bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effektivität stationär-psychosomatischer Behandlung:
Kurz- und mittelfristige klinische und versorgungsbezogene
Effekte
Authors: Valdes-Stauber Juan , Beck Alexandra , Krämer Sabine , Bachthaler Susanne
Published: April 2020

Fragestellung Hält die durch stationär-psychosomatische
Behandlung erreichte klinische Besserung ein bzw. 2 Jahre nach der Entlassung
an? Wie verändert sich die medizinische Inanspruchnahme nach der
Entlassung verglichen mit dem Jahr vor der stationär-psychosomatischen
Behandlung?

Methode Die einwilligende Stichprobe zum Entlasszeitpunkt (N=250)
wird anhand von 6 klinischen, 2 ressourcenbezogenen und 11
versorgungsmedizinischen Variablen zu 6 Messzeitpunkten (Aufnahme, Entlassung
und jeweils 6, 12, 18, 24 Monate nach Entlassung) untersucht. Die
adhärente Teilstichprobe (n=86) und die nicht adhärente
(n=164) Teilstichprobe werden anhand von 25 Variablen verglichen. Der
Verlauf der Zielvariablen wird graphisch anhand von Box-Plots dargestellt.
Bivariate Vergleiche werden mit Mann-Withney-, Wilcoxon- und t-Tests mit
Bonferroni-Korrektur durchgeführt, Vergleiche aller Messzeitpunkte
für die Zielvariablen unter statistischer Kontrolle mit
ausgewählten Kovariaten anhand von multivariaten
Random-Effects-Regressionsmodellen unter Einsatz von multipler Imputation
für Zeitreihen (MICE).

Ergebnisse Die adhärente und die nichtadhärente
Teilstichprobe unterscheiden sich kaum nach Korrektur der Alpha-Inflation. Zwei
Jahre nach der Entlassung sind bei der adhärenten Teilstichprobe alle
Zielvariablen im Vergleich zum Aufnahmezeitpunkt signifikant gebessert
(p<0,001; durchschnittliche Gesamteffektstärke 1,12). Psychische
Symptombelastung und Depressivität haben nach der Entlassung weiter
signifikant abgenommen, Selbstwirksamkeit und Lebenszufriedenheit haben
signifikant zugenommen. In bivariaten Modellen sinken Krankenhaustage,
Arbeitsunfähigkeitstage, Arztbesuche und Medikation ein und 2 Jahre nach
der Entlassung verglichen mit dem Jahr vor der Aufnahme. Multivariate Modelle
mit der Gesamtstichprobe zum Entlasszeitpunkt bestätigen den positiven
Verlauf der klinischen Variablen, zeigen jedoch geringere Unterschiede
für die versorgungsmedizinischen Variablen.

Diskussion Die Limitation durch progressive Dropouts zeigte sich unter
dem Einsatz multipler Imputation verringert. Die anhaltende klinische Besserung
und die Verringerung der medizinischen Inanspruchnahme 2 Jahre nach der
Entlassung sprechen für eine mittelfristige Effektivität der
stationären psychosomatischen Behandlung. Strukturniveau der
Persönlichkeitsorganisation und Neurotizismus sind die besten
Prädiktoren für Ausmaß der psychischen Belastung
über alle Messzeitpunkte hinweg.
Safety and Tolerability of the Anxiolytic and Nootropic Drug Phenibut: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials and Case Reports
Authors: Kupats Einars , Vrublevska Jelena , Zvejniece Baiba , Vavers Edijs , Stelfa Gundega , Zvejniece Liga , Dambrova Maija
Published: April 2020

Phenibut is a nootropic drug that exerts anxiolytic and antinociceptive effects by acting on the GABAB receptor and the α2-δ subunit of voltage-dependent calcium channels. An increased number of reports of dependence to and intoxication by phenibut purchased online on the one hand and the wide prescription of phenibut in Eastern Europe for more than half a century on the other hand have resulted in a number of controversies regarding its use. In this review, we have summarized currently available information from case reports of phenibut dependence and intoxication and safety data from clinical trials. We included 14 dependence and intoxication case reports (16 patients) and reviewed 11 phenibut clinical trials (583 patients). The clinical symptoms in the case reports included cardiovascular effects, insomnia, anxiety and agitation, hallucinations, and depressed level of consciousness. In addition, the doses used (0.5–100 g/day) were much higher than the recommended daily dose (0.25–2 g/day). An analysis of phenibut side effects described in the clinical trials showed adverse events in only 5.66% of patients, and the most reported side effect was somnolence (1.89%). There are discrepancies in the reported side effects of phenibut in clinical trials compared to those reported in cases of online-purchased phenibut dependence and intoxication. The current systematic review provides evidence that, at therapeutic doses, phenibut is safe and well tolerated with minor adverse effects, but questions regarding the quality of phenibut obtained online and the contribution of alcohol and other drug abuse to phenibut dependence and intoxication remain open.
Psychische Belastung und Resilienz im Rahmen schwerer körperlicher Erkrankungen: eine Analyse dyadischer Zusammenhänge
Authors: Rosendahl Jenny , Jaenichen Doreen , Schmid Selina , Färber Francesca , Strauß Bernhard
Published: April 2020

Ziele In diesem Beitrag werden 3 Studien vorgestellt, in denen Patienten mit einer aktuellen oder vergangenen schweren körperlichen Erkrankung und ihre Partner in Hinblick auf dyadische Konkordanz sowie Geschlechts- und Rollenunterschiede in psychischer Belastung und Resilienz untersucht worden sind.

