bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regional and Social Disparities for Obesity among Austrian Adults: Representative Long-term Trends from 1973–2014
Authors: Großschädl Franziska , Stronegger Willibald Julius
Published: October 2019

Study aim To present regional long-term trends for the prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) among Austrian adults in Western, Central and Eastern Austria. Furthermore, the educational inequality regarding obesity was analysed in these regions in Austria for the investigation period.

Methods Self-reported data from six nationally representative, cross-sectional surveys (n=194,030) conducted between 1973 and 2014 were analysed. Absolute changes (AC) and Etiologic fractions (EF) were calculated to measure trends. The extent of social inequality was presented by the relative index of inequality (RII) based on the educational level.

Results Since 1973, a clear east to west gradient for obesity among adults in Austria has been observed. In 2014, the age-standardized prevalence was highest among Eastern Austrian adults (women: 16.9%; men: 18.2%). A constant increase in obesity among men has been visible since 1983. Since 2007, the values for women have stabilized, while the prevalence of obesity among female Austrians in Western and Central Austria decreased. Considering the AC for the prevalence of obesity from 1983 on, the highest increase was found among women (+2.60%) and men (+1.56%) in Eastern Austria. The outcomes regarding social inequality are instable on a regional level, with the highest RII observed in 2014 for Central Austria.

Conclusion These study findings reveal significant regional differences in the prevalence of obesity in Austria and confirm the existence of an current east-west gradient in Austria for obesity. Considering the latest trends, especially men represent a risk group for obesity in the 3 regions.
Variablendefinition in fallbezogenen Krankenhausabrechnungsdaten – Fallstricke und Lösungsmöglichkeiten
Authors: Nimptsch Ulrike , Spoden Melissa , Mansky Thomas
Published: October 2019

In Deutschland ist mit der Fallpauschalenbezogenen Krankenhausstatistik (DRG-Statistik) eine Vollerhebung der Abrechnungsdaten nahezu aller akutstationären Krankenhausbehandlungsfälle verfügbar. Die Mikrodaten, d. h. die Datensätze der einzelnen Behandlungsfälle, werden von den Forschungsdatenzentren der Statistischen Ämter des Bundes und der Länder für die wissenschaftliche Nutzung bereitgestellt. Krankenhausabrechnungsdaten werden zu Abrechnungszwecken erhoben und haben – wie andere Datenquellen auch – spezifische Besonderheiten und Eigenschaften, die bei der Planung von Analysen und im Studiendesign angemessen berücksichtigt werden müssen. Eine besondere Herausforderung ist dabei die sachgerechte Operationalisierung von Analyseeinheiten, Zielgrößen und weiteren Variablen, die u. a. eine mögliche unterschiedliche Kodierpraxis in verschiedenen Krankenhäusern antizipiert und deren Auswirkungen über eine durchdachte Variablendefinition minimiert. In diesem Beitrag wird anhand von praktischen Beispielen aufgezeigt, was bei der Definition von Variablen in fallbezogenen Krankenhausabrechnungsdaten beachtet werden sollte, um das Risiko von kodierungs- oder anderweitig bedingten Verzerrungen möglichst gering zu halten. Ausgehend von den Erfahrungen der Autoren werden die wichtigsten Schritte und Herausforderungen in Bezug auf ein typisches retrospektives Beobachtungsstudiendesign in der Versorgungsforschung beschrieben. Basierend auf bereits durchgeführten Projekten auf der Grundlage der Mikrodaten der Fallpauschalenbezogenen Krankenhausstatistik (DRG-Statistik) werden Beispiele anhand eigener Berechnungen illustriert. Die Verlässlichkeit und Interpretierbarkeit von Analysen auf der Grundlage der Mikrodaten der DRG-Statistik hängt entscheidend von der sachgerechten Operationalisierung der Variablen ab. Um das Risiko von Verzerrungen und Fehlinterpretationen möglichst gering zu halten, sind umfangreiche Vorüberlegungen notwendig, die neben medizinisch-klinischen Aspekten auch den Kontext der Datenerhebung und die klassifikatorischen Möglichkeiten zur Abbildung bestimmter Sachverhalte berücksichtigen. Es ist zu hoffen, dass die Akzeptanz von Studien auf der Grundlage von Krankenhausabrechnungsdaten weiter zunimmt und der wertvolle Datenbestand der DRG-Statistik in Zukunft noch intensiver für Forschungszwecke genutzt wird.
Leitsätze zur Palliativversorgung und Trauerbegleitung in
der Peri- und Neonatologie
Authors: Strahleck Thomas , Garten Lars , Globisch Marcel , von der Hude Kerstin , Jäkel Karin , Knochel Kathrin , Krones Tanja , Nicin Tatjana , Offermann Franziska , Schindler Monika , Schneider Uwe , Schubert Beatrix
Published: October 2019

Neugeborene bilden mit fast 40 Prozent die größte Gruppe der Todesfälle im
Kindes- und Jugendalter in Deutschland. Die interprofessionelle Projektgruppe
PaluTiN (Palliativversorgung und Trauerbegleitung in der Peri- und Neonatologie)
hat unter dem Dach des Bundesverbandes Das frühgeborene Kind e. V. Leitsätze für
eine zeitgemäße und alle relevanten Aspekte berücksichtigende
Palliativversorgung und Trauerbegleitung in der Peri- und Neonatologie
erarbeitet. Thomas Strahleck stellt stellvertretend für die
PaluTiN-Arbeitsgruppe eine Kurzfassung vor.
Heparin gegen Katheterblockaden – ist das
notwendig?
Authors: Thalmann Simona , Schlüer Anna-Barbara , Koppitz Andrea Luise , Suter-Riederer Susanne
Published: October 2019

