bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of antibiotics on transitory resistome during gut colonization with CTX-M-15 and OXA-162 producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST15
Authors: Stercz Balázs , Farkas Ferenc B. , Tóth Ákos , Gajdács Márió , Domokos Judit , Horváth Viola , Ostorházi Eszter , Makra Nóra , Kocsis Béla , Juhász János , Ligeti Balázs , Pongor Sándor , Szabó Dóra
Published: March 2021

Great efforts have been made to limit the transmission of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), however, the intestinal reservoir of these strains and its modulation by various antibiotics remain largely unexplored. Our aim was to assess the effects of antibiotic administration (ampicillin, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin) on the establishment and elimination of intestinal colonization with a CTX-M-15 ESBL and OXA-162 carbapenemase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST15 (KP5825) in a murine (C57BL/6 male mice) model. Whole genome sequencing of KP5825 strain was performed on an Illumina MiSeq platform. Conjugation assays were carried out by broth mating method. In colonization experiments, 5 × 106 CFU of KP5825 was administered to the animals by orogastric gavage, and antibiotics were administered in their drinking water for two weeks and were changed every day. The gut colonization rates with KP5825 were assessed by cultivation and qPCR. In each of the stool samples, the gene copy number of blaOXA-162 and blaCTX-M-15 were determined by qPCR. Antibiotic concentrations in the stool were determined by high pressure liquid chromatography and a bioanalytical method. The KP5825 contained four different plasmid replicon types, namely IncFII(K), IncL, IncFIB and ColpVC. IncL (containing the blaOXA-162 resistance gene within a Tn1991.2 genetic element) and IncFII(K) (containing the blaCTX-M-15 resistance gene) plasmids were successfully conjugated. During ampicillin and ceftazidime treatments, colonization rate of KP5825 increased, while, ciprofloxacin treatments in both concentrations (0.1 g/L and 0.5 g/L) led to significantly decreased colonization rates. The gene copy number blaOXA-162 correlated with K. pneumoniae in vivo, while a major elevation was observed in the copy number of blaCTX-M-15 from the first day to the fifteenth day in the 0.5 g/L dose ceftazidime treatment group. Our results demonstrate that commonly used antibiotics may have diverse impacts on the colonization rates of intestinally-carried CPE, in addition to affecting the gene copy number of their resistance genes, thus facilitating their stable persistance and dissemination.
Lack of association of baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels with disease severity and mortality in Indian patients hospitalized for COVID-19
Authors: Jevalikar Ganesh , Mithal Ambrish , Singh Anshu , Sharma Rutuja , Farooqui Khalid J. , Mahendru Shama , Dewan Arun , Budhiraja Sandeep
Published: March 2021

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) owing to its immunomodulatory effects is believed to influence outcomes in COVID-19. We conducted a prospective, observational study of patients, hospitalized with COVID-19. Serum 25-OHD level < 20 ng/mL was considered VDD. Patients were classified as having mild and severe disease on basis of the WHO ordinal scale for clinical improvement (OSCI). Of the 410 patients recruited, patients with VDD (197,48.2%) were significantly younger and had lesser comorbidities. The levels of PTH were significantly higher in the VDD group (63.5 ± 54.4 vs. 47.5 ± 42.9 pg/mL). The proportion of severe cases (13.2% vs.14.6%), mortality (2% vs. 5.2%), oxygen requirement (34.5% vs.43.4%), ICU admission (14.7% vs.19.8%) was not significantly different between patients with or without VDD. There was no significant correlation between serum 25-OHD levels and inflammatory markers studied. Serum parathormone levels correlated with D-dimer (r 0.117, p- 0.019), ferritin (r 0.132, p-0.010), and LDH (r 0.124, p-0.018). Amongst VDD patients, 128(64.9%) were treated with oral cholecalciferol (median dose of 60,000 IU). The proportion of severe cases, oxygen, or ICU admission was not significantly different in the treated vs. untreated group. In conclusion, serum 25-OHD levels at admission did not correlate with inflammatory markers, clinical outcomes, or mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Treatment of VDD with cholecalciferol did not make any difference to the outcomes.
Potential zoonotic pathogens hosted by endangered bonobos
Authors: Medkour Hacène , Castaneda Sergei , Amona Inestin , Fenollar Florence , André Claudine , Belais Raphaël , Mungongo Paulin , Muyembé-Tamfum Jean-Jacques , Levasseur Anthony , Raoult Didier , Davoust Bernard , Mediannikov Oleg
Published: March 2021

