bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial activities of green synthesized gums-stabilized nanoparticles loaded with flavonoids
Authors: Anwar Ayaz , Masri Abdulkader , Rao Komal , Rajendran Kavitha , Khan Naveed Ahmed , Shah Muhammad Raza , Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah
Published: February 2019

Herein, we report green synthesized nanoparticles based on stabilization by plant gums, loaded with citrus fruits flavonoids Hesperidin (HDN) and Naringin (NRG) as novel antimicrobial agents against brain-eating amoebae and multi-drug resistant bacteria. Nanoparticles were thoroughly characterized by using zetasizer, zeta potential, atomic force microscopy, ultravoilet-visible and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopic techniques. The size of these spherical nanoparticles was found to be in the range of 100–225 nm. The antiamoebic effects of these green synthesized Silver and Gold nanoparticles loaded with HDN and NRG were tested against Acanthamoeba castellanii and Naegleria fowleri, while antibacterial effects were evaluated against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and neuropathogenic Escherichia coli K1. Amoebicidal assays revealed that HDN loaded Silver nanoparticles stabilized by gum acacia (GA-AgNPs-HDN) quantitatively abolished amoeba viability by 100%, while NRG loaded Gold nanoparticles stabilized by gum tragacanth (GT-AuNPs-NRG) significantly reduced the viability of A. castellanii and N. fowleri at 50 µg per mL. Furthermore, these nanoparticles inhibited the encystation and excystation by more than 85%, as well as GA-AgNPs-HDN only completely obliterated amoeba-mediated host cells cytopathogenicity. Whereas, GA-AgNPs-HDN exhibited significant bactericidal effects against MRSA and E. coli K1 and reduced bacterial-mediated host cells cytotoxicity. Notably, when tested against human cells, these nanoparticles showed minimal (23%) cytotoxicity at even higher concentration of 100 µg per mL as compared to 50 µg per mL used for antimicrobial assays. Hence, these novel nanoparticles formulations hold potential as therapeutic agents against infections caused by brain-eating amoebae, as well as multi-drug resistant bacteria, and recommend a step forward in drug development.
Wave Propagation in Composites of Plasma and Metamaterials with Negative Permittivity and Permeability
Authors: Kim Hyunjun , Hopwood Jeffrey
Published: February 2019

Wave propagation is observed through a negative permeability metamaterial immersed in gaseous plasma. A 3D array of split ring resonators (SRR) is enveloped by an inductively heated argon plasma with a nominal plasma frequency of 2.65 GHz. Transmission spectra show electromagnetic waves traverse the composite medium from 1.3–1.7 GHz for which the permeability of the SRRs and the permittivity of the plasma are simultaneously negative. Only surface waves and evanescence are observed outside this frequency band. The edge of the transmission band also shows negative group velocity, albeit with high wave attenuation. The free electron density of the plasma is coupled to the inductive heating, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of the metamaterial’s frequency band and wave impedance.
Investigation of diabetic patient’s fingernail quality to monitor type 2 diabetes induced tissue damage
Authors: Sihota Praveer , Yadav Ram Naresh , Dhiman Vandana , Bhadada Sanjay Kumar , Mehandia Vishwajeet , Kumar Navin
Published: February 2019

Long-term Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) affects the normal functioning of heart, kidneys, nerves, arteries, bones, and joints. The T2D gradually alters the intrinsic material properties, and structural integrity of the tissues and prolonged hyperglycemia causes chronic damages to these tissues quality. Clinically no such technique is available which can assess the altered tissues quality associated with T2D. In the present study, the microstructural characterization (surface morphology, surface roughness and density and calcium content), material characterization (modulus, hardness), and macromolecular characterization (disulfide bond content, protein content and its secondary structure) are investigated among healthy, diabetic controlled (DC) and uncontrolled diabetic (UC) group of fingernail plate. It is found that T2D has an adverse effect on the human fingernail plate quality. The parameters of nail plate quality are changing in a pattern among all the three groups. The properties mentioned above are degrading in DC group, but the degradation is even worst in the case of severity of T2D (UC group) as compared to the healthy group (Healthy<DC<UC). This study suggests that the fingernail plate quality has a potential to become a new avenue to assess the secondary diabetic complications, i.e. to assess the bone quality.
CuPt Alloy Thin Films for Application in Spin Thermoelectrics
Authors: Tian Kun , Tiwari Ashutosh
Published: February 2019

Spin thermoelectrics represents a new paradigm of thermoelectricity that has a potential to overcome the fundamental limitation posed by the Wiedmann-Franz law on the efficiency of conventional thermoelectric devices. A typical spin thermoelectric device consists of a bilayer of a magnetic insulator and a high spin-orbit coupling (SOC) metal coated over a non-magnetic substrate. Pt is the most commonly used metal in spin thermoelectric devices due to its strong SOC. In this paper, we found that an alloy of Cu and Pt can perform much better than Pt in spin thermoelectric devices. A series of CuPt alloy films with different Pt concentrations were deposited on yttrium iron garnet (YIG) films coated gadolinium gallium garnet (GGG) substrate. Through spin Seebeck measurements, it was found that the Cu0.4Pt0.6/YIG/GGG device shows almost 3 times higher spin Seebeck voltage compared to Pt/YIG/GGG under identical conditions. The improved performance was attributed to the higher resistivity as well as enhanced spin hall angle of the CuPt layer.
Computational identification of co-evolving multi-gene modules in microbial biosynthetic gene clusters
Authors: Del Carratore Francesco , Zych Konrad , Cummings Matthew , Takano Eriko , Medema Marnix H. , Breitling Rainer
Published: February 2019

