bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Focused Gap Year Program in Orthopaedic Research: An 18-Year Experience
Authors: Egol Kenneth A. , Shields Charlotte N. , Errico Thomas , Iorio Richard , Jazrawi Laith , Strauss Eric , Rokito Andrew , Zuckerman Joseph D.
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

Students seek gap years to enhance knowledge and improve chances of professional success. Although many institutions offer research opportunities, no studies have examined outcomes after these experiences. This study evaluates a dedicated year of orthopaedic research on a cohort's ultimate orthopaedic surgery match rate.

Methods:

From 2001 to 2018, 129 learners spent a year with our Department of Orthopedic Surgery at a major academic medical center. The students were either completing a gap year after college, during or after medical school, or after an unsuccessful match. Participants were asked to respond to a survey, which included demographics, educational information, and metrics related to the program. For the subcohort of students who ranked orthopaedic surgery, the match rate was compared with the mean for the US orthopaedic surgery match rates from 2006 to 2018 using a chi-square analysis. In addition, a Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the number of publications before and after the year.

Results:

One hundred three students (80%) returned completed questionnaires. Of all learners who applied to and ranked orthopaedic surgery, 91% matched into an orthopaedic surgery residency program. These results compared favorably with the US orthopaedic match from 2006 to 2018 (67.9%; P < 0.001), despite a 4-point lower United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 score for the research cohort. Finally, the research cohort had a greater percentage of women (23%) and minorities (40%) than the proportion of woman and minority practicing orthopaedic surgeons.

Conclusion:

Students who completed a gap year in research matched into orthopaedics at a higher rate than the national average, despite a lower Step score. Mentors may also target traditionally underrepresented groups to help increase the pool of diverse applicants.
Bundled Payment Plans Are Associated With Notable Cost Savings for Ambulatory Outpatient Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Walters Jordan D. , Walsh Ryan N. , Smith Richard A. , Brolin Tyler J. , Azar Frederick M. , Throckmorton Thomas W.
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

Bundling of services, typically into a 90-day episode of care, is intended to facilitate cost reduction. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of a private insurance bundling program on the costs of outpatient total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) at a freestanding ambulatory surgery center.

Methods:

A cost minimization analysis was done of patients who had anatomic TSA by a single surgeon at a single freestanding ambulatory surgery center, including line-by-line comparisons of demographic and comorbidity factors for all patients treated within the 90-day episode of care.

Results:

Seventy-six primary anatomic TSAs were included, 39 in the bundled group and 37 outside of the program. The bundled group was on average older (58 years) than the unbundled group (54 years,P= 0.021), but the groups were otherwise similar in demographics. The average total implant charges were significantly less for the bundled group ($24,822.43 versus $28,405.51,P= 0.014). Average total surgery supply charges and anesthesia supply charges were similar (P> 0.05). Mean total outpatient surgical day charges (implants, surgical, and anesthesia equipment) were significantly less for the bundled group ($29,782.43 versus $33,238.68,P= 0.022), as were average operating room staffing costs ($135.37 versus $162.55,P= 0.015). During the 90-day postoperative period, charges were similar.

Conclusions:

Primary anatomic TSA using a bundled care program in an outpatient setting coincides with markedly lower charges. The primary driver of this reduction is implant pricing, which is negotiated as part of the bundle. Surgeons must carefully analyze their unique practices in the changing economic health care environment when creating an outpatient TSA and/or bundling program.

Level of evidence:

Level III economic analysis
Kachru’s Three Concentric Circles Model of English Language: An Overview of Criticism & the Place of Kuwait in it
Authors: A. Al-Mutairi Mohammad
Published: December 2019

This paper attempts to examine in a descriptive way the pioneering model of “World Englishes” proposed by Kachru in the mid-1980s that allocates the presence of English into three concentric circles: The Inner Circle, the Outer Circle, and the Expanding Circle. The Inner Circle presents the countries where English is used as a native language and as a first language among people. These countries include the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The Outer Circle includes countries that have old historical British colonial relations and where English is commonly used in social life or the government sectors. Most of the countries that belong to this circle are former colonies of the British Empire, such as India, Malaysia, Singapore, Ghana, Kenya, and others. The usage of English in these countries is similar to what is known as English as a second language. The third circle, The Expanding Circle, includes countries that introduce English as a foreign language in schools and universities, mostly for communicating in English with the Inner and Outer Circles. Such countries include Turkey, Saudi Arabia, The Emirates, Japan, China, Korea, and others.

Since its first introduction in 1985, Kachru's Three Concentric Circles Model of English Language has occasioned a great debate. Many linguists considered it one of the most influential models for understanding the use of English in different countries. Some, on the other hand, including Kachru himself, criticized the model for its oversimplification and the unclear membership to the circles. In addition to an overview of criticism on Kachru's model based on different studies, this paper tries to locate the place of ELT in Kuwait among the three circles.
Gender Differences in Learning Burnout among Special Education Students
Authors: Arumede Florence Ijeoma , Eskay Michael , Eneh Annastasia Uchenna , Aja Jane Ogoma
Published: December 2019