Few publications, often limited to one specific pathogen, have studied bonobos (Pan paniscus), our closest living relatives, as possible reservoirs of certain human infectious agents. Here, 91 stool samples from semicaptive bonobos and bonobos reintroduced in the wild, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, were screened for different infectious agents: viruses, bacteria and parasites. We showed the presence of potentially zoonotic viral, bacterial or parasitic agents in stool samples, sometimes coinfecting the same individuals. A high prevalence of Human mastadenoviruses (HAdV-C, HAdV-B, HAdV-E) was observed. Encephalomyocarditis viruses were identified in semicaptive bonobos, although identified genotypes were different from those identified in the previous fatal myocarditis epidemic at the same site in 2009. Non-pallidum Treponema spp. including symbiotic T. succinifaciens, T. berlinense and several potential new species with unknown pathogenicity were identified. We detected DNA of non-tuberculosis Mycobacterium spp., Acinetobacter spp., Salmonella spp. as well as pathogenic Leptospira interrogans. Zoonotic parasites such as Taenia solium and Strongyloides stercoralis were predominantly present in wild bonobos, while Giardia lamblia was found only in bonobos in contact with humans, suggesting a possible exchange. One third of bonobos carried Oesophagostomum spp., particularly zoonotic O. stephanostomum and O. bifurcum-like species, as well as other uncharacterized Nematoda. Trypanosoma theileri has been identified in semicaptive bonobos. Pathogens typically known to be transmitted sexually were not identified. We present here the results of a reasonably-sized screening study detecting DNA/RNA sequence evidence of potentially pathogenic viruses and microorganisms in bonobo based on a noninvasive sampling method (feces) and focused PCR diagnostics.
Abnormal body mass index may be related to poor social function of female children by a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Yang You , Jin Zhijuan , Liu Shijian , Jin Xingming , Huang Hong , Tong Shilu
Published: March 2021

This study sought to estimate the association of children’s body mass index (BMI) with their social function in Shanghai China. A large population-based cross-sectional study based on a propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was conducted. BMI was compared according to social communication questionnaire (SCQ) classification, and then SCQ score was compared in terms of BMI grouping before and after PSM. A positive SCQ was considered to indicate poor social communication and a negative SCQ was then supposed to be normal. After 1:3 matching, a total of 7563 children aged 3–12 years were included in analysis. There were statistically significant positive correlation of BMI with SCQ scores for obese females of school age (R2 = 0.043, p < 0.001) and negative correlation of these two variables for school-aged females with malnutrition (R2 = 0.047, p = 0.027). In conclusion, BMI may be characterized as one of predictive factor for poor social function of these children.
The therapeutic effects of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells on obesity and its associated diseases in diet-induced obese mice
Authors: jaber Hala , Issa Khodr , Eid Ali , Saleh Fatima A.
Published: March 2021

Obesity is a global public health concern associated with increased risk of several comorbidities. Due to the limited effectiveness of current therapies, new treatment strategies are needed. Our aim was to examine the effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) on obesity and its associated diseases in a diet-induced obese (DIO) animal model. C57BL6 mice were fed with either high fat diet (HFD) or CHOW diet for 15 weeks. Obese and lean mice were then subjected to two doses of AD-MSCs intraperitoneally. Mice body weight and composition; food intake; blood glucose levels; glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) were measured. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6, were also determined. AD-MSCs treatment reduced blood glucose levels, HbA1c and AIP as well as improved glucose tolerance in DIO mice. In addition, MSCs caused significant attenuation in the levels of inflammatory mediators in HFD-fed mice. Taken together, AD-MSCs were effective in treating obesity-associated diabetes in an animal model as well as protective against cardiovascular diseases as shown by AIP, which might be partly due to the attenuation of inflammatory mediators. Thus, AD-MSCs may offer a promising therapeutic potential in counteracting obesity-related diseases in patients.
A modified cardiac triage strategy reduces door to ECG time in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Su Hung-Yuan , Tsai Jen-Long , Hsu Yin-Chou , Lee Kuo-Hsin , Chang Chao-Sheng , Sun Cheuk-Kwan , Wang Yu-Han , Chi Shu-Ching , Hsu Chih-Wei
Published: March 2021

