-based polymers were theoretically investigated. Our results provide interesting guidelines to design novel 2D materials with applications ranging from sensing to photocatalysis or electronics.
Emodin ameliorates renal injury in BXSB mice by modulating TNF-α/ICAM-1
Authors: Yuan Xinlu , Dai Binbin , Yang Liyan , Lin Beiduo , Lin Enqin , Pan Yangbin
Published: September 2020

The purpose of the present study was to explore the effects of emodin on renal injury in a BXSB mouse model of lupus and its mechanisms. BXSB mice were fed different concentrations of emodin (0, 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg.d), and the levels of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and fibronectin (FN) levels in the glomeruli and serum levels of the anti-dsDNA antibody were determined. Mesangial cells (MCs) were cultured in vitro, and IgG-type anti-dsDNA antibody and/or emodin were added to the MC culture supernatant. In addition, TNF-α small interfering RNA (siRNA) was transfected into MCs to explore the mechanism of action of emodin. The results showed that the mice fed emodin presented decreases in the urinary protein content and glomerular TNF-α, ICAM-1 and FN levels (P<0.05). Moreover, the urine protein, TNF-α, ICAM-1 and FN levels were decreased in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.05). In vitro, the anti-dsDNA antibody group exhibited increased levels of ICAM-1 and TNF-α (P<0.05), and the anti-dsDNA antibody group showed myofibroblast-like structural changes. The aforementioned indexes were decreased in the emodin group (P<0.05), and the extent of transdifferentiation was significantly reduced. Moreover, the level of ICAM-1 decreased with the down-regulation of TNF-α (P<0.05). Emodin reduced the urine protein levels and serum levels of the anti-dsDNA antibody in a mouse model of lupus nephritis (LN). The underlying mechanism may be related to decreased levels of TNF-α, ICAM-1 and FN and the inhibition of dsDNA antibody-induced MC damage.
Review on vision‐based tracking in surgical navigation
Authors: Yang Liangjing , Etsuko Kobayashi
Published: September 2020

Computer vision is an important cornerstone for the foundation of many modern technologies. The development of modern computer‐aided‐surgery, especially in the context of surgical navigation for minimally invasive surgery, is one example. Surgical navigation provides the necessary spatial information in computer‐aided‐surgery. Amongst the various forms of perception, vision‐based sensing has been proposed as a promising candidate for tracking and localisation application largely due to its ability to provide timely intra‐operative feedback and contactless sensing. The motivation for vision‐based sensing in surgical navigation stems from many factors, including the challenges faced by other forms of navigation systems. A common surgical navigation system performs tracking of surgical tools with external tracking systems, which may suffer from both technical and usability issues. Vision‐based tracking offers a relatively streamlined framework compared to those approaches implemented with external tracking systems. This review study aims to discuss contemporary research and development in vision‐based sensing for surgical navigation. The selected review materials are expected to provide a comprehensive appreciation of state‐of‐the‐art technology and technical issues enabling holistic discussions of the challenges and knowledge gaps in contemporary development. Original views on the significance and development prospect of vision‐based sensing in surgical navigation are presented.
Tentative detection of HC5NH+ in TMC-1
Authors: Marcelino N. , Agúndez M. , Tercero B. , Cabezas C. , Bermúdez C. , Gallego J. D. , deVicente P. , Cernicharo J.
Published: September 2020

Using the Yebes 40m radio telescope, we report the detection of a series of seven lines harmonically related with a rotational constant B0 = 1295.81581 ± 0.00026MHz and a distortion constant D0 = 27.3 ± 0.5Hz towards the cold dense cloud TMC-1. Ab initio calculations indicate that the best possible candidates are the cations HC5NH+ and NC4NH+. From a comparison between calculated and observed rotational constants and other arguments based on proton affinities and dipole moments, we conclude that the best candidate for a carrier of the observed lines is the protonated cyanodiacetylene cation, HC5NH+. The HC5N/HC5NH+ ratio derived in TMC-1 is 240, which is very similar to the HC3N/HC3NH+ ratio. Results are discussed in the framework of a chemical model for protonated molecules in cold dense clouds.
Experimental Study on the Breaking Ability of the Cutting Angle of Conical Picks
Authors: Kang K. X. , He B. , Wang S. J.
Published: September 2020