Methoden In Studie 1 wurden 55 Patienten und deren Partner im Mittel 4,5 Jahre nach einer schweren Sepsis untersucht. Studie 2 berücksichtigte 49 Lungenkrebspatienten, mehrheitlich im metastasierenden Tumorstadium, und ihre Partner. In Studie 3 wurden 69 Krebspatienten mit unterschiedlichen Tumorentitäten und Tumorstadien, die sich einer ambulanten homöopathischen Zusatzbehandlung unterzogen, und ihre Partner eingeschlossen. Zur Erfassung der psychischen Belastung wurde in allen Studien die Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) und zur Messung von Resilienz als Persönlichkeitsmerkmal die Kurzform der Resilienzskala RS-13 eingesetzt. Die jeweiligen Befunde wurden über die 3 Studien hinweg meta-analytisch zusammengefasst.

Ergebnisse Es zeigte sich eine dyadische Konkordanz zwischen Patient und Partner hinsichtlich Angst (r=0,29 [0,06; 0,48], I2=55%) und Depressivität (r=0,44 [0,31; 0,55], I2=0%), nicht jedoch für Resilienz. Geschlechtsunterschiede zeigten sich für Angst konsistent über alle 3 Studien hinweg, sowohl Patientinnen als auch Partnerinnen wiesen eine stärkere Angstsymptomatik auf als Patienten und Partner (d=0,58 [0,26; 0,91], I2=0% für Patienten; d=0,53 [− 0,06; 1,12], I2=69% für Partner). Heterogene Befunde lagen dagegen für Geschlechtsunterschiede in der Depressivität als auch für Rollenunterschiede vor. Eine höher ausgeprägte Resilienz geht mit geringerer psychischer Belastung sowohl bei Patienten als auch bei Partnern einher. Darüber hinaus gibt es Hinweise, dass Resilienz auch einen protektiven Effekt für die psychische Belastung des Partners haben kann.

Diskussion und Schlussfolgerung Basierend auf den vorliegenden Erkenntnissen zu dyadischen Zusammenhängen in der psychischen Belastung zwischen Patienten und deren Partnern sollten körperliche Erkrankungen grundsätzlich immer aus systemischer Perspektive betrachtet werden. Die psychische Belastung sowohl von Patienten als auch von deren Partnern bedarf einer besonderen Beachtung im psychosozialen Unterstützungsprozess, ebenso sollten partnerschaftliche Ressourcen in der Bewältigung der Erkrankung Berücksichtigung finden.
DIAGNOSTIC HYSTEROSCOPY IN ABNORMAL UTERINE BLEEDING & IT'S HISTOPATHOLOGIC CORRELATION: OUR EXPERIENCE
Authors: Nandan Neetha , Manjeera Lakshmi , Rai Supriya , Gowri Mangala
Published: April 2020

Aims & objectives: 1) To study the accuracy of hysteroscopy in evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. 2) To correlate hysteroscopic findings with histopathologic results.

Materials and methods: It is a retrospective study done in the department of OBG at K. S.Hegde Medical Academy, Mangalore. All patients who underwent diagnostic hysteroscopy for abnormal uterine bleeding in the past 6 years were included in this study. Patients underwent clinical and sonographical evaluation. Following hysteroscopic evaluation, patients had undergone dilatation and curettage and endometrial curetting were sent for histopathological examination (HPE). The correlation between findings on hysteroscopy & HPE were tabulated.

Results: On hysteroscopy, endometrium was classified as suggestive of normal, hyperplasia, atrophic, polyp, fibroid, cancer. Histopathological diagnosis was taken as gold standard to determine the efficacy of hysteroscopy in diagnosing endometrial pathologies. Out of 175 patients, 108 patients were diagnosed to have endometrial hyperplasia on hysteroscopy, however only 53 confirmed to have on histopathologically. Similarly 25 patients were said to have normal findings on hysteroscopy but by histopathology 85 were having normal endometrium. Hysteroscopy was highly specific for diagnosis of polyp (95.9%), cancer (100.0%), and atrophy (96. 9%), normal endometrium (92.2%) but low specificity for diagnosing hyperplasia (48.4%). The sensitivity of hysteroscopy in diagnosing polyp and endometrial hyperplasia were 100% and 84.9% respectively but it was low in case of cancer (16.7%) and normal endometrium (21.2%).

Conclusion: Hysteroscopy is a highly accurate diagnostic tool in diagnosing intrauterine lesions like endometrial polyp and submucous fibroid. In fact, it was also found to be highly specific in conditions like endometrial cancer, polyp, atrophic and normal endometrium.
TRENDS OF POISONING AMONG CHILDREN AT KASTURBA HOSPITAL, MANIPAL
Authors: Tarvadi Pratik Vijay , Bakkannavar Shankar M. , S. Manjunath , Palimar Vikram , Kumar G. Pradeep , Shetty Mahabalesh
Published: April 2020

Background: Pediatric poisoning is a common medical emergency and also associated with a high morbidity and mortality in children. In developing countries like India, poisoning emergencies are becoming a major cause of mortality in infants and toddlers. Among the various studies conducted on poisoning in our country, the study on poisoning is predominantly on adults and hence this study is taken up to understand the incidence of childhood poisoning cases.

Method: A ten year retrospective study from January 1999 to December 2008 was conducted at the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, to comprehend the magnitude of childhood poisoning cases at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.

Results: Insecticide poisoning was the most predominant poisoning followed by venomous bites.