Timely performing electrocardiography (ECG) is crucial for early detection of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). For shortening door-to-ECG time, a chief complaint-based “cardiac triage” protocol comprising (1) raising alert among medical staff with bedside triage tags, and (2) immediate bedside ECG after focused history-taking was implemented at the emergency department (ED) in a single tertiary referral center. All patients diagnosed with STEMI visiting the ED between November 2017 and January 2020 were retrospectively reviewed to investigate the effectiveness of strategy before and after implantation. Analysis of a total of 117 ED patients with STEMI (pre-intervention group, n = 57; post-intervention group, n = 60) showed significant overall improvements in median door-to-ECG time from 5 to 4 min (p = 0.02), achievement rate of door-to-ECG time < 10 min from 45 to 57% (p = 0.01), median door-to-balloon time from 81 to 70 min (p < 0.01). Significant trends of increase in achievement rates for door-to-ECG and door-to-balloon times (p = 0.032 and p = 0.002, respectively) was noted after strategy implementation. The incidences of door-to-ECG time > 10 min for those with initially underestimated disease severity (from 90 to 10%, p < 0.01) and walk-in (from 29.2 to 8.8%, p = 0.04) were both reduced. In conclusion, a chief complaint-based “cardiac triage” strategy successfully improved the quality of emergency care for STEMI patients through reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Electrochemical system for selective oxidation of organics over ammonia in urine
Authors: Jermakka Johannes , Freguia Stefano , Kokko Marika , Ledezma Pablo
Published: March 2021

Low pH allows for selective oxidation of the organic fraction in urine while retaining nitrogen.
Differential N-glycosylation profiling of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) invasive ductal carcinoma tissues using MALDI-TOF-MS
Authors: Yaman Mehmet Emrah , Kayili Haci Mehmet , Albayrak Mevlut , Kadioglu Yucel , Salih Bekir
Published: March 2021

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer. In this study, matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS)-based analyses were conducted for determining differential N-glycosylation patterns of IDC.
Kinetics of nanoparticle uptake into and distribution in human cells
Authors: Åberg Christoffer
Published: March 2021

Kinetic models describing nanoparticle uptake by cells and the subsequent intracellular distribution help us understand the processes and allow us to predict how rapidly they occur.
Upconversion-based nanosystems for fluorescence sensing of pH and H2O2
Authors: Sun Chunning , Gradzielski Michael
Published: March 2021

Non-contact and conventional upconversion-based nanosystems were designed for the fluorescence sensing of pH and H2O2.
Insight into the tannic acid-based modular-assembly strategy based on inorganic–biological hybrid systems: a material suitability, loading effect, and biocompatibility study
Authors: Ren Xiaoning , Yin Panqing , Liang Jun , Liu Xiangjian , Zhan Wugen , Niu Jiaojiao , Si Tong , Yu Tao , Wu Dan , Wang Bo
Published: March 2021

The tannic acid-based modular-assembly strategy for building inorganic–biological hybrids is studied regarding the aspects of the material suitability, loading effect, and biocompatibility.
Recent developments in carbon-based materials as high-rate anode for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Sun Yi , Wu Qiujie , Liang Xin , Xiang Hongfa
Published: March 2021

A schematic illustration of the design of high-rate carbon-based anodes.
Thermal dissipation as both the strength and weakness of matter. A material failure prediction by monitoring creep
Authors: Vincent-Dospital Tom , Toussaint Renaud , Cochard Alain , Flekkøy Eirik G. , Måløy Knut Jørgen
Published: March 2021

We discuss the ability of a thermally activated sub-critical model, which includes the auto-induced thermal evolution of cracks tips and relies on the monitoring of slow creep, to predict the catastrophic failure threshold of a vast range of materials.
Atomic-thin hexagonal CuCo nanocrystals with d-band tuning for CO2 reduction
Authors: Yan Yibo , Zhao Zhengping , Zhao Jun , Tang Wenfei , Huang Wei , Lee Jong-Min
Published: March 2021

Hexagonal CuCo nanocrystals are exploited for CO2 reduction at high faradaic efficiency. Density functional theory calculates the structure-oriented binding energy of intermediates for catalyst optimization.
T cell membrane cloaking tumor microenvironment-responsive nanoparticles with a smart “membrane escape mechanism” for enhanced immune-chemotherapy of melanoma
Authors: Li Xiaofang , Zhang Wen , Lin Jing , Wu Hao , Yao Yucen , Zhang Jiayi , Yang Chunrong
Published: March 2021