This Effects of cutting angle of conical picks affecting on rock breaking capacity was researched to calculate the low construction efficiency of the conical picks at hard rock cutting. Firstly, according to the construction situation of the conical picks, the rotary milling test bench of rock was built. Secondly, the physical and mechanical properties of four kinds of rocks (blue sandstone, red sandstone, limestone, granite.) were measured, and the brittleness index of the four kinds of rocks was calculated. Finally, four kinds of rocks were tested at six cutting angles, respectively. The results of the experiments indicate that the radial force is the largest, the tangential fore is the second, and the lateral force is the smallest in the three-axis of the pick against the four rocks over 50MPa. With the increase of the rock compressive strength, the ratio of radial force to tangential force increases gradually. Therefore, more down-force of machine is needed to improve the impact penetration ability of the pick. Taking milling resistance and specific energy consumption as index, the cutting angle of 63 for the green sandstone and red sandstone, and the cutting angle of 58 for the limestone and granite are helpful to improve the operation efficiency of the whole machine.
Construction monitoring on the unloading process of steel roof for Guilin Liangjiang International Airport Terminal T2
Authors: Lin Jindi , Wei Yongbin , Qiao Maowei
Published: September 2020

The main building of Guilin Liangjiang International Airport Terminal T2 adopts the steel reinforced concrete frame structure, the central roof uses the spatial solid web arch support and single-shell steel structural system with the largest supporting arch span of 120 meters, and the single-shell steel structural system is connected with the spatial solid web arch through diagonal bracing. The large-span space steel structure of the roof had a large building area, and more than 300 lattice columns were used for temporary support in construction. In the unloading process of steel structure, the deformation and stress of the structure changed greatly. Simulation for all construction steps of the main steel structure, the key steel members and structural locations with large deformations were found out, and the monitoring scheme of deformation and stress of steel structure were determined. The stress monitoring of steel structural was completed by the self-developed wireless stress monitoring system. The deformation monitoring points were automatically searched by the deformation robot, and the three-dimensional coordinates of each monitoring points were measured. The measured results were compared with the initial data, and the deformation of structure was obtained. In the whole process of stress and deformation monitoring, the early warning values were set according to structural analysis and material properties, which could help engineers to make decisions on the structural safety. After the smooth construction of the project, we would find that the monitoring system meted the monitoring requirement during the construction stage, and the result was an important evaluation index for the structure. The research methods used in this paper could be seen as useful reference for construction of similar projects.
Single-item lot-based supplying and batch production under a bilateral capacity reservation: A partnership structure
Authors: Rezaei Saeid , Behnamian Javad
Published: September 2020

This paper studies a single-item lot-based supplying and batch production under a bilateral capacity reservation contract based on a partnership structure in which some suppliers, a manufacturer, and a third-party logistics provider are connected through long-term cooperation agreements. This configures a partnership supply chain and promotes the manufacturer’s performance in a continuous improvement cycle. Since in this paper, it is assumed that the products are perishable, there is not any inventory storage. Moreover, due to a settled contract, the final products are delivered by third-party logistics corporate providing vehicles according to the products’ features, their expiration time lengths, customers’ demands and other considerations in each period. Thus, the delivery batch size, which is equal to the vehicle capacity in a full truckload mode, is targeted for the manufacturer operations resulting in a dynamic improvement environment. In this problem, respect to the performance level of the manufacturer, in each period, a certain capacity is reserved at each selected supplier level according to the appointed batch deliveries. Here, in addition to the ordinary costs incurred due to ordering and delivery processes, some penalties are imposed for orders/delivers exceeding or falling behind the reserved capacity. After investigating the computational complexity of the problem, we propose three dynamic programming algorithm as well. Finally, numerical results and some potential future researches are presented.
Möglichkeiten der Ernährungstherapie bei chronisch entzündlichen Darmerkrankungen
Authors: Glaser Joachim
Published: September 2020