This study examined gender differences in learning burnout among special education students. A research question and a null hypothesis were formulated to guide the research. A descriptive survey was employed. The study sample consisted of 700 special education students. Academic Burnout Questionnaire (ABQ) was employed for data collection. The research data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation and t-test. The finding of the study revealed that there is no significant difference between the mean ratings of male and female special education students in learning burnout. Government at all level within the study area and beyond are urged to make conducive learning environment for University students including those in special education departments.
Een billijke schadevergoeding als bedoeld in de Wet verplichte geestelijke gezondheidszorg: volledig en deels forfaitair
Authors: Wijne R.P.
Published: December 2019

Een billijke schadevergoeding als bedoeld in de Wet verplichte geestelijke gezondheidszorg: volledig en deels forfaitair

De komst van de Wet verplichte geestelijke gezondheidszorg gaat gepaard met de mogelijkheid om in de klachtenprocedure een verzoek te doen tot toekenning van een schadevergoeding naar billijkheid. Dit artikel beoogt te verduidelijken wat onder een billijke schadevergoeding kan worden verstaan en hoe een verzoek om schadevergoeding zou moeten worden onderbouwd. Ook wordt toegelicht welke rol een forfaitair stelsel daarin zou kunnen spelen.
Kroniek rechtspraak rechten van de mens
Authors: Hendriks A.C.
Published: December 2019

Kroniek rechtspraak rechten van de mens

Het Europees Hof voor de Rechten van de Mens (EHRM of Hof) heeft in de periode september 2018 tot en met augustus 2019 weer diverse uitspraken gedaan over gezondheidsrechtelijke vraagstukken. Naast uitspraken over de uitleg van ‘bekende’ rechten, zoals het recht op leven, het recht op toegang tot adequate zorg en de procedurele overheidsverplichtingen, waren er verschillende ‘nieuwe’ onderwerpen waarover het Hof zich moest buigen, waaronder de verplichting om een urinetest te ondergaan, de toegang tot een externe deskundige, het recht om te huwen van een onder curatele gestelde persoon en de rechten van naasten en nabestaanden. Het geheel geeft een beeld van de diverse tegen verdragsstaten ingediende klachten.
Quando morre o animal de estimação
Authors: Fonseca Vieira Marcia Nubia
Published: December 2019

Este escrito resultou de pesquisa realizada com pessoas que perderam seus animais de estimação em decorrência de morte. A sua realização teve como objetivo a compreensão do processo de enfrentamento do luto vivenciado por essas pessoas, ao experimentarem as perdas dos seus animais de estimação. Para isto, valeu-se do enfoque qualitativo, empregando-se entrevistas semiestruturadas e recorreu-se a fundamentos da Teoria do Apego de John Bowlby e das Tarefas do Luto de W. Worden para a análise dos dados colhidos. A partir dessas referências, foi possível concluir que os participantes da pesquisa estabeleceram fortes vínculos de apego com seus animais de estimação bastante semelhantes àqueles construídos com seres humanos. Pode-se concluir que, devido a essas fortes vinculações, nas quais foram depositadas intensas expectativas de ordem afetiva, todos os processos de luto vivenciados por essas pessoas apresentaram características semelhantes àquelas presentes em processos de luto decorrentes da perda de pessoas significativas.
The Independence of Indexed Volatilities
Authors: Kola Katlego , Sebehela Tumellano
Published: December 2019

Studies on indexed volatility spillovers are unique because indices encompass more information than other parameters used in illustrating volatility movements. Further, indices encompass most of the constituents listed on different stock exchanges around the globe. This chapter uses vector autoregression (VAR) for volatility spills and the Markov regime switching model to understand how different volatility regimes behave among bonds, commodities, equities and real estate indices of emerging markets. The results illustrate that volatility spillovers occur within (same) indices and across different indices. Moreover, those spillovers are within and across emerging countries. Interestingly, illiquid indices in certain situations move in between different volatility regimes more than liquid indices. Volatility strategies emanating from this study are equally applicable to both sell and buy sides in securities markets.
Efeito do fogo no banco de sementes do solo de sistemas agroflorestais, Pará, Brasil
Authors: Alvino-Rayol Fabrízia de Oliveira , Rayol Breno Pinto
Published: December 2019

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do fogo na estrutura, composição florística e diversidade do banco de sementes do solo em diferentes sistemas agroflorestais (SAF). Foram avaliados quatro sistemas: a) SAF 1 - paricá (Schizolobium amazonicum) e caupi (Vigna unguiculata) com uso do fogo para o preparo da área; b) SAF 2 - paricá e caupi, feijão de porco (Canavalia ensiformes) sem uso do fogo; c) SAF 3 - paricá, açaí (Euterpe oleracea) e cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum) com o uso do fogo; d) SAF 4 - paricá, açaí e cupuaçu, com preparo da área sem queima. O banco de sementes dos sistemas estudados foi avaliado através da coleta de 20 amostras de 50 x 50 cm na camada de 0 - 5 cm, totalizando 80 amostras.  Para a contagem e identificação das espécies do banco de sementes, utilizou-se a técnica de emergência de plântulas em casa de vegetação. A maior riqueza e diversidade foram encontradas no SAF 2. As espécies mais importantes foram Cyperus laxus, Olyra glaberrima e Myrciaria tenella. Os bancos de sementes das áreas que foram manejadas com fogo foram constituídos principalmente por espécies herbáceas. O fogo influenciou na florística, estrutura, diversidade do banco de sementes nos sistemas agroflorestais avaliados.
EVALUATION OF THE ORIGINALITY OF THE SAFETY AND HEALTH STUDY
Authors: ORVIZ MARTINEZ NATALIA , ARCE GARCIA SERGIO , CUERVO CARABEL TATIANA
Published: December 2019