Die aktuellen Empfehlungen sowie die Umsetzung in der klinischen Praxis zur
Prävention von Katheterblockaden bei zentralvenösen Kathetern variieren stark.
Der routinemäßige Gebrauch von Heparin ist nach wie vor weitverbreitet. Die
Debatte, Kochsalzlösung als gleichwertige Lösung anstelle von Heparin sowohl zum
Spülen als auch Blocken der Katheter zu verwenden, ist groß. Studien zeigen,
dass der Gebrauch von Heparin nicht ohne Risiken, möglicherweise unnötig und mit
höheren Kosten verbunden ist. Die Anwendung von Heparin sollte deshalb in der
Praxis kritisch hinterfragt werden und es sollte eine sorgfältige Abwägung des
Nutzens im einzelnen Fall erfolgen.
Niklas’ Weg zurück ins Leben – der Wert einer
professionellen Bezugspflege
Authors: Derrer Kimberly , Schlüer Anna-Barbara , De Crom Luk , Preusse-Bleuler Barbara , Wieland Judith , Kern Mirjam , Müller Rebekka
Published: October 2019

Ein Siebenjähriger erleidet einen Autounfall mit einem schweren
Schädelhirntrauma. Essen, sprechen, gehen – alles musste er wieder neu erlernen.
Die Bezugspflege eines Rehabilitationszentrums für Kinder und Jugendliche hat
ihn und seine Familie auf dem Weg zurück ins Leben unterstützt.
Isovelocity vs. Isoinertial Sprint Cycling Tests for Power- and Torque-cadence Relationships
Authors: Kordi Mehdi , Folland Jonathan , Goodall Stuart , Barratt Paul , Howatson Glyn
Published: October 2019

Sprint cycling performance is heavily dependent on mechanical peak power output (PPO) and the underlying power- and torque-cadence relationships. Other key indices of these relationships include maximum torque (TMAX), cadence (CMAX) and optimal cadence (COPT). Two common methods are used in the laboratory to ascertain PPO: isovelocity and isoinertial. Little research has been carried out to compare the magnitude and reliability of these performance measures with these two common sprint cycling assessments. The aim of this study was to compare the magnitude and reliability of PPO, TMAX, CMAX and COPT measured with isovelocity and isoinertial sprint cycling methods. Two experimental sessions required 20 trained cyclists to perform isoinertial sprints and then isovelocity sprints. For each method, power-cadence and torque-cadence relationships were established, and PPO and COPT were interpolated and TMAX and CMAX were extrapolated. The isoinertial method produced significantly higher PPO (p<0.001) and TMAX (p<0.001) than the isovelocity method. However, the isovelocity method produced significantly higher COPT (p<0.001) and CMAX (p=0.002). Both sprint cycling tests showed high levels of between-session reliability (isoinertial 2.9–4.4%; isovelocity 2.7–4.0%). Functional measures of isovelocity and isoinertial sprint cycling tests were highly reliable but should not be used interchangably.
Der MDK als Institution der Qualitätssicherung im deutschen
Gesundheitssystem: Qualitätsprüfungen auf Basis der Richtlinie
zu minimalinvasiven Herzklappeninterventionen des G-BA – ein
Praxisbericht
Authors: Ritter Sebastian , Lehr Frauke , Gaertner Thomas , van Essen Jörg
Published: October 2019

Einleitung Der Gemeinsame Bundesausschuss (G-BA) hat im Jahr 2015
eine Richtlinie zu minimalinvasiven Herzklappeninterventionen (MHI-RL)
beschlossen. Krankenhäuser haben demnach jährlich die
Erfüllung der Qualitätsanforderungen der Richtlinie in Form
von Checklisten gegenüber den Sozialleistungsträgern zu
erklären. Diese können die Angaben durch den Medizinischen
Dienst der Krankenversicherung (MDK) vor Ort überprüfen
lassen. Es wird über die Erfahrungen mit diesen Prüfungen in
hessischen Krankenhäusern berichtet.

Methode Beim MDK Hessen werden nach Beauftragung durch die
Sozialleistungsträger und entsprechender Ankündigung die
Prüfungen von 2 ärztlichen Fachgutachtern im Rahmen von
Begehungen vor Ort in den Krankenhäusern durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse Seit dem Inkrafttreten der MHI-RL wurden bei 12 hessischen
Krankenhäusern 33 Qualitätsprüfungen zur
kathetergestützten Aortenklappenimplantation (TAVI) und/oder
transvenösen Clip-Rekonstruktion der Mitralklappe
(TMVR/„MitraClip®“)
durchgeführt. Im Rahmen einer ersten Prüfung konnte in
87,5% der Krankenhäuser, die TAVI und TMVR
durchführen, und in 50,0% der ausschließlich TMVR
durchführenden Krankenhäuser eine Übereinstimmung
mit den Checklisten nachvollzogen werden. Im Fall einer
Nichterfüllung konnte in allen Fällen im Nachgang der
Erstprüfung innerhalb der jeweils mit den
Sozialleistungsträgern vereinbarten Frist die Erfüllung
bestätigt werden. Bis zum Stichtag 21.03.2017 konnte in 11 der 12
überprüften und seit März 2018 in allen 12
Krankenhäusern die Anforderungen der MHI-RL als erfüllt
beurteilt werden.