Conclusion: Our study examines the most common poison involved and route of intake among children to identify specific ages at risk and give suggestions so as to reduce the morbidity and mortality.
VALIDATION METRICS OF THE MASTOID TRIANGLE
Authors: B. Bhagya , N. Hema , A. Ramakrishna
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study was to validate the technique developed by Paiva and Segre for sex identification using the mastoid process. Total mastoid area is calculated by adding the right and left triangular areas defined by three distinct craniometric points: the Asterion, Porion and the Mastoidale. Eight skulls (40 males and 40 females) were analysed and total area calculated using Heron's formula. The mean total area of the male skulls is higher compared to females (1461.06 mm2 vs 1222.79 mm2). Independent t-tests reveal that there are significant differences between males and females, with p-values less than 0.0001.
KNOWLEDGE REGARDING RCH SERVICES AMONG HEALTH WORKERS, PREGNANT MOTHERS AND ADOLESCENTS IN RURAL FIELD PRACTICE AREA
Authors: Rashmi Anusha , Kiran N. Udaya ,   Rashmi
Published: April 2020

Maternal mortality and morbidity are significant health problems in developing countries. Improving maternal health has been an essential element for achieving health for all and has been included in MDG to be achieved by 2010. Apart from mothers and children, the health of adolescents came into light as one of the important area mainly because of their role as future or immediate mothers. Role of health care providers especially the grass root level workers becomes particularly important not just in imparting the intending services, but also in imparting knowledge about reproductive health.

To assess the knowledge about RCH services among the health care workers, pregnant women, mothers and adolescent girls.

A cross sectional study was conducted in the rural field practice areas of K. S. Hegde Medical Academy. A total of 37 health workers, 50 pregnant women and mothers and 56 adolescents were interviewed using a pre tested questionnaire for assessing their knowledge regarding RCH services. Descriptive statistics was used in the analysis.

Knowledge regarding high risk pregnancy identification, normal birth weight and identifying anaemia in the field was good among health workers. Only 10.8% of them knew the minimum strength of medical officers in a FRU and only 5.4% knew about fast breathing in less than 2 months old infant. With regard to mothers knowledge 64% were aware of the number of ANC visits, 44% knew about correct interval between 2 pregnancies, 38% knew about methods to prevent STI transmission. 82% of adolescents had good knowledge regarding legal age for marriage. 75% were aware of various methods of contraception.
MENOPAUSAL TRANSITION AMONG NORTHERN INDIAN WOMEN
Authors: S. Vijayalakshmi , Chandrababu Ramesh , L. Eilean Victoria
Published: April 2020

According to Indian menopause society research there are about 65 million Indian women over the age of 45. Average age of menopause in around 48 yrs but it strikes Indian women as young as 30-35 years.

The main aim of the study is to assess the menopausal transition among women residing at selected rural community, Punjab. The study was conducted from July 2012 to December 2012.

The sample from the selected rural community and the research design used for this study was Non experimental design – descriptive survey method. The sample size selected for this study consists of 30 rural women 40-55 years of age from selected rural community at Amritsar. Purposive sampling method was used to select the samples. The tool used in this study was ZEG Berlin menopause rating scale to assess the menopausal transition. The data analysis was done using both descriptive and inferential statistics.

The results reported that more prevalent symptoms were feeling tired (92.90%), headache (88.80%), joint and muscular discomfort (76.20%), physical and mental exhaustion (60.09%), sleeplessness (54.40%), depressive mood (37.30%), irritability (36%), dryness of vagina (36%), hot flushes and sweating (35.80%) and anxiety (34.50%).

The rural women of Amritsar, Punjab experience high prevalence of menopausal symptoms. The high percentage and scores of MRS were observed in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.
FABRICATION OF SINGLE PIECE HOLLOW BULB INTERIM OBTURATOR WITH PALATAL RAMP FOR TREATMENT OF HEMIMAXILLECTOMY AND HEMIMANDIBULECTOMY - A CASE REPORT
Authors: D. Anupama Prasad , D. Krishna Prasad , Hegde Chethan
Published: April 2020

A male patient aged 45 years reported with squamous cell carcinoma of palate. Patient was seen presurgically and an immediate surgical obturator provided followed by an interim maxillary obturator by a novel method wherein hollowing the obturator bulb was planned which also had a palatal ramp to correct jaw relation lost due to hemimandibulectomy.The treatment was done in sequential order to correct the deviation of mandible to provide aesthetics to the subject and also for a comfortable social life with improved mastication and appearance.
BIOFILMS PRODUCED BY CANDIDA YEASTS AND ITS CONSEQUENCES: A REVIEW
Authors: D. Anupama Prasad , Prasad B. Rajendra , Shetty Veena , Shastry C.S
Published: April 2020

This paper aimed to gather information regarding mechanism of biofilm formation and development of resistance of the fungi mainly the candida species to antifungal therapy from literature through 1996-2012. We have carried out a detailed search in the National Library of Medicine's PubMed database, Google search and Science Direct to include all studies and reviews published in English language. The key words used for the search were biofilm, Candida, antimicrobial resistance, denture stomatitis and Candidiasis. This paper tries to explain the mechanism of biofilm formation, factors which initiate and propagate biofilm production and certain special features like thigmotropism and quorum sensing which are responsible for development of resistance in these yeasts.
A Straightforward Synthesis of N-Substituted Ureas from Primary Amides
Authors: Reboul Vincent , Saraiva Rosa Nathalie , Glachet Thomas , Ibert Quentin , Lohier Jean-François , Franck Xavier
Published: April 2020