The biosynthetic machinery responsible for the production of bacterial specialised metabolites is encoded by physically clustered group of genes called biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). The experimental characterisation of numerous BGCs has led to the elucidation of subclusters of genes within BGCs, jointly responsible for the same biosynthetic function in different genetic contexts. We developed an unsupervised statistical method able to successfully detect a large number of modules (putative functional subclusters) within an extensive set of predicted BGCs in a systematic and automated manner. Multiple already known subclusters were confirmed by our method, proving its efficiency and sensitivity. In addition, the resulting large collection of newly defined modules provides new insights into the prevalence and putative biosynthetic role of these modular genetic entities. The automated and unbiased identification of hundreds of co-evolving group of genes is an essential breakthrough for the discovery and biosynthetic engineering of high-value compounds.
Interlayer exciton dynamics in van der Waals heterostructures
Authors: Ovesen Simon , Brem Samuel , Linderälv Christopher , Kuisma Mikael , Korn Tobias , Erhart Paul , Selig Malte , Malic Ermin
Published: February 2019

Atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenides can be stacked to van der Waals heterostructures enabling the design of new materials with tailored properties. The strong Coulomb interaction gives rise to interlayer excitons, where electrons and holes are spatially separated in different layers. In this work, we reveal the time- and momentum-dependent elementary processes behind the formation, thermalization and photoemission of interlayer excitons for the exemplary MoSe2–WSe2 heterostructure. We identify tunneling of holes from MoSe2 to WSe2 on a ps timescale as the crucial process for interlayer exciton formation. We also predict a drastic reduction of the formation time as a function of the interlayer energy offset suggesting that interlayer excitons can be externally tuned. Finally, we explain the experimental observation of a dominant photoluminescence from interlayer excitons despite the vanishingly small oscillator strength as a consequence of huge interlayer exciton occupations at low temperatures.
Extraterrestrial prebiotic molecules: photochemistryvs.radiation chemistry of interstellar ices
Authors: Arumainayagam Chris R. , Garrod Robin T. , Boyer Michael C. , Hay Aurland K. , Bao Si Tong , Campbell Jyoti S. , Wang Jingqiao , Nowak Chris M. , Arumainayagam Michael R. , Hodge Peter J.
Published: February 2019

Photochemistry and radiation chemistry of interstellar ices lead to the synthesis of prebiotic molecules which may be delivered to planets by meteorites and/or comets.
Standalone interferometry-based calibration of convex lens-induced confinement microscopy with nanoscale accuracy
Authors: Morrin Gregory T. , Kienle Daniel F. , Schwartz Daniel K.
Published: February 2019

Interferometry-based measurement of gap height in convex lens-induced confinement significantly improves accuracy at sub-100 nm gap thickness.
Controlling the crystalline structure of imine-linked 3D covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Fischbach Danyon M. , Rhoades Grace , Espy Charlie , Goldberg Fallon , Smith Brian J.
Published: February 2019

Mechanistic study of imine-linked 3D COF growth establishes the amorphous intermediate state as key for selective synthesis of the ideal form.
A coumarin–hemicyanine hybrid as a ratiometric fluorescent sensor of microenvironment proticity
Authors: Deore Prashant S. , Coman Daniel S. , Manderville Richard A.
Published: February 2019

ICT-based ratiometric fluorescent probe developed to selectively monitor microenvironment proticity within biopolymer targets with well resolved dual emission channels.
Effect of the exchange–correlation functional on the synchronicity/nonsynchronicity in bond formation in Diels–Alder reactions: a reaction force constant analysis
Authors: Yepes Diana , Valenzuela Joel , Martínez-Araya Jorge I. , Pérez Patricia , Jaque Pablo
Published: February 2019

The performance of 24 KS-DFT-based methods (GGA, MGGA, HGGA, HMGGA, and DHGGA) was assessed, finding that M11 and M06-2X (HMGGA) predicting reliable TS geometries, energetics, and (a)synchronicities in Diels–Alder reactions.
Two-photon absorption properties of BODIPY-like compounds based on BF2–naphthyridine complexes
Authors: Dipold Jessica , Romero Eduardo E. , Donnelly Julie , Calheiro Tainara P. , Bonacorso Helio G. , Iglesias Bernardo A. , Siqueira Jonathas P. , Hernandez Florencio E. , Boni Leonardo De , Mendonca Cleber R.
Published: February 2019

High two-photon absorption cross-sections of BODIPY-like compounds were obtained for simple structures.
Vacancy induced formation of nanoporous silicon, carbon and silicon carbide
Authors: Opletal G. , Sun B. , Petersen T. C. , Russo S. P. , Barnard A. S.
Published: February 2019

The crystalline structural stability and threshold of amorphisation of carbon, silicon and silicon carbide is investigated via vacancy removal and Monte Carlo annealing simulations.
A computational study on the electrified Pt(111) surface by the cluster model
Authors: Yang Jian
Published: February 2019

A hemispherical cuboctahedral Pt37 cluster is applied to study NO adsorption and reduction on the Pt(111) surface by using density functional theory.
Electrodeposition of indium from the ionic liquid trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium chloride
Authors: Deferm Clio , Malaquias João C. , Onghena Bieke , Banerjee Dipanjan , Luyten Jan , Oosterhof Harald , Fransaer Jan , Binnemans Koen
Published: February 2019