Schlussfolgerungen Seit Inkrafttreten der MHI-RL erfolgt konsequent
eine Beauftragung des MDK Hessen als unabhängige und unparteiische
sozialmedizinische Sachverständigeninstitution innerhalb der
gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung. Mit den Qualitätsprüfungen
leistet er einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Qualitätssicherung der
spezialisierten stationären Versorgung in Hessen. Dies hat zu einer
flächendeckenden Erfüllung der Qualitätsvorgaben der
MHI-RL in Hessen geführt. Aufgrund dieser Erfahrungen ist der MDK
Hessen gut für die Herausforderungen der zukünftigen
MDK-Qualitätskontroll-Richtlinie/MDK-QK-RL
gerüstet.
Inzidenz und prädiktive Faktoren des bilateralen papillären Schilddrüsenkarzinoms
Authors: Jo Peter , Kesruek Hatice , Nietert Manuel , Sahlmann Carsten Oliver , Gaedcke Jochen , Ghadimi Michael , Sperling Jens
Published: October 2019

Hintergrund Nach Diagnose eines papillären Schilddrüsenkarzinoms (PTC) mit einer Primärtumorgröße von ≥ 10 mm und < 10 mm wird, vor dem Hintergrund eines möglichen bilateralen Tumorbefalls, das Konzept der weiteren chirurgischen Therapie nach wie vor kontrovers diskutiert. Ziel dieser Studie war es, die Inzidenz sowie prädiktive Faktoren für das Vorhandensein eines bilateralen papillären Schilddrüsenkarzinoms hinsichtlich der Auswahl einer optimalen chirurgischen Therapie zu identifizieren.

Material und Methoden Anhand einer retrospektiven Datenbank wurden bei 123 Patienten mit einem PTC, die entweder primär eine totale Thyreoidektomie oder eine Komplettierungsoperation nach Hemithyreoidektomie erhielten, die Parameter Tumorgröße, histopathologische Charakteristika, Multifokalität sowie Lymphknotenmetastasierung mit dem Vorhandensein eines bilateralen Tumorbefalls für die Primärtumorgrößen ≥ 10 mm und < 10 mm sowie ≥ 7 mm und < 7 mm korreliert.

Ergebnisse Im gesamten Patientenkollektiv zeigte sich in 26 Fällen ein bilaterales PTC. Dieses war signifikant häufiger, wenn die Primärtumorgröße ≥ 10 mm betrug (77 %). Im Vergleich dazu boten Patienten mit einer Primärtumorgröße von < 10 mm nur in 23 % der Fälle ein bilaterales PTC (p = 0,004). Die Multifokalität des Primärtumors erwies sich hierbei als positiver prädiktiver Faktor für ein bilaterales PTC (p = 5,022e-18). Bei bilateralem Nachweis eines PTCs zeigte sich ein Trend für das Auftreten von metachronen Lymphknotenmetastasen (p = 0,0691). Darüber hinaus konnten in den Analysen bezogen auf eine Primärtumorgröße von ≥ 7 mm und < 7 mm die oben genannten Ergebnisse reproduziert werden.

Schlussfolgerung Die vorliegende retrospektive Datenanalyse zeigt, dass eine Primärtumorgröße von ≥ 10 mm mit einem signifikant häufigeren bilateralen Tumorbefall korreliert. Multifokalität erwies sich als positiver prädiktiver Faktor für das Vorhandensein eines bilateralen PTCs. Bei Nachweis eines multifokalen PTCs, auch bei Primärtumorgrößen < 10 mm, sollte demnach eine primäre totale Thyreoidektomie bzw. eine Komplettierungsoperation als chirurgisches Therapieverfahren erwogen werden. Bei Multifokalität und nicht erfolgter Komplettierungsoperation ist eine engmaschige Nachsorge notwendig, um frühzeitig einen bilateralen Tumorbefall oder Lymphknotenmetastasen detektieren zu können.
Neurophysiologisches Monitoring des Nervus facialis bei Operationen an Vestibularisschwannomen: Der aktuelle Stand
Authors: Prell Julian , Strauss Christian , Rampp Stefan , Szelenyi Andrea
Published: October 2019

Hintergrund Nach Operationen an Vestibularisschwannomen gehören funktionelle Defizite des Nervus facialis zu den bedeutendsten Komplikationen. Mit Hilfe des intraoperativen neurophysiologischen Monitorings (IONM) sollen diese möglichst verhindert werden.

Fragestellung Welche Methoden zur Intraoperativen Funktionsüberwachung sind aktuell in Gebrauch, welche Ziele können damit sinnvoll verfolgt werden und welche Schwachpunkte bedürfen einer weiteren wissenschaftlichen Aufarbeitung?

Material und Methoden Auswertung und Zusammenfassung der Literatur, Diskussion der vorhandenen Methoden und ihrer Fähigkeiten, die gesteckten Ziele zu erreichen.

Ergebnisse Aus dem IONM abgeleitete Methoden des sogenannten „Mappings“ sollen den Nervus Facialis intraoperativ sicher identifizieren. IONM soll potenziell schädigende Ereignisse anzeigen und eine Einschätzung über den zu erwartenden postoperativen Funktionszustand des Nervs erlauben. Derzeit verwendet werden die elektrische Direktstimulation, das freilaufende EMG, Evozierte Potenziale des Nervus Facialis (MEP) und das prozessierte EMG. Vor allem in der Ergebnisprognostik haben alle vorhandenen Methoden deutliche Schwächen.

