bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Touch DNA: impact of handling time on touch deposit and evaluation of different recovery techniques: An experimental study
Authors: Sessa Francesco , Salerno Monica , Bertozzi Giuseppe , Messina Giovanni , Ricci Pietrantonio , Ledda Caterina , Rapisarda Venerando , Cantatore Santina , Turillazzi Emanuela , Pomara Cristoforo
Published: July 2019

“Touch DNA” is DNA obtained from biological material transferred from a donor to an object or a person during physical contact. This particular kind of evidence could play an essential role in forensic laboratory work and is considered an important tool for investigators. Even though the principal aspects of “Touch DNA” have been extensively studied, to date, there are few reports in the research field of DNA retrieval from garments that have been worn. This study aimed to investigate the “handling time”, analyzing particularly the minimum contact time required to deposit a sufficient amount of DNA on a garment to produce an interpretable profile of the “handler”. Moreover, three different sampling techniques were compared (“dry swab”, “cutting out”, and “adhesive tape”) with the aim of defining the technique that guarantees the best recovery of the three methods tested. Analyzing the data of this experimental model, a “handling time” of two seconds is enough to release sufficient DNA on to a garment to obtain a complete profile. Moreover, this study demonstrated that when targeting for foreign DNA, the sample area should be narrowed down as much as possible to the smallest area possible to maximize target DNA recovery.
Lactate from astrocytes fuels learning-induced mRNA translation in excitatory and inhibitory neurons
Authors: Descalzi Giannina , Gao Virginia , Steinman Michael Q. , Suzuki Akinobu , Alberini Cristina M.
Published: July 2019

Glycogenolysis and lactate transport from astrocytes to neurons is required for long-term memory formation, but the role of this lactate is poorly understood. Here we show that the Krebs cycle substrates pyruvate and ketone body B3HB can functionally replace lactate in rescuing memory impairment caused by inhibition of glycogenolysis or expression knockdown of glia monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) 1 and 4 in the dorsal hippocampus of rats. In contrast, either metabolite is unable to rescue memory impairment produced by expression knockdown of MCT2, which is selectively expressed by neurons, indicating that a critical role of astrocytic lactate is to provide energy for neuronal responses required for long-term memory. These responses include learning-induced mRNA translation in both excitatory and inhibitory neurons, as well as expression of Arc/Arg3.1. Thus, astrocytic lactate acts as an energy substrate to fuel learning-induced de novo neuronal translation critical for long-term memory.
Classical analogy of a cat state using vortex light
Authors: Liu Shi-Long , Zhou Qiang , Liu Shi-Kai , Li Yan , Li Yin-Hai , Zhou Zhi-Yuan , Guo Guang-Can , Shi Bao-Sen
Published: July 2019

Cat states are systems in a superposition of macroscopically distinguishable states; this superposition can be of either classically or quantum distinct states, regardless of the number of particles or modes involved. Here, we constructed an experimental model that simulates an optical cat state by engineering the classical orbital angular momentum of light, referred to here as an analogous cat state (a-CS). In our scheme, the behaviors of the a-CS in position space show many similarities to the quantum version of the optical cat state in phase space, for example, movement, rotation, and interference. Experimentally, the a-CS, which has two spatially localized Gaussian intensity lobes, can be evolved from “kitten” to “cat” by engineering the acquired phase hologram. Additionally, we simulated the “decoherence” of the a-CS influenced by atmospheric turbulence. The a-CS provides a reliable tool for visualizing and studying the behaviors of quantum cat states in phase space.
A density-watershed algorithm (DWA) method for robust, accurate and automatic classification of dual-fluorescence and four-cluster droplet digital PCR data
Authors: Zhu Xiurui , Su Shisheng , Fu Mingzhu , Peng Zhiyong , Wang Dong , Rui Xiao , Wang Fang , Liu Xiaobin , Liu Baoxia , Zhu Lingxiang , Yang Wenjun , Gao Na , Huang Guoliang , Jing Gaoshan , Guo Yong
Published: July 2019

This paper reports a novel density-watershed algorithm (DWA) method for accurate, automatic and unsupervised classification of droplet digital PCR data, derived from both plasmids and clinical DNA samples.
Determination of selected amino acids in milk using dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and GC-MS
Authors: Quigley Andrew , Connolly Damian , Cummins Wayne
Published: July 2019

An ethyl chloroformate derivatisation followed by dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) method, combined with GC-MS was developed for the analysis of free amino acids in various milk products.
Magnetic graphene oxide decorated with chitosan and Au nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization and application for detection of trace rhodamine B
Authors: Xu Lili , Suo Hongbo , Wang Jianling , Cheng Feixiang , Liu Houmei , Qiu Hongdeng
Published: July 2019

A novel magnetic graphene oxide modified with Au nanoparticles (Fe3O4@CS/GO/Au) as an efficient adsorbent was prepared for the detection of rhodamine B (RB) coupled with fluorescence spectrophotometry.
Unravelling the role of amino acid sequence order in the assembly and function of the amyloid-β core
Authors: Bera Santu , Arad Elad , Schnaider Lee , Shaham-Niv Shira , Castelletto Valeria , Peretz Yossef , Zaguri Dor , Jelinek Raz , Gazit Ehud , Hamley Ian W.
Published: July 2019

Here we report the influence of amino acid sequence order on the self-assembly and biological functions of the core recognition motif of Amyloid β.
Target-induced photocurrent-polarity switching: a highly selective and sensitive photoelectrochemical sensing platform
Authors: Yang Ruiying , Zou Kang , Zhang Xiaohua , Du Cuicui , Chen Jinhua
Published: July 2019