Nach derzeitigem Kenntnisstand haben Ernährungsgewohnheiten keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf die Pathogenese chronisch entzündlicher Darmerkrankungen (CED). Eine längere Stilldauer scheint Säuglinge jedoch vor späterer Erkrankung an CED zu schützen. Liegen im Zuge der Erkrankung Mangelzustände vor, ist eine spezielle Ernährungstherapie indiziert, vorzugsweise enteral – insbesondere bei Kindern.
Implementation of COVID-19 Protocols and Tele-Triage in an Academic Ophthalmology Department
Authors: Scanzera Angelica C. , Cole Emily , Valikodath Nita , Pham Chau , Vajaranant Thasarat Sutabutr , Edward Deepak P. , Hallak Joelle A. , Leiderman Yannek I. , Kalinoski Lauren , MacIntosh Peter , Aref Ahmad A. , Shukla Deepak , Bhat Pooja , Tu Elmer , Chan R.V. Paul
Published: September 2020

Background The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected academic ophthalmology departments globally, causing changes in educational, research, and clinical operations in the short and long term. Healthcare workers are at higher risk of contracting the disease and given early reports suggestive of transmission through the tear film in COVID-19 cases with conjunctivitis, and close proximity during examination, eye care providers in particular may be at increased risk.

Objective To provide the experience from a single academic ophthalmology program in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods This article describes the changes executed in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, with emphasis on the implementation of a tele-triage process for urgent visits.

Results In response to the pandemic, our department made rapid changes to its departmental protocols for education, research, and patient management. Early measures focused on limiting face-to-face interactions among patients, staff, residents, and faculty, decreasing the risk of exposure to disease while also providing access for patients in urgent need of care.

Conclusion We hope that the UIC experience will assist other academic tertiary referral centers in maximizing their opportunities to deliver excellent patient care while minimizing risks to patient and provider, all while continuing to provide a quality graduate medical educational experience during and beyond the pandemic.
Percutaneous Scaphoid Fixation: Experience Value among Different Approaches
Authors: Ramos-Marques Nuno , Ferrão Ana , Morais Bruno , Barreira Mariana , Teixeira Frederico
Published: September 2020

Background Percutaneous scaphoid osteosynthesis is an attractive and increasingly popular option, as a treatment for acute scaphoid fractures in selected cases, and as an alternative to conservative treatment. The purpose of this study is to assess the radiographic positioning of the screw in percutaneous scaphoid fixation, taking into consideration the surgeons' experience, and the difference between volar and dorsal approaches.

Methods We retrospectively assessed patients undergoing percutaneous scaphoid fixation from 2013 to 2019. Inclusion criteria are as follows: (1) scaphoid waist fractures (Herbert's B2), (2) a minimum of 18 years of age and a maximum of 55 years of age, (3) dominant hand, (4) manual work, (5) minimum follow-up time of 6 months, and (6) without associated lesions. Criteria for correct positioning are as follows: (1) on the axis or parallel to the scaphoid axis with a maximum deviation of 1.5 mm volar/dorsal, (2) without proximal/dorsal prominence, (3) correct scaphoid alignment/reduction, and (4) absence of threads in the fracture site. Radiographs were evaluated separately by a hand surgeon, a general orthopaedic surgeon, and an orthopaedic resident.

Results With a total of 39 patients, a dorsal approach was performed in 10 patients and a palmar approach in 29 patients. We verified a very good interobserver reliability. The hand surgeon's team correctly positioned 15 (83.3%, 15/18), while the other team did 9 correctly (42.9%, 9/21). Comparing teams according to the approach used, the dorsal approach did not show a statistical difference, while the same was not true for the volar approach (p < 0.05).

Conclusion This points to a positive impact on the team's experience in the positioning of the screws, and therefore in the benefit of treatment by teams dedicated to the area, while daring to suggest that less-experienced surgeons should utilize the dorsal approach.
Size Matters: Rethinking of the Sizing Classification of Pituitary Adenomas Based on the Rates of Surgery: A Multi-institutional Retrospective Study of 29,651 Patients
Authors: Bhimani Abhiraj D. , Schupper Alexander J. , Arnone Gregory D. , Chada Deeksha , Chaker Anisse N. , Mohammadi Nicki , Hadjipanayis Costas G. , Mehta Ankit I.
Published: September 2020

Objective Pituitary adenomas are historically classified into microadenoma or macroadenomas based on size less than or greater than/equal to 1c m. “Giant” adenomas describe tumors ≥4 cm. The aim of this study is to present an evidence-based approach to size classification based on national trends.