The application of combination immune-chemotherapy makes up for the limitation of monotherapy and achieves superior antitumor activity against cancer.
Free-standing bilayered vanadium oxide films synthesized by liquid exfoliation of chemically preintercalated δ-LixV2O5·nH2O
Authors: Houseman Luke , Mukherjee Santanu , Andris Ryan , Zachman Michael J. , Pomerantseva Ekaterina
Published: March 2021

A free-standing film composed of bilayered vanadium oxide nanoflakes is for the first time synthesized using a new low-energy process.
Correction: Tuning trion binding energy and oscillator strength in a laterally finite 2D system: CdSe nanoplatelets as a model system for trion properties
Authors: Ayari Sabrine , Quick Michael T. , Owschimikow Nina , Christodoulou Sotirios , Bertrand Guillaume H. V. , Artemyev Mikhail , Moreels Iwan , Woggon Ulrike , Jaziri Sihem , Achtstein Alexander W.
Published: March 2021

Correction for ‘Tuning trion binding energy and oscillator strength in a laterally finite 2D system: CdSe nanoplatelets as a model system for trion properties’ by Sabrine Ayari et al., Nanoscale, 2020, 12, 14448–14458, DOI: 10.1039/D0NR03170D.
Insights into the pre-oxidation process of phenolic resin-based hard carbon for sodium storage
Authors: Wei Zheng , Zhao Hai-Xia , Niu Yu-Bin , Zhang Si-Yuan , Wu Yuan-Bo , Yan Hui-Juan , Xin Sen , Yin Ya-Xia , Guo Yu-Guo
Published: March 2021

The influence of the pre-oxidation process on the microstructure and sodium storage performance of phenolic resin-based hard carbon, as anode materials for sodium-ion batteries, is investigated.
Hierarchically porous TiO2 monolith prepared using a cellulose monolith as a template
Authors: Lyu Yanting , Asoh Taka-Aki , Uyama Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

A hierarchically porous TiO2 monolith with controlled pore structures was fabricated using a cellulose monolith as a template and TTIP as a raw material.
Development and validation of a sensitive LC-MS/MS method for pioglitazone: application towards pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution study in rats
Authors: G. Kusuma Kumari , Thaggikuppe Krishnamurthy Praveen , Ammu V. V. V. Ravi Kiran , Vishwanath Kurawattimath , Narenderan S. T. , Babu B. , Krishnaveni Nagappan
Published: March 2021

The developed method was investigated for target and off-target distribution of pioglitazone and could be applied to validate the site-specific delivery systems.
Enzymatic electrochemical continuous flow cascade synthesis of substituted benzimidazoles
Authors: Shi Ting-Ting , Wang Shu-Zhan , Yang Zhao , Wang Yilin , Liu Chengkou , He Wei , Fang Zheng , Guo Kai
Published: March 2021

An industrially practical method for the synthesis of substituted benzimidazoles was developed from an enzymatic electrochemical cascade method.
Correction: Light-induced assembly and disassembly of polymers with PdnL2n-type network junctions
Authors: Li Ru-Jin , Pezzato Cristian , Berton Cesare , Severin Kay
Published: March 2021

Correction for ‘Light-induced assembly and disassembly of polymers with PdnL2n-type network junctions’ by Ru-Jin Li et al., Chem. Sci., 2021, DOI: 10.1039/d1sc00127b.
Pristine, metal ion and metal cluster modified conjugated triazine frameworks as electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhang Boying , Zhang Yunrui , Hou Meiling , Wang Wenbo , Hu Shuozhen , Cen Wanglai , Cao Xuepu , Qiao Shanlin , Han Bao-Hang
Published: March 2021

Two covalent triazine frameworks with homoporous and heteroporous structures were modified with metal ions and metal clusters. Their electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction exhibits good performance with low overpotential and small Tafel slope.
Design of monolithic closed-cell polymer foams via controlled gas-foaming for high-performance solar-driven interfacial evaporation
Authors: Qiao Lifang , Li Na , Luo Lin , He Jintao , Lin Yuxuan , Li Jingjing , Yu Liangmin , Guo Cui , Murto Petri , Xu Xiaofeng
Published: March 2021

