bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating and using large grids of precalculated model atmospheres for a rapid analysis of stellar spectra
Authors: Zsargó J. , Fierro-Santillán C. R. , Klapp J. , Arrieta A. , Arias L. , Valencia J. M. , Sigalotti L. Di G. , Hareter M. , Puebla R. E.
Published: September 2020

Aims. We present a database of 43 340 atmospheric models (∼80 000 models at the conclusion of the project) for stars with stellar masses between 9 and 120 M⊙, covering the region of the OB main-sequence and Wolf-Rayet stars in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

Methods. The models were calculated using the ABACUS I supercomputer and the stellar atmosphere code CMFGEN.

Results. The parameter space has six dimensions: the effective temperature Teff, the luminosity L, the metallicity Z, and three stellar wind parameters: the exponent β, the terminal velocity V∞, and the volume filling factor Fcl. For each model, we also calculate synthetic spectra in the UV (900−2000 Å), optical (3500−7000 Å), and near-IR (10 000−40 000 Å) regions. To facilitate comparison with observations, the synthetic spectra can be rotationally broadened using ROTIN3, by covering v sin i velocities between 10 and 350 km s−1 with steps of 10 km s−1.

Conclusions. We also present the results of the reanalysis of ϵ Ori using our grid to demonstrate the benefits of databases of precalculated models. Our analysis succeeded in reproducing the best-fit parameter ranges of the original study, although our results favor the higher end of the mass-loss range and a lower level of clumping. Our results indirectly suggest that the resonance lines in the UV range are strongly affected by the velocity-space porosity, as has been suggested by recent theoretical calculations and numerical simulations.
Study of Mini Channel Heat Sink with Different Internal Configuration
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Akif , Tamam Md Badrath , Faruque Md Sadman , Morshed A.K.M. Monjur
Published: September 2020

In this paper a numerical analysis of three-dimensional laminar flow through rectangular channel heat sinks of different geometric configuration is presented and a comparison of thermal performance among the heat sinks is discussed. Liquid water was used as coolant in the aluminum made heat sink with a glass cover above it. The aspect ratio (section height to width) of rectangular channels of the mini-channel heat sink was 0.33. A heat flux of 20 W/cm2 was continuously applied at the bottom of the channel with different inlet velocity for Reynold’s number ranging from 150 to 1044. Interconnectors and obstacles at different positions and numbers inside the channel were introduced in order to enhance the thermal performance. These modifications cause secondary flow between the parallel channels and the obstacles disrupt the boundary layer formation of the flow inside the channel which leads to the increase in heat transfer rate. Finally, Nusselt number, overall thermal resistance and maximum temperature of the heat sink were calculated to compare the performances of the modified heat sinks with the conventional mini channel heat sink and it was observed that the heat sink with both interconnectors and obstacles enhanced the thermal performance more significantly than other configurations. A maximum of 36% increase in Nusselt number was observed (for Re =1044).
Determination of Metal Elements in Workplace Air by ICP-MS
Authors: Lu Suping , Zhang Hai , Du Weijia , Deng Jianchao
Published: September 2020

It was important to assess workplace air quality in factory where the air quality has a significant impact on the health of workers. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of metal elements in workplace air of factory. In this article, an easy and quick method based on microwave assisted acid digestion technique prior to quantification using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for measuring contents of 7 metal (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Pb, Cd and Sn) elements in workplace air. The air samples were collected by quartz filter membrane. The samples were respectively prepared by microwave digestion system and nitric acid. Under the optimum condition of method, the calibration curves were obtained with correlation correlation coefficients were above 0.9994, the limits of detection of the method were 0.004-0.072 mg/L. The average recoveries of the 7 metal elements at three levels were in the range of 93.8%-102.3%. The proposed method has some advantages of simple operation, high sensitivity and good accutacy.
Active Vibration Control of a Fluid-Conveying Functionally Graded Cylindrical Shell using Piezoelectric Material
Authors: Wang Dan , Bai Changqing , Zhang Hongyan
Published: September 2020

Active vibration control of a smart FG (functionally graded) cylindrical shell conveying fluid in thermal environment is studied theoretically by using a laminated piezoelectric actuator. Velocity feedback control law is implemented to activate the piezoelectric actuator. Considering the electric-thermo-fluid-structure interaction effect, a nonlinear dynamic model of the smart fluid-conveying FG cylindrical shell is developed based on Hamilton’s principle and von-Karman type geometrical nonlinear relationship. The inviscid, incompressible, isentropic and irrotational fluid is coupled into governing equations using the linearized potential theory. The Galerkin’s method is used to obtain the nonlinear governing equations of motion of the coupled system. The multiple time scales approach is applied to solve the resulting governing equations for analysing the nonlinear dynamic characteristics of the coupled system. The influence of fluid flow velocity, feedback control gains of piezoelectric voltage, external excitation and material properties of FGM on the frequency-response curves of system are investigated. The results indicate that the piezoelectric voltage is an effective controlling parameter for vibration control of the system, and the flow velocity can effect significantly the vibration amplitude and nonlinearity of the coupled system.
LNG Transport and Management at South China Sea
Authors: Chen H , Cao X C , Zhou C. Y. , Wang J , Qin Y , Chen M
Published: September 2020