The incorporation of the documents denominated as Safety and Health Study (SHS) or Basic Safety and Health Study (BSHS) in the area of safety in the construction sector arose from the transposition of the European Directives into the Spanish legal system through Royal Decree 1627/1997. The relevance of these documents in the improvement of the safety and health of workers is of the upmost importance, because they are essential elements and a starting point for the preventive planning of a construction project. The objective of this research is to carry out a study on the originality and adequacy of these documents made for public work projects. To do this, a plagiarism analysis was carried out using Turnitin computer software and text mining techniques for content analysis. The results obtained show a high percentage of plagiarism and not originality, as well as the use of generic language that can be used in any type of project. All this has an impact on the actual effectiveness of these documents when it comes to managing the safety and health of workers.

Keywords: Construction, Safety, Originality, Public contracting, Turnitin, Text mining
Early Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) in patients with suspected acute infection after hip or knee arthroplasty - safe, effective and without negative functional impact
Authors: Barros Luís Henrique , Barbosa Tiago Amorim , Esteves João , Abreu Miguel , Soares Daniel , Sousa Ricardo
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Introduction: Debridement, antibiotics and implant retention (DAIR) is known to be effective in treating acute periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, deciding to perform additional surgery in the early postoperative period may be challenging as there is the concern of adding morbidity and clinical presentation is often subtle. We mean to assess the impact of early DAIR on final functional outcome.Methods: A case-control comparison was performed between patients that underwent DAIR for suspected PJI between 2010-2016 and controls randomly selected (1:2 ratio) from a list of primary joint replacements. Patients were matched for anatomic site, age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, body mass index and follow-up time. The outcome of surgical treatment and complications were assessed and Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) or Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were performed.Results: Thirty-eight cases were included at a mean follow-up of 42 months. Infection was not confirmed in one patient. There was one infection related-death and three other cases of treatment failure that required a two-stage revision. Overall success rate was 89.2%. There were no significant patient reported differences regarding final functional outcome between both groups: pain 91±6 vs. 87±13; other symptoms 90±8 vs. 90±9; activities of day living 86±8 vs. 85±14; sport 63±13 vs. 57±16; quality of life 78±17 vs. 76±16.Discussion: These findings support that DAIR for suspected acute PJI is safe, effective and causes no impact on final functional results. Thus, a low threshold for assuming infection and subsequent DAIR may safely be adopted in the early postoperative period.
Entre destination touristique et appartenance territoriale et identitaire : la culture traditionnelle bretonne
Authors: De Araujo Aguiar Luciana
Published: December 2019

La Bretagne est l’une des régions françaises dont les habitants déclarent le plus fréquemment une appartenance identitaire à l’échelle régionale. Les bals bretons connus comme fest-noz ( festoù-noz ) et les festivals culturels présents dans toute la région, spécialement pendant l’été, peuvent être vus comme des marques d’appartenance territoriale et identitaire. Les danses, les chants et les musiques bretons inspirés de la culture celtique, et qui font partie de ces manifestations culturelles, sont déclarés par certains Bretons comme des traditions « pures », héritées des peuples celtes. La représentation celte dans les pratiques culturelles, ainsi que l’image d’un espace social porteur d’une identité forte et d’une singularité locale font de la Bretagne une destination touristique importante. L’agentivité des touristes qualifie les traditions comme identitaires et joue un rôle fondamental dans la reconfiguration des identités. Cet article a pour but d’analyser la place de la culture traditionnelle bretonne comme moyen de retrouver l’identité de la Bretagne ainsi que comme moteur de destination touristique.
Stimulation de la présence et des états affectifs par l’imagerie mentale
Authors: Lao Aurély , Martin Annabel , Jeanpert Sophie
Published: December 2019

Cette recherche comparative 2D/3D examine le rôle de l’imagerie mentale dans la sensation de présence et dans les réactions affectives du consommateur lors de la visite d’un lieu. Les résultats de l’étude quantitative menée montrent que les dimensions de l’expérience 3D renforcent la vivacité et la facilité des images mentales. Les effets de l’imagerie mentale rejaillissent sur les émotions et la satisfaction vis-à-vis de l’expérience, mais également sur la présence qui est au cœur des différences constatées entre 2D et 3D.
Entre le père et l’artiste. Les héritiers de Médard Bourgault à Saint-Jean-Port-Joli
Authors: Vaillancourt Benoit
Published: December 2019

À Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, une corporation sans but lucratif s’est donné la mission de garder vivant le legs de Médard Bourgault (1897-1967), le sculpteur sur bois qui a fait la renommée de la municipalité en tant que « capitale de l’artisanat ». Administrée en majorité par des descendants de Bourgault, parfois eux-mêmes des sculpteurs, la corporation nous amène à interroger les rapports entre les héritiers et leur ascendant. Dans cet article, la dualité de la figure du parent-artiste ainsi que la circulation intergénérationnelle des oeuvres et des savoirs sont abordées pour comprendre l’enjeu de la transmission d’un patrimoine familial qui correspond en même temps à un patrimoine culturel.
Raynald Bilodeau, l’ethnologue qui fait parler les décors intérieurs
Authors: Genest Bernard , Desmeules Claire
Published: December 2019