The two-step reduction of indium(iii) in the ionic liquid trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium chloride resulted in droplet deposition.
Enhancing the electronic dimensionality of hybrid organic–inorganic frameworks by hydrogen bonded molecular cations
Authors: El-Mellouhi Fedwa , Madjet Mohamed E. , Berdiyorov Golibjon R. , Bentria El Tayeb , Rashkeev Sergey N. , Kais Sabre , Akande Akinlolu , Motta Carlo , Sanvito Stefano , Alharbi Fahhad H.
Published: February 2019

Hybrid materials with cations forming hydrogen bonds with inorganic frameworks can enhance the electronic dimensionality of the system by forming new inter-channels electron and hole transport pathways.
Magnetism, stability and electronic properties of a novel one-dimensional infinite monatomic copper wire: a density functional study
Authors: Wang Xin , Yin Xue , Lai Xiao-Yong , Liu Ying-Tao
Published: February 2019

In the present work, the structural, magnetic and electronic properties of a novel one-dimensional infinite monatomic copper wire (1D-IMCW) have been investigated using first-principles computational calculation.
An acetylenedicarboxylato-bridged Mn(ii)-based 1D coordination polymer: electrochemical CO2 reduction and magnetic properties
Authors: Dutta Basudeb , Maity Suvendu , Ghosh Soumen , Sinha Chittaranjan , Mir Mohammad Hedayetullah
Published: February 2019

A Mn(ii)-based 1D coordination polymer, [Mn(adc)(4-phpy)2(H2O)2]n, (H2adc = acetylenedicarboxylic acid and 4-phpy = 4-phenylpyridine) showed dual properties: electrochemical CO2 reduction and anti-ferromagnetism.
Clinically relevant nanodosimetric simulation of DNA damage complexity from photons and protons
Authors: Henthorn N. T. , Warmenhoven J. W. , Sotiropoulos M. , Aitkenhead A. H. , Smith E. A. K. , Ingram S. P. , Kirkby N. F. , Chadwick A. L. , Burnet N. G. , Mackay R. I. , Kirkby K. J. , Merchant M. J.
Published: February 2019

Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) is a controversial and important topic in proton therapy. This work uses Monte Carlo simulations of DNA damage for protons and photons to probe this phenomenon, providing a plausible mechanistic understanding.
Equilibrium configurations and capillary interactions of Janus dumbbells and spherocylinders at fluid–fluid interfaces
Authors: Anzivino Carmine , Chang Fuqiang , Soligno Giuseppe , van Roij René , Kegel Willem K. , Dijkstra Marjolein
Published: February 2019

We numerically investigate the adsorption of a variety of Janus particles (dumbbells, elongated dumbbells and spherocylinders) at a fluid–fluid interface by using a numerical method that takes into account the interfacial deformations. We also experimentally synthesize micrometer–sized charged Janus dumbbells and let them adsorb at a water–decane interface. We find a good agreement between numerical and experimental results.
Cavity-enhanced cantilever-enhanced photo-acoustic spectroscopy
Authors: Tomberg Teemu , Hieta Tuomas , Vainio Markku , Halonen Lauri
Published: February 2019

Highly sensitive and selective trace gas detection based on a novel photo-acoustic laser spectroscopy method.
Transcription immunoassay: light-up RNA aptamer-based immunoassay using in vitro transcription
Authors: Sim Jieun , Byun Ju-Young , Shin Yong-Beom
Published: February 2019

Here, we first report an ultra-enhanced immunoassay for sensitive and reliable biomarker detection using layer-by-layer assembly and transcription-assisted light-up aptamer generation to induce signal amplification.
Oriented arrays of Co3O4 nanoneedles for highly efficient electrocatalytic water oxidation
Authors: Zhang Jun-Jun , Zhao Tian-Jian , Wang Hong-Hui , Lin Yun-Xiao , Zhai Guang-Yao , Jiang Zhi-Dong , Hirano Shin-Ichi , Li Xin-Hao , Chen Jie-Sheng
Published: February 2019

We report a simple approach in which Ti@p-Co3O4 hybrid electrodes are exposed to dilute hydrazine, which results in a significant improvement of their activity and stability.
A facile preparation of functional cycloalkynes via an azide-to-cycloalkyne switching approach
Authors: Yoshida Suguru , Kuribara Tomoko , Ito Harumi , Meguro Tomohiro , Nishiyama Yoshitake , Karaki Fumika , Hatakeyama Yasutomo , Koike Yuka , Kii Isao , Hosoya Takamitsu
Published: February 2019

Terminal alkyne-selective click conjugation of diynes bearing strained and terminal alkyne moieties with functional azides has been achieved by transient protection of strained alkynes via complexation with copper to easily afford various functional cycloalkynes.
A fully bio-based polyimine vitrimer derived from fructose
Authors: Dhers Sébastien , Vantomme Ghislaine , Avérous Luc
Published: February 2019

A bio-based polyimine vitrimer containing 100% renewable carbon content has been synthesised and characterised, based on bio-based furan dialdehyde derived from fructose.
Optimal design of thiostrepton-derived thiopeptide antibiotics and their potential application against oral pathogens
Authors: Wang Jian , Lin Zhi , Bai Xuebing , Tao Jiang , Liu Wen
Published: February 2019