As China’s research on LNG maritime transport is still in its infancy, there are few papers in relevant areas. Based on the description of the oil and gas contained in the South China Sea and the geographical location of the oil, the paper compares the natural gas liquefaction with nature, compares the three modes of natural gas transportation, and describes the influencing factors of LNG marine transportation.Secondly, Hainan Province was used as a case of transportation terminal to conduct market analysis and economic evaluation. Finally, considering of the unique resource background and geographical location of the South China Sea, suggestions are made to use effective, clean and comparative cheap energy.
Freundlichkeit ist mehr wert als sie kostet
Authors: Jürgens Ute
Published: September 2020

Verhalten Sie sich Ihren Kunden gegenüber nur professionell freundlich oder eher zuvorkommend und umsichtig? Guter Service wirkt! Vor allem, weil er immer seltener wird. Das geht auch ohne großen Aufwand.
The TUDID Study – Background and Design of a Prospective
Cohort
Authors: Jaghutriz Benjamin Assad , Wagner Robert , Kullmann Stephanie , Fritsche Louise , Eckstein Sabine S. , Dannecker Corinna , Willmann Caroline , Randrianarisoa Elko , Lehn-Stefan Angela , Hieronimus Anja , Hudak Sarah , Vosseler Dorothea , Lamprinou Apostolia , Huber Philipp , Vosseler Andreas , Willmann Gabriel , Heyne Nils , Wolff Diana , Stefan Norbert , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Birkenfeld Andreas L. , Peter Andreas , Fritsche Andreas , Heni Martin
Published: September 2020

Prevalence of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus is growing worldwide and
one major cause for morbidity and mortality. However, not every patient develops
diabetes-related complications, but causes for the individual susceptibility are
still not fully understood. As a platform to address this, we initiated the
TUDID (TUebingen DIabetes Database) study, a prospective, monocentric,
observational study that includes adults with diabetes mellitus who are treated
in the inpatient clinic of a University Hospital in southern Germany. Besides a
thorough clinical examination and extensive laboratory tests (with integrated
biobanking), major study focuses are the kidneys, the eyes, the vasculature as
well as cognition and mood where standardized investigations for early stages
for diabetes complications are performed. Analyses of the data generated by this
precise characterization of diabetes-related complications will contribute to
our understanding of the development and course of such complications, and thus
facilitate the implementation of tailored treatment options that can reduce the
risk and severity of diabetes-related complications.
Entwicklung auditiver Verarbeitungs- und Wahrnehmungsleistungen mit und ohne AVWS im Grundschulalter
Authors: Nickisch Andreas , Nickisch Leonie , Kiese-Himmel Christiane
Published: September 2020

Hintergrund Ob sich die an unauffälligen Kindern beschriebenen Reifungsprozesse des zentralen Hörsystems auch an Kindern mit auditiven Verarbeitungs- und Wahrnehmungsstörungen (AVWS) im Grundschulalter nachweisen lassen, sollte an 2 Schülerjahrgängen (1. und 4. Klasse) im Kontrollgruppenvergleich untersucht werden.

Material und Methoden In die Auswertung gingen 7 Testergebnisse von 82 Erstklässlern (40 mit AVWS; 42 unauffällige Kinder) und 65 Viertklässlern (35 mit AVWS; 30 unauffällige Kinder) ein. Es wurde eine ANOVA mit dem Gesamtsummenwert aus folgenden 7 Untersuchungen sowie anschließend eine MANOVA mit den Einzeltestergebnissen durchgeführt: Göttinger Sprachaudiometrie II im Störgeräusch; dichotisches Wortpaarverstehen (Uttenweiler-Test); Phonemdifferenzierung, Phonemidentifikation, Phonemanalyse (Subtests aus Heidelberger Lautdifferenzierungstest); Zahlenfolgen-Gedächtnis (Subtest aus psycholinguistischem Entwicklungstest); Mottier-Test.

Ergebnisse Die ANOVA zeigte signifikante Haupteffekte von „Schuljahr“ (p < 0,001; η² = 0,418) und „Gruppe“ (p < 0,001; η² = 0,690), jedoch keine Interaktionseffekte zwischen beiden. Das Ergebnis der MANOVA war ähnlich bzgl. der o. g. Haupteffekte; nur für 2 Tests (Phonemidentifikation, Phonemanalyse) wurde die Interaktion der Faktoren Schuljahr und Gruppe mit jeweils geringen Effektstärken von 3 bzw. 6 % statistisch signifikant.

Diskussion Gemäß dieser Querschnittsstudie scheint der Unterschied zwischen den beiden Gruppen unabhängig vom Schuljahr zu sein.

Fazit Im Grundschulalter gibt es nicht nur für unauffällige Kinder, sondern auch für solche mit AVWS Hinweise auf eine Reifung des zentralen Hörsystems.
Mini-Tubular Access Surgery: A Single Surgeon's 12 Years in the Corridors of the Neuroaxis
Authors: Alsunbul Waleed , Elgheriani Ali , Takroni Radwan , Reddy Kesava , Zagzoog Nirmeen
Published: September 2020

Background Tubular approach surgery now includes complex spinal and cranial procedures. Aided by modified instrumentation and frameless stereotaxy, minimal access surgery is being offered for a growing array of neurosurgical conditions.