Schlussfolgerungen Das „Mapping“ der Nerven im OP-Situs kann mittels der elektrischen Direktstimulation gut realisiert werden. Nervenschädigungen während der Präparation können mit den anderen Methoden des IONM entweder in Echtzeit (freilaufendes EMG; prozessiertes EMG) oder nahezu in Echtzeit (MEP) angezeigt werden. Die Vorhersage des postoperativen, funktionellen Ergebnisses wird derzeit bei allen verfügbaren Methoden durch falsch positive Untersuchungsergebnisse mit konsekutiv niedrigem positiv prädiktivem Wert belastet.
Cluster Preface: Metathesis Reactions beyond Olefins
Authors: Morandi Bill
Published: October 2019

studied at the ETH Zurich from 2003–2012, earning a B.Sc. in biology, an M.Sc. in chemical biology and a Ph.D. in organic chemistry working with Prof. Erick M. Carreira. After a postdoc with Prof. Robert H. Grubbs at CalTech, he led an independent Max Planck Research Group from 2014–2018 at the Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, Germany. Since July 2018, he is a tenured Associate Professor at the ETH Zurich where he holds a chair in synthetic organic chemistry. His independent research program targets the development of new concepts in catalysis, with a particular emphasis on employing inexpensive and sustainable catalysts to transform broadly available feedstocks, such as polyols and hydrocarbons, into valuable building blocks for applications in medicine and materials science.
Preparation of Bicyclic Ketal Skeletons with Aldehyde and α-Ketone Acid through Cascade Friedel–Crafts Reaction and Stereoselective Acetalization in One Pot
Authors: Li Ling , Wang Ying-wei , Zhang Shi-qi , Deng Xiong-fei , Li Guang-xun , Zhao Gang , Tang Zhuo
Published: October 2019

Bicyclic ketal skeletons are important structure fragments that are frequently contained in natural products. A novel tandem Friedel–Crafts reaction and subsequent stereoselective acetalization were developed with readily available aldehyde and ketone acid. The reaction proceeded smoothly in the presence of catalytic Brønsted acid and afforded the corresponding product with moderate yield and high stereoselectivity.
Silver-Promoted Versatile Cross-Dehydrogenative Coupling of Quinaldine with Usual Ethers
Authors: Wang Shoufeng , Fan Yafei , Zhao Huaiqing , Wang Jianfeng , Zhang Shuxiang , Wang Wengui
Published: October 2019

The application of small molecules as synthetic blocks is a field of great meaning and full of challenges, especially the use of inert ether molecules, such as THF as starting materials. A versatile and easily handled cross-dehydrogenative coupling between ethers and quinaldine is reported here. Compared to the developed reaction, Selectfluor is used as a mild oxidant, and a variety of functional groups are tolerated. Nitrogen protection, anhydrous systems, and external base are not needed, making this method a convenient route to functional heterocycles.
Clinical Characteristics and Challenges of Management of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury in a Trauma Center of a Developing Country
Authors: Yusuf Ayodeji Salman , Mahmud Muhammad Raji , Alfin Dumura Jeneral , Gana Samue Isa , Timothy Samaila , Nwaribe Evaristus Emeka , Dalhat Nasir Kurfi , Aruna Ajibade Afeez , Idris Mohammed Mansur
Published: October 2019

Background Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) is a major burden in trauma care worldwide. Most victims are young, and the injury results in economic loss and psychological and social burden on the individual and the society. The outcome depends on the severity of primary spinal cord injury, interventions to prevent secondary insults to the damaged cord, and access to a specialized care. The lack of standard prehospital care and dedicated facilities for spine care coupled with challenges of inadequate health insurance coverage impact negatively on the outcome of care in patients with spinal cord injury in our practice.

Objectives This study was performed to determine the clinical profile of patients with TSCI and to highlight the factors that determine the early outcome in a resource-constrained trauma center.

Materials and Methods  This study was a retrospective review of trauma registry and medical records of all the patients with acute TSCI at the National Trauma Center Abuja from September 2014 to December 2016.

Results A total of 133 patients with TSCI were studied. Most of these patients were young men with a mean age of 36 years. Most injury (72.2%) occurred following motor vehicular crash affecting mainly the cervical spinal cord (62.0%). None of the patients received standard prehospital care. Only 41.4% of the patients were transported to the hospital in an ambulance. About half (52.6%) of the patients suffered complete spinal cord injury (the American Spinal Injury Association [ASIA] A), and pressure ulcer was the most common complication (23.3%). Only 42% of the patients that needed surgical intervention were operated, mainly due to the inability to pay for the service. The ASIA grade on admission was the most significant determinant factor of morbidity and mortality.

Conclusion Optimal care of patients with TSCI was hindered by inadequate facilities and economic constraints.
Accuracy of Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound Compared with Magnetic Resonance Angiography in the Diagnosis of Intracranial Artery Stenosis
Authors: Jaiswal Sandip Kumar , Fu-ling Yan , Gu Lihua , Lico Renardo , Changyong Fu , Paula Angela
Published: October 2019

Background One of the most common causes of acute cerebral infarction (ACI) is intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS). The goal of our study was to evaluate the accuracy of transcranial Doppler (TCD) compared with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) for diagnosing ICAS in patients with ACI.

Materials and Methods Consecutive patients presenting with ACI to the neurology department underwent both MRA and TCD examination within 6 hours of difference. To calculate the agreement between the results of MRA and TCD, kappa coefficient test was used. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative TCD predictive values have been calculated in comparison with MRA.

