bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human anti-thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing 7A antibodies induce membranous nephropathy through activation of lectin complement pathway
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wen Lu , Dou Yanna , Zhao Zhanzheng
Published: May 2018

To investigate whether the human anti-thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A) antibody-induced membranous nephropathy (MN) is mediated by activating lectin complement pathway. Automatic biochemical apparatus was used to assess renal function of mice. The serum levels of anti-THSD7A antibodies and complement were tested by using ELISA. The expression level of THSD7A and mannose-binding lectin (MBL) in clinical tissue, and the histological features of MN in mice were examined by immunochemical methods. We found that THSD7A, MBL, and complement expression level from patients with circulating anti-THSD7A antibodies were significantly higher than that in normal group. Furthermore, difference of renal function in anti-THSD7A antibody-containing serum treatment groups and control groups was significant. Meanwhile, human anti-THSD7A autoantibodies activated the complement system and induced the histological features of MN in mice. In conclusion, human anti-THSD7A antibodies induce MN through activating MBL lectin complement pathway in mice.
Nuclear structure study for the neutron-rich nuclei beyond 132Sn: In-beam gamma-ray spectroscopy of 136Sn and 132Cd
Authors: Wang He , Aoi Nori , Takeuchi Satoshi , Matsushita Masafumi , Doornenbal Pieter , Motobayashi Tohru , Steppenbeck David , Yoneda Kenichiro , Baba Hidetada , Dombrádi Zsolt , Kobayashi Kota , Kondo Yosuke , Lee Jenny , Liu Hong-Na , Minakata Ryogo , Nishimura Daiki , Otsu Hideaki , Sakurai Hiroyoshi , Sohler Dora , Sun Ye-Lei , Tian Zheng-Yang , Tanaka Ryuki , Vajta Zsolt , Yang Zai-Hong , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Ye Yan-Lin , Yokoyama Rin
Published: May 2018

The neutron-rich nuclei 136Sn and 132Cd have been studied in the purpose of nuclear structure for the nuclei beyond the doubly-magic nucleus 132Sn. The 2+1 → 0+ gs transitions were identified for these two nuclei using in-beam γ-ray spectroscopy in coincidence with one- and two-proton removal reactions, respectively, at the RIKEN Radioactive Isotope Beam Factory. The 2+ 1 state in 136Sn is found to be similar to that for 134Sn indicating the seniority scheme may also hold for the heavy tin isotopes beyond N = 82. For 132Cd, the 2+ 1 state provides the first spectroscopic information in the even-even nuclei locating in the region “southeast” of 132Sn and the result is discussed in terms of proton-neutron configuration mixing. In both these two nuclei, it was found that the valence neutrons play an essential role in their low-lying excitations.
New low-spin states of 122Xe observed via high-statistics β-decay of 122Cs
Authors: Jigmeddorj B. , E. Garrett P. , Andreoiu C. , C. Ball G. , Bruhn T. , S. Cross D. , B. Garnsworthy A. , Hadinia B. , Moukaddam M. , Park J. , L. Pore J. , J. Radich A. , M. Rajabali M. , T. Rand E. , Rizwan U. , E. Svensson C. , Voss P. , M. Wang Z. , L. Wood J. , W. Yates S.
Published: May 2018

Excited states of 122Xe were studied via the β+/EC decay of 122Cs with the 8π γ-ray spectrometer at the TRIUMF-ISAC facility. Compton-suppressed HPGe detectors were used for measurements of γ-ray intensities, γγ coincidences, and γ-γ angular correlations. Two sets of data were collected to optimize the decays of the ground (21.2 s) and isomeric (3.7 min) states of 122Cs. The data collected have enabled the observation of about 505 new transitions and about 250 new levels, including 51 new low-spin states. Spin assignments have been made for 58 low-spin states based on the deduced β-decay feeding and γ-γ angular correlation analyses.
Triaxiality in the odd-A nuclei 109−117I studied through a microscopic rotationparticle coupling
Authors: Modi Swati
Published: May 2018

A systematic study of ground state spectrum with the triaxial deformation γ for odd-A Iodine isotopes 109−117I is carried out with the nonadiabatic quasiparticle approach. The rotation-particle coupling is accomplished microscopically such that the matrix elements of a particle-plus-rotor system are written in terms of the rotor energies. The 5/2+ state is confirmed as ground state for odd-A 111−117I and also coming out as lowest in energy for 109I.
Measurement of the radiative capture cross section of the s-process branching points 204Tl and 171Tm at the n_TOF facility (CERN)
Authors: Casanovas A. , Domingo-Pardo C. , Guerrero C. , Lerendegui-Marco J. , Calviño F. , Tarifeño-Saldivia A. , Dressler R. , Heinitz S. , Kivel N. , Quesada J. M. , Schumann D. , Aberle O. , Alcayne V. , Andrzejewski J. , Audouin L. , Bécares V. , Bacak M. , Barbagallo M. , Bečvář F. , Bellia G. , Berthoumieux E. , Billowes J. , Bosnar D. , Brown A. , Busso M. , Caamaño M. , Caballero-Ontanaya L. , Calviani M. , Cano-Ott D. , Cerutti F. , Chen Y. H. , Chiaveri E. , Colonna N. , Cortés G. , Cortés-Giraldo M. A. , Cosentino L. , Cristallo S. , Damone L. A. , Diakaki M. , Dietz M. , Dupont E. , Durán I. , Eleme Z. , Fernández-Domínguez B. , Ferrari A. , Ferreira P. , Finocchiaro P. , Furman V. , Göbel K. , Gawlik A. , Gilardoni S. , Glodariu T. , Gonçalves I. F. , González-Romero E. , Gunsing F. , Heyse J. , Jenkins D. G. , Käppeler F. , Kadi Y. , Katabuchi T. , Kimura A. , Kokkoris M. , Kopatch Y. , Krtička M. , Kurtulgil D. , Ladarescu I. , Lederer-Woods C. , Meo S. Lo , Lonsdale S. J. , Macina D. , Martínez T. , Masi A. , Massimi C. , Mastinu P. , Mastromarco M. , Matteucci F. , Maugeri E. A. , Mazzone A. , Mendoza E. , Mengoni A. , Michalopoulou V. , Milazzo P. M. , Mingrone F. , Musumarra A. , Negret A. , Nolte R. , Ogállar F. , Oprea A. , Patronis N. , Pavlik A. , Perkowski J. , Persanti L. , Porras I. , Praena J. , Radeck D. , Ramos D. , Rauscher T. , Reifarth R. , Rochman D. , Sabaté-Gilarte M. , Saxena A. , Schillebeeckx P. , Simone S. , Smith A. G. , Sosnin N. V. , Stamatopoulos A. , Tagliente G. , Tain J. L. , Talip T. , Tassan-Got L. , Tsinganis A. , Ulrich J. , Valenta S. , Vannini G. , Variale V. , Vaz P. , Ventura A. , Vlachoudis V. , Vlastou R. , Wallner A. , Woods P. J. , Wright T. , Žugec P. , Köster U
Published: May 2018