A monolithic 3D interfacial steam generator is successfully constructed via a controlled gas-foaming technique and demonstrated for high-performance solar evaporation and desalination under a variety of realistic conditions.
Triggering photocatalytic activity of carbon dot-based nanocomposites by a self-supplying peroxide
Authors: Cai Tingting , Chang Qing , Liu Bin , Hao Caihong , Yang Jinlong , Hu Shengliang
Published: March 2021

The presented carbon dot-based composite shows significantly enhanced photocatalytic activities through eliminating the charge accumulation at the surface by means of chemical reaction triggered by the self-supplying peroxide.
Solvent-mediated engineering of copper-metalated acetylenic polymer scaffolds with enhanced photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Zhang Tao , Xu Shunqi , Hou Yang , Chai Guoliang , Olianas Davide , Liao Zhongquan , Milani Alberto , Sun Hanjun , Li Wei , Zhang Zhe , Mannsfeld Stefan , Zschech Ehrenfried , Tommasini Matteo , Feng Xinliang
Published: March 2021

This work reports a solvent-mediated strategy for tailoring conjugated acetylenic polymers from metal-free to Cu-metalated counterparts, which extends light absorption and promotes charge transport for acetylenic polymers.
Conduction transition and electronic conductivity enhancement of cesium azide by pressure-directed grain boundary engineering
Authors: Wang Qinglin , Wang Xiaofeng , Li Jianfu , Qin Tianru , Sang Dandan , Liu Jiaoli , Ke Feng , Wang Xiaoli , Li Yinwei , Liu Cailong
Published: March 2021

Pressure induces a transition from mixed ionic–electronic conduction to pure electronic conduction in CsN3. The grain boundary effect improves the conductivity of CsN3 by more than two orders of magnitude after one pressure cycle.
How Are Stakeholders With Autism Spectrum Disorder Included in the Social Validation of Augmentative and Alternative Communication Research? A Scoping Review
Authors: Bastable Kirsty , Klopper Sandra , Samuels Alecia , Dada Shakila
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Social validation or the inclusion of stakeholders in the research process is beneficial, as it may decrease bias, increases efficacy, and prevents harm. For direct stakeholders such as individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), social validation has mostly included participants who do not experience significant speech, language, and communication limitations while frequently omitting individuals with ASD who have complex communication needs (CCN). The presence of CCN indicates that augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies are needed for individuals to express themselves. Social validation should not be limited to being participants in an intervention but should include involvement in the research process. This requires an understanding of the current trends, levels, and mechanisms of involvement in AAC research.

Purpose

This review aimed to identify and describe the inclusion of direct stakeholders with ASD in the social validation of AAC research.

Method

A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews) methodology to identify AAC research that included stakeholders with ASD (direct and indirect) for social validation and to evaluate their level of involvement using the Typology of Youth Participation and Empowerment pyramid framework.

Results

Twenty-four studies were identified. Studies primarily included indirect stakeholders (e.g., caregivers) giving in-depth perspectives, while direct stakeholders were limited to being intervention participants.

Conclusions

Voices of direct stakeholders with ASD and CCN remain limited or excluded in research. Reasons for the exclusion of individuals with ASD and CCN from research and strategies for future inclusion are raised and discussed.
A Literature Review: Evidence Base in Speech-Language Pathology for the Management of Pediatric Oral Phase Dysphagia
Authors: Muldoon Deirdre , Meyer Laura , Cortese Jenna , Zaleski Rebecca
Published: March 2021

Purpose

A review was conducted of published literature regarding management of feeding difficulties at the oral phase of feeding in children with autism spectrum disorder and/or developmental disability. The articles selected were open access or free for speech-language pathologist (SLP) members of their professional bodies. The specific research question was: What research and evidence-based practice articles have been published in the SLP literature to assist SLPs in the implementation of evidence-based practice for children with challenges during the oral phase dysphagia?

Method

Initial inclusion criteria were articles published in English, published in SLP journals, discussed management of behavioral feeding difficulties and oral phase dysphagia, and were published between 2008 and 2018. Exclusion criteria for this review included articles that addressed dysphagia for participants who were medically fragile, used pharmacological intervention, or studies that included adults. A comprehensive search was conducted of ASHAWire, the Speech-Language and Audiology Canada website, the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapy of the United Kingdom and the website Speech Pathology Australia. Articles were analyzed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and using a modified feasibility, appropriateness, meaningfulness, effectiveness framework for qualitative case studies. Interrater reliability was calculated using intraclass correlation coefficient across four raters.