Based on target-induced photocurrent-polarity switching, a highly selective and sensitive photoelectrochemical sensing platform was developed.
Novel acceptor–donor–acceptor structured small molecule-based nanoparticles for highly efficient photothermal therapy
Authors: Cai Yu , Wei Zheng , Song Chuanhui , Tang Chuanchao , Huang Xiaoyu , Hu Qingang , Dong Xiaochen , Han Wei
Published: July 2019

Acceptor–donor–acceptor structured ITIC small molecule based nanoparticles are explored for highly efficient photothermal therapy application.
Synthesis of an enantiopure scorpionate ligand by a nucleophilic addition to a ketenimine and a zinc initiator for the isoselective ROP of rac-lactide
Authors: Honrado Manuel , Sobrino Sonia , Fernández-Baeza Juan , Sánchez-Barba Luis F. , Garcés Andrés , Lara-Sánchez Agustín , Rodríguez Ana M.
Published: July 2019

The first example of nucleophilic addition of an organolithium to a ketenimine to prepare an enantiopure NNN-heteroscorpionate ligand is reported. Its utility to induce chirality is verified via preparation of two new zinc complexes, producing highly isotactic poly(lactide)s.
Effects of solvent molecules on hemi-bonded (CH3SH)2+: infrared absorption of [(CH3SH)2–X]+ with X = H2O, (CH3)2CO, or NH3 and (CH3SH)n+ (n = 3–6)
Authors: Xie Min , Tsai Huei-Ru , Fujii Asuka , Lee Yuan-Pern
Published: July 2019

The (3e-2c)-bonded (CH3SH)2+ structure is preserved when H2O, (CH3)2CO, or CH3SH binds, but becomes broken by NH3 because of proton transfer.
Gold with +4 oxidation state compounds: mass spectrometric and theoretical characterization of AuO2+
Authors: Dhaif Allah Al Harbi S. , Al Mogren M. Mogren , Elmarghany A. , Ben Abdallah D. , Mehnen B. , Linguerri R. , Hochlaf M.
Published: July 2019

Using an ab initio methodology and mass spectrometric study we identify AuO2+ as a metastable species in the gas phase.
Efficient synthesis of α-alkyl-β-amino amides by transaminase-mediated dynamic kinetic resolutions
Authors: Mourelle-Insua Ángela , Méndez-Sánchez Daniel , Galman James L. , Slabu Iustina , Turner Nicholas J. , Gotor-Fernández Vicente , Lavandera Iván
Published: July 2019

A transaminase-catalyzed dynamic kinetic resolution is described for the stereoselective synthesis of a series of α-alkyl-β-amino amides.
Antimony(i) → Pd(ii) complexes with the (μ-Sb)Pd2coordination framework
Authors: Kořenková Monika , Hejda Martin , Jirásko Robert , Block Theresa , Uhlík Filip , Jambor Roman , Růžička Aleš , Pöttgen Rainer , Dostál Libor
Published: July 2019

Unprecedented Sb(i) → Pd(ii) complexes, where the Sb atom serves as a 2e or 4e donor for Pd, are reported.
Self-crystallization of uniformly oriented zeolitic imidazolate framework films at air–water interfaces
Authors: Su Jingyi , Wu Wufeng , Li Zhanjun , Li Wanbin
Published: July 2019

ZIF-8 films with highly out-of-plane orientation and smooth–rough Janus crystalline facets are crystallized at air–water interfaces under mild conditions.
Iron oxide-based nanostructured ceramics with tailored magnetic and mechanical properties: development of mechanically robust, bulk superparamagnetic materials
Authors: Giuntini Diletta , Torresani Elisa , Chan Kyle T. , Blankenburg Malte , Saviot Lucien , Bor Büsra , Domènech Berta , Shachar Meir , Müller Martin , Olevsky Eugene A. , Garay Javier E. , Schneider Gerold A.
Published: July 2019

A novel routine is developed to produce nanostructured ceramic-based composites with enhanced mechanical properties and tailored magnetic behavior.
Pillar[5]arene-functionalized paper as a fluorescent sensor for cyanide ions in water
Authors: Hu Ganlin , Yang Chunxin , Liu Hui , Shen Jianming
Published: July 2019

In this work, we developed a strategy to prepare pillararene-functionalized paper, which absorbed 10-methyacridinium iodide as a fluorescent indicator for cyanide ions, allowing their naked-eye detection from 10−7 to 10−3 M.
Sulphur–sulphur, sulphur–selenium, selenium–selenium and selenium–carbon bond activation using Fe3(CO)12: an unexpected formation of an Fe2(CO)6complex containing a μ2,κ3-C,O,Se-ligand
Authors: Trautwein Ralf , Abul-Futouh Hassan , Görls Helmar , Imhof Wolfgang , Almazahreh Laith R. , Weigand Wolfgang
Published: July 2019

Four diiron hexacarbonyl-complexes containing dithiolato (5), diselenolato (6), selenolato-thiolato (7) and μ2,κ3-C,O,Se-ligands (8), respectively have been prepared as [FeFe]-hydrogenase mimics.
Chalcogenide vacancies drive the electrocatalytic performance of rhenium dichalcogenides
Authors: Luxa Jan , Marvan Petr , Lazar Petr , Sofer Zdeněk
Published: July 2019

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is one of the most promising ways to produce clean energy. The hydrogen evolution overpotential of rhenium chalcogenides can be significantly decreased by formation of chalcogenide vacancies.
A series of Mn(i) photo-activated carbon monoxide-releasing molecules with benzimidazole coligands: synthesis, structural characterization, CO releasing properties and biological activity evaluation
Authors: Hu Mixia , Yan YaLi , Zhu Baohua , Chang Fei , Yu Shiyong , Alatan Gaole
Published: July 2019