The neutron capture cross section of some unstable nuclei is especially relevant for s-process nucleosynthesis studies. This magnitude is crucial to determine the local abundance pattern, which can yield valuable information of the s-process stellar environment. In this work we describe the neutron capture (n,γ) measurement on two of these nuclei of interest, 204Tl and 171Tm, from target production to the final measurement, performed successfully at the n_TOF facility at CERN in 2014 and 2015. Preliminary results on the ongoing experimental data analysis will also be shown. These results include the first ever experimental observation of capture resonances for these two nuclei.
Cross-section measurements of the 94Mo(γ,n) and 90Zr(γ,n) reactions using real photons at the HIγS facility
Authors: Banu Adriana , Silano Jack , Karwowski Hugon , Meekins Evan , Bhike Megha , Tornow Werner , McCleskey Mathew
Published: May 2018

The photodisintegration reaction cross-sections for 94Mo(γ,n) and 90Zr(γ,n) have been experimentally investigated with quasi-monochromatic photon beams at the High Intensity γ-Ray Source (HIγS) facility, Triangle University Nuclear Laboratory (TUNL). The measurements were focused primarily on studying the energy dependence of the photoneutron cross sections, which is the most direct way of testing statistical models, and were performed close to the respective neutron thresholds and above up to ~ 20 MeV. Neutrons from the (γ,n) reactions were detected using a 4π assembly of 3He proportional counters developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory and presently available at TUNL. While the 94Mo(γ,n) cross section measurement aims to contribute to a broader investigation for understanding the γ-process (the mechanism responsible for the nucleosynthesis of the so-called p-nuclei), the information from the 90Zr(γ,n) data is relevant to constrain QRPA calculations of γ-ray strength functions in this mass region. In this contribution, we will present our preliminary results of the total (γ,n) excitation functions for the two photoneutron reactions on 94Mo and 90Zr.
Astrophysical relevance of the low-energy dipole strength of 206Pb
Authors: Tonchev A.P. , Tsoneva N. , Goriely S. , Bhatia C. , Arnold C.W. , Hammond S.L. , Kelley J.H. , Kwan E. , Lenske H. , Piekarewicz J. , Raut R. , Rusev G. , Shizuma T. , Tornow W.
Published: May 2018

The dipole strength of 206Pb was studied below the neutron separation energy using photon scattering experiments at the HIGS facility. Utilizing the technique of nuclear resonance fluorescence with 100% linearly-polarized photon beams, the spins, parities, branching ratios and decay widths of excited states in 206Pb from 4.9 - 8.1 MeV have been measured. The new experimental information is used to reliably predict the neutron capture cross section of 205Pb, an important branch point nucleus along the s-process path of nucleosynthesis.
Capture and photonuclear reaction rates involving charged-particles: Impacts of nuclear ingredients and future measurement on ELI-NP
Authors: Xu Y. , Goriely S. , Balabanski D.L. , Chesnevskaya S. , Guardo G.L. , La Cognata M. , Lan H.Y. , Lattuada D. , Luo W. , Matei C.
Published: May 2018

The astrophysical p-process is an important way of nucleosynthesis to produce the stable and proton-rich nuclei beyond Fe which can not be reached by the s- and r-processes. In the present study, the impact of nuclear ingredients, especially the nuclear potential, level density and strength function, to the astrophysical re-action rates of (p,γ), (α,γ), (γ,p), and (γ,α) reactions are systematically studied. The calculations are performed basad on the modern reaction code TALYS for about 3000 stable and proton-rich nuclei with 12≤Z≤110. In particular, both of the Wood-Saxon potential and the microscopic folding potential are taken into account. It is found that both the capture and photonuclear reaction rates are very sensitive to the nuclear potential, thus the better determination of nuclear potential would be important to reduce the uncertainties of reaction rates. Meanwhile, the Extreme Light Infrastructure-Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP) facility is being developed, which will provide the great opportunity to experimentally study the photonuclear reactions in p-process. Simulations of the experimental setup for the measurements of the photonuclear reactions 96Ru(γ,p) and 96Ru(γ,α) are performed. It is shown that the experiments of photonuclear reactions in p-process based on ELI-NP are quite promising.
Isospin Non-Conservation in Shell Model Approach and Applications*
Authors: Lam Yi Hua , Smirnova Nadezda A.
Published: May 2018