Design The design involved is multi-institutional retrospective study.

Participants A total of 29,651 patients were studied from National Cancer Institute's SEER program from 2004 to 2016 across the United States.

Main Outcome Measures The main outcome measures include demographics, treatment characteristics, and overall survival in the population.

Results At the 20-mm threshold, the likelihood of operation exceeds the likelihood of nonoperative management. Patients with adenoma size 1 to 19 mm had significantly longer overall survival compared with 20 to 50 mm (Log rank: p < 0.0001). No survival difference was found between size 20 to 29 mm and larger. There was no significant difference in the rate of surgery between 30 to 39 mm and 40 to 50 mm tumors(p = 0.5035). Surgery group had a higher overall survival compared with nonsurgically managed patients (Log rank: p < 0.0001).

Conclusion Microadenoma has classically been used to describe pituitary tumors less than 1 cm, though no clinical significance of this threshold has been demonstrated. The current study suggests a size cut-off of 20 or 30 mm as more clinically relevant. Still, future studies are warranted to examine the significance of this classification by specific tumor type, and subclassified as appropriate. There is no difference in the rate of surgery or survival for adenomas between 30 and 50 mm, challenging the 4-mm cutoff threshold for “giant” adenoma.
Utility of Nasal Access Guides in Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery: Assessment of Use during Cadaveric Dissection and Workflow Analysis in Surgery
Authors: Velasquez Nathalia , Ahmed Omar H. , Lavigne Philippe , Goldschmidt Ezequiel , Gardner Paul A. , Snyderman Carl H. , Wang Eric W.
Published: September 2020

Background A nasal access guide (NAG) for endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs) to the skull-base has been developed and approved for clinical use but its utility has not been formally investigated.

Objective The study aims to assess the effect of a NAG on endoscopic visualization during cadaveric dissection and to perform a workflow analysis with process-based performance measures in the operating room and their effect on clinical outcomes.

Methods Skull-base course participants were observed during hands-on cadaveric dissection with and without NAG. Instances of endoscope withdrawal for lens cleaning and inadequate visualization due to lens soiling were tabulated. Participants completed a Likert-scale survey examining the NAG utility and provided an overall grading. Surgical workflow and process-based performance on patients undergoing EEA to the skull-base was analyzed. Passage of powered and dissecting instruments, removal of endoscopes for cleaning, and dislodgment or migration of the device were reviewed. Postoperative assessments included mucosal trauma and synechiae formation.

Results Instances of endoscope soiling and manual cleaning were significantly reduced by 40% and 61% with the NAG during cadaveric dissection. The overall grading of the device was 2.75/3. Surgical workflow was observed in 35 patients. Average number of passes of endoscopes, instruments, and powered tools during a 10-minute observation period were 3,17, and 5 during the surgical approach, and 3, 18, and 1 during tumor dissection. Dislodgement of the device occurred in 25.7% and migration of the device in 2.8% of cases. Postoperative synechiae, exposed cartilage or septal perforation was not observed in follow up.

Conclusion NAG can significantly reduce inadequate visualization during EEA to the skull-base and has the potential to reduce instances of nasal trauma. Participants assessed its overall utility as being “excellent.”
Anatomical Limits of the Endoscopic Contralateral Transmaxillary Approach to the Petrous Apex and Petroclival Region
Authors: Mangussi-Gomes João , Alves-Belo João T. , Truong Huy Q. , Nogueira Gustavo F. , Wang Eric W. , Fernandez-Miranda Juan C. , Gardner Paul A. , Snyderman Carl H.
Published: September 2020

Objectives This study aimed to establish the anatomical landmarks for performing a contralateral transmaxillary approach (CTM) to the petrous apex (PA) and petroclival region (PCR), and to compare CTM with a purely endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA).

Design EEA and CTM to the PA and PCR were performed bilaterally in eight human anatomical specimens. Surgical techniques and anatomical landmarks were described, and EEA was compared with CTM with respect to ability to reach the contralateral internal acoustic canal (IAC). Computed tomographic scans of 25 cadaveric heads were analyzed and the “angle” and “reach” of CTM and EEA were measured.