Methods This article explores the flexibility and adaptability of the tubular retractor system for multiple indications by highlighting the 12-year experience of the primary surgeon using a tubular retractor system reported for the entire neuroaxis including intracranial, foramen magnum, and the craniocaudal extent of the spine for intra- and extradural pathologies. For this article we have not analyzed our experience with degenerative spinal disease. Patient characteristics, pathology, resection results, length of hospital stay, and complications are discussed.

Results From August 2005 through March 2017, 538 patients underwent neurosurgical procedures with mini-tubular access. Of these, the 127 patients who underwent mini-tubular access operations for nontraditional indications are discussed here. There were 65 women and 61 men with an average age of 53.5 years. The cases by anatomical location are as follows: 27 cranial cases, 11 foramen magnum decompressions, and 89 for spinal indications. The cranial pathologies included primary and metastatic tumors. The spinal pathologies included intra- and extradural spinal tumors, spina bifida occulta, syringomyelia, and other cystic lesions in the spine. In the vast majority of the patients where gross total resection was the goal, it was achieved. The mean length of stay was 2.94 days.

Conclusions This report demonstrates that mini-tubular access surgery can be adapted to pathologies in the entire neuroaxis with outcomes that are comparable with open techniques. Limited tissue dissection, smaller incisions, and limited bone resection make the mini-tubular access approach a desirable option when feasible. Greater experience with all of these techniques is needed before the definitive status of these procedures in the neurosurgical armamentarium can be demonstrated.
Imaging in the Diagnosis of Nonspecific Pyogenic Spondylodiskitis
Authors: Heyde Christoph Eckhard , Spiegl Ulrich Josef Albert , Voelker Anna , von der Hoeh Nicolas , Henkelmann Jeanette
Published: September 2020

The prevalence of nonspecific pyogenic spondylodiskitis, associated with both a high morbidity and a high mortality, has increased in the last few decades. The diagnosis is often delayed because of the nonspecific clinical manifestation at the early stage. The reliability of radiographs is limited, particularly in early stage after the onset of infection. Computed tomography (CT) can reliably assess the bony condition with the possibility of spatial visualization. Contrast enhancement supports the detection of affected soft tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) continues to be the gold standard in the diagnosis of spondylodiskitis. Sophisticated investigation protocols supported by gadolinium enhancement secure the diagnosis. MRI has a high resolution without radiation exposure. Different nuclear investigation techniques extend the diagnostic options. Reports of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (18-FDG-PET) are particularly promising to confirm the diagnosis. The drawback of the reduced image quality with respect to detailed anatomical information can be overcome by a combined simultaneous acquisition of CT or MRI. With respect to one of the greatest challenges, the differentiation between degenerative changes (Modic type 1) and infection at an early stage using differentiated MRI protocols and FDG-PET is promising. This overview presents a concise state-of-the-art look at radiologic investigations in case of suspected nonspecific pyogenic spondylodiskitis with the focus on a pragmatic approach.
Covering of Plate after Anterior Cervical Fusion in Patients with Complete Spinal Cord Injury to Prevent Esophageal Injury: Technical Note
Authors: Oraee-Yazdani Saeed , Golmohammadi Maryam , Akhlaghpasand Mohammadhosein , Oraee-Yazdani Maryam
Published: September 2020

Background Esophageal injury after anterior corpectomy and fusion is a rare but life-threatening complication. It may cause mediastinitis due to anatomical continuity between the retropharyngeal space and the mediastinum, with reported high mortality rates. The acute and subacute injuries are most commonly of iatrogenic origin, while late perforation has been described several weeks to years later as a result of continuous friction or pressure of the instruments against the posterior wall of the esophagus, leading to ischemia and necrosis. This phenomenon is more common among quadriplegic patients who have undergone corpectomy and insertion of expandable or mesh cages and plate probably due to chronic erosion by hardware at the supine position.

Methods Since 2015, we have applied the technique of using a patch of autologous fascia lata to cover the anterior cervical plate by suturing to the longus colli muscles in 58 quadriplegic patients; the mean follow-up was 35.2 (28–41) months.

Results Since we started using this procedure, based on our follow-up at our center, there have been no cases of late esophageal perforation among quadriplegic patients.

Conclusion As a technical note, it seems like this method would be able to reduce the prevalence of esophagus injury among quadriplegic patients. However, to substantiate the efficacy of this technique, long-term follow-up and larger sample size are needed because esophageal injury occurs rarely.
An Unexpected Case of Late Fatal Central Venous Catheter Sepsis: A Case Report
Authors: Ottevanger Rosanne , Loggers Sverre A.I. , Yapici Unsal , Meijer Joost M.R. , Koning Giel G.
Published: September 2020

Introduction Central venous catheters (CVC) are associated with risks and complications. Complications like vessel perforation, thrombosis, infection with significant morbidity and mortality, knotting, and ventricular perforation have been described. Another less-frequent complication is retained CVC fragments. We present a case of a very late but fatal complication after a CVC placement. This report is written in line with the consensus-based surgical case report guidelines (SCARE).