Results

All but one of the articles included for this review were qualitative articles containing descriptions of strategies or case studies (e.g., food chaining), were not peer reviewed, but did constitute evidence-based practice as outlined by American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (i.e., were either Level III or Level IV evidence-based strategies or intervention models).

Conclusion

The review highlighted the need for additional research in SLP designed to answer questions about the management of functional skills in feeding and eating for the population of children with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disability, patients who are increasingly on caseloads of SLPs.
Structure for fast photonic medium on application of SDM communication using SiO2 doped with GeO2, and F Materials
Authors: Behera Bhagyalaxmi , Varshney Shailendra K. , Mohanty Mihir N.
Published: March 2021

This work presents a new approach for the design of an FMF with a Gaussian core and a trench in the cladding. For the proposed few‐mode fibre (FMF), Fused Silica (SiO2) is considered as a host‐material, whereas Germanium Oxide(GeO2) and Fluorine(F)are taken as the dopant for large data transmission. The mole percentages of the dopant material along with the fibre profile parameters are varied to achieve 10 linearly polarized (LP) modes through the proposed FMF. The proposed FMF structure is tested and verified through simulated experiments. The results indicate the proposed FMF structure with the mole percentage 11.5% of GeO2, 2% of F, and the normalized full‐width‐half‐maximum (FWHM) of the core in the range of 4 to 10 supports 10 LP modes in the order of LP01, LP11, LP21, LP02, LP31, LP12, LP41, LP22, LP03, and LP51. The effective index difference (Δneff) between the adjacent LP modes is maintained greater than and a weakly coupled 10x10 Gbps SDM transmission link is established through intensity‐modulation and direct‐detection (IM/DD) using the proposed Gaussian core‐FMF. The link performance is analysed, verified and an acceptable bit‐error‐rate (BER) of 10−20 is achieved over 50 km without amplifiers.
Embolischer Schlaganfall mit ungeklärter Emboliequelle (ESUS) – Klassifikation einer neuen Schlaganfallentität
Authors: Kitsiou Alkisti , Zuhorn Frédéric , Wachter Rolf , Israel Carsten Walter , Schäbitz Wolf-Rüdiger , Rogalewski Andreas
Published: March 2021

Als embolischer Schlaganfall mit ungeklärter Emboliequelle (ESUS) wird eine Subgruppe kryptogener Schlaganfälle bezeichnet, welche durch ein embolisches Infarktmuster definiert werden, wenn gleichzeitig trotz einer sorgfältig durchgeführten Diagnostik keine eindeutige und spezifische Emboliequelle identifiziert werden kann. In diesem Übersichtsartikel werden die Grundlagen des ESUS-Konzepts analysiert und ein Überblick über die Evidenz jüngster Kohortenstudien gegeben. Es werden die Definition, Ätiologie und die Diagnostik eines ESUS neu bewertet. Durch eine gezielte Diagnostik bei ESUS-Patienten kann die Anzahl kryptogener Schlaganfälle durch Stellen einer spezifischen Diagnose reduziert werden.
The Effectiveness of Corneal Epithelial Debridement Performed with an Alcohol-Impregnated Sponge
Authors: Altinbay Deniz , Taskin Ibrahim
Published: March 2021

Objective To evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients who underwent corneal surgery with debridement of epithelium by localised application of an alcohol-impregnated sponge instead of the usual alcohol reservoir method.

Design This study retrospectively included 52 eyes of 27 patients who underwent LASEK (laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy) and CXL (cross-linking) surgery after application of this alcohol-assisted debridement method between January 2019 and April 2019.

Participants Twenty-four patients who underwent LASEK and three patients who underwent CXL surgery were included in this study, which comprised a total of 52 eye operations.

Methods Epithelial debridement was performed after placing a 20% ethanol-impregnated sponge on the cornea for 20 seconds.

Results The mean pachymetry value was 509.40 ± 30.37 µm, the mean preoperative spherical equivalent was − 2.14 ± 1.02 dioptres, and the highest myopia and astigmatism values were − 4.25 dioptres and − 2.75 dioptres, respectively. It was seen that the corneal epithelium was completely and easily debrided in a size identical to that of the applied sponge.