A direct and convenient method for the preparation of N-substituted ureas is achieved by treating primary amides with phenyliodine diacetate (PIDA) in the presence of an ammonia source (NH3 or ammonium carbamate) in MeOH. The use of 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (TFE) as the solvent increases the electrophilicity of the hypervalent iodine species and allows the synthesis of electron-poor carboxamides. This transformation involves a nucleophilic addition of ammonia on the isocyanate intermediate generated in situ by a Hofmann rearrangement of the starting amide.
Allyl 4-Chlorophenyl Sulfone as a Versatile 1,1-Synthon for Sequential α-Alkylation/Cobalt-Catalyzed Allylic Substitution
Authors: Kojima Masahiro , Matsunaga Shigeki , Sekino Tomoyuki , Sato Shunta , Kuwabara Kazuki , Takizawa Koji , Yoshino Tatsuhiko
Published: April 2020

Despite their unique potential as rare 1,1-dipole synthons, allyl sulfones are rarely used in target-oriented syntheses, likely due to the lack of a general catalytic method for their branch-selective allylic substitution. Herein, we identified allyl 4-chlorophenyl sulfone as a versatile linchpin for both base-mediated α-derivatization and subsequent cobalt-catalyzed allylic substitution. The sequential transformations allow for highly regioselective access to branched allylic substitution products with a variety of aliphatic side chains. The photoredox-enabled­ ­cobalt catalysis is indispensable for achieving high yields and regioselectivity­ for the desulfonylative substitution in contrast to traditional metal-catalyzed protocols, which lead to inferior outcomes in the corresponding transformations.
Complaints of People with Hyperacusis
Authors: Ke Jia , Du Yali , Tyler Richard S. , Perreau Ann , Mancini Patricia C.
Published: April 2020

Abstract Background Hyperacusis is a prevalent auditory disorder that causes significant distress and negatively affects quality of life for many patients. Patients with hyperacusis often have different complaints about the sounds and situations that they experience.
Audiologists may have few patients with hyperacusis, and a limited understanding of the sounds and situations that are reported to be challenging by their patients. Purpose To investigate the common complaints reported by hyperacusis patients. Research design A
qualitative study was conducted with 11 hyperacusis patients who participated in a group session. Results All 11 hyperacusis patients experienced negative reactions to specific sounds. In addition, many patients reported physical symptoms such as headaches, balance problems,
dysosmia (strong smell problems), and light sensitivity. Sounds that induced discomfort were wide ranging and included low-frequency sounds, high-frequency sounds, wide-band noise, and sudden, high-intensity sounds. Most patients (9/11, 81.8%) reported negative reactions to music in loud rock
concerts. Patients reported that stress/tension (90.9%) worsened their hyperacusis, while removing themselves from noise (90.9%) relieved their hyperacusis. Conclusion Loudness is only one of the many factors related to the discomfort of patients with hyperacusis. Across patients,
we observed that there were different complaints about the sounds and situations that produced difficulty due to hyperacusis. Physical symptoms following sound exposure were also reported by the patients, suggesting that hyperacusis is a complex disorder and requires intervention that often
involves multiple members of the medical team.
Correction of Carpal Valgus and Flexural Deformity with z-Tenotomy and Anastomosis Procedure in a Dog
Authors: Gondolfe Mikaela , Garneau Mark
Published: April 2020

This study aimed to describe a staged bilateral z-tenotomy and anastomosis procedure of flexor carpi ulnaris and superficial digital flexor tendons for the correction of carpal valgus and flexural deformity in a 1-year-old male-neutered Akita dog. Bilateral carpal valgus and flexural deformity were observed with palpably taut flexor carpi ulnaris tendons. The dog had a mild, weight-bearing bilateral forelimb lameness with the left forelimb more severely affected. Both forelimbs were treated with staged z-tenotomy and anastomosis procedure of both flexor carpi ulnaris and superficial digital flexor tendons. Successful tendon lengthening and correction of carpal valgus were achieved via z-tenotomy and anastomosis of affected tendons. No complications were observed. An 18-month follow-up revealed no evidence of lameness or carpal valgus. Though tendon injuries commonly occur in small animal patients, there is a shortage of reported cases, especially involving musculotendinous contractures. There are even fewer reports of successful tenotomy procedures. This case report supports successful outcome of the z-tenotomy procedure in a canine patient.
Personalmangel im Klinikeinkauf: Unter Verschluss
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: April 2020

Viele Kliniken finden nicht die passenden Einkäufer. Den hohen Vergütungen in der Industrie haben sie meist wenig entgegenzusetzen. Wer gute Mitarbeiter hat, versucht deshalb alles, damit Headhunter erst gar nicht auf sie aufmerksam werden.
Digitaler Wandel im Einkauf: Smarte Sachkostensteuerung ist Teamarbeit
Authors: Kollmar Thorsten , Fenger Sebastian
Published: April 2020

Die Bedeutung des strategischen Einkäufers wird in den kommenden Jahren trotz aller Unkenrufe wachsen. Voraussetzung dafür ist aber, dass der Einkäufer aktiv und ohne Scheu in die Kommunikation mit Ärzten und Pflegekräften einsteigt. Moderne Instrumente und eine gute Community können den Dialog erleichtern.
Čerenkov phonon radiation and phonon structure in electron emission, electroluminescence, and current–voltage characteristics of electroformed Al–Al2O3–Ag diodes
Authors: Hickmott T. W.
Published: April 2020