Results Entry to the PA via a medial approach was limited by (1) abducens nerve superiorly, (2) internal carotid artery (ICA) laterally, and (3) petroclival synchondrosis inferiorly (Gardner's triangle). With CTM, it was possible to reach the contralateral IAC bilaterally in all specimens dissected, without dissection of the ipsilateral ICAs, pterygopalatine fossae, and Eustachian tubes. Without CTM, reaching the contralateral IAC was possible only if: (1) angled endoscopes and instruments were employed or (2) the pterygopalatine fossa was dissected with mobilization of the ICA and resection of the Eustachian tube. The average “angle” and “reach” advantages for CTM were 25.6-degree greater angle of approach behind the petrous ICA and 1.4-cm more lateral reach.

Conclusion The techniques and anatomical landmarks for CTM to the PA and PCR are described. Compared with a purely EEA, the CTM provides significant “angle” and “reach” advantages for the PA and PCR.
Critical factors influencing the adoption of digital marketing devices by service-oriented micro-businesses in Nigeria: A thematic analysis approach
Authors: Eze Sunday C. , Chinedu-Eze Vera C. A. , Okike Clinton K. , Bello Adenike O.
Published: September 2020

This paper examines critical success factors shaping the adoption of digital marketing devices (DMD) by micro-businesses. The study adopted a qualitative approach. Both unstructured and semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 26 micro-businesses drawn purposefully from the online database and underpinned by technology, organisation and environment (TOE) framework. This helped to unravel 14 critical success factors influencing the adoption of DMD by micro-businesses in Nigeria. These factors include functional capability, adaptive capacity and expandability which are related to technology context. Collective understanding, degree of partnership and diversity of information are linked to the organisation context while the level of training, quality of service delivery, customer fulfilment and intense competition are associated with environmental context. The study expanded the TOE framework by unravelling the impact expectancy context which is associated with factors, such as budget, business expansion, diversity and return on investment. This study will be of importance to academics and practitioners because it provides further awareness into DMD adoption framework, factors critical to the DMD adoption and may assist in reducing the number of resources spent in search of information aimed at helping DMD adoption by micro-businesses.
Renewable energy for sustainable development in sub-Saharan African countries: Challenges and way forward
Authors: Bishoge Obadia Kyetuza , Kombe Godlisten Gladstone , Mvile Benatus Norbert
Published: September 2020

The achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs) depends on the access of modern, sufficient, and efficient energy to all people. Currently, developing countries including sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are the most vulnerable to the environmental problems associated with the use of non-renewable energy. All countries are striving to develop and use sustainable renewable energy (RE) with zero, low, or neutral greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are a lot of challenges that hinder effective utilization of RE resources in SSA. Therefore, this paper attempts to explore RE potentials for sustainable development in sub-Saharan African countries and provides an in-depth discussion on the challenges facing the exploitation of renewable energy resources. Additionally, it examines ways forward to improve the situation. This study systematically reviews the RE and sustainable development sector in SSA based on the relevant studies published between 2012 and 2020. Relevant data and information from various bibliographic sources such as Web of Science were collected, selected, organized, analyzed, interpreted, and presented in themes, graphs, and tables. The study revealed that despite the abundance of RE resources such as hydropower, wind and solar energy, and bio and geothermal power in SSA, there are various drawbacks curtailing their exploitation. These include inadequate technical, financial, and human resources, weak institutional and regulatory frameworks, and sociopolitical barriers. Thus, the study recommends the strengthening of the institutional and regulatory framework, capacity building, and harmonization of financial resources and enhancement of security and political environments to attract investors.
Comparative analysis of isothermal decay of the surface potential of fluoroethylenepropylene electrets and of the sensitivity of electret microphones at elevated temperature
Authors: Gerlach André , Liebler Marko , Sessler Gerhard M. , von Seggern Heinz , Scheufele Bernd , Hirth Erhard
Published: September 2020