Raynald Bilodeau, technicien en restauration, est connu et reconnu comme spécialiste des décors de bâtiments historiques, particulièrement au niveau des revêtements extérieurs et intérieurs, et plus spécialement encore des papiers peints. Au cours de sa longue carrière, par intérêt personnel aussi bien que professionnel, il a constitué une collection unique et exceptionnelle de papiers peints datant des années 1800 à 1930. La collection compte 1 200 modèles différents de papiers peints prélevés sur plus de 200 sites, tous situés au Québec. Un outil de référence incontournable pour la restauration et l’interprétation des intérieurs anciens et pour l’histoire de l’habitat domestique québécois. L’article présente le parcours professionnel du spécialiste qui, en 2006, a légué sa collection à son employeur, Parcs Canada.
Unpacking the Constituents of Dynamic Capabilities: A Microfoundations Perspective
Authors: Versailles David W. , Foss Nicolai J.
Published: December 2019

This position paper updates about methodological and epistemological issues on the micro-foundations perspective. We propose that conceptual divergences between the different streams of contributions to dynamic capabilities (DCs) research (the Eisenhardt versus Teece divide) hide discrepancies about methodological aspects, and about the locus of DCs. We zoom out from current epistemological debates about the microfoundations to explain the necessity of multi-level approaches, and to clarify the interpretation of the Boudon-Coleman “bathtub”. We elaborate on these aspects to explain how to enhance research on DCs, and more generally in strategic management. We discuss specific issues in relation with the selection of units of analysis and with the elaboration of field research protocols. We also propose practical recommendations adhering to the micro-foundations approach.
Boundary Objects as the Missing Link in the Orchestration of Resources: An Exploratory Study of Dassault Aviation Mirage IV and Rafale Programs
Authors: Versailles David W. , Mérindol Valérie
Published: December 2019

In this contribution, we investigate the use of boundary objects (Star and Griesemer) for the orchestration of resources (Teece). We propose a comparative case study elaborating on two Dassault Aviation military fighters under an abductive approach. In this contribution, we elaborate on the micro-foundations approach. Our contribution discusses several properties of boundary objects in relation with the orchestration of resources: type, granularity, openness, malleability, and completeness. We conclude that boundary objects are critical to orchestration. Their properties explain why they diversely impact on sensing, seizing and reconfiguring. They elaborate on knowledge articulation and teamwork, and require specific ways of working.
Citius, Altius, Fortius: Red Queen Effect dans l’industrie des appareils photographiques numériques (1994-2011)
Authors: Cartier Manuel , Delacour Hélène , Liarte Sébastien
Published: December 2019

L’objectif de cet article est d’étudier la dynamique deRed Queen Effect(RQE) à travers un prisme particulier : la dimension concurrentielle spécifique, i.e. une caractéristique du produit sur laquelle se focalise la concurrence. Dans notre cas, il s’agit de la résolution en termes de megapixels des appareils photographiques numériques (1994-2011). Les résultats soulignent que la vitesse d’évolution de la tendance centrale de l’industrie, ainsi que la dispersion des positions concurrentielles par rapport à cette tendance centrale de l’industrie influencent la dynamique de RQE. Il apparaît qu’aller toujours plus vite, plus haut n’est paradoxalement pas bénéfique pour l’industrie.
Transversal and Postmodern Feminist Praxis in Everyday Politics
Authors: Roth Jenny , Chambers Lori
Published: December 2019

Feminist praxis is usually a conscious, reflexive process of moving from theory to application in order to create transformation. We want to expand the scope of feminist praxis, however, to include moments in which feminist theory explains political transformations that may not be deliberate but that result in a feminist outcome: the pursuit of gender equality through personal and political transformation. This paper uses a dataset of online comments generated after the Supreme Court of Canada decision in R. v. N.S. as a case study, and it sits in conversation with postmodern and transversal feminist theorists, particularly the recent work of Patricia Hill Collins (2017) that builds on Nira Yuval-Davis (1997) and others, to argue that political action is most effective when transversal practice is layered onto intersectional politics and that, despite Hill Collins' concern that political practice has yet to move to effective transversalism (2017, 1471), transversal feminist praxis can be found in examples of everyday politics which offer hope for social transformation.
The Impossibility of a Future in the Absence of a Past: Drifting in the In-Between
Authors: Boon Sonja , Lahey Kate
Published: December 2019

In this collaborative paper, we bring the work of Billy-Ray Belcourt, Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, Dionne Brand, and M. NourbeSe Philip into conversation in order to consider the concept of drift. Drawing on drift as both metaphor and methodology, we argue that drifting is not aimless or passive, as dictionary definitions suggest; rather, as a form of refusal, to follow the work of Eve Tuck and K. Wayne Yang (2014a, 2014b), it can be understood as resistance to colonial gestures of capture and containment. Inherently mobile, drift revels in inadvertent assemblages and volatile juxtapositions that reveal the artifice of the worlds we currently inhabit, in the process making new worlds possible. In this way, we suggest that drift is necessarily decolonial, in that it is premised on different ways of interacting among human, non-human, and more-than-human. Working through themes of intimacy, love, origins, dirt, and accountings, we argue that drift can be more productively read as an agential mode of kinning, making, and thinking together.
Neurologic complications in patients with carotid artery stenting
Authors: Kim Na Young , Choi Jong Wook , Whang Kum , Cho Sung Min , Koo Youn Moo , Kim Jong Yeon
Published: December 2019

Objective

Carotid artery stenting is helpful in patients with carotid artery stenosis and is a common method of treatment. However, data on the neurological consequences that might arise from, especially Asian patients after CAS is not enough. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcome and prognostic factors affecting CAS patients.