Electroforming of metal–insulator–metal (MIM) diodes is a non-destructive dielectric breakdown that results in a conducting filament in the insulator and changes the high resistance of the as-prepared MIM diode into a low-resistance state. It is a critical step in the development of conducting states between which switching can occur in memristors or resistive switching memories. Electroforming of Al–Al2O3–Ag diodes in vacuum results in the formation of a conducting Al2O3 filament. There are Ohmic contacts at the Al–Al2O3 and Al2O3–Ag interfaces. Electronic processes develop, such as voltage-controlled negative resistance in the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics, electron emission into vacuum (EM), and electroluminescence (EL). I–V curves, EM, and EL of three electroformed Al–Al2O3–Ag diodes with anodic Al2O3 thicknesses between 36 nm and 49 nm have been measured with 20 mV resolution between voltage steps. Periodic voltage structure occurs for the three electronic processes for applied voltages between the voltage threshold for EL, ∼2 V, and the maximum applied voltage, 11 V. The voltage peak period, 60 mV to 70 mV, is the same as the range of LO phonon energies of anodic Al2O3. The proposed mechanism is Čerenkov phonon generation by ballistic electrons whose velocity exceeds the velocity of sound in Al2O3. The phonons, in turn, modify the motion and number of electrons that are emitted into vacuum, that are responsible for EL radiation, and that contribute to conduction through the diode. The occurrence of LO phonons shows that the conducting filament is Al2O3, not Ag or Al. The phenomena may provide a new method of generating terahertz radiation.
Flexible BSA MIM capacitor with negative voltage coefficient for RF applications
Authors: Kumar Parkarsh , Guhathakurata Shrabani , Choudhury A. , Sharma A. , Tripathy Anupam R , Sachin Kumar S , Pancham P. P. , Das Palash , Mahato Satya Sopan , Mahata Shrabani , Mallik S.
Published: April 2020

In this report, Bovine Serum Albumin-based Metal–Insulator–Metal structures on Indium doped Tin Oxide coated flexible Polyethylene Terephthalate substrates with Aluminum (Al) as the top electrode have been fabricated and studied in detail. The thickness of the film was measured using a Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope. The Fourier Transform Infrared Attenuated Total Reflectance spectrum confirms the presence of both amide-I and amide-II in the protein film. Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy was performed for the absorption spectrum used to extract the optical bandgap. The surface roughness of the film was estimated by Atomic Force Microscopy. Electrical characterization of the devices gives a high capacitance density with a negative quadratic coefficient and a low dissipation factor, showing their potential for Radio Frequency/analog application. The number of dipoles (NPD) is found to be 1.01 × 1018 cm−3 with a permanent dipole moment (μ0) of 2.92 × 10−25 C m at an applied frequency of 1 MHz. The devices show high reliability resistant to degradation, studied by Constant Voltage Stressing. We also examined the performance of these flexible devices by repeated bending with different bending radii.
Photocurrent measurements in topological insulator Bi2Se3 nanowires
Authors: Meyer N. , Geishendorf K. , Walowski J. , Thomas A. , Münzenberg M.
Published: April 2020

Circular photogalvanic currents are a promising approach for spin-optoelectronics. To date, such currents have been induced in topological insulator flakes or extended films. It is not clear whether they can be generated in nanodevices. In this paper, we demonstrate the generation of circular photogalvanic currents in Bi2Se3 nanowires. Each nanowire shows topological surface states. Here, we generate and distinguish the different photocurrent contributions via the driving light wave. We separate the circular photogalvanic currents from those due to thermal Seebeck effects through controlling laser light polarization. The results reveal a spin-polarized surface-Dirac electron flow in the nanowires arising from spin-momentum locking and spin–orbit effects. The second photocurrent contribution described in this Letter is caused by the thermal Seebeck effect. By scanning the photocurrent, it can be spatially resolved; upon reversing the gradient direction along the nanowire, the photocurrent changes its sign, and close to the gold contacts, the amplitudes of the different photocurrent contributions are affected by the proximity to the contacts. In the center of the nanowires, where the effects from the gold contact/topological insulator stacks vanish, the spin-polarized current remains constant along the nanowires. This allows the all-optical spin current generation in topological insulator nanowires and hybrid structures on the nanoscale, one goal of spin-orbitronics.
Localization of electronic states resulting from electronic topological transitions in the Mo1−xRex alloys: A photoemission study
Authors: Sharath Chandra L. S. , Sundar Shyam , Banik Soma , Ramjan SK. , Chattopadhyay M. K. , Jha S. N. , Roy S. B.
Published: April 2020

We present the results of resonant photoemission spectroscopy experiments on Mo1−xRex alloy compositions spanning over two electronic topological transitions (ETTs) at critical concentrations xC1=0.05 and xC2=0.11. Photoelectrons show an additional resonance (R3) in constant initial state spectra of alloys along with two resonances (R1 and R2), which are similar to those observed in molybdenum. All the resonances show Fano-like line shapes. Asymmetry parameter q of resonances R1 and R3 of alloys is observed to be large and negative. Our analysis suggests that the origin of large negative q is associated with phonon assisted interband scattering between Mo-like states and the narrow band that appeared due to ETT.
Amplitude death phenomenon and modulation of thermoacoustic oscillation in cryogenic systems
Authors: Hu Lulu , Zhang Ting , Chen Hui , Liu Yingwen
Published: April 2020