Five Mn(i) photo-activated carbon monoxide-releasing molecules were synthesized by reactions of MnBr(CO)5 with L1–L4, and characterized via single crystal X-ray diffraction, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR, UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy.
Sialyl LewisX mimic-decorated liposomes for anti-angiogenic everolimus delivery to E-selectin expressing endothelial cells
Authors: Chantarasrivong Chanikarn , Higuchi Yuriko , Tsuda Masahiro , Yamane Yuuki , Hashida Mitsuru , Konishi Miku , Komura Naoko , Ando Hiromune , Yamashita Fumiyoshi
Published: July 2019

Novel E-selectin-targeting liposomes deliver everolimus to E-selectin expressing endothelial cells and accelerate its anti-angiogenic effect.
Effects of the combined pollution of cadmium, lead and zinc on the phytoextraction efficiency of ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)
Authors: Zhang Jun , Yang Ningning , Geng Yani , Zhou Jinhong , Lei Ji
Published: July 2019

The effects of cadmium, lead and zinc combined pollution on the phytoextraction efficiency of ryegrass (Lolium Perenne L.) were investigated in this manuscript. Orthogonal experimental design was adopted in pot test.
Electrospinning of pyrazole-isothiazole derivatives: nanofibers from small molecules
Authors: Locarno Silvia , Eleta-Lopez Aitziber , Lupo Maria Giovanna , Gelmi Maria Luisa , Clerici Francesca , Bittner Alexander M.
Published: July 2019

Pyrazole-isothiazole monomers are electrospun from solution into solid, quasi-endless micro- and nanofibers.
Hyperbranched Co2P nanocrystals with 3D morphology for hydrogen generation in both alkaline and acidic media
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Tian Xiaomin , Duan Xiao , Wu Chun , Pei Wenli , Wang Kai , Yuan Shuang , Wang Qiang
Published: July 2019

Hyperbranched Co2P nanocrystals with 3D structure were successfully synthesized by a facile one-step wet-chemical method, which exhibit high catalytic activity and superior stability toward hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline media.
Solvent-dependent regio- and stereo-selective reactions of 3-formylchromones with 2-aminobenzothiazoles and transacetalization efficiency of the product 3-((benzo[d]thiazol-2-ylimino)butyl)-4H-chromen-4-one
Authors: Ahmed Owais , Cherkadu Vandana , Kalavagunta Praveen Kumar , Shang Jing
Published: July 2019

2-Propanol forms lmine (4), other alcohols forms enamine (3) which can undergo transacetalization and replacing 2 with amides forms acetals (5).
Synthesis and catalytic performance of a small crystal NaY zeolite with high SiO2/Al2O3 ratio
Authors: Mu Liang , Feng WeiWei , Zhang Haobin , Hu Xiubin , Cui Qingyan
Published: July 2019

A small crystal NaY zeolite with a high SiO2/Al2O3 ratio was successfully synthesized with seeding and without organic template, and the effects of the silicon source, aging time and Na2O seeding content on the crystal size of the NaY zeolite were investigated.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of an epidermal growth factor receptor-targeted peptide-conjugated phthalocyanine-based photosensitiser
Authors: Xue Evelyn Y. , Wong Roy C. H. , Wong Clarence T. T. , Fong Wing-Ping , Ng Dennis K. P.
Published: July 2019

A peptide-conjugated zinc(ii) phthalocyanine has been prepared which can selectively bind to the epidermal growth factor receptor of cancer cells and induce high cytotoxicity upon illumination.
pH/redox sensitive nanoparticles with platinum(iv) prodrugs and doxorubicin enhance chemotherapy in ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhang Guyu , Zhu Yimin , Wang Yushu , Wei Dengshuai , Wu Yixin , Zheng Liuchun , Bai Huimin , Xiao Haihua , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: July 2019

pH/redox sensitive, dual drug loaded nanoparticles were prepared from poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(l-lysine) (PEG-b-PLL) for improving cancer therapy.
Synthesis and electrochemical performance of NaV3O8 nanobelts for Li/Na-ion batteries and aqueous zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Hu Fang , Xie Di , Cui Fuhan , Zhang Dongxu , Song Guihong
Published: July 2019

Compared to the electrochemical performance for LIBs and NIBs, NaV3O8 nanobelts electrode for ZIBs shows excellent electrochemical performance, including high specific capacity of 421 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1, good rate performance and cycle performance.
Highly efficient electroconversion of carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons by cathodized copper–organic frameworks
Authors: Yang Fan , Chen Aling , Deng Pei Lin , Zhou Yinzheng , Shahid Zaman , Liu Hongfang , Xia Bao Yu
Published: July 2019

Cathodized Cu-MOFs (Cu–ade MOFs) exhibit structural evolution and contribute to efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction towards hydrocarbon generation.
Hybrid benzidinium lead iodide perovskites with a 1D structure as photoinduced electron transfer photocatalysts
Authors: Peng Yong , Albero Josep , Álvarez Eleuterio , García Hermenegildo
Published: July 2019

A hybrid benzidinium lead iodide perovskite (formula: PbI3benzidinium0.5) (3) with a 1D structure has been synthesized and characterized.
A high-performance, highly bendable quasi-solid-state zinc–organic battery enabled by intelligent proton-self-buffering copolymer cathodes
Authors: Li Ping , Fang Zhengsong , Zhang You , Mo Chunshao , Hu Xuanhe , Jian Junhua , Wang Shuangyin , Yu Dingshan
Published: July 2019

A specially designed poly(aniline-co-azure C) (PANAC) copolymer cathode harnesses intelligent proton-self-buffering capability and fast electron/ion transport in a highly bendable, quasi-solid-state Zn–PANAC battery.
Ambient electrocatalytic N2 reduction to NH3 by metal fluorides
Authors: Li Peipei , Liu Zaichun , Wu Tongwei , Zhang Ya , Wang Linyu , Wang Li , Ji Lei , Zhang Youyu , Luo Yonglan , Wang Ting , Liu Shanhu , Wu Yuping , Liu Meiling , Sun Xuping
Published: July 2019