A new fluorinated thiostrepton-type thiopeptide antibiotic was designed and biosynthesized by using a biological approach with synthetic advantages. Related bioassays indicated that thiostrepton and its derivatives hold potential in oral pathogen treatment.
Green and catalyst-free synthesis of deoxyarbutin in continuous-flow
Authors: Xie Xiaoxuan , Xie Shitian , Yao Hongmiao , Ye Xin , Yu Zhiqun , Su Weike
Published: February 2019

Highly efficient catalyst-free continuous-flow reaction and recycle process for the synthesis of deoxyarbutin.
Translocation of Enzymes into a Mesoporous MOF for Enhanced Catalytic Activity Under Extreme Conditions
Authors: Navarro Jose , Almora Barrios Neyvis , Lerma Berlanga Belén , Ruiz-Pernía J. Javier , Lorenz Fonfria Victor Armando , Tuñón Iñaki , Martí-Gastaldo Carlos
Published: February 2019

Enzymatic catalysis is of great importance to the chemical industry. However, we are still scratching the surface of the potential of biocatalysis due to the limited operational range of enzymes...
A Tutorial of the Effects of Sex Hormones on Laryngeal Senescence and Neuromuscular Response to Exercise
Authors: Lenell Charles , Sandage Mary J. , Johnson Aaron M.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this tutorial is to summarize how sex hormones affect both laryngeal senescence and neuromuscular response to exercise, highlighting the importance of considering sex differences in developing treatment for the senescent voice.

Conclusion

Men and women's voices are sexually dimorphic throughout the life span, including during the laryngeal adaptations observed during senescence. Therefore, presbyphonia (age-related dysphonia) likely clinically manifests differently for men and women due to differences in how the male and the female larynx change in response to aging. Because sexual dimorphism is evident in both laryngeal aging and response to exercise, voice therapy programs aimed at treating the typical and disordered aged voice should consider sex differences in their design.
Fuzzy optimised routing metric with mobility support for RPL
Authors: Sanshi Shridhar , CD. Jaidhar
Published: February 2019

Recently, many Internet of Things (IoT) applications have emerged with mobility as a fundamental requirement. The presence of a mobile node that changes location around the application domain affects the performance of the Routing Protocol for Low Power Lossy Network (RPL) designed for IoT, leading to repeated disruptions that cause data loss and more power dissipation. In this study, a fuzzy optimised routing metric with mobility support (FL‐RPL) has been proposed to enhance the performance of the RPL. The fuzzy inference system considers various routing metrics to pick a suitable candidate parent as the preferred parent node to forward the data to the sink node. Further, timer functions have been added to maintain consistent neighbours to support mobility and seamless connectivity. The FL‐RPL has been implemented and tested with different parameter settings for a practical scenario. The obtained simulation results clearly demonstrated that the proposed solution increased packet delivery ratio by approximately 12%, and reduced power consumption by 20% compared with the standard RPL.
Dynamic output feedback control for network‐based switched linear systems with performance dependent event‐triggering strategies
Authors: Qi Yiwen , Liu Yanhui , Zhang Qingxin
Published: February 2019

This study investigates the dynamic output feedback control for network‐based switched linear systems subject to communication delay and quantisation. To reasonably configure the network communication resources according to the dynamic and steady‐state characteristics of the system, the performance dependent event‐triggering strategies are proposed. Moreover, the quantiser and dynamic output feedback controllers are applied, and the time‐delay closed‐loop switched system models corresponding to the system dynamic and steady‐state processes are developed using a transformation technique. Subsequently, by utilising the average dwell time and piecewise Lyapunov functional techniques, sufficient conditions are derived to render the state of the time‐delay closed‐loop switched system globally uniformly ultimately bounded with an performance level. In particular, the coupling between the switching instants and the data updating instants in the actuator is analysed during the system performance analysis. Furthermore, the design conditions of the event‐triggered dynamic output feedback controllers are presented. Finally, numerical simulations verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Distributedly solving network linear equations with event‐based algorithms
Authors: Liu Qingchen , Liu Yang , Yuan Deming , Qin Jiahu
Published: February 2019

In this study, distributed, event‐based network flows are studied for solving the linear algebraic equation over an undirected network. Each node holds a dynamic state, which is broadcast to its neighbours at a sequence of event‐based time instants in an asynchronous manner, at both its own and its neighbours' event times. Each node then updates its control rule for its dynamic states. It is shown that if the linear algebraic equation has a unique solution or an infinite set of solutions, all nodes states converge to a unique/common solution if the applied network is connected and the trigger function is well constructed. Convergence rates are established explicitly as a result of the linear equation, the network structure and the triggering conditions. An explicit lower bound on the time interval between consecutive events is obtained, and therefore the proposed network flow does not exhibit Zeno behaviour. Simulations are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed network flow. Additionally, they also investigate the scenario where nodes are only allowed to update their states at their own events, and demonstrate the similarity and difference compared to the proposed solution.
Node density optimisation using composite probabilistic sensing model in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Rai Nitika , Daruwala Rohin
Published: February 2019

Network coverage is a measure of efficiency that signifies the extent to which the deployed nodes collectively cover the network area. It is a fundamental and critical quality of service (QoS) parameter for designing wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Various sensing models are reported which can be used to predict the coverage fraction for a given number of nodes in a predetermined network area. However, each of these reported models consider a subset of parameters. In this study, a novel formulation and hence a new model, composite probabilistic sensing model (CPSM) is proposed which combines the cumulative effects of all the possible factors, thus resulting in a realistic study. Further, the model is revisited to estimate the optimal density of randomly deployed nodes required to attain the desired network area coverage. An exhaustive parametric study is carried out and the results obtained are used to empirically derive a formula based on regression analysis using least square polynomial curve fitting technique. The formulation can be readily and accurately used to design any practical WSN system.
Fabrication and characterisation of microscale hemispherical shell resonator with diamond electrodes on the Si substrate
Authors: Liu Zhaoyang , Zhang Weiping , Cui Feng , Tang Jian , Zhang Yuying
Published: February 2019