In this paper, an innovative method of adopting a piping insert with an abrupt contraction or expansion structure has been proposed to eliminate undesirable thermally driven gas oscillations in cryogenic systems. In addition, the influences of the piping inserts’ geometrical parameters and position on the performance of thermoacoustic oscillation in cryogenic systems have been investigated. A series of simulations has been conducted, and simulation bifurcation diagrams show that thermoacoustic oscillation can be completely stopped, which, in other words, is called the amplitude death (AD) phenomenon. When the pipeline inserts are equipped in the cold part, AD can be achieved regardless of the pipeline inserts’ radius. When the pipeline inserts are located in the warm part, AD can be realized by the pipe inserts with an abrupt contraction. The identification of nonlinear characteristics of different state transitions with different insert geometries is further conducted by unfolding these original time series in an embedding space. The nonlinear change process of thermoacoustic oscillation is demonstrated in the phase space diagrams. As the insert radius increases, the system transforms from a periodic state to a quasi-periodic state and then from a quasi-periodic state to an AD state. This work will have practical impacts on the design of oscillation-free piping systems.
Synergistically promoted thermoelectric performance of SnTe by alloying with NaBiTe2
Authors: Zhang Mengke , Tang Xiaodan , Li Nanhai , Wang Guiwen , Wang Guoyu , Liu Anping , Lu Xu , Zhou Xiaoyuan
Published: April 2020

SnTe, as a lead-free analog of PbTe, shows limited thermoelectric performance because of the high hole concentration arising from intrinsic Sn vacancies and its high thermal conductivity. Herein, we show a significantly improved thermoelectric performance in p-type SnTe through NaBiTe2 alloying, by which carrier concentration optimization, band structure engineering, and thermal conductivity reduction are simultaneously realized. Band modification is confirmed by transport coefficient analysis based on the single parabolic band model. The low lattice thermal conductivity of SnTe−NaBiTe2 solid solutions is ascribed to point defect scattering. As a result, a zT value of ∼1.1 at 834 K is achieved in the sample with the nominal composition of (SnTe)0.96(NaBiTe2)0.04.
Pseudorotating hydride complexes with high hydrogen coordination: A class of rotatable polyanions in solid matter
Authors: Takagi Shigeyuki , Ikeshoji Tamio , Sato Toyoto , Orimo Shin-ichi
Published: April 2020

Solid-state materials containing rotatable polyanions, such as B12H122−, constitute a peculiar class of ionic conductors due to their unique transport behavior, where rotating polyanions promote phase transitions to disordered phases with several orders of magnitude enhancement in cation conductivities. A major drawback is the high temperature required to activate rotation and thereby low conductivities at room temperature. Here, we elucidate a mechanism to drastically reduce the temperature based on the use of pseudorotation in high-H coordination hydride complexes. We demonstrate this mechanism for an existing complex transition metal hydride Li5MoH11 containing MoH93−, and we present a strong potential of this material to unprecedentedly exhibit a high lithium ion conductivity of 7.9 × 10–2 S cm−1 at room temperature.
Foam-free monodisperse lipid-coated ultrasound contrast agent synthesis by flow-focusing through multi-gas-component microbubble stabilization
Authors: Segers Tim , Gaud Emmanuel , Casqueiro Gilles , Lassus Anne , Versluis Michel , Frinking Peter
Published: April 2020

Monodisperse lipid-coated microbubbles are a promising avenue to unlock the full potential of ultrasound contrast agents for medical diagnosis and therapy. However, their formation by microfluidic flow-focusing is non-trivial. The lipid monolayer shell around the freshly formed bubbles is initially loosely packed, resulting in gas exchange between bubbles through Ostwald ripening, eventually leading to the formation of large, potentially thrombogenic, foam bubbles. Here, we show that by formulating a gas mixture of a low- and a high-aqueous solubility gas, a microbubble suspension can be formed that is not only monodisperse and highly stable, but it can also be synthesized without foam bubble formation at clinically relevant concentrations. The optimal gas volume fraction and resulting gas composition of the stable bubbles are modeled and were found to be in excellent agreement with the experimental data. This physics approach to an interfacial chemistry problem therefore opens a route to bedside production of stable, safe, and readily injectable monodisperse bubbles for medical applications.
Fast switching coil system for sample premagnetization in an unshielded ultra-low-field nuclear magnetic resonance experiment
Authors: Biancalana Valerio , Cecchi Roberto , Stiaccini Leonardo , Vigilante Antonio
Published: April 2020

We present a system developed to premagnetize liquid samples in an ultra-low-field nuclear magnetic resonance experiment. Liquid samples of a few milliliters are exposed to a magnetic field of about 70 mT, which is abruptly switched off, to leave a transverse microtesla field, where nuclei start precessing. An accurate characterization of the transients and intermediate field level enables a reliable operation of the detection system, which is based on an optical magnetometer.
Electrostatic effect on off-field ferroelectric hysteresis loop in piezoresponse force microscopy
Authors: Qiao Huimin , Kwon Owoong , Kim Yunseok
Published: April 2020

Piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) has been extensively utilized as a versatile and an indispensable tool to understand and analyze nanoscale ferro-/piezoelectric properties by detecting the local electromechanical response on a sample surface. However, it has been discovered that the electromechanical response originates not only from piezoelectricity but also from other factors such as the electrostatic effect. In this study, we explore the dependence of off-field PFM hysteresis loops on the surface-potential-induced electrostatic effect in a prototypical ferroelectric thin film by applying an external voltage to the bottom electrode during the measurement. We simplify the situation by equating the surface potential to the direct current voltage waveform variations and predicting the contribution of the surface-potential-induced electrostatic effect to the PFM hysteresis loops. The experimental results approximately match our prediction—the coercive voltage linearly decreases with the surface potential, whereas the saturated amplitude and piezoresponse remain nearly constant owing to the relatively large piezoelectric coefficient of the ferroelectric thin film.
Non-resonant metasurface for broadband elastic wave mode splitting
Authors: Zheng Mingye , Park Chung Il , Liu Xiaoning , Zhu Rui , Hu Gengkai , Kim Yoon Young
Published: April 2020