LaF3 nanoplates are efficient for electrocatalytic N2 reduction in 0.5 M LiClO4 with a high faradaic efficiency of 16.0% and a large NH3 yield of 55.9 μg h−1 mgcat.−1.
Giant dielectric breakdown strength together with ultrahigh energy density in ferroelectric bulk ceramics via layer-by-layer engineering
Authors: Cai Ziming , Zhu Chaoqiong , Wang Hongxian , Zhao Peiyao , Yu Yan , Li Longtu , Wang Xiaohui
Published: July 2019

A record-high breakdown strength (790 kV cm−1) and high energy density (5.04 J cm−3) are obtained in BTAS/BTBZNT ceramics with a layer-by-layer structure.
A nontoxic reversible thermochromic binary system via π–π stacking of sulfonephthaleins
Authors: Liu Bingxin , Ranji-Burachaloo Hadi , Gurr Paul A. , Goudeli Eirini , Qiao Greg G.
Published: July 2019

The first example of a dye–solvent binary system that shows clear reversible thermochromism near room temperature.
Collagen-binding proteins: insights from the Collagen Toolkits
Authors: Farndale Richard W.
Published: July 2019

The Collagen Toolkits are libraries of 56 and 57 triple-helical synthetic peptides spanning the length of the collagen II and collagen III helices. These have been used in solid-phase binding assays to locate sites where collagen receptors and extracellular matrix components bind to collagens. Truncation and substitution allowed exact binding sites to be identified, and corresponding minimal peptides to be synthesised for use in structural and functional studies. 170 sites where over 30 proteins bind to collagen II have been mapped, providing firm conclusions about the amino acid distribution within such binding sites. Protein binding to collagen II is not random, but displays a periodicity of approximately 28 nm, with several prominent nodes where multiple proteins bind. Notably, the vicinity of the collagenase-cleavage site in Toolkit peptide II-44 is highly promiscuous, binding over 20 different proteins. This may reflect either the diverse chemistry of that locus or its diverse function, together with the interplay between regulatory binding partners. Peptides derived from Toolkit studies have been used to determine atomic level resolution of interactions between collagen and several of its binding partners and are finding practical application in tissue engineering.
Improved modulation method with reduced switching frequency for OW‐PMSM system with common DC bus
Authors: Nian Heng , Ruan Chenhui , Hu Wei , Sun Dan
Published: July 2019

To reduce the switching frequency of open‐winding permanent magnet synchronous motor (OW‐PMSM) system with a common DC bus, this Letter proposes a novel modulation method. In this method, the independent modulation is implemented in each phase to generate the reference voltages in the abc reference frame, where only one bridge arm has switching actions. Compared with the existing modulation methods for OW‐PMSM system, the total switching actions within one PWM period can be remarkably reduced to 6 with the control target of the zero‐sequence current suppression achieved, and the modulation range can be kept unchanged. The experimental results validate the availability of the proposed modulation method for OW‐PMSM system.
Fade slope analysis for Ku‐band earth‐space communication links in Malaysia
Authors: Jong Siat Ling , Riva Carlo , Din Jafri , D'Amico Michele , Lam Hong Yin
Published: July 2019

Heavy precipitation severely degrades the performance of satellite communication systems operating at frequencies higher than 10 GHz. For the implementation of effective countermeasures, rain attenuation statistics are needed, second order statistics in particular. Here, the characteristics of rain fade slope are extensively investigated, exploiting one year of Ku‐band attenuation measurements collected in Malaysia.
Reconfigurable frequency selective surface with tunable characteristics depending on intensity of atmospheric light
Authors: Saha Snehasish , Begam Nurnihar , Chatterjee Ayan , Biswas Sushanta , Sarkar Partha Pratim
Published: July 2019

The authors presented a reconfigurable frequency selective surface (FSS), loaded with light‐dependent resistors (LDRs). In this proposed FSS, no biasing circuit is used to control the transmission characteristics. Variation in intensities of the light that falls upon is used as the control parameter for variation of resistance values of LDRs. Thus tunable transmission characteristics of the FSS are achieved. The simulated results show that in the absence of atmospheric light, the FSS has band stop properties at the frequency range of lower S‐band (2–3 GHz) and band pass properties at the frequency range of C‐band (4–8 GHz). On the other hand, in the presence of full bright light, it has stop band properties at the frequency range of C‐band (4–8 GHz). Experimental results are in good agreement with the simulated results. Another novelty about the proposed FSS is the polarisation‐independent (TE and TM polarisation) transmission behaviour. The proposed FSS also has a stable transmission behaviour for variation in the incidence angle up to 30°.
SVD filtering and TLS‐ESPRIT algorithm based on stator fault characteristic detection of doubly‐fed induction generator
Authors: Xu Boqiang , Zheng Zehui
Published: July 2019

This study proposes a novel method for detecting faults in the stator of the doubly‐fed wind turbines based on the combination of singular value decomposition (SVD) filtering and least‐squares parameter invariant signal technique (TLS‐ESPRIT). The stator current signal and rotor current signal are simulated in the form of stator inter‐turn short‐circuit fault, and TLS‐ESPRIT performance test is carried out. The results show that TLS‐ESPRIT still has a high‐frequency resolution for a short‐time signal with high‐frequency resolution and can accurately estimate the frequency of each part of stator current. This method can effectively shorten the sampling signal's tempo, the performance of its parameter estimation is also superior.a
A new weak-field magnetic DA white dwarf in the local 20 pc volume
Authors: Landstreet J. D. , Bagnulo S.
Published: July 2019