Up to now, empirical shell-model Hamiltonians for valence space calculations provide the most accurate description of the low-energy spectra and individual transitions of sd- and pf-shell nuclei. These features made them of particular importance for the description of the isospin-symmetry-breaking phenomena, such as energy splitting of the isobaric multiplets or isospin-forbidden transition rates. In this contribution, we demonstrate the applications of a recently constructed isospin non-conserving (INC) Hamiltonian in sd shell [Lam et al. Phys. Rev. C 87, 054304 (2013)]. First, we explore the partial decay scheme of 24Si and discuss the states affected by the Thomas-Ehrman shift. Second, we show the accuracy of the INC Hamiltonian for the description of the mirror energy differences.
Photoneutron Reaction Data for Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics
Authors: Utsunomiya Hiroaki , Renstrøm Therese , Tveten Gry Merete , Gheorghe Ioana , Filipescu Dan Mihai , Belyshev Sergey , Stopani Konstantin , Wang Hongwei , Fan Gongtao , Lui Yiu-Wing , Symochko Dmytro , Goriely Stephane , Larsen Ann-Cecilie , Siem Sunniva , Varlamov Vladimir , Ishkhanov Boris , Glodariu Tudor , Krzysiek Mateusz , Takenaka Daiki , Ari-izumi Takashi , Amano Sho , Miyamoto Shuji
Published: May 2018

We discuss the role of photoneutron reaction data in nuclear physics and astrophysics in conjunction with the Coordinated Research Project of the International Atomic Energy Agency with the code F41032 (IAEA-CRP F41032).
Comparison of mass attenuation coefficients of concretes using FLUKA, XCOM and experiment results
Authors: Singh V.P. , Korkut T. , Badiger N.M.
Published: May 2018

The mass attenuation coefficients of seven different types of normal and heavy concretes like ordinary, hematite-serpentine, ilmenite-limonite, basalt-magnetite, ilmenite, steel-scrap and steel-magnetite concretes has been simulated using FLUKA Monte Carlo code at high energies 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 MeV. The mass attenuation coefficients and linear attenuation coefficient of the concretes were found dependent upon the chemical composition, density and gamma ray energy. FLUKA Monte Carlo code results were found in good agreement with experimental and theoretical XCOM data. Our investigations for high energy gamma-ray interaction validate the FLUKA Monte Carlo code for use where experimental gamma-ray interaction results are not available.
Effects of Resistance Training and Combined Training Program on Repeated Sprint Ability in Futsal Players
Authors: Torres-Torrelo Julio , Rodríguez-Rosell David , Mora-Custodio Ricardo , Pareja-Blanco Fernando , Yañez-García Juan , González-Badillo Juan
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of 6 weeks resistance training (RT) with combined RT and loaded change of direction (CD) exercise on muscle strength and repeated sprint ability (RSA) in futsal players. Thirty-four players (age: 23.7±4.1 years; height: 1.77±0.06 m; body mass: 74.1±8.2 kg) were randomly assigned into three groups: full squat group (SG, n=12), combined full squat and CD group (S+CDG, n=12), and control group (CG, n=10). The RT for SG consisted of full squat with low-load (~45–60% 1RM) and low-volume (2-3 sets and 4-6 repetitions), whereas the S+CDG performed the same RT program combined with loaded CD (2-5 sets of 10 s). Estimated one-repetition maximum (1RMest) and variables derived from RSA test including mean sprint time (RSAmean), best sprint time (RSAbest), percent sprint decrement (Sdec), mean ground contact time (GCTmean) and mean step length (SL) were selected as testing variables. Changes in sprint time and GCT in each sprint were also analysed. Both experimental groups showed significant (P<0.05-0.001) improvements for 1RMest, RSAbest and first and second sprint time. In addition, S+CDG achieved significant (P<0.05-0.001) improvements in RSAmean, sprint time (from fifth to ninth sprint) and GCT (from third to eighth sprint). These results indicate that only 6 weeks of low-load and low-volume RT combined with CD in addition to routine futsal training is enough to improve RSA and strength performance simultaneously in futsal players.
Reifegrade des Qualitäts- und Risikomanagementsystems am Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein
Authors: Jussli-Melchers Jill , Hilbert Carsten , Jahnke Iris , Wehkamp Kai , Rogge Annette , Freitag-Wolf Sandra , Kahla-Witzsch Heike , Scholz Jens , Petzina Rainer
Published: May 2018

Einleitung Qualitäts- und Risikomanagement (QRM) in Krankenhäusern sind nicht nur gesetzlich gefordert, sondern führen maßgeblich zu einer optimierten patienten- und ablauforientierten Krankenversorgung. Zur Evaluation der Reifegrade des QRM-Systems am Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH) wurde ein strukturiertes Analysetool entwickelt, das einfach und effizient anzuwenden ist.

Methode Vier Qualitätskriterien – Qualitätssicherung (QS), Critical Incident Reporting System (CIRS), Beschwerdemanagement (BM) und Prozessmanagement (PM) – wurden mittels eines strukturierten Erhebungsbogens zur Eigen- und Fremdbewertung an den beiden Standorten des UKSH in Kiel und Lübeck analysiert. Jedes Qualitätskriterium wiederum wurde in vier Kategorien von A (voll implementiert) bis D (nicht implementiert) eingeteilt. Zunächst fand eine Fremdbewertung durch das zentrale QRM und im Anschluss die Eigenbewertung der insgesamt 46 analysierten Kliniken zu den jeweiligen vier Qualitätskriterien statt. Unstimmigkeiten zwischen Eigen- und Fremdbewertungen wurden in einem kollegialen Dialog gelöst. Letztendlich resultierte aus den erhobenen Daten eine Gesamtreifegradbeurteilung pro Klinik.