Complex polarizations of elastic waves allow mode conversions between two solids, making wave mode separation extremely difficult even for a narrow frequency range with resonant metamaterials. In this Letter, a non-resonant elastic metasurface design is proposed to achieve a perfect splitting of longitudinal and shear waves in space. The key to this broadband design is a singly polarized solid with engineered static elastic tensor, which provides a tool to tune the polarization through non-resonant microstructure design. Both full-wave simulations and experiments are conducted to validate the mode splitting function of the designed metasurface. Potential applications such as elastic wave shifting and selective wave mode focusing are also demonstrated. This research provides an alternative route to design broadband and compact metasurfaces for elastic wave communications, biomedical diagnosis, and wave-based damage evaluations.
A particle finite element-based model for droplet spreading analysis
Authors: Mahrous Elaf , Jarauta Alex , Chan Thomas , Ryzhakov Pavel , Weber Adam Z. , Roy R. Valéry , Secanell Marc
Published: April 2020

A particle finite element method-based model is proposed to analyze droplet dynamics problems, particularly droplet spreading on solid substrates (wetting). The model uses an updated Lagrangian framework to formulate the governing equations of the liquid. The curvature of the liquid surface is tracked accurately using a deforming boundary mesh. In order to predict the spreading rate of the droplet on the solid substrate and track the corresponding contact angle evolution, dissipative forces at the contact line are included in the formulation in addition to the Navier-slip boundary conditions at the solid–liquid interface. The inclusion of these boundary conditions makes it possible to account for the induced Young’s stress at the contact line and for the viscous dissipation along the solid–liquid interfacial region. These are found to be essential to obtain a mesh-independent physical solution. The temporal evolution of the contact angle and the contact line velocity of the proposed model are compared with spreading droplets and micro-sessile droplet injection experiments and are shown to be in good agreement.
Band structure and infrared optical transitions in ErN
Authors: McKay M. A. , Wang Q. W. , Al-Atabi H. A. , Yan Y. Q. , Li J. , Edgar J. H. , Lin J. Y. , Jiang H. X.
Published: April 2020

Erbium nitride (ErN) is a rare-earth metal mononitride with desirable electronic, magnetic, and optical properties. ErN can be incorporated into III-nitride semiconductors to develop new functional materials for optoelectronic and spintronic devices. Here, we report on the optical properties of ErN crystals, grown by sublimation and probed by photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Three transition lines were observed near 1 eV. Theoretically, ErN has a small indirect energy gap of around 0.2 eV with a conduction band minimum at the X-point of the Brillouin zone and a valence band maximum at the Γ-point. The predicted smallest direct energy gap is around 1 eV, with two valence bands at the X-point. Using the PL results together with the reported calculations, a coherent picture for the band structure at the X-point for ErN crystals has been derived. Experimental results revealed that ErN has a minimum direct bandgap of 0.98 eV and a total of two valence bands separated by about 0.37 eV at the X-point.
Effects of size on the electrical and optical properties of InGaN-based red light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zhuang Zhe , Iida Daisuke , Ohkawa Kazuhiro
Published: April 2020

We investigated the effects of size on electrical and optical properties of InGaN-based red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) by designing rectangular chips with different mesa lengths. Larger chips exhibited lower forward voltages because of their lower series resistances. A larger chip helped to realize a longer emission wavelength, narrower full-width at half maximum, and higher external quantum efficiency. However, temperature-dependent electroluminescence measurements indicated that larger chips are detrimental to applications where high temperature tolerance is required. In contrast, a smaller red LED chip achieved a high characteristic temperature of 399 K and a small redshift tendency of 0.066 nm K−1, thus showing potential for temperature tolerant lighting applications.
III–V micro- and nano-lasers deposited on amorphous SiO2
Authors: Han Yu , Yan Zhao , Ng Wai Kit , Xue Ying , Ng Kar Wei , Wong Kam Sing , Lau Kei May
Published: April 2020

The direct growth of III–V lasers on the industry-standard Si-platforms is the key for fully integrated Si-photonics. Conventional III–V hetero-epitaxy on Si substrates is plagued by crystalline defects generated at the mismatched interface, and thick buffers are often used to mitigate the issues. Here, we report the direct deposition of room temperature III–V micro- and nano-lasers on amorphous SiO2 layers. Without the requirement of crystalline substrates nor having to cope with the long-lasting lattice-mismatch problem, we demonstrate the direct hetero-epitaxy of dislocation-free III–V nanopillars and micro-islands on amorphous SiO2 layers. As the epitaxial InP crystals are embedded inside a low-index environment, we observed strong room temperature lasing from the as-grown InP crystallites under optical excitation.
Anti-Müllerian hormone receptor type 2 (AMHR2) expression in bovine oviducts and endometria: comparison of AMHR2 mRNA and protein abundance between old Holstein and young and old Wagyu females
Authors: Ferdousy Raihana Nasrin , Kereilwe Onalenna , Kadokawa Hiroya
Published: April 2020