Case A 46-year-old male presented to the emergency department in a critical (septic) shock. The patients' medical history featured a long–intensive care admission 28 years ago. The cause of this sepsis was not evident until a computed tomography scan was performed to exclude a pulmonary embolism, revealing a remnant of a central catheter in both pulmonary arteries. Despite extensive resuscitation, the patient died within 24 hours after admission. An autopsy was performed confirming that the catheter remnant was the only possible cause of the fatal sepsis.

Discussion CVC's are associated with (fatal) complications; however, retainment of remnants are described unfrequently but do occur in almost 2% of the cases. Endovascular removal of these remnants has been performed successfully and should be the first treatment of choice if removal is considered. No evidence is available that suggests that routine removal has to be attempted but some longer term complications can be expected, so awareness of possible remnants after CVC removal should exist.

Conclusion Retained fragments of CVC's are rare but are described after prolonged use. This case shows that these retained intravascular fragments can cause fatal complications on the long-term. Upon removal of CVC's, there should be awareness that retainment of fragments can occur.
The Risk Factors for Immune System Impairment and the Need for Lifestyle Changes
Authors: Trivedi Gunjan Y. , Saboo Banshi
Published: September 2020

Healthy immune system helps in enhancing the quality of life and reduces the risk of infectious disease. Chronic disease increases the risk of immune system impairment. The article reviews the evidence on risk factors causing immune system imbalance and articulates the complex nature of the relationships between immune system risk factors, chronic disease, and infectious disease to highlight the importance of lifestyle choices. Finally, some evidence is presented on mind–body interventions and lifestyle choices for enhancing the immune system function.
The Contemporary Role of Resection and Ablation in Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases
Authors: Eskander Mariam F. , Aquina Christopher T. , Ejaz Aslam , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: September 2020

Advances in the field of surgical oncology have turned metastatic colorectal cancer of the liver from a lethal disease to a chronic disease and have ushered in a new era of multimodal therapy for this challenging illness. A better understanding of tumor behavior and more effective systemic therapy have led to the increased use of neoadjuvant therapy. Surgical resection remains the gold standard for treatment but without the size, distribution, and margin restrictions of the past. Lesions are considered resectable if they can safely be removed with tumor-free margins and a sufficient liver remnant. Minimally invasive liver resections are a safe alternative to open surgery and may offer some advantages. Techniques such as portal vein embolization, association of liver partition with portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy, and radioembolization can be used to grow the liver remnant and allow for resection. If resection is not possible, nonresectional ablation therapy, including radiofrequency and microwave ablation, can be performed alone or in conjunction with resection. This article presents the most up-to-date literature on resection and ablation, with a discussion of current controversies and future directions.
Health Care Utilization in Patients Undergoing Repeat Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Vestibular Schwannoma with 5-Year Follow-up: A National Database Analysis
Authors: Dietz Nicholas , Sharma Mayur , Ugiliweneza Beatrice , Wang Dengzhi , Boakye Maxwell , Williams Brian , Andaluz Norberto
Published: September 2020

Background Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has been used as an alternative to microsurgery in patients with small vestibular schwannoma (VS). We compare health care utilization metrics in patients undergoing repeat-SRS (re-SRS) and no repeat SRS (nr-SRS) at long-term follow-up.

Materials and Methods We queried the MarketScan database using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and Current Procedural Terminology 4, from 2000 to 2016. We included adult patients who had diagnosis of VS and treatment with SRS with at least 5 years of continuous enrollment after the procedure. Outcomes were hospital admissions, outpatient services, and medication refills.

Results Of 1,047 patients, 5.1% (n = 53) had repeat SRS. Majority of re-SRS (74%, n = 39) were done within 2 years of index procedure and 51% were within 1-year of initial procedure. Patients who required re-SRS incurred higher hospital readmission rate, outpatient services, and had higher payments compared with those who did not require re-SRS at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years following the initial procedures. Re-SRS received 3.0- and 3.1-times higher payments at 1 and 2 years compared with nr-SRS cohort. At 5 years following SRS, median combined payments for re-SRS cohort was $105286 (interquartile range [IQR] $70999, $156569) compared with $44172 (IQR $22956, $84840) for nr-SRS cohort.

Conclusion More than half of the re-SRS procedures were noted within first year of initial SRS for VS. Overall payments at 5 years for repeat SRS was more than double that for nr-SRS. Repeat SRS was also associated with more re-admissions and outpatient services at annual follow-up time points.
Sinonasal Quality of Life Outcomes after Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Surgery with Posterior Septum Free Mucosal Graft Reconstruction
Authors: Wu Tara J. , Chen Angela , Wells Christine , Heaney Anthony P. , Bergsneider Marvin , Wang Marilene B.
Published: September 2020

Objective Quality of life (QoL) outcomes following endoscopic endonasal transphenoidal surgery (EETS) across a variety of reconstructive methods improve by 2 to 6 months. An option for sellar reconstruction, in the absence of a significant intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, is a free mucosal graft (FMG) from the posterior septum. We analyze sinonasal QoL outcomes in patients undergoing EETS with FMG reconstruction.

Study Design This study was a retrospective review.

Setting This study was conducted at tertiary care academic center.

Participants This study group consisted of patients undergoing EETS for pituitary adenomas from 2013 to 2018.