We report the discovery of a new magnetic DA white dwarf (WD), WD 0011 − 721, which is located within the very important 20 pc volume-limited sample of the closest WDs to the Sun. This star has a mean field modulus ⟨|B|⟩ of 343 kG, and from the polarisation signal we deduce a line-of-sight field component of 75 kG. The magnetic field is sufficiently weak to have escaped detection in classification spectra. We then present a preliminary exploration of the data concerning the frequency of such fields among WDs with hydrogen-rich atmospheres (DA stars). We find that 20 ± 5% of the DA WDs in this volume have magnetic fields, mostly weaker than 1 MG. Unlike the slow field decay found among the magnetic Bp stars of the upper main sequence, the WDs in this sample show no evidence of magnetic field or flux changes over several Gyr.
NGC 6388 reloaded: some like it hot, but not too much. New constraints on the first-generation polluters
Authors: Carretta Eugenio , Bragaglia Angela
Published: July 2019

Multiple stellar populations in globular clusters (GCs) are defined and recognized by their chemical signature. Second-generation stars show the effects of nucleosynthesis in the more massive stars of the earliest component that formed in the first star formation burst. High-temperature H-burning produces the whole pattern of (anti-) correlations in proton-capture elements that are widely found in GCs. However, it is still debated where this burning occurred. Here we introduce new powerful diagnostic plots to detect evidence (if any) of products from proton-capture reactions that occur at very high temperatures. To test these detectors of high-temperature H-burning plots, we show that stringent constraints can be placed on the temperature range of the first-generation polluters that contributed to shaping the chemistry of multiple stellar population in the massive bulge GC NGC 6388. Using the largest sample to date (185 stars) of giants with detailed abundance ratios in a single GC (except ω Cen), we may infer that the central temperature of part of the polluters must have been comprised between ∼100 and ∼150 MK if we consider hydrostatic H-burning in the core of massive stars. A much more narrow range (110−120 MK) is inferred if the polluters can be identified in massive asymptotic giant branch stars.
Patientenzufriedenheit nach Implantation von Multifokallinsen verschiedener Generationen – ein 10-Jahres-Follow-up
Authors: Petzold Alexander , Wilke Claudia , Renner Katja , Kunert Kathleen
Published: July 2019

Hintergrund Im Rahmen einer retrospektiven Studie wurde die postoperative Patientenzufriedenheit nach bilateraler Implantation von nicht torischen Multifokallinsen verschiedener Generationen über einen OP-Zeitraum von 2006 bis 2017 ausgewertet.

Patienten/Methoden 245 Patienten im Alter von 45 bis 95 Jahren wurden in diese Studie eingeschlossen. Mithilfe des Heidelberger DATE-Fragebogens (DATE: Daily Tasks Evaluation) wurde die Patientenzufriedenheit, insbesondere die Fragestellung zur Ausübung alltäglicher Arbeiten und der Wahrnehmung optischer Phänomene, erhoben. Alle Kriterien des Fragebogens wurden in Hinblick auf den OP-Zeitpunkt, Patientenalter, Geschlecht sowie das Modell der implantierten Intraokularlinse auf nachweisbare Unterschiede überprüft. Für die statistische Auswertung wurde SPSS 23.0 verwendet.

Ergebnisse Zum Zeitpunkt der Befragung waren 97,1% der Patienten ganz oder teilweise zufrieden mit dem Ergebnis der Operation. 95,9% der Patienten konnten ihren alltäglichen Tätigkeiten problemlos nachgehen. 34,6% gaben an, bei sehr hohen Sehanforderungen eine Brille zu tragen. Die statistische Auswertung ergab, dass die Patienten mit zunehmendem Alter häufiger eine Nah- oder Fernbrille verwendeten (p < 0,01). Frauen nutzten beim nächtlichen Autofahren öfter eine Brille als Männer und fühlten sich zudem von Blendungserscheinungen deutlicher gestört (p < 0,03). Ebenso nahmen jüngere Patienten Halos drastischer wahr als ältere (p < 0,01). Patienten mit bifokalen Intraokularlinsen verwendeten deutlich häufiger eine Brille im Intermediärbereich als Patienten mit Trifokallinsen (p < 0,01).

Schlussfolgerung Die Langzeitbeobachtung hat ergeben, dass die Mehrheit der Patienten zum Zeitpunkt der Befragung unabhängig von der Nutzung einer Brille oder von Kontaktlinsen war. Optisch bedingte Halos und Blendungserscheinungen werden häufig beschrieben und machen eine umfassende präoperative Aufklärung erforderlich. Hier scheint der Aufklärungsbedarf bei jüngeren, weiblichen Patienten besonders hoch zu sein. Der Heidelberger DATE-Fragebogen ist zur Erhebung der postoperativen Zufriedenheit nach Implantation von multifokalen Intraokularlinsen geeignet.
Das ärztliche Prognosegespräch
Authors: Starrost Klaus
Published: July 2019

Patienten mit neurologischen Erkrankungen müssen häufig mit bleibenden
Behinderungen zurechtkommen. Dies abzuschätzen und mit dem Patienten zu
besprechen, ist eine Kernaufgabe der ärztlichen Tätigkeit. Neben den
medizinischen Fakten muss die gesamte Lebenssituation des Patienten einbezogen
werden: Dies beinhaltet auch die Beziehung zu seinen Angehörigen und den Wunsch
des Patienten, wie mit ihm im Falle einer Behinderung umgegangen werden
soll.
Prognose und prognosegestützte Therapie bei chronisch
kritisch Kranken
Authors: Mehrholz Jan , Thomas Simone , Elsner Bernhard
Published: July 2019