A self‐aligned fabrication method is employed for microscale hemispherical shell resonator with integrated diamond electrodes on a silicon (Si) substrate. The millimetre‐scale three‐dimensional (3D) hemispherical shell resonator, with integrated electrostatic excitation and capacitive detection transducers for full control of the resonator, is fabricated on the Si substrate by employing a microelectromechanical systems process. The eight integrated diamond electrodes evenly distributed outside the hemispherical shell are fabricated using a self‐aligned method, which ensures uniform capacitive gap along the whole circumference. The Boron‐doped polycrystalline diamond, a material with low thermo‐elastic damping and low surface losses to reach the high quality, is used as the millimetre‐scale 3D hemispherical shell resonator with integrated electrodes. The fabrication process enables the production of almost perfect hemisphere mould (<2% roundness variation) with an average surface roughness of 3 nm. Vibration modes and frequencies are carried out by a scanning laser Doppler vibrometer; the elliptical mode frequency is determined to be at 81.3 kHz, with the two M = 2 degenerate modes having a relative frequency mismatch of 0.86%. This process can be further optimised to fabricate high‐quality and full‐symmetric microscale hemispherical resonator gyroscopes in batch.
In‐situ growing graphitic nanotubes on carbon nanofibres as a 3D hierarchical binder‐free anode for high‐performance Li‐ion battery
Authors: Lu Ming , Wang Ke‐fei
Published: February 2019

By facile electrospinning and subsequent melamine‐derived chemical vapour deposition strategy, a three‐dimensional (3D) hierarchical binder‐free carbon electrode is fabricated via in‐situ growing nitrogen‐rich graphitic nanotubes on carbon nanofibres. This electrode shows a 3D hierarchical nanostructure with the high specific surface. Owing to the highly conductive hierarchical structure allowing for rapid transportation of electrons and the N‐doped carbon creating more Li‐storage sites, the as‐prepared binder‐free electrode exhibits high reversible capacity, good rate capability and long cycle stability in terms of Li‐ion battery.
Double‐layer resist method to improve descum result when removing negative photoresist
Authors: Yang Zheng , Wang Qiusen , Qi Liping , Wang Xing , Li Kehong , Chen Da , Li Chen , Zou Helin
Published: February 2019

A novel double‐layer resist method was presented in this work to decrease the negative photoresist scum. Positive photoresist was chosen as the bottom layer resist and negative photoresist as the top layer resist. This work studied the effect of viscosity and thickness of bottom layer resist on the mean number of scum. The experiment shows that the low viscosity positive photoresist AZ703, with the spin speed of 3000 r/min and the thickness of 1.10 um, had prominent effect on the removal of photoresist. To minimise the area of the top layer contact with substrate and further reduce the scum, 8 µm was selected as the optimal retracting distance d of the bottom layer resist.
Physical and dynamical properties of the unusual V-type asteroid (2579) Spartacus
Authors: Oszkiewicz Dagmara , Kryszczyńska Agnieszka , Kankiewicz Paweł , Moskovitz Nicholas A. , Skiff Brian A. , Leith Thomas B. , Ďurech Josef , Włodarczyk Ireneusz , Marciniak Anna , Geier Stefan , Fedorets Grigori , Troianskyi Volodymyr , Föhring Dóra
Published: February 2019

Context.Asteroid (2579) Spartacus is a small V-type object located in the inner main belt. This object shows spectral characteristics unusual for typical Vestoids, which may indicate an origin deeper than average within Vesta or an origin from an altogether different parent body.

Aims.Our main goal is to study the origin of Spartacus. We derive the spin of Spartacus and a convex shape model of Spartacus in order to increase the knowledge of the body’s physical properties. The rotational parameters are then used to investigate dynamical evolution of the object as well as to distinguish regions sampled by spectral observations to determine whether its surface displays heterogeneity.

Methods.We collected lightcurves available from the literature (oppositions of 2009, 2012) and obtained additional photometric observations at various telescopes in 2016, 2017, and 2018. We used the lightcurve inversion method to derive a spin and convex shape model. We have collected spectral observations over two rotational periods of Spartacus and determined its spectral parameters using the modified Gaussian model (MGM). We then dynamically integrated the orbital elements of Spartacus, taking into account existing information, including its thermal properties, size and the derived spin axis orientation.

Results.We find two models for (2579) Spartacus: (a)λ= 312° ± 5°,β= −57° ± 5° and (b)λ= 113° ± 5°,β= −60° ± 5° both retrograde. We find that the drift direction for Spartacus is consistent with separation from Vesta, and after a backward integration of 1 Gyr the asteroid reaches the boundary of the family. We did not observe spectral variations with rotation, thus the body most likely has a homogeneous surface. Additionally, new spectral analysis indicates that the 1.0 and 2.0μm band centers are within ranges that are typical for Vestoids while the area ratio of these bands is about half that of typical Vestoids.