Main Outcome Measures Tumor and surgical factors were included, along with postoperative complications. Patients completed Sinonasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) questionnaires. Pre- and postoperative scores were compared among the entire cohort using linear multilevel regression. A subcohort analysis was performed among patients who completed questionnaires during the preoperative visit and two postoperative visits (within 1 month and between 2 and 3 months, respectively); pre- and postoperative total and individual domain SNOT-22 scores were compared using paired t-tests.

Results A total of 243 patients underwent EETS with FMG reconstruction. Four patients (1.6%) developed a postoperative CSF leak requiring reoperation. Among the entire cohort, SNOT-22 scores increased at the first postoperative visit (p < 0.01) but returned to baseline by the second, third, and fourth postoperative visits (p = 0.27, p = 0.18, and p = 0.21). Among 48 patients who completed both preoperative and two postoperative questionnaires, scores increased within the first month (p < 0.01) but returned to baseline at 2 to 3 months (p = 0.67).

Conclusion Posterior septum FMG reconstruction of sellar defects is an effective option, demonstrating early recovery of baseline sinonasal QoL by 2 to 3 months.
Beyond Antoni: A Surgeon's Guide to the Vestibular Schwannoma Microenvironment
Authors: Hannan Cathal J. , Lewis Daniel , O'Leary Claire , Donofrio Carmine A. , Evans Dafydd G. , Stapleton Emma , Freeman Simon R. , Lloyd Simon K. , Rutherford Scott A. , Hammerbeck-Ward Charlotte , Brough David , Allan Stuart M. , Coope David , King Andrew T. , Pathmanaban Omar N.
Published: September 2020

Introduction Vestibular schwannomas (VS) are histologically benign tumors arising from cranial nerve VIII. Far from a homogenous proliferation of Schwann cells, mounting evidence has highlighted the complex nature of the inflammatory microenvironment in these tumors.

Methods A review of the literature pertaining to inflammation, inflammatory molecular pathways, and immune-related therapeutic targets in VS was performed. Relevant studies published up to June 2020 were identified based on a literature search in the PubMed and MEDLINE databases and the findings were synthesized into a concise narrative review of the topic.

Results The VS microenvironment is characterized by a dense infiltrate of inflammatory cells, particularly macrophages. Significantly higher levels of immune cell infiltration are observed in growing versus static tumors, and there is a demonstrable interplay between inflammation and angiogenesis in growing VS. While further mechanistic studies are required to ascertain the exact role of inflammation in angiogenesis, tumor growth, and Schwann cell control, we are beginning to understand the key molecular pathways driving this inflammatory microenvironment, and how these processes can be monitored and targeted in vivo.

Conclusion Observational research has revealed a complex and heterogeneous tumor microenvironment in VS. The functional landscape and roles of macrophages and other immune cells in the VS inflammatory infiltrate are, however, yet to be established. The antiangiogenic drug bevacizumab has shown the efficacy of targeted molecular therapies in VS and there is hope that agents targeting another major component of the VS microenvironment, inflammation, will also find a place in their future management.
Radiological Anatomy of the Olfactory Fossa: Is Skull Base Anatomy Really Ever “Safe”?
Authors: Hamour Amr F. , Kus Lukas , Monteiro Eric , Scheffler Patrick , Lee John , Vescan Allan
Published: September 2020

Objective Computed tomography (CT) is a powerful tool for delineating the anatomy of the anterior skull base. The goal of this study is to further characterize the relevant anatomical features of this area, along with other parameters important for endoscopic sinus surgery.

Design Retrospective case review.

Setting Tertiary care hospital.

Participants Thirty patients who had CT scans of the paranasal sinuses.

Main Outcome Measures The following features were assessed using image analysis software: olfactory fossa depth, the length and angle of the lateral lamella, fovea ethmoidalis length and shape, ethmoid roof height and slope, and the position and course of the anterior ethmoid artery. Statistical analysis was performed assessing for differences in the above parameters.

Results The mean olfactory fossa depth of the anterior and posterior skull base was 3.4  ± 1.1 and 2.4  ± 0.9 mm, respectively (p < 0.05). The mean lateral lamella length was 3.6  ± 0.9 mm, which did not demonstrate significant variability. The angle of the lateral lamella varied significantly by skull base position, measuring 63.1 ± 17.8 degrees anteriorly, and 39.1 ± 17.9 degrees posteriorly (p < 0.05). In scans classified as a Keros type I, 25.3% had lateral lamellae longer than 4 mm. Furthermore, 43.7% had lateral lamellae with angles less than 45 degrees. Moving anteriorly, the posterior skull base sloped downward in 46.7% of patients.

Conclusion Thorough preoperative assessment of CT scans is crucial to understanding the inherent variability of skull base anatomy. Even “safe” anatomy can still contain features such as long and acutely angled lateral lamella, which may predispose patients to iatrogenic injury.
Why does intellectuality weaken faith and sometimes foster it?
Authors: ÇAĞLAR Mustafa Emre
Published: September 2020