Results A total of 115 patients was included. There were 77 males (66.95%) and 38 females (33.04%). The mean age of patients was 68.32 ± 10.66 years (range 29–80). The agreement between TCD and MRA in detecting stenosis was 0.56 for anterior circulation artery (ACA), and 0.40 for posterior circulation artery. For the detection of ICAS, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values were 85.9, 90.0, 98.2, and 50.0% for anterior cerebral artery and 73.5, 86.7, 96.2, and 40.0% for posterior cerebral artery, respectively.

Conclusions Moderate agreement of anterior circulation stenosis and fair agreement for posterior circulation stenosis was found between TCD and MRA in the evaluation of ICAS. In anterior circulation, the diagnostic accuracy of TCD is higher compared with the posterior circulation.
Prevalence and Correlates of Type D Personality among Survivors following Acute Myocardial Infarction in a Tertiary Care Center in South India
Authors: Pillai Anoop Gangadharan , Menon Vikas , Satheesh Santhosh
Published: October 2019

Background Type D personality, described as a consistent tendency to experience increased levels of social inhibition and negative affectivity, has a robust association with negative outcomes following myocardial infarction (MI). However, little is known about its determinants in our setting. Our aim was to assess the prevalence and correlates
of Type D personality among survivors following acute MI (AMI).

Methods Two hundred participants with AMI were recruited over an 18-month period. Type D scale-14 was used to evaluate the presence of Type D personality. Apart from sociodemographic factors, depression, anxiety, stress, coping, personality, quality of life, and perceived social support were assessed using standard measures.

Results Type D personality was present in 24% of samples (n = 48). In multivariate Poisson regression analysis, younger age (prevalence ratio [PR]: 0.950, 95% confidence intervals [CIs]: 0.927–0.974), high depression (PR: 1.372, 95% CI: 1.216–1.548), and low family support (PR: 0.898, 95% CI: 0.849–0.949) emerged as independent predictors of Type D personality in participants with AMI.

Conclusion Type D personality is seen in a significant proportion of AMI, consistent with global literature. Our findings suggest that among Indian patients with AMI, the presence or absence of Type D personality may represent two distinct subpopulations.
Interobserver Agreement on Clinical Judgment of Work of Breathing in Spontaneously Breathing Children in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: de Groot Marcel G. , de Neef Marjorie , Otten Marieke H. , van Woensel Job B. M. , Bem Reinout A.
Published: October 2019

Clinical assessment of the work of breathing (WOB) remains a cornerstone in respiratory support decision-making in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). In this study, we determined the interobserver agreement of 30 observers (PICU physicians and nurses) on WOB and multiple signs of effort of breathing in 10 spontaneously breathing children admitted to the PICU. By reliability analysis, the agreement on overall WOB was poor to moderate, and only three separate signs of effort of breathing (breathing rate, stridor, and grunting) showed moderate-to-good interobserver reliability. We conclude that the interobserver agreement on the clinical WOB judgment among PICU physicians and nurses is low.
The Dubrava Model—A Novel Approach in Treating Acutely Neurotraumatized Patients in Rural Areas: A Proposal for Management
Authors: Orešković Darko , Raguž Marina , Almahariq Fadi , Dlaka Domagoj , Romić Dominik , Marčinković Petar , Kaštelančić Anđelo , Chudy Darko
Published: October 2019

Introduction Neurotrauma is one of the leading causes of death and disabilities nowadays and represents one of the largest socioeconomic problems in rich countries, as well as developing ones. A satisfying, medically viable, and cost-effective model of managing acutely neurotraumatized patients, especially ones who come from distant and/or rural areas, has yet to be found. Patient outcome after acute neurotrauma depends on many factors of which the possibility of urgent treatment by an experienced specialist team has a crucial role. Here, we present our own way of managing acutely neurotraumatized patients from distant places which is unique in Croatia, the Dubrava model.

Methods We present our 5-year experience cooperating with general hospitals in four neighboring cities (Ĉakovec, Bjelovar, Sisak, and Koprivnica) in managing, operating, and taking care of acutely neurotraumatized patients.

Results More than 300 surgeries have been performed in these hospitals through the Dubrava model. Our experience so far provides encouraging results that this system could also be successfully implemented in other institutions. Furthermore, we recorded an increased number of surgeries each year, as well as a good mutual cooperation with the local general hospitals.

Discussion This trauma managing model is one of a kind in Croatia. We argue that it is not only better for the patients, providing them with better chances of survival, and disability-free recovery, but is also far superior in many ways to the dominant and currently prevalent way of treating these patients in other parts of Croatia.

Conclusion The Dubrava model of treating patients in rural and distant areas is a reliable and proven model with many benefits and as such its implementation should be considered in other institutions as well.
Megacraniectomy for Malignant Intracranial Hypertension: No Time for Caution
Authors: Chaudhary Prashant K. , Tripathi Manjul , Deora Harsh , Mohindra Sandeep , Buddhiraja Manish
Published: October 2019

Malignant intracranial hypertension (IHT) intracranial tension (ICT) is a surgical emergency. Routine decompressive craniectomy may not be sufficient in reducing the malignant IHT. At present, we do not have the exact solution to this ominous situation. Authors came across a similar scenario where we had to go forward with modification of a previously known described procedure, removing bifrontal, temporal, and parietal bones including midline bone strip over a superior sagittal sinus in a case of resistant malignant ICT, following coiling of an anterior communicating artery aneurysm. This radical technique, named as megacraniectomy, was used as a last resort in a rapidly deteriorating patient. The patient survived the stormy phase of malignant ICT and showed significant improvement in neurological status. Authors here describe this approach as a novel idea to be explored in resource-stricken situations.
Existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for a class of Kirchhoff Laplacian type problems
Authors: Alimohammady Mohsen , Alves Claudianor O. , Amiri Hassan Kaffash
Published: October 2019