Methods

From January 2013 to June 2018 it was enrolled 97 patients who underwent CAS with severe carotid artery stenosis in a single institution. We retrospectively reviewed neurologic complications such as restenosis, ipsilateral or contralateral stroke, and hyperperfusion during the 6-month follow-up period.

Results

There were no complication occured during the procedure in all 97 patients. Neurologic complications occurred in 30 patients (30.9%) after the procedure, and ipsilateral stroke 6 (6.2%), contralateral stroke 9 (9.4%), restenosis 2 (2.1%) and hyperperfusion 13 respectively. One of them had died (1.0%), of which the rest were discharged after symptoms improve. On univariate analysis, DM and pre-op NIHSS score was associated with the risk of CAS complication, exclusively. On the binary logistic regression for risk factors, DM (OR 0.144, 95% CI [0.029–0.718]), history of radiotheraphy (OR 36.103, 95% CI [1.009–1291.789]) and preoperative NIHSS (OR 1.266, 95% CI [1.059–1.513]) showed independent risk factors associated with post procedural neurological complications, statistically.

Conclusion

Carotid artery stenting is a relatively safe and reliable long-term outcome for patients with carotid artery stenosis. However, careful observation should be taken after procedure immediately for any possible complications.
Usefulness of External Carotid Artery Angiogram with Manual Carotid Compression in Ophthalmic Artery Aneurysm
Authors: Jin Bong hyun , Kwak Young Seok , Kim Young Don , Cho Jae Hoon
Published: December 2019

Objective

Identifying collaterals from external carotid artery (ECA) is necessary before treatment of ophthalmic artery (OphA) aneurysm. We present a manual carotid compression test to verify collaterals in ophthalmic artery aneurysms, and evaluate its usefulness.

Materials and Methods

From March 2013 to December 2017, endovascular coiling was performed 19 consecutive patients with 20 OphA aneurysms. We performed manual carotid compression test for patients who had aneurysms incorporating entry of OphA. Clinical and angiographic outcomes were investigated.

Results

Of 13 cases underwent manual carotid compression test, 12 cases were confirmed collateral flow from ECA to OphA. During the coil embolization, we tried to maintain the original OphA flow even if it has a collateral anastomosis. Among them, OphA occlusion occurred in one patient during coiling. Recurrence of aneurysm was occurred in a ruptured case and additional embolization was required.

Conclusions

The manual carotid compression test is useful method to identify the collaterals from ECA in patients with OphA aneurysm. This test can be used as a screening test for confirming collateral flow in OphA aneurysms or as an alternative for patients who are difficult to perform BTO.
Invasive alien plants in Polish national parks—threats to species diversity
Authors: Bomanowska Anna , Adamowski Wojciech , Kirpluk Izabella , Otręba Anna , Rewicz Agnieszka
Published: December 2019

Due to the relevance of protected areas to the conservation of native biota, the magnitude of invasions and threats posed by alien plants are currently important issues for the preservation of these areas. The paper summarises data on invasive alien plant species presence in the most valuable protected areas in Poland, i.e. national parks (NPs). We investigated the distribution of invasive alien plant species and management attempts concerning those species. We analysed data obtained from 23 national parks originating from published and unpublished sources. Invasive plants were present in all protected areas analysed, from two to 42 species in a particular national park, and 68 in total. The most widely distributed species were: Impatiens parviflora (present in 19 NPs), I. glandulifera (17), Solidago gigantea (17), Reynoutria japonica (17), and Robinia pseudoacacia (16). The conducted analyses showed that the number of invasive species decreased with the higher altitude (asl) of the national park. The most often managed species were Impatiens glandulifera (being removed in seven NPs), I. parviflora (six), Padus serotina (four) and Quercus rubra (four). In the majority of NPs, control activities are limited to small areas and singular species, thus having an incidental character. Only in five objects (Białowieża NP, Biebrza NP, Kampinos NP, Tuchola NP, Wigry NP), management has been focused on several species. We conclude that a lack of comprehensive management of invasive plant species in the majority of national parks currently limits the effectiveness of IAS (invasive alien species) eradication. Exchange of expertise among protected areas, documenting best practice examples, synthesising lessons learnt in IAS management, as well as the development of minimum standards for invasive plants surveillance and management are pivotal.
Characterization of Chemically Modified Cashew Nut Shell Liquid
Authors: Dike H. N. , Dosunmu A. , Kinigoma B. , Akaranta O.
Published: December 2019