Ergebnisse Der Gesamtreifegrad A wurde von 3 der 46 Kliniken (6,5%) erzielt. Keine Klinik erhielt die Gesamtreifegradbeurteilung D. 50% aller Kliniken erreichten Reifegrad B und 43,5% Reifegrad C. Die Verteilung der unterschiedlichen vier Qualitätskriterien zeigte insgesamt eine gute Implementierung des Beschwerdemanagements (Reifegrade A und B mit 78,3%) auf, während bei CIRS ein hoher Anteil der Reifegrade C und D (73,9%) vorlag. QS und PM wiesen eine sehr ähnliche Verteilung auf mit den Reifegradbeurteilungen B und C (87% QS; 91% PM).

Diskussion Durch das strukturierte Analysetool sind sowohl die Gesamtreifegrade des QRM-Systems an 46 Kliniken des UKSH als auch detailliert die Reifegrade 4 wesentlicher Qualitätskriterien (QS, CIRS, BM, PM) erhoben worden. In der Konsequenz wurde ein umfangreiches Maßnahmenpaket zur Verbesserung des QRM-Systems eingeleitet. Zukünftig werden die Reifegrade im 2 Jahresrhythmus re-evaluiert. Dieses qualitative Reifegradmodell ermöglicht auf einfache und effiziente Weise, präzise Aussagen bezüglich des Vorhandenseins, der Ausprägung und der Weiterentwicklung des Qualitäts- und Risikomanagements zu generieren.
Der Gesundheitsbeirat der Landeshauptstadt München: eine Bestandsaufnahme
Authors: Sokoll Corinna K. , Winter Susanne
Published: May 2018

Hintergrund Nach über 27-jährigen Bestehen des Gesundheitsbeirats der Landeshauptstadt München (GBM) hat dessen Vorstand beschlossen, eine Bestandsaufnahme dieser Institution durchzuführen.

Ziel der Studie Die Befragung der Mitwirkenden im GBM hatte zum Ziel, Einschätzungen und Bewertungen der Akteure zu Struktur der Gremien, Themensetzung und deren Bearbeitung sowie zu Ergebnissen der Gremienarbeit, Veranstaltungen, Öffentlichkeitsarbeit und Zielerreichung zu erfassen. Die Bestandsaufnahme soll als Basis für Entscheidungen bezüglich der künftigen Ausrichtung bzw. Weiterentwicklung des GBM dienen.

Methodik Die im Querschnittsdesign angelegte Vollerhebung erfolgte im Zeitraum vom 24. Januar bis 28. März 2017 mittels eines selbstentworfenen, teilstandardisierten Fragebogens. Die auf freiwilliger Basis abgegebenen Antworten wurden deskriptiv ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse Die Befragung umfasste 284 aktive Akteure mit einer Netto-Rücklaufquote von 46,5% (132 Teilnehmer). Die Zusammensetzung der Gremien wurde mehrheitlich als angemessen empfunden. 85,6% der Akteure bewerteten die Kommunikation und Zusammenarbeit innerhalb ihres Gremiums als positiv. Ein Verbesserungspotenzial in der Zusammenarbeit mit dem Stadtrat wurde identifiziert. Die inhaltliche Ausrichtung des GBM empfanden 87,8% als positiv, als verbesserungswürdig wurde die Thematik der Nachhaltigkeit der Ergebnisse berichtet. Der fachliche Informationsaustausch wurde von über drei Fünftel der Teilnehmer als wesentlichstes Ziel der Arbeit ihres Gremiums angesehen. Die inhaltliche Gestaltung der Veranstaltungsformate sahen 74,2% als positiv an. 57,6% waren der Auffassung, dass eine transparente Bereitstellung der Ergebnisse erfolgt, jedoch wurden ungenutzte Potenziale in der Öffentlichkeitsarbeit gesehen. Die intendierte Zielerreichung des GBM wurde von annähernd zwei Drittel der Antwortenden als erfolgreich angesehen.

Schlussfolgerung Der GBM stellt eine erfolgreiche Institution im Münchner Gesundheitswesen dar. Handlungsbedarf wurde bei der Vernetzung mit dem Stadtrat, der Nachhaltigkeit der Ergebnisse und der Umsetzung einer intensiveren Öffentlichkeitsarbeit gesehen.
Synthesis of Substituted Pyrido-oxazine through Tandem SN2 and SNAr Reaction
Authors: Pathan Mosim , Khan Faiz
Published: May 2018

Pyrido-oxazine derivatives have been synthesized by employing tandem SN2 and SNAr reaction between 2,4,6-tribromo-3-(2-bromoethoxy)pyridine or 2,4,6-tribromo-3-(3-bromopropoxy)pyridine and a variety of primary amines. Moderate to good regioselectivity in favor of cyclization at the 2-position is observed. Pyrido-oxazine products thus generated are converted into biarylated pyrido-oxazine and terpyridine ligands.
Synthesis of Phthalimides: A New Entry via TBAI-Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclization of 2-(Hydroxymethyl)benzamides
Authors: Nagaraju Kare , Rajesh Nomula , Krishna Palakodety
Published: May 2018

Herein we report an unprecedented metal-free TBAI/TBHP mediated C–N bond formation via intramolecular cyclization of 2-(hydroxymethyl)benzamides to furnish N-substituted phthalimides in excellent yields.
Water-Related Mechanisms Proposed for Storing and Transmitting Homeopathic Information: Putative Links with Biological Responses
Authors: Bonamin Leoni , Capelozzi Vera , Guedes José
Published: May 2018

Introduction There are two critical pillars of homeopathy that contrast with the dominant scientific approach: the similitude principle and the potentization of serial dilutions. Three main hypotheses about the mechanisms of action are in discussion: nanobubbles-related hormesis; vehicle-related electric resonance; and quantum non-locality.