This paper deals with the existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for a class of Kirchhoff Laplacian type problems in whole R3. The multiplicity of solutions is established by variational methods and Ljusternik-Schnirelmann theory.
Double optimal density gradients for harmonic generation from relativistically oscillating plasma surfaces
Authors: Gao Jian , Li Boyuan , Liu Feng , Cai Huaipeng , Chen Min , Yuan Xiaohui , Ge Xulei , Chen Liming , Sheng Zhengming , Zhang Jie
Published: October 2019

The influence of plasma density gradients on the harmonic generation process from relativistically oscillating mirror (ROM) is studied experimentally. It is observed that the harmonic intensities from orders of 21st to 24th first drop and then reach the maximum value with the increase of plasma scale length L. 2D particle-in-cell simulations are performed to investigate the intensities of high-order harmonics at different L values, which show that there are two optimal scale lengths Lopt for efficient ROM harmonic generation. The two optimal Lopt values are interpreted by a quasi-1D analytical model. By matching the potential energies provided by laser pulse and charge displacement in the plasma with an exponential distributed density profile, the model can quantitatively predict the optimal Lopt at the given laser incidence angle and intensity. Our work is beneficial for better understanding the role of L in ROM harmonic generation and the parameters affecting the optimal Lopt.
Root systems and the Atiyah-Sutcliffe problem
Authors: Malkoun Joseph
Published: October 2019

In this short note, we show that the Atiyah-Sutcliffe conjectures for n = 2m, related to the unitary groups U(2m), imply the author’s analogous conjectures, which are associated with the symplectic groups Sp(m). The proof is based on the simple fact that the root system of U(2m) dominates that of Sp(m).
Compatible observable decompositions for coarse-grained representations of real molecular systems
Authors: Dannenhoffer-Lafage Thomas , Wagner Jacob W. , Durumeric Aleksander E. P. , Voth Gregory A.
Published: October 2019

Coarse-grained (CG) observable expressions, such as pressure or potential energy, are generally different than their fine-grained (FG, e.g., atomistic) counterparts. Recently, we analyzed this so-called “representability problem” in Wagner et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 145, 044108 (2016)]. While the issue of representability was clearly and mathematically stated in that work, it was not made clear how to actually determine CG observable expressions from the underlying FG systems that can only be simulated numerically. In this work, we propose minimization targets for the CG observables of such systems. These CG observables are compatible with each other and with structural observables. Also, these CG observables are systematically improvable since they are variationally minimized. Our methods are local and data efficient because we decompose the observable contributions. Hence, our approaches are called the multiscale compatible observable decomposition (MS-CODE) and the relative entropy compatible observable decomposition (RE-CODE), which reflect two main approaches to the “bottom-up” coarse-graining of real FG systems. The parameterization of these CG observable expressions requires the introduction of new, symmetric basis sets and one-body terms. We apply MS-CODE and RE-CODE to 1-site and 2-site CG models of methanol for the case of pressure, as well as to 1-site methanol and acetonitrile models for potential energy.
Temporal and spatially resolved imaging of the correlated nuclear-electronic dynamics and of the ionized photoelectron in a coherently electronically highly excited vibrating LiH molecule
Authors: van den Wildenberg Stephan , Mignolet Benoit , Levine R. D. , Remacle F.
Published: October 2019

Few-cycle ultrashort IR pulses allow excitation of coherently coupled electronic states toward steering nuclear motions in molecules. We include in the Hamiltonian the excitation process using an IR pulse of a definite phase between its envelope and carrier wave and provide a quantum mechanical description of both multiphoton excitation and ionization. We report on the interplay between these two processes in shaping the ensuing coupled electronic-nuclear dynamics in both the neutral excited electronic states and the cationic states of the diatomic molecule LiH. The dynamics is described by solving numerically the time-dependent Schrodinger equation at nuclear grid points using the partitioning technique with a subspace of ten coupled bound states and a subspace of discretized continuous states for the photoionization continua. We show that the coherent dynamics in the neutral subspace is strongly affected by the amplitude exchanges with the ionization continua during the pulse, as well as by the onset of nuclear motion. The coupling to the cation and the resulting ionization do not preclude the control of the motion in the neutral through control of the carrier-envelope phase. Our methodology provides visualization in space and in time not only of the entangled vibronic wave packet in the neutral states but also of the wave packet of the outgoing photoelectron. Thereby, we can spatially and temporally follow the dynamics of the outgoing and bound electrons during the pulse and the nuclear motion in the bound subspace while moving through nonadiabatic coupling regions after the pulse.
Photo-Nernst detection of cyclotron resonance in partially irradiated graphene
Authors: Kinoshita Kei , Moriya Rai , Masubuchi Satoru , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Machida Tomoki
Published: October 2019

Cyclotron resonance of a Landau-quantized graphene can absorb a significant amount of infrared light. However, the application of this phenomenon to the photodetector had been limited due to the lack of efficient photon to the charge conversion scheme. Here, we demonstrate the detection of cyclotron resonance in a partially metal-masked monolayer graphene two-terminal device using the photo-Nernst effect. Due to the presence of the mask, incident infrared light is irradiated on only one-half of the graphene channel. This partial irradiation creates a temperature gradient perpendicular to the graphene channel. In the presence of an external magnetic field, thermopower is generated perpendicular to the temperature gradient due to the Nernst effect. Consequently, photo-Nernst voltage is generated along the graphene channel, which can be detected from the contacts on both ends of the channel. We demonstrate selective detection of the photo-Nernst effect while minimizing the other photovoltaic contributions, such as the photo-Seebeck effect. We investigate the dependence of the photo-Nernst effect on the magnetic field and excitation wavelength, which reveals a significant enhancement of the photo-Nernst signal at the cyclotron resonance conditions in graphene. Our finding could facilitate the realization of a far-infrared light detector using cyclotron resonance of graphene.
Suspended quantum point contact with triple channel selectively driven by side gates
Authors: Pokhabov D. A. , Pogosov A. G. , Zhdanov E. Yu. , Bakarov A. K. , Shklyaev A. A.
Published: October 2019