Intellectuality and religiosity are controversial concepts in terms of their relationship. Numerous studies suggested that intelligence and exposure to higher education reduce religiosity. Others posited, religiosity is positively associated with these factors or is unresponsive to them. The author asserts a dynamic model to address this ambiguity. Individuals make a choice when they are young, between holding a certain belief or disbelief on the one hand, or being a skeptic on the other. Subsequent intellectual achievements strengthen the chosen paradigm and makes a person’s belief or disbelief stable but increases or decreases the suspicious belief based upon the situation. Intellectual development distort the internal consistency of the “dogmatic map” and people react to this distortion in different ways to make the dogmatic map consistent again. Believers ignore the distortion in favor of dogma, in the hope of a future solution or re-organize their dogmas to fit their intellectual achievements. Skeptics generally abandon their dogmas they suspect and begin to establish an independent cognitive map. Across the study, this model was tested through in-depth interviews with 53 subjects. The findings suggested that, increasing or decreasing belief and therefore to some extent religiousness; is an enhancive or reductive reading of the initial choice made in favor of doubt.
Explaining use and non-use of policy evaluations in a mature evaluation setting
Authors: Pattyn Valérie , Bouterse Marjolein
Published: September 2020

Governments worldwide have intensified their efforts to institutionalize policy evaluation. Still, also in organizations with high evaluation maturity, the use of evaluations is not self-evident. As mature organizations already meet many of the factors that are commonly seen to foster evaluation use, they constitute an interesting research setting to identify (combinations of) factors that can make a key difference in minimizing research waste. In this article, we present an analysis of the use of evaluations conducted between 2013 and 2016 by the Policy and Operations Evaluation Department (IOB) of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a typical case of relatively high evaluation maturity. Methodologically, we rely on Qualitative Comparative Analysis as an approach that is excellently suited to capture the causal complexity characterizing evaluation use. The analysis provides useful insights on the link between knowledge production and use. We highlight the relevance of engaging policy makers in developing the evaluation design, and fine-tune available evidence as to what is perceived a good timing to organize evaluations. Contrary to existing research, we show that the political salience of an evaluation does not matter much.
Tomorrow’s mundane is today’s extraordinary: A case study of a plastered installation during Neolithization
Authors: Grosman Leore , Raz Timna , Friesem David E.
Published: September 2020

For reconstructing past human ways of life we study mundane remains, but in order to detect special worldviews and behaviors we endeavor to observe the extraordinary embedded in those remains. There are many ways to define the ‘extraordinary’. Here we center on early occurrences of phenomena that later become mundane, rendering them ‘extraordinary’ through being rare compared to later frequent appearances. This study explores such extraordinary phenomena with relation to the processes of Neolithization in the Southern Levant, focusing on a round plastered installation (Feature 6) that was unearthed in the Late Natufian village of Nahal Ein Gev II (ca. 12,000 calBP). To investigate the feature’s function, we conducted a micro-geoarcheological analysis of the walls and fill to understand its use and formation processes, using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and micromorphology. Our results show that the walls were not exposed to elevated temperatures and that the interior of the installation was filled with mixed sediments. We therefore rule out the use of the feature as a cooking installation or a kiln. The interior mixed assemblage indicates secondary infilling after the feature was no longer in use for its initial purpose, thus challenging the identification of its original function. To date, there are no parallels for such lime and clay plastered installations in the Natufian culture. Yet, this type of feature becomes increasingly common with the advance of Neolithization where such features served as storage installations, integral to the farming way of life. We conclude that Feature 6 in NEG II is ‘extraordinary’ in the context of the Late Natufian, heralding the development of clay lined storage installations. We argue that this example of ‘extraordinary’ within the long process of Neolithization in the Near East helps to illuminate the gradual process of cultural innovation in which new features appear at first as extraordinary phenomena which later will become mundane.
The impact of empathy and perspective-taking instructions on proponents and opponents of immigration
Authors: Klimecki Olga M. , Vétois Matthieu , Sander David
Published: September 2020

In many societies, immigration is a conflictual topic, leading to heated exchanges between proponents and opponents of immigration. Such debates on immigration might benefit from the engagement of the discussants in empathy and perspective taking. Although empathy and perspective-taking exercises can be beneficial in some contexts, previous research shows marked differences in people with a rightist versus a leftist political orientation when it comes to their motivation to engage in empathy. The degree to which this applies to perspective taking and to the context of debates on immigration has not yet been tested. The current study, conducted in Switzerland, tested how proponents or opponents of immigration react to instructions for empathy and perspective taking in debates on immigration. The results reveal that, compared with participants in the control condition who had no instructions, proponents of immigration who received instructions were more motivated or willing to engage in empathy and perspective taking. Furthermore, proponents of immigration showed decreases in their positive and negative emotions under the perspective-taking instructions. Conversely, for opponents of immigration, perspective-taking instructions increased their perception of other’s competitiveness compared with participants in the control condition. Taken together, these results underline the importance of taking an individual’s views on immigration into account when implementing interventions for conflict resolution in immigration-related issues.
Prevalent posttraumatic stress disorder among emergency department personnel: rapid systematic review
Authors: Trudgill Diane I. N. , Gorey Kevin M. , Donnelly Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2020