Conclusions.The asteroid (2579) Spartacus is in retrograde rotation and has a drift direction consistent with an origin from Vesta. The revised spectral band centers are within ranges typical for Vestoids, while band area ratio (BAR) is unusually low compared to that of other V-types. The dynamical model shows that the asteroid could have migrated to its current location from the edges of the Vesta family within 1 Gyr, but an origin from an earlier impact on Vesta could also be plausible.
Be and O in the ultra metal-poor dwarf 2MASS J18082002-5104378: the Be–O correlation
Authors: Spite M. , Bonifacio P. , Spite F. , Caffau E. , Sbordone L. , Gallagher A. J.
Published: February 2019

Context. Measurable amounts of Be could have been synthesised primordially if the Universe were non-homogeneous or in the presence of late decaying relic particles.

Aims. We investigate the Be abundance in the extremely metal-poor star 2MASS J1808-5104 ([Fe/H] = −3.84) with the aim of constraining inhomogeneities or the presence of late decaying particles.

Methods. High resolution, high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) UV spectra were acquired at ESO with the Kueyen 8.2 m telescope and the UVES spectrograph. Abundances were derived using several model atmospheres and spectral synthesis code.

Results. We measured log(Be/H) = −14.3 from a spectrum synthesis of the region of the Be line. Using a conservative approach, however we adopted an upper limit two times higher, i.e. log(Be/H) < −14.0. We measured the O abundance from UV–OH lines and find [O/H] = −3.46 after a 3D correction.

Conclusions. Our observation reinforces the existing upper limit on primordial Be. There is no observational indication for a primordial production of 9Be. This places strong constraints on the properties of putative relic particles. This result also supports the hypothesis of a homogeneous Universe, at the time of nucleosynthesis. Surprisingly, our upper limit of the Be abundance is well below the Be measurements in stars of similar [O/H]. This may be evidence that the Be–O relation breaks down in the early Galaxy, perhaps due to the escape of spallation products from the gas clouds in which stars such as 2MASS J1808-5104 have formed.
Study on the behaviour of DS-Class inclusions in advanced bearing steel
Authors: Wu Huajie , Li Qiaoqi , Wei Chongyi , Wang Zhe
Published: February 2019

The source and generated mechanisms of DS-size inclusions in bearing steel were studied by sampling systematically and using ASPEX, SEM and EDS to analyse the morphology, composition and amount of non-metallic inclusions larger than 13 µm. Two kinds of typical DS-size inclusions were found in the refining process: type I is CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 distributed evenly and wrapped by CaS; type II is composite inclusion with MgO-Al2O3 as the core, CaO-Al2O3 and CaO-SiO2 as the inner layer, covered by CaS. Based on the FactSage and thermodynamic calculations, the DS inclusions formation mechanisms were drawn. There are two formation mechanisms of the type II inclusions: one is the solid phases will precipitate from the matrix of type I inclusions as the temperature drops; another is that when the reaction time is not sufficient, the MgO∙Al2O3 spinel core will not be transformed completely, and the evolution can be summarized as: Al2O3 → MgO-Al2O3 → CaO-MgO-Al2O3 → surrounded by CaO-Al2O3(SiO2) → covered by CaS.
Current practice and preferences to management of equinus in children with ambulatory cerebral palsy: A survey of orthopedic surgeons
Authors: Gendy Samuel , ElGebeily Mohamed , EL-Sobky Tamer A. , Khoshhal Khalid I. , Jawadi Ayman H.
Published: February 2019

Introduction: The consensus among orthopedic surgeons on the management of equinus deformity in cerebral palsy (CP) children has not been reported previously despite being a prevalent deformity. The goals of this study were to examine the orthopedic surgeons’ current practice regarding the management of equinus deformity in children with ambulatory CP, and analyze variations in current practice between general orthopedic and pediatric orthopedic surgeons.

Methods: We implemented a brief cross-sectional self-reported questionnaire that addressed the areas of clinical examination and decision-making skills of management of equinus deformity in CP children. We targeted a convenience sample of 400 participants. Surgeons that provided complete responses to the questionnaire were 223 with a response rate of 56%, of which 123 (55%) were general orthopedic surgeons, whereas 100 (45%) were pediatric orthopedic surgeons. The target population consisted of orthopedic surgeons who were further sub-classified in accordance with practice age, general versus pediatric, and exposure to children’s orthopedics during the last three years of their practice. For analytical statistics, the Chi-Square test and Fisher’s exact test were used to examine the relationship between two qualitative variables.

Results: The overall clinical practice preferences of all survey participants were unimpressive with discordant survey responses. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons generally demonstrated a statistically significant difference regarding clinical assessment skill items of the survey, in contrast to general orthopedic surgeons. However, we found no differences between pediatric orthopedic and general orthopedic surgeons regarding most of the decision-making/knowledge items.

Discussion: Generally, there are insufficient clinical practice trends of both general and pediatric orthopedic surgeons regarding equinus treatment in CP children. This may indicate a knowledge–practice gap with potential risks to CP children undergoing surgery for equinus. There is a need for a more competent exposure to CP in orthopedic surgeons’ educational curricula and an updated health referral system.
Nomenclature and semantic description of vascular lesions in small bowel capsule endoscopy: an international Delphi consensus statement
Authors: Leenhardt Romain , Li Cynthia , Koulaouzidis Anastasios , Cavallaro Flaminia , Cholet Franck , Eliakim Rami , Fernandez-Urien Ignacio , Kopylov Uri , McAlindon Mark , Németh Artur , Plevris John , Rahmi Gabriel , Rondonotti Emanuele , Saurin Jean-Christophe , Tontini Gian , Toth Ervin , Yung Diana , Marteau Philippe , Dray Xavier
Published: February 2019

Background and study aims Nomenclature and descriptions of small bowel (SB) vascular lesions in capsule endoscopy (CE) are scarce in the medical literature. They are mostly based on the reader's opinion and thus differ between experts, with a potential negative impact on clinical care, teaching and research regarding SBCE. Our aim was to better define a nomenclature and to give a description of the most frequent vascular lesions in SBCE.