The experimental study of the suspended GaAs quantum point contact (QPC) equipped with in-plane side gates reveals that, under such conditions, the QPC constriction has an unusual triple-channel structure involving three conductive channels with the quantized conductance selectively driven by the gates. The analysis of capacitance coefficients and channel widths allows us to conclude that the channels are narrow, compared to the lithographic constriction of the QPC, and that two of the channels are located along the constriction edges, while the other one passes along the middle line. The suspended QPC with the selectively driven triple-channel structure represents a device with an enhanced functionality. The electrostatic mechanism of the channel formation, specific for trench-type suspended QPCs with side gates, is discussed.
Stable white LEDs fabricated with lead bromide perovskites
Authors: Mandel Savannah
Published: October 2019

By avoiding an anion exchange reaction, physicists are able to develop a bromine based perovskite with good stability, opening new avenues for next generation lighting technologies.
Glycyrrhiza glabra suppresses nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell proliferation through inhibiting the expression of lncRNA, AK027294
Authors: Zhang Bo , Yan Min , Zhang Wei , Ke Zhao-yang , Ma Ling-guo
Published: October 2019

Glycyrrhiza glabra is considered as potential drug for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, whether the long noncoding RNAs’ (lncRNAs) contributes to the anti-cancer function of this herb is unknown. In present study, we analyzed the differential expression of lncRNA between G. glabra-treated and untreated C666-1 cells. Out of those tumor-related lncRNAs, AK027294 had a strongest down-regulation upon G. glabra treatment. Knockdown of AK027294 suppresses the proliferation of C666-1 cells by inducing the apoptosis. Moreover, either G. glabra treatment or knockdown of AK027294 significantly increases the production of EZH1 (Enhancer of zeste 1 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit). Collectively, we have identified a potential mechanism that the down-regulation of AK027294 contributes to the anti-cancer function of G. glabra and also provide the potential inter-relationship between AK027294 and EZH1.
Synthesis of nucleotide analogues, EFdA, EdA and EdAP, and the effect of EdAP on hepatitis B virus replication
Authors: Kamata Mai , Takeuchi Toshifumi , Hayashi Ei , Nishioka Kazane , Oshima Mizuki , Iwamoto Masashi , Nishiuchi Kota , Kamo Shogo , Tomoshige Shusuke , Watashi Koichi , Kamisuki Shinji , Ohrui Hiroshi , Sugawara Fumio , Kuramochi Kouji
Published: October 2019

4′-Ethynyl-2-fluoro-2′-deoxyadenosine (EFdA) and 4′-ethynyl-2′-deoxyadenosine (EdA) are nucleoside analogues which inhibit human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase. EdAP, a cyclosaligenyl (cycloSal) phosphate derivative of EdA, inhibits the replication of the influenza A virus. The common structural feature of these compounds is the ethynyl group at the 4′-position. In this study, these nucleoside analogues were prepared by a common synthetic strategy starting from the known 1,2-di-O-acetyl-D-ribofuranose. Biological evaluation of EdAP revealed that this compound reduced hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication dose-dependently without cytotoxicity against host cells tested in this study.
Impact of Physical and Chemical Properties of Municipal Solid Waste on its Electrical Power Rating Potential
Authors: Ibikunle R. A , Titiladunayo I.F , Akinnuli B.O , Osueke C.O , Dahunsi S.O , Olayanju A
Published: October 2019

Waste-to-energy (WTE) management method, has been considered as the best option; because, it reduces the quantity of waste generated by about 71 %, and ensure energy recovery for efficient waste management. In this study, physical, chemical and the heating properties of the waste components, generated in Ilorin were determined. The heating value was modelled against the physicochemical properties of MSW components to ascertain their correlation. The electrical power rating potential of the MSW was determined using Dulong’s model. The regression model developed on the correlation analysis was used to predict the effect of the physicochemical properties on the heating value and the power generation potential. It was concluded that 1 % increase in fixed carbon and volatile matter, total carbon and Nitrogen content, increases electrical power rating by 8 %, 37 %, 21 % and 10.80 % respectively; while 1 % increase in moisture and hydrogen content, reduces the electrical power rating by 11 % and 69.3 % respectively.
Air pollution Indexes Over Buchanan: Danger and Control
Authors: Emetere M.E. , Emmanuel Okoro Emeka , Samuel Sanni E. , Akinyemi M.L. , Emetere J.M.
Published: October 2019

In this paper, the air pollution state of Buchanan-Liberia was investigated. Fifteen years primary (aerosol optical depth) dataset was obtained from the Multi-angle Imaging Spectro-Radiometer (MISR). The secondary datasets that was generated from the primary dataset is a new concept to air quality monitoring i.e. aerosol loading. The statistical analysis of the dataset was also presented. The standard deviation of the AOD is found to be less than 0.15 and maximum AOD value of 1.15. The average aerosol loading over Buchanan is 0.87. Statistically, the difference between the first and third quartile of the dataset indicates that there is considerable dispersion of aerosol content into the atmosphere in the months of June and December. The dataset gives a preliminary insight on how aerosol loading can be used extensively for preliminary ground exploration in Buchanan.
Preliminary research as used by practising architects in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Oluwatayo A. , Ukwedeh J. , Okonoboh J. , Ahmed Z. , Onakoya A. , Nnatuanya M.
Published: October 2019