The need to convert waste-to-wealth motivated this research. Huge amount of by-products generated in the processing stage of cashew nut is treated as waste and dumped in the environment. The waste contains a dark liquid rich in natural and renewable phenolic material known as cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL). Owing to the phenolic composition and structural features of CNSL, different types of naturally occurring as well as modified natural cellulose based polymers have been synthesized and used to substitute synthetic and petroleum based polymers for various applications. In this study, naturally occurring liquid from cashew nut shell was extracted, modified and characterized as additive for drilling fluid formulations. The study adopted solvent extraction technique using soxhlet apparatus, acetone and cashew nut shell. The liquid extract was further modified using amines respectively. In the condensation reaction, 100 mls of the cashew nut shell was used to react with 7.3 ml ethanol-amines, 27.58 ml diethanol-amine (DEA) and 38.2 ml triethanol-amine (TEA) respectively. The mixtures were sulphonated with sulphamic acid as catalyst at a temperature ranging from 100ºC to 140ºC. The reaction mixtures were stirred continually for an hour (1hr.) and water of esterification was collected as by-product of the reaction which was an indication of complete reaction. Biodegradable, cheap and renewable esters were obtained. To elucidate on the chemical structure, the esters were subjected to elemental analysis using the FTIR instrument. The results of the FTIR analysis revealed that N-H and C-H stretching vibrations which were absent in CNSL, were present in the modified compounds, attesting that in deed new compounds have been formed. The physico-chemical properties of the extract was analysand the result showed an agreement with existing literature. These products, in combination with the right additives, and conditions could be potential multi-purpose additives in drilling operation. This will help to reduce the cost of importing synthetic oilfield additives, creating job opportunities and boosting the local content goal.
Impact of use of optical surface imaging on initial patient setup for stereotactic body radiotherapy treatments
Authors: Leong Brian , Padilla Laura
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of surface image guidance (SG) for pre‐imaging setup of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) patients, and to investigate the impact of SG reference surface selection on this process.

Methods and materials

284 SBRT fractions (SG‐SBRT = 113, non‐SG‐SBRT = 171) were retrospectively evaluated. Differences between initial (pre‐imaging) and treatment couch positions were extracted from the record‐and‐verify system and compared for the two groups. Rotational setup discrepancies were also computed. The utility of orthogonal kVs in reducing CBCT shifts in the SG‐SBRT/non‐SG‐SBRT groups was also calculated. Additionally, the number of CBCTs acquired for setup was recorded and the average for each cohort was compared. These data served to evaluate the effectiveness of surface imaging in pre‐imaging patient positioning and its potential impact on the necessity of including orthogonal kVs for setup. Since reference surface selection can affect SG setup, daily surface reproducibility was estimated by comparing camera‐acquired surface references (VRT surface) at each fraction to the external surface of the planning CT (DICOM surface) and to the VRT surface from the previous fraction.

Results

The reduction in all initial‐to‐treatment translation/rotation differences when using SG‐SBRT was statistically significant (Rank‐Sum test, α = 0.05). Orthogonal kV imaging kept CBCT shifts below reimaging thresholds in 19%/51% of fractions for SG‐SBRT/non‐SG‐SBRT cohorts. Differences in average number of CBCTs acquired were not statistically significant. The reference surface study found no statistically significant differences between the use of DICOM or VRT surfaces.

Conclusions

SG‐SBRT improved pre‐imaging treatment setup compared to in‐room laser localization alone. It decreased the necessity of orthogonal kV imaging prior to CBCT but did not affect the average number of CBCTs acquired for setup. The selection of reference surface did not have a significant impact on initial patient positioning.
High‐Performance On‐Chip Thermionic Electron Micro‐Emitter Arrays Based on Super‐Aligned Carbon Nanotube Films
Authors: Wang Yuwei , Xiang Li , Yang Wei , Li Zhiwei , Fang Zheng , Zhou Duanliang , Liu Peng , Wei Xianlong
Published: December 2019

An important advancement towards the realization of miniaturized and fully integrated vacuum electronic devices will be the development of on‐chip integrated electron sources with stable and reproducible performances. Here, the fabrication of high‐performance on‐chip thermionic electron micro‐emitter arrays is demonstrated by exploiting suspended super‐aligned carbon nanotube films as thermionic filaments. For single micro‐emitter, an electron emission current up to ≈20 µA and density as high as ≈1.33 A cm−2 are obtained at a low‐driven voltage of 3.9 V. The turn‐on/off time of a single micro‐emitter is measured to be less than 1 µs. Particularly, stable (±1.2% emission current fluctuation for 30 min) and reproducible (±0.2% driven voltage variation over 27 cycles) electron emission have been experimentally observed under a low vacuum of ≈5 × 10−4 Pa. Even under a rough vacuum of ≈10−1 Pa, an impressive reproducibility (±2% driven voltage variation over 20 cycles) is obtained. Moreover, emission performances of micro‐emitter arrays are found to exhibit good uniformity. The outstanding stability, reproducibility, and uniformity of the thermionic electron micro‐emitter arrays imply their promising applications as on‐chip integrated electron sources.
Broadband, High‐Speed, and Large‐Amplitude Dynamic Optical Switching with Yttrium‐Doped Cadmium Oxide
Authors: Saha Soham , Diroll Benjamin T. , Shank Joshua , Kudyshev Zhaxylyk , Dutta Aveek , Chowdhury Sarah Nahar , Luk Ting Shan , Campione Salvatore , Schaller Richard D. , Shalaev Vladimir M. , Boltasseva Alexandra , Wood Michael G.
Published: December 2019