Auf der Intensivstation behandelte Patienten können unter bestimmten
Voraussetzungen ein erworbenes Schwächesyndrom entwickeln. Es resultiert aus
mindestens drei Funktionsstörungen, die isoliert oder gemeinsam auftreten
können. Weitere Risikofaktoren erhöhen die Wahrscheinlichkeit einer Erkrankung.
Wie sieht die Prognose aus, ist die Frage, der sich dieser Artikel widmet.
Reflexstudien – Hirnstammreflexe
Authors: Dohrn Maike F. , Urban Peter P. , Dafotakis Manuel
Published: July 2019

Die elektrophysiologische Untersuchung von Hirnstammreflexen ist eine funktionelle Methode, die Rückschlüsse auf Läsionen in unterschiedlichen Bereichen des Hirnstamms und beteiligter Hirnnerven ermöglicht. Wie relevant ist diese Diagnostik im Zeitalter der MR-Bildgebung noch im klinischen Alltag? Der Artikel befasst sich mit der Durchführung, den anatomischen Hintergründen und den daraus entstehenden Rückschlussmöglichkeiten verschiedener Läsionslokalisationen für den Blinkreflex, Masseterreflex und Kieferöffnungsreflex. Zudem wird der heutige Stellenwert sowie die diagnostische Bedeutung diskutiert.
Adherence, Attitudes and Beliefs of Growth Hormone Deficient Patients – A Questionnaire-based Cohort Study
Authors: Amereller Felix , Schilbach Katharina , Schopohl Jochen , Störmann Sylvère
Published: July 2019

Introduction GHD is a chronic and systemic disease requiring daily replacement of growth hormone (GHRT). Adherence and attitudes of adult GHD patients are not well known. We sought to assess patients’ knowledge of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in association with treatment adherence and attitudes regarding available and upcoming treatment options.

Methods We performed a cross-sectional survey with a custom-made questionnaire at a single centre assessing data on demographics, knowledge of GHD, adherence and attitudes towards GHRT.

Results Of 106 eligible patients actively followed for GHD 70 returned the completed survey (return-rate 66%, 34 m/36 f; age 56±14 years). 46 patients were actively treated, but almost one third (n=24) refused GHRT. 12 patients had participated in clinical trials with LAGH (long-acting growth hormone). Overall, patients with GHRT showed good adherence. Patients refusing GHRT mostly feared side effects and/or had a lack of information/perceived effect. Disease knowledge and level of education were higher in treated than untreated patients (p=0.023/0.017). Only 36% of respondents would initiate treatment with LAGH. Patients with prior LAGH experience and patients with childhood-onset GHD were more likely to adopt LAGH (p=0.048/0.031).

Discussion Most often, misinformation causes patients to refuse GHRT. Possibly the understanding of their condition and consequences of non-treatment is limited. To improve adherence more focused educational and behavioural strategies may be needed. Willingness to begin a therapy with LAGH was lower than expected (36%). The reasons for reluctance against LAGH need to be elucidated.
Reoperative Surgery in Complex Crohn's Disease
Authors: Leinicke Jennifer A. , Dietz David W.
Published: July 2019

This article provides a structured approach to the technical aspects of reoperative surgery for Crohn's disease. Specific indications for surgery including repeat ileocolic resection, Crohn's complications of ileal pouch anal anastomosis and continent ileostomy, completion proctectomy, and the role of small bowel transplant will be discussed.
miR-34b-3p May Promote Antiplatelet Efficiency of Aspirin by Inhibiting Thromboxane Synthase Expression
Authors: Liu Wen Wen , Wang Hao , Chen Xia Huan , Fu Sidney W. , Liu Mei Lin
Published: July 2019

Aspirin has been widely used for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, but its antiplatelet efficiency varies between individuals. The present study aimed to evaluate response to aspirin based on gene profiles as well as potential regulating pathways using human blood samples and cell lines. Platelet function in patients 50 years or older with coronary artery disease on 100 mg/day aspirin was measured by light transmission aggregometry (LTA) of arachidonic acid (AA)-induced platelet aggregation. The expression of eight candidate genes—PTGS1/COX1, PLA2G4A, PLA2G6, PLA2G7, TBXAS1, TBXA2R, PTGIR, and ITGA2B—and the ingredients involved in AA metabolism were analyzed. Our data showed that the expressions of thromboxane A synthase 1 (TBXAS1), thromboxane synthase (TXS), and thromboxane B2 (TXB2) were increased in the upper quartile of platelet aggregation (LTA-AA_Q4) group compared with the lower quartile of platelet aggregation (LTA-AA_Q1) group. Our bioinformatics analysis suggested that TBXAS1 was targeted by miR-34b-3p via binding to its 3′-UTR, which was subsequently verified experimentally. Although overexpression of miR-34b-3p exhibited no apparent effect on cell proliferation, inhibition of miR-34b-3p promoted megakaryocyte viability. Our data demonstrated that the expression of TBXAS1 was higher in the aspirin hyporesponsiveness group than that in the hyperresponsiveness group, suggesting that high expression of TBXAS1 may be associated with aspirin hyporesponsiveness. miR-34b-3p may regulate the platelet and aspirin response by suppressing TBXAS1 expression and megakaryocyte proliferation.
Glycans and Glycan-Binding Proteins in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Eckardt Veit , Weber Christian , von Hundelshausen Philipp
Published: July 2019

Complex glycans are readily accessible on the endothelium and on cell and plasma components. They interact with glycan-binding proteins which translate their structure into function. Advanced analytical tools are available to investigate their structure and functional interactions. Modifications to glycan structures which alter their capacity to bind proteins are particularly relevant in atherosclerosis. We summarize the regulatory role of glycans and their binding partners in the development of the disease. Given their complexity, accessibility, and important functional role, glycans and glycan-binding proteins represent promising diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets.
Optical polarization technique—for enhancement of image quality—in speckle contrast-based perfusion imaging: A characterization study
Authors: Singh Mayanglambam Suheshkumar
Published: July 2019