A design process is universal and flexible, providing designers with a cyclic-path in thinking out solutions to design problems. A design process, therefore, acts as mediation between the design problem and design decisions through the three basic activities of 'analysis', 'synthesis' and 'evaluation'. Preliminary research is an important phase of the design process. The preliminary research stage of the design process is a vital tool in solving the design problem of a variety of clients the architect meets. The study aimed at accessing the use of preliminary research by practising architects in Lagos, Nigeria. The study found that preliminary research is being carried out by a large percentage of architects in Lagos, Nigeria and that preliminary research was found relatively relevant to their design at different stages. Case studies on previous projects and study of the proposed users of the design to identify their needs are the predominant methods used for preliminary research. The study recommends ways to improve the application of preliminary research in the practice form the start of architecture schools.
Citrus fruit peels extracts as light harvesters for efficient ZnO-based dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Adedokun Oluwaseun , Adedeji Olufunke Lydia , Awodele Mojoyinola Kofoworola , Bello Ismaila Taiwo , Awodugba Ayodeji Oladiran
Published: October 2019

Our voracious consumption of fossil fuels at an exponentially increasing rate has led to global warming and climate change. As a result of these problems, it is crucial to exploreother sources of clean energy. The natural pigmentsextraction and the performancedetermination in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs)from fruit peels of citrus were presented in this paper. Extraction of natural dye of citrus fruit peels of Citrus paradisi, Citrus sinensis, Citrus limonumandCitrus tangelo were employed as light sensitizers in fabricating ZnO-based DSSCs. The natural pigments extracts characteristics were analyzedby UV-Vis absorption, Fourier transforms infra-red (FTIR) and Photoluminescence spectroscopy techniques. The semiconductor active layer material was synthesized and analyzed. The characteristics of photo-voltaic parameters for the invented DSSCs were studied under simulated sunlight. The presence of chlorophyll derivative in most of the extracted dyes is evident as the core pigments with additional accessory pigments. The conversion efficiencies of sunlight to electrical energy of pheophytin ‘a’ dye ZnO based solar cells are calculated to be 0.028%, 0.013%, 0.004% and 0.022% for Citrus paradisi, Citrus sinensis, Citrus limonumand Citrus tangelo, respectively. Better performance of photo-sensitized was observed for the extracts of Citrus paradisicompared to the other extracts and this may be owing to the better charge transfer between the pigments of Citrus paradisi and surface of ZnOphotoactive layer. The conversion of visible light to electricitywas produced from natural pigments and ZnO photoactive layerbased DSSCs, resulted into superb photo-electric characteristics.
Co-digestion of cow dung with organic kitchen waste to produce biogas using Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Ojewumi M. E. , Ogele P. C. , Oyekunle D.T. , Omoleye J.A. , Taiwo S. O. , Obafemi Y. D.
Published: October 2019

The anaerobic digestion process for biogas production was investigated on food waste (FW) and cow dung (CD) using Pseudomonas aeruginosa as inoculum. The food waste and cow dung were co-digested as the substrate with bacteria (P. aeruginosa). Five digesters were prepared to observe the maximum gas production potential, methane production rate and duration for biogas production. Food waste (FW) was co-digested with bacteria in two proportions (1:5ml, 1:10ml) and co-digested with Cow dung (CD) in two proportions (1:1, 1:0.5). The digesters were all operated in batch process under mesophilic condition (35ºC). The daily weights of the tubes were measure and some physical characteristics of the substrate were determined before and after the process. Production of gas started 3-4 days after commencement for the digesters with cow dung, 4-5days for the digesters with bacteria and 3 days with only food waste. Food waste with 1kg, cow dung produced the most biogas with a cumulative volume of 88.5g/kg. The highest concentration of biogas was found in the 1st

digester consisting of 2kg CD and 2kg FW with a methane content of 52% and 48% CO2. The availability and renewable nature of food waste, ease of management of biogas produced and development of energy makes biogas a better option than the use of fossil fuel to the much-awaited solution to the energy crisis in Nigeria and developing countries.
Assessment of the effectiveness of maintenance management systems in delivering quality maintenance services in higher institutions
Authors: Oluwatobi A.O. , Alli-Johnson V.A. , Ayedun C.A. , Akinjare O.A.
Published: October 2019

The study assessed the effectiveness of maintenance and management systems in delivering quality maintenance services in higher institutions of learning with specific focus on the University of Lagos. There is the need for effectiveness in the management of educational buildings, facilities and supporting services. Self-structured questionnaires were administered to one hundred and ninety-one questionnaires (191) resident students of the University of Lagos, and three (3) to the maintenance executives of the Works and Physical Planning Department of the University of Lagos, with response rates of 71.73% and 100% respectively. Data collected where analysed using a combination of the Mean ranking and T-Test. Findings revealed a general dissatisfaction with the service quality delivered as the maintenance management system was not adjudged to be as effective as expected as various obstacles and factors influence the acceptable standard and quality of maintenance. The study recommended that the maintenance management team should improve on the effectiveness of their service delivery, by improving the rate of responsiveness of the maintenance staff through thorough training of skill and technical know-how.