This research review synthesized the evidence on the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder among emergency department personnel in Canada and the USA. No previous such synthesis, specific to this crucial aspect of North American health care had previously been published. Broad keyword searches of interdisciplinary research databases, both peer-reviewed and grey, retrieved 10 surveys published between 1996 and 2019. Their outcomes were synthesized with sample-weighted, pooled analyses. The most significant review finding was that one of every five such emergency care personnel met posttraumatic stress disorder diagnostic criteria; 18.6% (95% confidence interval 16.9, 20.4). However, this synthesis of generally small, nonprobability surveys with high nonparticipation rates, could only suggest that the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder is perhaps nearly two-fold greater among emergency department nurses (25.8%) than physicians (15.6%). Additionally, it seems that gender (being a woman) may play an important role in the relatively greater risk of nurses. Better controlled, more powerful probability surveys that examine the profession by gender interaction, are needed to affirm (or refute) these synthetic findings. Qualitative inquiries that tap into the key informing experiences of diverse emergency department personnel are also needed to best plan and implement their preventive and therapeutic care.
An overview of global renewable energy trends and current practices in Pakistan—A perspective of policy implications
Authors: Khan Mehran Idris , Khan Imtiaz Ahmed , Chang Yen-Chiang
Published: September 2020

Sustainable, efficient, and affordable energy supply embraces a strong relationship with socio-economic development, specifically in developing countries. Pakistan has been facing an energy crisis in the form of expensive electricity generation by largely depending upon fossil fuels and experiencing power shortages. This paper offers a thorough analysis of Pakistan's renewable energy (hereinafter RE) potential and current practices, in trying to meet its energy demands. There is a limited academic discussion available concerning the utilization of RE resources of Pakistan to produce cost-effective and cost-competitive energy, including the formulation of pertinent laws and policies. This study adopts qualitative means to investigate global trends and current practices in renewables, followed by concrete observations and recommendations to improve the situation in Pakistan. The objective of the study is, therefore, to establish the significance of renewables and to examine possible solutions available to the government of Pakistan in addressing its energy crisis. The study concludes by suggesting that there is an urgent need to follow the global trend in replacing conventional energy methods with the country's extensive RE resources in order to ensure sustainable economic security and growth.
Thermal conductivity of rutile germanium dioxide
Authors: Chae S. , Mengle K. A. , Lu R. , Olvera A. , Sanders N. , Lee J. , Poudeu P. F. P. , Heron J. T. , Kioupakis E.
Published: September 2020

Power electronics seek to improve power conversion of devices by utilizing materials with a wide bandgap, high carrier mobility, and high thermal conductivity. Due to its wide bandgap of 4.5 eV, β-Ga2O3 has received much attention for high-voltage electronic device research. However, it suffers from inefficient thermal conduction that originates from its low-symmetry crystal structure. Rutile germanium oxide (r-GeO2) has been identified as an alternative ultra-wide-bandgap (4.68 eV) semiconductor with a predicted high electron mobility and ambipolar dopability; however, its thermal conductivity is unknown. Here, we characterize the thermal conductivity of r-GeO2 as a function of temperature by first-principles calculations, experimental synthesis, and thermal characterization. The calculations predict an anisotropic phonon-limited thermal conductivity for r-GeO2 of 37 W m−1 K−1 along the a direction and 58 W m−1 K−1 along the c direction at 300 K where the phonon-limited thermal conductivity predominantly occurs via the acoustic modes. Experimentally, we measured a value of 51 W m−1 K−1 at 300 K for hot-pressed, polycrystalline r-GeO2 pellets. The measured value is close to our directionally averaged theoretical value, and the temperature dependence of ∼1/T is also consistent with our theory prediction, indicating that thermal transport in our r-GeO2 samples at room temperature and above is governed by phonon scattering. Our results reveal that high-symmetry UWBG materials, such as r-GeO2, may be the key to efficient power electronics.
Quartz resonators for penning traps toward mass spectrometry on the heaviest ions
Authors: Lohse S. , Berrocal J. , Böhland S. , van de Laar J. , Block M. , Chenmarev S. , Düllmann Ch. E. , Nagy Sz. , Ramírez J. G. , Rodríguez D.
Published: September 2020

We report on cyclotron frequency measurements on trapped 206,207Pb+ ions by means of the non-destructive Fourier-transform ion-cyclotron-resonance technique at room temperature. In a proof-of-principle experiment using a quartz crystal instead of a coil as a resonator, we have alternately carried out cyclotron frequency measurements for 206Pb+ and 207Pb+ with the sideband coupling method to obtain 21 cyclotron-frequency ratios with a statistical uncertainty of 6 × 10−7. The mean frequency ratio R¯ deviates by about 2σ from the value deduced from the masses reported in the latest Atomic Mass Evaluation. We anticipate that this shift is due to the ion–ion interaction between the simultaneously trapped ions (≈100) and will decrease to a negligible level once we reach single-ion sensitivity. The compactness of such a crystal makes this approach promising for direct Penning-trap mass measurements on heavy and superheavy elements.
Phenomenological mechanisms of hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite thin film deposition by RIR-MAPLE
Authors: Barraza E. T. , Stiff-Roberts A. D.
Published: September 2020

Resonant infrared, matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (RIR-MAPLE) is a promising technique for the physical vapor deposition of hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites. The approach already has been used to deposit both three-dimensional and two-dimensional hybrid perovskites with material quality comparable to those synthesized by solution processing. However, the phenomenological mechanisms of hybrid perovskite film formation by RIR-MAPLE have not been articulated. Therefore, this work presents a careful investigation of film formation mechanisms of three-dimensional methylammonium lead halide perovskites by considering the temporal evolution of morphology, crystallinity, and optical properties of films deposited by RIR-MAPLE.
A non-linear turbulence model of supercritical fluid considering local non-equilibrium of Reynolds stress transport
Authors: Li Fangbo , Pei Binbin , Bai Bofeng
Published: September 2020