Study of an optical polarization technique for enhancement of achievable image quality (contrast and imaging depth), in speckle contrast-based perfusion imaging modality, is reported. A linearly polarized optical beam is employed to interrogate tissue sample of interest. Light, which is diffusively reflected from tissue sub-surfaces, is selectively acquired while rejecting the specularly reflected light from tissue superficial surface. This selective detection of light is achieved by adoption of optical filtering technique where a linear optical polarizer is kept in front of optical detector (CCD-camera, in our case) at a particular configuration. Experiments were conducted in various samples including tissue-mimicking Agar-phantom and tissue sample (volunteer). Characterization studies of enhancement were carried out in various cases: (i) with variation in orientation of axis, covering entire range (0° to 90°), of polarizer (in the detection arm) with respect to polarization axis of incident (polarized) light and (ii) with blood vessel-mimicking targets being kept at various depths (0-4mm). Experimental results demonstrate that enhancement in image quality is characterized by orientation of axis of optical polarizer (with the best performance observed at 90°) relative to axis of polarization of incident light.
Detecting undetectables: Can conductances of action potential models be changed without appreciable change in the transmembrane potential?
Authors: Jæger Karoline Horgmo , Wall Samuel , Tveito Aslak
Published: July 2019

Mathematical models describing the dynamics of the cardiac action potential are of great value for understanding how changes to the system can disrupt the normal electrical activity of cells and tissue in the heart. However, to represent specific data, these models must be parameterized, and adjustment of the maximum conductances of the individual contributing ionic currents is a commonly used method. Here, we present a method for investigating the uniqueness of such resulting parameterizations. Our key question is: Can the maximum conductances of a model be changed without giving any appreciable changes in the action potential? If so, the model parameters are not unique and this poses a major problem in using the models to identify changes in parameters from data, for instance, to evaluate potential drug effects. We propose a method for evaluating this uniqueness, founded on the singular value decomposition of a matrix consisting of the individual ionic currents. Small singular values of this matrix signify lack of parameter uniqueness and we show that the conclusion from linear analysis of the matrix carries over to provide insight into the uniqueness of the parameters in the nonlinear case. Using numerical experiments, we quantify the identifiability of the maximum conductances of well-known models of the cardiac action potential. Furthermore, we show how the identifiability depends on the time step used in the observation of the currents, how the application of drugs may change identifiability, and, finally, how the stimulation protocol can be used to improve the identifiability of a model.
High-performance monolayer MoS2 field-effect transistor with large-scale nitrogen-doped graphene electrodes for Ohmic contact
Authors: Seo Dongjea , Lee Dong Yun , Kwon Junyoung , Lee Jea Jung , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Lee Gwan-Hyoung , Kim Keun Soo , Hone James , Kim Young Duck , Choi Heon-Jin
Published: July 2019

A finite Schottky barrier and large contact resistance between monolayer MoS2 and electrodes are the major bottlenecks in developing high-performance field-effect transistors (FETs) that hinder the study of intrinsic quantum behaviors such as valley-spin transport at low temperature. A gate-tunable graphene electrode platform has been developed to improve the performance of MoS2 FETs. However, intrinsic misalignment between the work function of pristine graphene and the conduction band of MoS2 results in a large threshold voltage for the FETs, because of which Ohmic contact behaviors are observed only at very high gate voltages and carrier concentrations (∼1013 cm−2). Here, we present high-performance monolayer MoS2 FETs with Ohmic contact at a modest gate voltage by using a chemical-vapor-deposited (CVD) nitrogen-doped graphene with a high intrinsic electron carrier density. The CVD nitrogen-doped graphene and monolayer MoS2 hybrid FETs platform exhibited a large negative shifted threshold voltage of −54.2 V and barrier-free Ohmic contact under zero gate voltage. Transparent contact by nitrogen-doped graphene led to a 214% enhancement in the on-current and a fourfold improvement in the field-effect carrier mobility of monolayer MoS2 FETs compared with those of a pristine graphene electrode platform. The transport measurements, as well as Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses before and after thermal annealing, reveal that the atomic C-N bonding in the CVD nitrogen-doped graphene is responsible for the dominant effects of electron doping. Large-scale nitrogen-doped graphene electrodes provide a promising device platform for the development of high-performance devices and the study of unique quantum behaviors.
A novel thermal acoustic device based on vertical graphene film
Authors: Tu Tao , Ju Zhen-Yi , Li Yu-Tao , Gou Guang-Yang , Tian Ye , Wu Fan , Yan Zhao-Yi , Liu Hou-Fang , Yang Tian-Zhong , Yang Yi , Tian He , Ren Tian-Ling
Published: July 2019

Graphene is an excellent thermoacoustic material due to its small heat capacity per unit area. However, there is obvious thermal leakage from the substrate which lower the sound emission efficiency. Here, in order to improve the efficiency, vertical graphene has been used as thermoacoustic device. In this paper, the high-quality vertical graphene was prepared by the MPCVD method, and the height of the vertical graphene was about 3.4 μm. Then a thermoacoustic device was fabricated based on vertical graphene. Compared to graphene, the unique structure of vertical graphene makes the device less area to substrate with less thermal leakage and can produce a higher sound pressure level (SPL) per unit area under the same height, the SPL value can reach as high as 60 dB at a measure distance of 0.3 cm with input power of 1.2W. This sound device based on vertical graphene is potential to be used in a wide range of applications.
A microchannel flow application of a linearized kinetic Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook-type model for inert gas mixtures with general intermolecular forces
Authors: Lorenzani Silvia
Published: July 2019