Transparent conducting oxides, such as doped indium oxide, zinc oxide, and cadmium oxide (CdO), have recently attracted attention as tailorable materials for applications in nanophotonic and plasmonic devices such as low‐loss modulators and all‐optical switches due to their tunable optical properties, fast optical response, and low losses. In this work, optically induced extraordinarily large reflection changes (up to 135%) are demonstrated in bulk CdO films in the mid‐infrared wavelength range close to the epsilon near zero (ENZ) point. To develop a better understanding of how doping level affects the static and dynamic optical properties of CdO, the evolution of the optical properties with yttrium (Y) doping is investigated. An increase in the metallicity and a blueshift of the ENZ point with increasing Y‐concentrations is observed. Broadband all‐optical switching from near‐infrared to mid‐infrared wavelengths is demonstrated. The major photoexcited carrier relaxation mechanisms in CdO are identified and it is shown that the relaxation times can be significantly reduced by increasing the dopant concentration in the film. This work could pave the way to practical dynamic and passive optical and plasmonic devices with doped CdO spanning wavelengths from the ultraviolet to the mid‐infrared region.
Pulsed‐Laser‐Induced IR Stereoscopic Imaging
Authors: Pak Jeong Hyeok , Jeong Sang‐Mi , Lim Taekyung , Ju Sanghyun
Published: December 2019

Research on displays that can provide stereoscopic information for advertising, education, medical applications, and military simulations is on the rise. Because IR images are invisible to human eye, they can be used when security or privacy is required. If stereoscopic image display techniques are extended from the visible region to the IR region, they are able to provide more or selective information to humans. Therefore, a method of using laser beam steering to form IR stereoscopic images on a plain substrate is investigated in this study. A technique is developed for displaying IR stereoscopic images that can be detected by using an IR thermal imaging camera (ITIC), while remaining invisible to the human eye. This approach can be used to represent various IR patterns due to plasma generated during laser irradiation of the glass substrate. Static IR images are produced with stereoscopic contours: point‐shaped laser‐beam spots are connected to form IR‐emitting lines, and the IR‐emitting lines are further arranged to form IR‐emitting faces. IR stereoscopic video images with perspective are implemented by sequentially displaying time‐variant IR static images controlled by laser beam steering. Full‐color‐image representation on an ITIC is achieved using laser beam steering and the laser pattern formation method.
Enhanced Moisture Stability by Butyldimethylsulfonium Cation in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Bohyung , Kim Maengsuk , Lee Jun Hee , Seok Sang Il
Published: December 2019

Many organic cations in halide perovskites have been studied for their application in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Most organic cations in PSCs are based on the protic nitrogen cores, which are susceptible to deprotonation. Here, a new candidate of fully alkylated sulfonium cation (butyldimethylsulfonium; BDMS) is designed and successfully assembled into PSCs with the aim of increasing humidity stability. The BDMS‐based perovskites retain the structural and optical features of pristine perovskite, which results in the comparable photovoltaic performance. However, the fully alkylated aprotic nature of BDMS shows a much more pronounced effect on the increase in humidity stability, which emphasizes a generic electronic difference between protic ammonium and aprotic sulfonium cation. The current results would pave a new way to explore cations for the development of promising PSCs.
Core–Shell‐Heterostructured Magnetic–Plasmonic Nanoassemblies with Highly Retained Magnetic–Plasmonic Activities for Ultrasensitive Bioanalysis in Complex Matrix
Authors: Hao Liangwen , Leng Yuankui , Zeng Lifeng , Chen Xirui , Chen Jing , Duan Hong , Huang Xiaolin , Xiong Yonghua , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: December 2019

Herein, a facile self‐assembly strategy for coassembling oleic acid‐coated iron oxide nanoparticles (OC‐IONPs) with oleylamine‐coated gold nanoparticles (OA‐AuNPs) to form colloidal magnetic–plasmonic nanoassemblies (MPNAs) is reported. The resultant MPNAs exhibit a typical core–shell heterostructure comprising aggregated OA‐AuNPs as a plasmonic core surrounded by an assembled magnetic shell of OC‐IONPs. Owing to the high loading of OA‐AuNPs and reasonable spatial distribution of OC‐IONPs, the resultant MPNAs exhibit highly retained magnetic–plasmonic activities simultaneously. Using the intrinsic dual functionality of MPNAs as a magnetic separator and a plasmonic signal transducer, it is demonstrated that the assembled MPNAs can achieve the simultaneous magnetic manipulation and optical detection on the lateral flow immunoassay platform after surface functionalization with recognition molecules. In conclusion, the core–shell‐heterostructured MPNAs can serve as a nanoanalytical platform for the separation and concentration of target compounds from complex biological samples using magnetic properties and simultaneous optical sensing using plasmonic properties.
Boosting Superior Lithium Storage Performance of Alloy‐Based Anode Materials via Ultraconformal Sb Coating–Derived Favorable Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase
Authors: Xiong Bing‐Qing , Zhou Xinwei , Xu Gui‐Liang , Liu Yuzi , Zhu Likun , Hu Youcheng , Shen Shou‐Yu , Hong Yu‐Hao , Wan Si‐Cheng , Liu Xiao‐Chen , Liu Xiang , Chen Shengli , Huang Ling , Sun Shi‐Gang , Amine Khalil , Ke Fu‐Sheng
Published: December 2019