For supercritical fluid turbulence, the traditional Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes models cannot yield satisfying predictions under the heat transfer deterioration condition due to the modifications of the buoyancy on turbulence. Direct numerical simulation results reveal that in the buoyancy flow, the linear Reynolds stress constitutive equation in the eddy viscosity model (EVM) is invalidated, and the pressure fluctuation contributes to Reynolds stress transport. A new modeling approach for the EVM of supercritical flow is investigated in two aspects: (i) the analytical solution of the pressure strain term in the Reynolds stress transport equation is obtained by solving the Poisson equation of the pressure fluctuation of supercritical flow, and then, the models of the slow term and rapid term are proposed and (ii) a non-linear constitutive equation between the Reynolds stress and the mean strain rate is proposed. Combining these two points, the modified expressions for the eddy viscosity and turbulent Prandtl number are finally developed. We find that the accuracy of the prediction by the new model on supercritical fluid heat transfer and turbulence statistics in vertical flow and horizontal flow can be significantly improved.
Numerical simulation of the dynamic stall of a freely rotating hydrofoil
Authors: Guo Hang , Hu Jian , Guo Chunyu , Zhang Weipeng , Lin Jianfeng
Published: September 2020

Vortex shedding of freely rotating hydrofoils and the fluctuations in hydrodynamic loads are typical problems in marine engineering. Hence, the hydrodynamic mechanism should be investigated in detail. In this study, the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes method is used to analyze the unsteady flow characteristics of a two-dimensional freely rotating hydrofoil in uniform flow at different Reynolds numbers. The accuracy of the numerical simulation method is verified through convergence analysis of the simulation results. According to the mechanical characteristics and flow field distributions, the effects of three Reynolds numbers from 5 × 104 to 1.2 × 106 and five rotation centers from 0.2c to 0.4c on the dynamic stall of the hydrofoil are analyzed. The results show that the rotation center considerably influences the dynamic stall characteristics of the hydrofoil. As the rotation center approaches 0.4c, the amplitudes of the drag and lift coefficients and the rotation angle of the hydrofoil clearly increase by at least 206%, 10.5%, and 185%, respectively, along with the vortex shedding frequency, which also leads to the increase in the Strouhal number by at least 17.3%. Furthermore, the recovery of the drag and lift coefficients is delayed, resulting in an evident hysteresis effect. Simultaneously, this dynamic stall results in the decrease in the velocity distribution amplitude in the wake field and the increase in the pressure difference between the upper and lower surfaces. The continuous shedding of strong vortices from the trailing edge also leads to more complicated flow field characteristics.
Bistability and metastability of oxygen vacancies in amorphous Al2O3: A possible origin of resistance switching mechanism
Authors: Momida Hiroyoshi , Ohno Takahisa
Published: September 2020

Vacancies in oxides play important roles in material performances of electronic devices, and they are recently considered to be a source of the bistable resistance switching effects of amorphous oxides. Here, we show theoretically that an O vacancy in amorphous alumina has two distinct types of atomic and electronic structures with an energy barrier between them when neutrally charged, acting to be a microscopic switcher between deep and shallow levels in the bandgap as a bistable defect. It is also found that such a bistable switching of O vacancy states does not work in the α-Al2O3 crystal, unveiling a peculiar nature to amorphous structures.
Spin current generation and detection in uniaxial antiferromagnetic insulators
Authors: Yuan Wei , Li Junxue , Shi Jing
Published: September 2020

Spin current represents a flow of spin angular momentum and does not require movement of charges. Magnetic insulators can therefore work as a source as well as a medium of spin currents, which has been established in ferrimagnetic insulators. Here, we report recent progress in the generation and electrical detection of spin currents in uniaxial antiferromagnetic insulators carried by antiferromagnetic magnons, both thermally and resonantly excited, respectively, via the spin Seebeck effect and antiferromagnetic spin pumping by subterahertz microwaves. These findings open up many exciting possibilities of potential antiferromagnetic applications.
Tumor regression and resistance mechanisms upon CDK4 and RAF1 inactivation in KRAS/P53 mutant lung adenocarcinomas
Authors: Esteban-Burgos Laura , Wang Haiyun , Nieto Patricia , Zheng Jie , Blanco-Aparicio Carmen , Varela Carmen , Gómez-López Gonzalo , Fernández-García Fernando , Sanclemente Manuel , Guerra Carmen , Drosten Matthias , Galán Javier , Caleiras Eduardo , Martínez-Torrecuadrada Jorge , Fajas Lluis , Peng Sheng-Bin , Santamaría David , Musteanu Monica , Barbacid Mariano
Published: September 2020

Significance

So far, no targeted therapy has been approved for KRAS mutant tumors. We report that combined genetic inactivation of CDK4 and RAF1 in advanced KRAS/p53 mutant lung tumors leads to effective tumor regression without inducing significant toxicities. In spite of this therapeutic response, CDK4/RAF1-resistant cells appeared. We have identified and pharmacologically validated two independent resistance mechanisms involving hypermethylation of tumor-suppressor genes and activation of the PI3K pathway.