The flow of binary gaseous mixtures in microchannels, driven by a gradient of pressure, is investigated using the linearized Boltzmann equation based on a Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook-type model, able to describe general collision kernels, and diffuse reflection boundary conditions. Semi-analytical solutions have been obtained through a transformation in integral equations and the results compared with those derived by the McCormack model, which have revealed a good consistency with the experimental data.
Crystal orientation effects of sapphire substrate on graphene direct growth by metal catalyst-free low-pressure CVD
Authors: Ueda Yuki , Yamada Jumpei , Ono Taishi , Maruyama Takahiro , Naritsuka Shigeya
Published: July 2019

Graphene was directly grown on r-plane (1-102), c-plane (0001), and a-plane (11-20) sapphires by low pressure chemical vapor deposition without the use of a metal catalyst. The growth temperature was systematically changed between 1090 and 1210 °C to investigate the effects of the crystal orientation of sapphire on the graphene growth. It was found that the growth rate of graphene on r-plane sapphire was very fast compared to that of the samples grown on other orientations. The surface catalytic effect of r-plane sapphire promotes the smooth and flat growth of single-layer graphene. The surface of the r-plane sapphire was kept smooth even at a high temperature of 1210 °C because a quick coverage of graphene protects the surface of the sapphire from thermal decomposition and roughening.
Force-displacement relations at compression of dsDNA macromolecules
Authors: Bleha Tomáš , Cifra Peter
Published: July 2019

The elasticity of dsDNA molecules is investigated by Monte Carlo simulations based on a coarse-grained model of DNA. The force-displacement (f-r) curves are computed under the constraints of the constant force (Gibbs) or the constant length (Helmholtz) ensemble. Particular attention was paid to the compressional (negative) and weak tensile forces. It was confirmed that simulations using the vector Gibbs ensemble fail to represent the compression behavior of polymers. Simulations using the scalar Gibbs protocol resulted in a qualitatively correct compressional response of DNA provided that the quadratic averages of displacements were employed. Furthermore, a well-known shortcoming of the popular Marko-Siggia relation for DNA elasticity at weak tensile forces is elucidated. Conversely, the function f-r from the simulation at the constant length constraint, as well as the new closed-form expressions, provides a realistic depiction of the DNA elasticity over the wide range of negative and positive forces. Merely a qualitative resemblance of the compression functions f-r predicted by the employed approaches supports the notion that the elastic response of DNA molecules may be greatly affected by the specifics of the experimental setups and the kind of averaging of the measured variable.
Temperature and laser energy dependence of the electron g-factor in intrinsic InGaAs/InAlAs multiple quantum wells
Authors: Morita K. , Okumura A. , Takaiwa H. , Takazawa I. , Oda T. , Kitada T. , Kohda M. , Ishitani Y.
Published: July 2019

Temperature and laser energy dependencies of electron g-factors are investigated for the conduction band of In0.53Ga0.47As/In0.52Al0.48As quantum wells using the time-resolved Faraday rotation (TRFR) technique. We found that in- and out-plane g-factors are ∼−3.20 and ∼−3.50 at a temperature of 5 K for the 12-nm wide quantum wells in a tilted sample configuration of the TRFR measurement. A comparison between the experiment and the eight-band Kane model calculation shows that the thermal distribution and dilatational change of the energy gap play an important role in explaining the temperature dependence of optically measured g-factors. We also found that the measured g-factor is influenced by the laser wavelength, which clearly shows that detection energy is the one of the significant factors for determining the optically measured g-factor.
On the decay of the pair correlation function and the line of vanishing excess isothermal compressibility in simple fluids
Authors: Stopper Daniel , Hansen-Goos Hendrik , Roth Roland , Evans Robert
Published: July 2019

We revisit the competition between attractive and repulsive interparticle forces in simple fluids and how this governs and connects the macroscopic phase behavior and structural properties, as manifested in pair correlation functions. We focus on the asymptotic decay of the total correlation function h(r) which is, in turn, controlled by the form of the pair direct correlation function c(r). The decay of rh(r) to zero can be exponential (monotonic) if attraction dominates repulsion and exponentially damped oscillatory otherwise. The Fisher-Widom (FW) line separates the phase diagram into two regions characterized by the two different types of asymptotic decays. We show that there is a new and physically intuitive thermodynamic criterion which approximates well the actual FW line. This new criterion defines a line where the isothermal compressibility takes its ideal gas value χT=χTid. We test our hypothesis by considering four commonly used models for simple fluids. In all cases, the new criterion yields a line in the phase diagram that is close to the actual FW line for the thermodynamic state points that are most relevant. We also investigate (Widom) lines of maximal correlation length, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between the true and Ornstein-Zernike correlation lengths.
Nonlinear transport coefficients from large deviation functions
Authors: Gao Chloe Ya , Limmer David T.
Published: July 2019

Nonlinear response occurs naturally when a strong perturbation takes a system far from equilibrium. Despite its omnipresence in nanoscale systems, it is difficult to predict in a general and efficient way. Here, we introduce a way to compute arbitrarily high order transport coefficients of stochastic systems, using the framework of large deviation theory. Leveraging time reversibility in the microscopic dynamics, we relate nonlinear response to equilibrium multitime correlation functions among both time reversal symmetric and asymmetric observables, which can be evaluated from derivatives of large deviation functions. This connection establishes a thermodynamiclike relation for nonequilibrium response and provides a practical route to its evaluation, as large deviation functions are amenable to importance sampling. We demonstrate the generality and efficiency of this method in predicting transport coefficients in single particle systems and an interacting system exhibiting thermal rectification.
New approach to plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy reduces damage to indium nitride films
Authors: Liebendorfer Adam
Published: July 2019

Optimizing nitrogen flow and applied plasma power allows the formation of robust indium nitride films with potential applications for optoelectronics.