It is well known that fluorocarbon electrets, although thermally very stable, suffer a surface potential decay if exposed to high temperatures. This potential decay is of considerable interest in applications, for example, in the so-called prepolarized microphones. As a result, these devices suffer a loss in sensitivity approximately proportional to the decay of the electret surface potential. Since the potential and the related sensitivity losses are very slow at room temperature, a common approach in the literature is to perform accelerated isothermal depolarization experiments at elevated temperatures, and extrapolate the results to lower temperatures by assuming an Arrhenius-type behavior. In this paper, we investigate experimentally the potential decay of differently pre-annealed fluoroethylenepropylene electrets of different thicknesses, as well as the drop of sensitivity of commercially available measurement microphones from several manufacturers by the exposure to an ambient temperature of 95 °C for up to three years. Until now, no other reports compare electret and microphone decays over such a long period. The experimental data presented here could not be fitted with only one exponential decay function over the whole time-span investigated. However, assuming two or more discharge processes results in a good agreement between measurement and model functions. The time constants of these decay processes are specified in the text.
Development of x-ray phase tomographic microscope based on Talbot interferometer at BL37XU, SPring-8
Authors: Takano Hidekazu , Wu Yanlin , Hoshino Masato , Vegso Karol , Hashimoto Koh , Matsuo Koichi , Momose Atsushi
Published: September 2020

An x-ray phase tomographic microscope has been developed by optimizing the optical system for 9-keV synchrotron x rays at BL37XU, SPring-8, Japan. The system consists of a full-field x-ray imaging microscope and a Talbot interferometer. In contrast with our previous system, a Fresnel zone plate for the microscope objective and transmission gratings of the interferometer was designed to improve the refraction sensitivity, with a larger field of view and a higher spatial resolution, utilizing a 28-m space available at BL37XU. An x-ray phase tomographic microscope with a field of view of 375 µm and a spatial resolution of 560 nm was thus constructed, even with a considerably low x-ray dosage. By applying this tomographic microscope to auditory bone specimens of young mice, it was shown that soft tissues in addition to bone tissue could be observed simultaneously without serious radiation damage.
Numerical simulation on near-field aerodynamic noise of an adjustable-blade axial-flow fan
Authors: Wang Lin , Wang Nini , An Chunguo , He Suoying , Gao Ming
Published: September 2020

A numerical simulation method based on the Ffowcs-Williams and Hawkings model is employed to predict the mechanisms of the near-field aerodynamic noise distribution characteristics of an adjustable-blade axial-flow fan with different installation angles of moving blades (Δβ). The simulated results reveal that with Δβ changing from −12° to 12°, the changing curves of the maximum total sound pressure level (MTSPL) at the tip clearance region (A region), the leading edge region (B region), and the trailing edge region (C region) exhibit an apparently rising trend, which increase by 4.0 dB, 5.7 dB, and 4.3 dB, respectively. Besides, the MTSPL at the C region is always smaller than that at A and B regions within the studied installation angles. Additionally, the acoustic energy ratio (Cpi) is the ratio of the sound energy density of a certain frequency to the total sound energy density, which shows the various frequency distribution characteristics under studied angles. It is found that when Δβ deflects from −12° to 0°, Cp1 (the acoustic energy ratio at the low-frequency in the range of 20–500) decreases from 0.71 to 0.59, Cp2 (the acoustic energy ratio at the intermediate-frequency in the range of 500–2000) increases from 0.18 to 0.25, and Cp3 (the acoustic energy ratio at the high-frequency in the range of 2000–3000) rises from 0.1 to 0.16. This study derives the aerodynamic distribution characteristics of the TSPL and acoustic energy in the near field of moving blades, which reveals its changing rules and frequency distribution under various installation angles. The conclusions may provide guidance for the research regarding the technology of the noise control of the adjustable-blade axial-flow fan.
Simple estimation of intrinsic electrical parameters in junctionless transistors
Authors: Jeon Dae-Young
Published: September 2020

Junctionless transistors (JLTs) are an attractive candidate for advanced complementary metal oxide semiconductor technologies, but their mode of operation is very different from that of conventional inversion-mode transistors. In this study, we explore the close relationship between the key electrical parameters of JLTs, such as doping concentration (Nd), threshold voltage (Vth), and flat-band voltage (Vfb). The separation between Vfb and Vth in JLTs increases linearly with Nd, and the rate of increase in the separation was affected by the maximum depletion depth (Dmax) at given Nd. These findings will enable researchers to estimate simply the Nd or Vfb values of not only JLTs but also JLT-like multi-layer transition metal dichalcogenide-based transistors.