Alloy materials such as Si and Ge are attractive as high‐capacity anodes for rechargeable batteries, but such anodes undergo severe capacity degradation during discharge–charge processes. Compared to the over‐emphasized efforts on the electrode structure design to mitigate the volume changes, understanding and engineering of the solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) are significantly lacking. This work demonstrates that modifying the surface of alloy‐based anode materials by building an ultraconformal layer of Sb can significantly enhance their structural and interfacial stability during cycling. Combined experimental and theoretical studies consistently reveal that the ultraconformal Sb layer is dynamically converted to Li3Sb during cycling, which can selectively adsorb and catalytically decompose electrolyte additives to form a robust, thin, and dense LiF‐dominated SEI, and simultaneously restrain the decomposition of electrolyte solvents. Hence, the Sb‐coated porous Ge electrode delivers much higher initial Coulombic efficiency of 85% and higher reversible capacity of 1046 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 500 mA g−1, compared to only 72% and 170 mAh g−1 for bare porous Ge. The present finding has indicated that tailoring surface structures of electrode materials is an appealing approach to construct a robust SEI and achieve long‐term cycling stability for alloy‐based anode materials.
K‐Ion Storage Enhancement in Sb2O3/Reduced Graphene Oxide Using Ether‐Based Electrolyte
Authors: Li Jinliang , Zhuang Ning , Xie Junpeng , Li Xiaodan , Zhuo Wenchen , Wang Hao , Na Jong Beom , Li Xibo , Yamauchi Yusuke , Mai Wenjie
Published: December 2019

In this work, an ether‐based electrolyte is adopted instead of conventional ester‐based electrolyte for an Sb2O3‐based anode and its enhancement mechanism is unveiled for K‐ion storage. The anode is fabricated by anchoring Sb2O3 onto reduced graphene oxide (Sb2O3‐RGO) and it exhibits better electrochemical performance using an ether‐based electrolyte than that using a conventional ester‐based electrolyte. By optimizing the concentration of the electrolyte, the Sb2O3‐RGO composite delivers a reversible specific capacity of 309 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 100 mA g−1. A high specific capacity of 201 mAh g−1 still remains after 3300 cycles (111 days) at 500 mA g−1 with almost no decay, exhibiting a longer cycle life compared with other metallic oxides. In order to further reveal the intrinsic mechanism, the energy changes for K atom migrating from surface into the sublayer of Sb2O3 are explored by density functional theory calculations. According to the result, the battery using the ether‐based electrolyte exhibits a lower energy change and migration barrier than those using other electrolytes for K‐ion, which is helpful to improve the K‐ion storage performance. It is believed that the work can provide deep understanding and new insight to enhance electrochemical performance using ether‐based electrolytes for KIBs.
Autosomal dominant inheritance in a recently described ZMIZ1‐related neurodevelopmental disorder: Case report of siblings and an affected parent
Authors: Latchman Kumarie , Calder Madison , Morel Dayna , Rhodes Lindsay , Juusola Jane , Tekin Mustafa
Published: December 2019

ZMIZ1, zinc finger MIZ‐domain containing 1, has recently been described in association with syndromic intellectual disability in which the primary phenotypic features include intellectual disability/developmental delay, seizures, hearing loss, behavioral issues, failure to thrive, and various congenital malformations. Most reported cases have been found to result from de novo mutations except for one set of three siblings in which parental testing could not be performed. With informed consent from the family, we report on a father and his two sons demonstrating autosomal dominant inheritance of a novel pathogenic ZMIZ1 variant, c.1310delC (p.Pro437ArgfsX84), causing this recently described neurodevelopmental syndrome. While they all show syndromic findings along with short stature and intellectual disability, only one child had sensorineural hearing loss. Moreover, severity of intellectual disability and eyelid ptosis were variable among the affected members. Our report demonstrates that phenotypic features of ZMIZ1‐related neurodevelopmental syndrome are variable even within the same family and that parental testing to identify a mildly affected parent is needed.
Virtual coach: the next tool in functional endoscopic sinus surgery education
Authors: Richards John P. , Done Aaron J. , Barber Samuel R. , Jain Saurabh , Son Young‐Jun , Chang Eugene H.
Published: December 2019

Backgound

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) can be challenging as novices become accustomed to handling endoscopes and instruments while navigating complex sinonasal anatomy. Experts demonstrate fluid and efficient motions when addressing pathology. The training process from novice to expert relies on hands‐on experience in cadaveric laboratories and preceptorship models that require significant time and expense. This study aims to validate the use of a virtual coach to guide users step‐by‐step through a basic FESS.

Methods

Seventeen surgeons were grouped into novice (n = 10) and expert (n = 7) based on self‐reported levels of surgical experience. Users were trained using the maxillary antrostomy module in the Neurorhinological Surgery (NRS) simulator combining the physical craniofacial model with virtual reality (VR)‐tracked surgical instruments in the VR operating room. The virtual coach guided the user using surgical videos, auditory, and visual cues. The coach recorded data for each subject including the number of times borders of the nasal cavity were encountered and time to completion. Users graded the usefulness of the virtual coach on a Likert questionnaire.

Results

Face validity of our NRS simulator was replicated by user questionnaires, and construct validity replicated by differentiation between novice and expert level surgeons (p < 0.01). Novices contacted a significantly higher number of anatomic borders (n = 17) and had a longer operative time (t = 370 seconds). All users reported high scores on the benefit and usefulness of the virtual coach.

Conclusion

The virtual coach provides a useful tool to enhance FESS education by providing objective real‐time data in a novel mixed‐reality surgical environment.