Objectives The aim of this paper is to review and discuss some key points of such properties: the imprint of supramolecular structures based on the nanoparticle-allostatic, cross-adaptation-sensitization (NPCAS) model; the theory of non-molecular electromagnetic transfer of information, based on the coherent water domains model, and relying (like the NPCAS model) on the idea of local interactions; and the hypothesis of quantum entanglement, based on the concept of non-locality.

Results and Discussion The nanoparticles hypothesis has been considered since 2010, after the demonstration of suspended metal nanoparticles even in very highly diluted remedies: their actual action on biological structures is still under scrutiny. The second hypothesis considers the idea of electric resonance mechanisms between living systems (including intracellular water) and homeopathic medicines: recent findings about potency-related physical properties corroborate it. Finally, quantum theory of ‘non-local’ phenomena inspires the idea of an ‘entanglement’ process among patient, practitioner and the remedy: that quantic phenomena could occur in supra-atomic structures remains speculative however.

Conclusion Further studies are needed to ascertain whether and which of these hypotheses may be related to potential cellular effects of homeopathic preparations, such as organization of metabolic pathways or selective gene expression.
Focus Section on Health IT Usability: Perceived Burden of EHRs on Physicians at Different Stages of Their Career
Authors: Khairat Saif , Burke Gary , Archambault Heather , Schwartz Todd , Larson James , Ratwani Raj
Published: May 2018

Objective The purpose of this study was to further explore the effect of EHRs on emergency department (ED) attending and resident physicians' perceived workload, satisfaction, and productivity through the completion of six EHR patient scenarios combined with workload, productivity, and satisfaction surveys.

Methods To examine EHR usability, we used a live observational design combined with post observation surveys conducted over 3 days, observing emergency physicians' interactions with the EHR during a 1-hour period. Physicians were asked to complete six patient scenarios in the EHR, and then participants filled two surveys to assess the perceived workload and satisfaction with the EHR interface.

Results Fourteen physicians participated, equally distributed by gender (50% females) and experience (43% residents, 57% attendings). Frustration levels associated to the EHR were significantly higher for attending physicians compared with residents. Among the factors causing high EHR frustrations are: (1) remembering menu and button names and commands use; (2) performing tasks that are not straightforward; (3) system speed; and (4) system reliability. In comparisons between attending and resident physicians, time to complete half of the cases as well as the overall reaction to the EHR were statistically different.

Conclusion ED physicians already have the highest levels of burnout and fourth lowest level of satisfaction among physicians and, hence, particular attention is needed to study the impact of EHR on ED physicians. This study investigated key EHR usability barriers in the ED particularly, the assess frustration levels among physicians based on experience, and identifying factors impacting those levels of frustrations. In our findings, we highlight the most favorable and most frustrating EHR functionalities between both groups of physicians.
Evaluating the Efficiency and Safety of Speech Recognition within a Commercial Electronic Health Record System: A Replication Study
Authors: Hodgson Tobias , Magrabi Farah , Coiera Enrico
Published: May 2018

Objective To conduct a replication study to validate previously identified significant risks and inefficiencies associated with the use of speech recognition (SR) for documentation within an electronic health record (EHR) system.

Methods Thirty-five emergency department clinicians undertook randomly allocated clinical documentation tasks using keyboard and mouse (KBM) or SR using a commercial EHR system. The experiment design, setting, and tasks (E2) replicated an earlier study (E1), while technical integration issues that may have led to poorer SR performance were addressed.

Results Complex tasks were significantly slower to complete using SR (16.94%) than KBM (KBM: 191.9 s, SR: 224.4 s; p = 0.009; CI, 11.9–48.3), replicating task completion times observed in the earlier experiment. Errors (non-typographical) were significantly higher with SR compared with KBM for both simple (KBM: 3, SR: 84; p < 0.001; CI, 1.5–2.5) and complex tasks (KBM: 23, SR: 53; p = 0.001; CI, 0.5–1.0), again replicating earlier results (E1: 170, E2: 163; p = 0.660; CI, 0.0–0.0). Typographical errors were reduced significantly in the new study (E1: 465, E2: 150; p < 0.001; CI, 2.0–3.0).

Discussion The results of this study replicate those reported earlier. The use of SR for clinical documentation within an EHR system appears to be consistently associated with decreased time efficiencies and increased errors. Modifications implemented to optimize SR integration in the EHR seem to have resulted in minor improvements that did not fundamentally change overall results.

Conclusion This replication study adds further evidence for the poor performance of SR-assisted clinical documentation within an EHR. Replication studies remain rare in informatics literature, especially where study results are unexpected or have significant implication; such studies are clearly needed to avoid overdependence on the results of a single study.
Educational Value of a 3D Printer in Ophthalmology Training
Authors: Arshad Jawad , Helms Richard , Orge Faruk , Sayegh Rony
Published: May 2018

Three-dimensional (3D) printers are increasingly being used in medicine for surgical planning, medical education, patient education, research, and device development. We explore the educational value of a 3D printer for trainees in an ophthalmology residency program. A 3D printer was made available to medical students, residents, and clinical and research fellows in the Department of Ophthalmology at Case Western Reserve University. One of the medical students was proficient in the technology and was available to help. Multiple projects were initiated including the manufacturing of slit-lamp cellphone adapters and various interface and integral custom-made parts for research applications. The 3D printer was found to be useful by 20 of 21 trainees surveyed with 17 of 20 saying they would use it after graduation if they had access to one. All the respondents felt that the availability of the technology can contribute to increased innovation in the ophthalmology department. We encourage other ophthalmology departments to experiment with 3D printing as a tool to foster innovation and creativity for trainees.
The Heart's Halo: Caring for Pediatric Pneumopericardium
Authors: Chandnani Harsha , Lion Richard , Maxson Ivanna
Published: May 2018