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a glycoprotein produced by granulosa cells of preantral and small antral follicles that has multiple important roles in the ovaries. Recent studies have revealed extragonadal AMH regulation of gonadotrophin secretion from bovine gonadotrophs. In this study we investigated whether the primary receptor for AMH, AMH receptor type 2 (AMHR2), is expressed in bovine oviducts and endometria. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction detected expression of AMHR2 mRNA in oviductal and endometrial specimens. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were performed to analyse AMHR2 protein expression using anti-bovine AMHR2 antibody. Immunohistochemistry revealed robust AMHR2 expression in the tunica mucosa of the ampulla and isthmus, as well as in the glandular and luminal epithelium of the endometrium. AMHR2 mRNA (measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction) and AMHR2 protein expression in these layers did not significantly differ among oestrous phases in adult Wagyu cows (P>0.1). In addition, AMHR2 mRNA and protein expression in these layers did not differ among old Holsteins (mean (±s.e.m.) age 91.9±6.4 months) and young (26.6±0.8 months) and old (98.8±10.2 months) Wagyu cows. Therefore, AMHR2 is expressed in bovine oviducts and endometria.
Staff Perceptions on the Implementation of Structured Risk Assessment with the START:AV: Identifying Barriers and Facilitators in a Residential Youth Care Setting
Authors: De Beuf Tamara L. F. , de Ruiter Corine , de Vogel Vivienne
Published: April 2020

An effective implementation approach is crucial for successful integration of structured risk assessment instruments into practice. This qualitative study explored barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the Short-Term Assessment of Risk and Treatability: Adolescent Version (START:AV) in a Dutch residential youth care service. Perceptions of staff members from various disciplines were gathered through focus group interviews at three consecutive occasions. After inductive coding of the interview extracts using thematic analysis, the identified codes were linked to the consolidated framework for implementation research. Through this framework, factors that influence an implementation project can be organized into multiple domains and constructs. In the present study, staff members described implementation barriers related to characteristics of the risk assessment instrument, staff, and the implementation process. In addition, features of the setting were frequently mentioned as hindering the implementation, such as hierarchy, culture, communication, as well as implementation climate and readiness for change. Staff members also identified multiple facilitators, such as experienced advantages of the START:AV compared to the previous risk assessment practice and positive beliefs about the instrument. The article concludes with recommendations for successful implementation of structured risk assessment instruments in forensic-clinical practice.
Polyamine blockade and binding energetics in the MthK potassium channel
Authors: Suma Antonio , Granata Daniele , Thomson Andrew S. , Carnevale Vincenzo , Rothberg Brad S.
Published: April 2020

Polyamines such as spermidine and spermine are found in nearly all cells, at concentrations ranging up to 0.5 mM. These cations are endogenous regulators of cellular K+ efflux, binding tightly in the pores of inwardly rectifying K+ (Kir) channels in a voltage-dependent manner. Although the voltage dependence of Kir channel polyamine blockade is thought to arise at least partially from the energetically coupled movements of polyamine and K+ ions through the pore, the nature of physical interactions between these molecules is unclear. Here we analyze the polyamine-blocking mechanism in the model K+ channel MthK, using a combination of electrophysiology and computation. Spermidine (SPD3+) and spermine (SPM4+) each blocked current through MthK channels in a voltage-dependent manner, and blockade by these polyamines was described by a three-state kinetic scheme over a wide range of polyamine concentrations. In the context of the scheme, both SPD3+ and SPM4+ access a blocking site with similar effective gating valences (0.84 ± 0.03 e0 for SPD3+ and 0.99 ± 0.04 e0 for SPM4+), whereas SPM4+ binds in the blocked state with an ∼20-fold higher affinity than SPD3+ (Kd = 28.1 ± 3.1 µM for SPD3+ and 1.28 ± 0.20 µM for SPM4+), consistent with a free energy difference of 1.8 kcal/mol. Molecular simulations of the MthK pore in complex with either SPD3+ or SPM4+ are consistent with the leading amine interacting with the hydroxyl groups of T59, at the selectivity filter threshold, with access to this site governed by outward movement of K+ ions. These coupled movements can account for a large fraction of the voltage dependence of blockade. In contrast, differences in binding energetics between SPD3+ and SPM4+ may arise from distinct electrostatic interactions between the polyamines and carboxylate oxygens on the side chains of E92 and E96, located in the pore-lining helix.
Cadmium activates AMPA and NMDA receptors with M3 helix cysteine substitutions
Authors: Wilding Timothy J. , Huettner James E.
Published: April 2020

AMPA and NMDA receptors are ligand-gated ion channels that depolarize postsynaptic neurons when activated by the neurotransmitter L-glutamate. Changes in the distribution and activity of these receptors underlie learning and memory, but excessive change is associated with an array of neurological disorders, including cognitive impairment, developmental delay, and epilepsy. All of the ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) exhibit similar tetrameric architecture, transmembrane topology, and basic framework for activation; conformational changes induced by extracellular agonist binding deform and splay open the inner helix bundle crossing that occludes ion flux through the channel. NMDA receptors require agonist binding to all four subunits, whereas AMPA and closely related kainate receptors can open with less than complete occupancy. In addition to conventional activation by agonist binding, we recently identified two locations along the inner helix of the GluK2 kainate receptor subunit where cysteine (Cys) substitution yields channels that are opened by exposure to cadmium ions, independent of agonist site occupancy. Here, we generate AMPA and NMDA receptor subunits with homologous Cys substitutions and demonstrate similar activation of the mutant receptors by Cd. Coexpression of the auxiliary subunit stargazin enhanced Cd potency for activation of Cys-substituted GluA1 and altered occlusion upon treatment with sulfhydryl-reactive MTS reagents. Mutant NMDA receptors displayed voltage-dependent Mg block of currents activated by agonist and/or Cd as well as asymmetry between Cd effects on Cys-substituted GluN1 versus GluN2 subunits. In addition, Cd activation of each Cys-substituted iGluR was inhibited by protons. These results, together with our earlier work on GluK2, reveal a novel mechanism shared among the three different iGluR subtypes for prying open the gate that controls ion entry into the pore.