Methods A panel of 18 European expert SBCE readers was formed during the UEGW 2016 meeting. Three experts constructed an Internet-based four-round Delphi consensus, but did not participate in the voting process. They built questionnaires that included various still frames of vascular lesions obtained with a third-generation SBCE system. The 15 remaining participants were asked to rate different proposals and description of the most common SB vascular lesions. A 6-point rating scale (varying from ‘strongly disagree’ to ‘strongly agree’) was used successive rounds. The consensus was reached when at least 80 % voting members scored the statement within the ‘agree’ or ‘strongly agree’.

Results Consensual terms and descriptions were reached for angiectasia/angiodysplasia, erythematous patch, red spot/dot, and phlebectasia. A consensual description was reached for more subtle vascular lesions tentatively named “diminutive angiectasia” but no consensus was reached for this term.

Conclusion An international group has reached a consensus on the nomenclature and descriptions of the most frequent and relevant SB vascular lesions in CE. These terms and descriptions are useful in daily practice, for teaching and for medical research purposes.
Increasing rates of SSA/P detection in a large open-access Australian colonoscopy cohort
Authors: Nalankilli Kumanan , Huynh Xuan , Lade Stephen , Stephens Mark , Hewett Robert , Moss Alan
Published: February 2019

Background and study aims There are limited longitudinal data regarding detection rates for sessile serrated adenoma/polyps (SSADR) and right-sided hyperplastic polyps (RHPDR) that constitute the proximal serrated lesion detection rate (PSLDR). Recently, a minimum PSLDR of 4.5 % has been suggested. This study was designed to assess SSADR, PSLDR and adenoma detection rate (ADR) for a newly qualified gastroenterologist and compare them to published data and to assess the change in SSADR, PSLDR and ADR over time for potential improvement with experience.

Patients and methods All colonoscopies performed by a single colonoscopist (AM), at one Australian ambulatory direct-access endoscopy center over 4 years from 2011 to 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. Histology was reported by a single expert pathologist (SL). ADR, SSADR, RHPDR and PSLDR were recorded.

Results A total of 841 colonoscopies were performed on 637 patients. Of them, 454 (54 %) were males. Mean age was 59 years. Of the colonoscopies, 87 % were performed for patients with ASA scores of 1 – 2, 422 (50.2 %) were for screening or surveillance, 374 (44.5 %) for investigation of symptoms and 45 (5.4 %) had therapeutic indications. Conventional adenomas were detected in 346 colonoscopies (ADR = 41.1 %), SSA/P in 124 (SSADR = 14.7 %) and RHP in the absence of SSA/P in 35 (RHPDR = 4.2 %). PSLDR was 18.9 %. ADR was stable over time (range 33 %-50 %). SSADR and PSLDR increased over time [SSADR: 8.6 % (2011), 8.4 % (2012), 14.9 % (2013), 18.5 % (2014), 25.0 % (2015); PSLDR: 10.5 % (2011), 11.3 % (2012), 16.8 % (2013), 27.2 % (2014), 29.4 % (2015)]. There was a statistically significant improvement in SSADR (IRR 1.37) and PSLDR (IRR 1.36) over the study period (P < 0.001), whereas the ADR remained stable (IRR 1.04, P = 0.334).

Conclusions SSADR and PSLDR in this unselected direct-access cohort are high and exceed previously reported detection rates in the final 2 years. Detection rates improved with experience, likely representing a learning effect. The minimum expected PSLDR may need to be revised upwards and further studies are required, particularly in areas where screening colonoscopies are offered only for patients with increased colorectal cancer risk (family history or fecal immunochemical test-positive).
Anti-Aging und Hormone
Authors: Krug Marianne
Published: February 2019

Alterskrankheiten und Gebrechlichkeit sind die Geiseln einer zunehmend älter
werdenden Bevölkerung. Die klare Assoziation mit den abfallenden Hormonen im
Alter, hier insbesondere die anabolen Hormone, lenkt den Ausblick auf eine
Altersprävention durch Ersatz der fehlenden Hormone. Stets sind bei der
Gesundheit des älteren Mannes und der älteren Frau gemischte Effekte aus DHEA-,
Testosteron- und Wachstumshormonmangel zu berücksichtigen. Ihr Ersatz bringt
synergistische Effekte über eine Einzelsubstitution hinaus. Die gemeinsame
Substitution mit physiologischen Hormonen ist einfach und risikoarm. Durch
Einordnung des Konzepts der multiplen hormonellen Dysfunktion in die
Erfahrungsheilkunde kann die symptomorientierte klassische Medizin wertvoll
ergänzt werden.
Whole-Body [18F]-FDG-PET/MRI for Oncology: A Consensus Recommendation
Authors: Umutlu Lale , Beyer Thomas , Grueneisen Johannes , Rischpler Christoph , Quick Harald , Veit-Haibach Patrick , Eiber Matthias , Purz Sandra , Antoch Gerald , Gatidis Sergios , Nikolaou Konstantin , Schaefer Jürgen , Rausch Ivo , Herrmann Ken ,   Vorstand der Interdisziplinären AG für Hybride Bildgebung in alphabetischer Reihenfolge:,   Vorstand der Deutschen Röntgengesellschaft (DRG) und der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Nuklearmedizin (DGN) in alphabetischer Reihenfolge:
Published: February 2019