Pediatric pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium (PPC) are rare complications, which can arise from various etiologies. We report a case of pediatric PPC secondary to an asthma exacerbation and discuss relevant diagnostic and management principles. Physicians must be aware of PPC and its implications due to the high mortality rate. PPC patients require close observation with continuous cardiorespiratory and telemetry monitoring, and providers experienced in the management of cardiac tamponade at a center capable of providing cardiothoracic surgical intervention. Time to resolution is multifactorial, but can be achieved promptly with supportive care and treatment of underlying condition.
Distal Nerve Transfers: A Perspective on the Future of Reconstructive Microsurgery
Authors: Chuang David
Published: May 2018

Background Nerve transfer can be broadly separated into two categories: proximal nerve graft and/or transfer and distal nerve transfer. The superiority of proximal nerve graft/transfer over distal nerve transfer strategy has been debated extensively, but which strategy is the best has not yet been defined. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, proximal nerve graft/transfer is still the main reconstructive procedure based on the principle of “no diagnosis, then no treatment.” Proximal nerve transfer can avoid iatrogenic injury where the lesion is still in continuity and neurolysis is the only procedure without further cutting the nerve.

Results Our clinical and experimental study show that proximal nerve grafts/transfers yield at least equal or better results compared to distal nerve transfers. Proximal nerve grafts/transfers remain the mainstay of my reconstructive strategy. Proximal nerve graft/transfer offers more accurate diagnosis and proper treatment to restore shoulder and elbow functions simultaneously. Distal nerve transfers can offer more efficient elbow flexion.

Conclusion Combined, both strategies in primary nerve reconstruction are especially recommended when there is no healthy or not enough donor nerve available Distal nerve transfers should be considered as a complementary option for proximal nerve grafts/ transfers.
Estimation of the operating temperature of photovoltaic modules using artificial intelligence techniques and global sensitivity analysis: A comparative approach
Authors: May Tzuc O. , Bassam A. , Mendez-Monroy P. E. , Sanchez Dominguez I.
Published: May 2018

In this work, four artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, based on Artificial Neural Networks, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Regression Tree Ensembles, were used to estimate the operating temperature of photovoltaic (PV) modules (TPV). The models' input parameters correspond to experimental measurements of environmental (solar radiation, ambient temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and wind direction) and operational (power output and tracking system) variables. Several AI models were trained and statistically compared with the measured data using a computational methodology that determines the performance and accuracy of the AI technique. Finally, a global sensitivity analysis was conducted to identify the ability of each technique to reflect the physical coherence of the phenomenon that is under study. It is reported that the four techniques can provide an estimate having a precision of about 93%. On the other hand, the sensitivity analysis demonstrates that all the models cannot correctly interpret the physical interaction of the input parameters with respect to TPV, where the SVM is reported to be the most appropriate. The results indicate that the proposed methodology is a viable alternative for the estimation of TPV by AI techniques. This methodology can be implemented as an alternative tool in the development of smart PV module cooling systems to improve its performance and to reduce its operating costs.
Photo-detachment of negative ions in Ar-CO2 dc discharge employing Langmuir probe
Authors: Rodríguez Jannet , Yousif Farook Bashir , Fuentes Beatriz E. , Vázquez Federico , Rivera Marco , López-Patiño J. , Figueroa Aldo , Martínez Horacio
Published: May 2018

The electronegativity of the Ar−CO2 gas mixture was investigated, and the total relative negative oxygen ion density O2− + O− in the bulk of a dc discharge has been determined employing Langmuir probe assisted laser photo-detachment. The relative electron density and absolute temperature were obtained for the mixture at discharge powers between 200 and 3000 mW and pressures between 0.2 and 0.6 mbar, employing the collisional radiative model for several Ar gas mixtures. The absolute metastable number density for 1s3 and 1s5 levels was measured, and both showed an increasing trend as a function of pressure and power. The absolute number density of the 1s5 level was found to be higher than that of the 1s3 level. Electronegativity was found to decrease as a function of power and as a function of the increasing Ar percentage in the gas mixture.
Evolutionary technology adoption in an oligopoly market with forward-looking firms
Authors: Lamantia F. , Radi D.
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we propose an evolutionary oligopoly game of technology adoption in a market with isoelastic demand and two possible (linear) production technologies. While one technology is characterized by lower marginal costs, the magnitude of fixed costs entails that a technology does not necessarily dominate the other. Firms are forward-looking as they assess the profitability of employing either technology according to the corresponding expected profits. The dynamics of the system is studied through a piecewise-smooth map, for which we present a local stability analysis of equilibria and show the occurrence of smooth and border collision bifurcations. Global analysis of the model is also presented to show the coexistence of attractors and its economic significance. This investigation reveals that firms can fail to learn to adopt the more efficient technology.
Relaxation times measurement in single and multiply excited xenon clusters
Authors: Serdobintsev P. Yu. , Melnikov A. S. , Pastor A. A. , Timofeev N. A. , Khodorkovskiy M. A.
Published: May 2018

Direct measurement of the rates of nonradiative relaxation processes in electronically excited xenon clusters was carried out. The clusters were created in a pulsed supersonic beam and two-photon excited by femtosecond laser pulses with a wavelength of 263 nm. The measurements were performed using the pump-probe method and electron spectroscopy. It is shown that relaxation of light clusters XeN (N < 15) predominantly occurs by desorption of excited xenon atoms with a characteristic time constant of 3 ps. Heavier electronically excited clusters (N > 10) vibrationally relax to the lowest electronically excited state at a rate of about 0.075 eV/ps. Multiply excited clusters are deactivated via energy exchange between excited centers with the ionization of one of them. The production of electrons in this process occurs with a delay of ∼4 ps from the pump pulse, and the process is completed in 10 ps.
Gradient drift coupling instability in plasmas as an artifact
Authors: Larter Raima
Published: May 2018

Detailed plasma gyrokinetic model reveals errors in earlier analyses.
First Principles Probing of Photo-Generated Intermolecular Charge Transfer State in Conjugated Oligomers
Authors: Hong Ding-hao , Chen Li , Kong Qing-gang , Cao Hui
Published: May 2018

We perform density functional theory calculations to investigate the polaron pair (charge transfer state) photo-generation in donor-acceptor oligomer methyl-capped (4,7-benzo[2,1,3]thiadiazole-2,6-(4,4-bis(2-ethylhexyl)-4H-cyclopenta[1,2-b;3,4-b′]dithiophene-4, 7-benzo[2,1,3]thiadiazole) (CPDTBT). Results show that effective photo-generation of charge transfer state can happen in CPDTBT dimer when the group 4,7-benzo[2,1,3]thiadiazole (BT) in one monomer deviates against the conjugated plane (onset torsion angle is about 20°). The lower excitation energy (530 nm) can only generate the intramolecular excitonic state, while the higher excitation energy (370 nm) can generate the intermolecular charge transfer state, in good agreement with the experiment. Moreover, the mechanism of charge separation in CPDTBT oligomers is discussed.
Combination Effect of Cation Vacancies and O2 Adsorption on Ferromagnetism of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3(100) Surface: ab initio Study
Authors: Ju Lin , Dai Ying , Xu Tong-shuai , Zhang Yong-jia , Sun Li
Published: May 2018

The combination effect of cation vacancies and O2 adsorption on ferromagnetism of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3(100) surface is studied by using density functional theory. An ideal Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3(100) surface is non-magnetic and the cation vacancy could induce the magnetism. By comparing the formation energies for Na, Bi and Ti vacancy, the Na vacancy is more stable than the others. Therefore, we focus on the configuration and electric structure for the system of O2 molecule adsorption on the Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3(100) surface with a Na vacancy. Among the five physisorption configurations we considered, the most likely adsorption position is Na vacancy. The O2 adsorption enhances the magnetism of the system. The contribution of spin polarization is mainly from the O 2p orbitals. The characteristics of exchange coupling are also calculated, which show that the ferromagnetic coupling is favorable. Compared with the previous calculation results, our calculations could explain the room-temperature ferromagnetism of Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 nanocrytalline powders more reasonably, because of taking into account adsorbed oxygen and cation vacancies. Moreover, our results also show that adsorption of O2 molecule as well as introduction of cation vacancies may be a promising approach to improve multiferroic materials.
Direct Synthesis of Monodisperse Hollow Molecularly Imprinted Polymers Based on Unfunctionalized SiO2 for the Recognition of Bisphenol A
Authors: Liu Shao-min , Wei Meng-xing , Fu Xin , Zhang Xue-bin
Published: May 2018

A novel and effective approach was developed to synthesize monodisperse hollow molecularly imprinted polymers (MHMIPs) with unfunctionalized SiO2 spheres in a mixture of toluene and CH3CN. The factors that affected the synthesis of MHMIPs were systematically investigated. It was determined that a suitable ratio of toluene to CH3CN and the use of a functional monomer that can generate double H-bonding interactions were the critical factors to obtain MHMIPs with high uniformity and monodispersion. The obtained MHMIPs exhibited a fast adsorption rate and high adsorption capacity (270 μmol/g) for bisphenol A. As the shell thickness increased from 90 nm to 130 nm, the binding capacity of the imprinted shells decreased gradually. The relative selectivity coefficients of MHMIPs for tetra-bromobisphenol A (TBBPA), phenol and p-tert-butylphenol (PTBP) were calculated as 1.53, 1.83 and 1.90, respectively. These findings indicate that MHMIPs have good adsorption performances and suggest applications in the selective removal or sensitive analysis of bisphenol A.
Micellar Exchange Kinetics of Quaternary Ammonium Type Gemini Surfactants Monitored by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Liu Jun , Du You-ru , Mao Shi-zhen , Liu Mai-li
Published: May 2018

The dynamic NMR (DNMR) method was used to detect kinetic parameters of the molecular exchange process between monomers in bulk solution and those in the micelle for Gemini surfactants, 12-s-12 and 14-s-14 (s=2, 3 and 4). The escape rate constant, k−, was derived based on the simplified equations of DNMR theory, and the apparent activation energy of escape, Ea−, was obtained based on the Arrhenius equation through temperature variation experiments. Results show that the orders of magnitude of k− for 14-s-14 and 12-s-12 are respectively 10 and 103 s−1, Ea− of 14-s-14 and 12-s-12 are respectively 54.04–73.64 and 33.42–47.09 kJ/mol. Furthermore, k− increases and Ea− decreases with the spacer length growing. In combination with the micro-polarity measurements, it was revealed that molecules of 14-s-14 and 12-s-12 have to experience conformation changes when escaping from the micelles. The two-step molecular exchange mechanism for Gemini surfactants was therefore supported.
Glucose Isomerization into Fructose Catalyzed by MgO/NaY Catalyst
Authors: Li Bing , Li Lu-wei , Dong Ying-nan , Zhang Qing , Weng Wei-zheng , Wan Hui-lin
Published: May 2018

The MgO/NaY catalysts prepared by impregnation method were used for the conversion of glucose to fructose in water medium. The effects of MgO loading, reaction temperature, glucose concentration and reaction time on the catalytic performance for the reaction were studied. The activity testing results indicated that fructose could be generated effectively by controlling the components of the catalyst and reaction conditions. The maximal fructose yield of 33.8% with the selectivity of 67.3% was achieved over the 10%MgO/NaY catalyst at 100 °C for 2 h. Moreover, the catalysts were characterized by XRD, BET, and CO2-TPD techniques. The structural property of NaY with higher surface area facilitated glucose conversion, and the modulated basicity of the catalyst with MgO addition contributed to the formation of fructose in the tautomerization of aldose to ketose.
Mechanistic Insights into the Fluorescence Quenching of Rhodamine 6G by Graphene Oxide
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhang Lei , Jiang Shen-long , Zhang Qun
Published: May 2018