Combined PET/MR imaging (PET/MRI) was proposed for patient management in 2006 with first commercial versions of integrated whole-body systems becoming available as of 2010. PET/MRI followed the prior evolution of hybrid imaging as attested by the successful adoption of combined PET/CT and SPECT/CT since the early 2000 s. Today, around 150 whole-body PET/MRI systems have become operational worldwide. One of the main application fields of PET/MRI is oncologic imaging. Despite the increasing use of PET/MRI, little governance regarding standardized PET/MRI protocols has been provided to date. Standardization and harmonization of imaging protocols is, however, mandatory for efficient on-site patient management and multi-center studies. This document summarizes consensus recommendations on key aspects of patient referral and preparation, PET/MRI workflow and imaging protocols, as well as reporting strategies for whole-body [18F]-FDG-PET/MRI. These recommendations were created by early adopters and key experts in the field of PET, MRI and PET/MRI. This document is intended to provide guidance for the harmonization and standardization of PET/MRI today and to support wider clinical adoption of this imaging modality for the benefit of patients.

Citation Format
Rückblick auf 50 Jahre Steintherapie
Authors: Knoll Thomas , Alken Peter
Published: February 2019

Die Urolithiasis ist das Brot-und-Butter-Geschäft des Urologen. Kaum eine urologische Praxis oder Klinik kann auf die Therapie von Harnsteinen verzichten. Dieser Artikel stellt die Entwicklungen der letzten 50 Jahre auf dem Gebiet der Urolithiasis dar. In der bildgebenden Diagnostik hat sich die Computertomografie gegenüber der konventionellen Röntgenbildgebung durchgesetzt. Konservative Therapien wie die „medical expulsive therapy“ (MET) hatten sich etabliert, sind aber zuletzt wieder in die Diskussion geraten. Die größten Fortschritte hat in den letzten 50 Jahren sicherlich die interventionelle Therapie gezeigt. War in den 70er-Jahren noch die offene Steinchirurgie der Therapiestandard, so hat sich diese bis heute vollständig zu Minimal-Invasivität gewandelt. Die Entwicklung der perkutanen Nephrolithotomie (PCNL), dann der extrakorporalen Stoßwellenlithotripsie (ESWL) und schließlich der Ureterrenoskopie (URS) ermöglichen heute individualisierte Therapiekonzepte, wobei die URS sicherlich das am häufigsten eingesetzte Verfahren ist. Wünschenswert sind die gleichen Fortschritte auf dem Gebiet der Steinmetabolik und -prävention, wo die diagnostischen Verfahren und Therapieempfehlungen keine wirkliche Entwicklung gezeigt haben.
Endoscopist’s occupational dose evaluation related to correct wearing of dosimeter during X-ray-guided procedures
Authors: Gerasia Roberta , Ligresti Dario , Cipolletta Fabio , Granata Antonino , Tarantino Ilaria , Barresi Luca , Amata Michele , Benenati Sabrina , Gallo Giuseppe , Tafaro Corrado , Miraglia Roberto , Traina Mario
Published: February 2019

Background Since endoscopists performing procedures in the endoscopy suite can change their position by turning their back, side or front toward the X-ray source, this study aimed to establish whether dosimeter position affects the correct evaluation of an endoscopist’s personal radiation exposure during X-ray-guided procedures.

Materials and methods Between January and February 2018, two dosimeters specularly placed outside the lead apron (anterior one on the chest and posterior one on the back) measured endoscopists’ personal dose equivalent (Hp) during 62 X-ray-guided procedures on adult and pediatric patients. Procedures were divided into three groups considering the position taken by the endoscopist with respect to the radiation source. For each group, the difference between mean Hp from the anterior and posterior dosimeters was calculated.

Results A statistically significant difference in mean Hp was recorded for the endoscopists’ frontal and back positions (P = 0.014, and P < 0.00001, respectively). No significant difference was found in mean Hp for the side position (P = 0.489).

Conclusions The position of personal dosimeters affects the correct evaluation of endoscopists’ radiation exposure during X-ray-guided procedures when frontal and back positions were recorded. To correctly evaluate radiation doses, the whole-body dosimeter should be worn according to the position of the endoscopist with respect to the radiation source; otherwise, it results in an incorrect personal dose evaluation, which may lead to substantial underestimation of staff exposure.
Homöopathie bei demenziellen Erkrankungen
Authors: Teut Michael
Published: February 2019

Die Ergebnisse einer retrospektiven Fallsammlung zur Behandlung von Patienten mit
Demenz wird vorgestellt. Die häufigsten Arzneimittel in der Behandlung waren
Hyoscyamus niger und Opium, neben anderen.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 4-O-Tosyltetrahydropyrans via Prins Cyclization Reaction of Enol Ethers
Authors: Sarkar Sujit , Devi Namita , Porashar Bikoshita , Ruidas Santu , Saikia Anil
Published: February 2019

Intramolecular cyclization of enol ethers mediated by para-toluenesulfonic acid leads to substituted tetrahydropyrans in good to moderate yields. The reaction is diastereoselective.