The fluorescence quenching of Rhodamine 6G (R6G) by graphene oxide (GO) was interrogated by R6G fluorescence measurements using a set of controlled GO samples with varied C/O ratios as the quencher. The carbonyl groups on the GO nanosheet turned to play a dominant role in quenching the R6G fluorescence. The quenching in the static regime can be described by the “sphere of action” model. The significant absorption of the R6G fluorescence by the ground-state complex formed between R6G and GO was identified to be responsible for the static quenching. This work offers helpful insights into the fluorescence quenching mechanisms in the R6G/GO system.
Temporal transcriptional logic of dynamic regulatory networks underlying nitrogen signaling and use in plants
Authors: Varala Kranthi , Marshall-Colón Amy , Cirrone Jacopo , Brooks Matthew D. , Pasquino Angelo V. , Léran Sophie , Mittal Shipra , Rock Tara M. , Edwards Molly B. , Kim Grace J. , Ruffel Sandrine , McCombie W. Richard , Shasha Dennis , Coruzzi Gloria M.
Published: May 2018

Significance

Our study exploits time—the relatively unexplored fourth dimension of gene regulatory networks (GRNs)—to learn the temporal transcriptional logic underlying dynamic nitrogen (N) signaling in plants. We introduce several conceptual innovations to the analysis of time-series data in the area of predictive GRNs. Our resulting network now provides the “transcriptional logic” for transcription factor perturbations aimed at improving N-use efficiency, an important issue for global food production in marginal soils and for sustainable agriculture. More broadly, the combination of the time-based approaches we develop and deploy can be applied to uncover the temporal “transcriptional logic” for any response system in biology, agriculture, or medicine.
Navigating ‘taxation’ on the Congo River: the interplay of legitimation and ‘officialisation’
Authors: Eriksson Baaz Maria , Olsson Ola , Verweijen Judith
Published: May 2018

Based on comprehensive research among boat operators and navy personnel working on the Congo River (DRC), this article explores how assessments of ‘taxation’ are shaped by the interplay of legitimation and ‘officialisation’. As such, it draws upon and contributes to scholarly debates on taxpayers’ attitudes towards taxation. While boat operators resent having to pay a plethora of authorities, including the navy, along the Congo River, the article demonstrates how they locate these ‘taxes’ on a spectrum from more to less legitimate. These assessments are shaped by various factors: authorities’ legitimacy as ‘measured’ by their official mandate and importance; public and non-official service provision; and the deployment of symbols of ‘stateness’. In interaction, these factors legitimise and ‘officialise’ ‘taxes’ by the navy that are prohibited in legislation. These findings caution against the a priori use of the labels ‘official’ and ‘non-official’, emphasising the need to better grasp these notions’ emic understandings.
From terrorism to talakawa: explaining party turnover in Nigeria's 2015 elections
Authors: LeVan A. Carl , Page Matthew T. , Ha Yoonbin
Published: May 2018

What explains the 2015 defeat of Nigeria's ruling party by a new party less than two years old? Despite a spike in terrorism and widespread public complaints about government waste, the authors find that neither violence nor patronage systematically explains voting patterns. Instead, statistical evidence points to state-level economic performance and perceptions of national economy. Using surveys, original variables measuring economic performance and – for the first time – presidential election results at the local government level, the authors demonstrate that ‘economic voting’ helped the opposition. They attribute opposition success to a ‘talakawa effect’ rooted in a class-based coalition.
Spatial distribution and function of T follicular regulatory cells in human lymph nodes
Authors: Sayin Ismail , Radtke Andrea J. , Vella Laura A. , Jin Wenjie , Wherry E. John , Buggert Marcus , Betts Michael R. , Herati Ramin S. , Germain Ronald N. , Canaday David H.
Published: May 2018

T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells are a population of CD4+ T cells that express regulatory T cell markers and have been shown to suppress humoral immunity. However, the precise mechanisms and location of Tfr-mediated suppression in the lymph node (LN) microenvironment are unknown. Using highly multiplexed quantitative imaging and functional assays, we examined the spatial distribution, suppressive function, and preferred interacting partners of Tfr cells in human mesenteric LNs. We find that the majority of Tfr cells express low levels of PD-1 and reside at the border between the T cell zone and B cell follicle, with very few found in the germinal centers (GCs). Although PD-1+ Tfr cells expressed higher levels of CD38, CTLA-4, and GARP than PD-1Neg Tfr cells, both potently suppressed antibody production in vitro. These findings highlight the phenotypic diversity of human Tfr cells and suggest that Tfr-mediated suppression is most efficient at the T-B border and within the follicle, not in the GC.
Membrane-mediated interaction drives mitochondrial ATPase assembly and cristae formation
Authors: Cui Qiang
Published: May 2018

Cui reflects on new coarse-grained simulations demonstrating that mitochondrial ATP synthase dimers spontaneously self-associate.
High-temperature Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of ZrTiHfNbMox (x=0.5, 1.0, 1.5) Refractory High Entropy Alloys
Authors: Chen Y W , Li Y K , Cheng X W , Wu C , Cheng B
Published: May 2018

Refractory high entropy alloys (RHEAs), with excellent properties at high temperature, have several applications. In this work, the ZrTiHfNbMox (x=0.5, 1.0, 1.5) alloys were prepared by arc melting. All these alloys form body centered cubic (BCC) structure without other intermediate phases. The Mo element contributes to the strength of alloys at high temperature, but too much of Mo decreases the plasticity severely and enhances the strength. The ZrTiHfNbMo alloy, whose compressive stress is 1099 MPa at 800° C, is a promising material for high-temperature applications.