Conclusions Complete debridement of the corneal epithelium can be performed quickly, safely, and easily with this specially prepared sponge.
Ungewöhnliche Spätmanifestation einer reaktivierten Tuberkulose in der Immunseneszenz nach 9 Dekaden Latenz
Authors: Früh Jonas , Stich August , Müller Andreas
Published: March 2021

Einleitung Die Tuberkulose ist eine oft unterschätzte Infektionskrankheit, welche auch nach jahrelanger Latenz reaktiviert werden kann. Sowohl die primäre als auch die postprimäre Form manifestieren sich am häufigsten pulmonal, jedoch kann auch jedes andere Organ befallen werden.

Anamnese Eine 95-jährige Patientin wurde zur Abklärung einer lokal begrenzten, schmerzhaften Schwellung des rechten Fußes aufgenommen. Trotz des fortgeschrittenen Alters bestanden keine Vorerkrankungen.

Untersuchung und Diagnose Klinisch bestand am rechten Fußrücken eine 5 cm große fluktuierende hyperämische Schwellung ohne Fistelung. Radiologisch zeigte sich eine komplette Destruktion regulärer Strukturen vom Bereich des rechten oberen Sprunggelenks bis zu den Basen der Ossa metatarsalia.

Therapie und Verlauf Intraoperativ stellte sich der Befund als Abszess dar, aus welchem kulturell der Nachweis von Mycobacterium tuberculosis gelang. In der Magnetresonanztomografie konnte eine Osteomyelitis nicht ausgeschlossen werden. Die Dauer der antituberkulösen Standardtherapie wurde dementsprechend auf insgesamt 9 Monate festgelegt.

Folgerung Bei unklaren Infektionen sollte gerade bei Patienten in der Immunseneszenz immer auch die Möglichkeit einer primären oder postprimären Tuberkulosemanifestation bedacht werden.
mpMRI of the Prostate (MR-Prostatography): Updated Recommendations of the DRG and BDR on Patient Preparation and Scanning Protocol
Authors: Franiel Tobias , Asbach Patrick , Beyersdorff Dirk , Blondin Dirk , Kaufmann Sascha , Mueller-Lisse Ullrich Gerd , Quentin Michael , Rödel Stefan , Röthke Matthias , Schlemmer Heinz-Peter , Schimmöller Lars ,   Vorstand der Deutschen Röntgengesellschaft e. V. (DRG),   Vorstand des Berufsverbandes der Deutschen Radiologen (BDR)
Published: March 2021

The Working Group Uroradiology and Urogenital Diagnosis of the German Roentgen Society (DRG) revised and updated the recommendations for preparation and scanning protocol of the multiparametric MRI of the Prostate in a consensus process and harmonized it with the managing board of German Roentgen Society and Professional Association of the German Radiologist (BDR e. V.). These detailed recommendation define the referenced “validated quality standards” of the German S3-Guideline Prostate Cancer and describe in detail the topic 1. anamnestic datas, 2. termination of examinations and preparation of examinations, 3. examination protocol and 4. MRI-(in-bore)-biopsy.

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Citation Format
Thermal diffusivity measurement of microscale slabs by rear-surface detection thermoreflectance technique
Authors: Song Zhuorui , Zhang Lin , Wang Dihui , Tan Susheng , Ban Heng
Published: March 2021

A new approach to measure the cross-plane thermal diffusivity of a microscale slab sample, which can be fabricated by the focused ion beam and attached to a substrate, is proposed. An intensity-modulated pump laser is applied to heat the front surface of the sample uniformly, and the thermoreflectance signal is observed at the rear surface to evaluate thermal wave transport in the material. The thermal diffusivity can be obtained by fitting the phase lags of the experimental data with a theoretical model. The model was developed for the sample with thin-film coatings and heat transfer to the substrate. Although the absorbed heat can cause a significant DC temperature increase in the microscale sample, a thin-film coating with high thermal conductivity can effectively reduce the DC temperature increase within low thermal conductivity samples. To validate the method, we conducted measurements of a fused silica sample of 2.16 µm thickness, coated with 95 nm Ti film on the front surface and 120 nm Au film on the rear surface. The measured thermal diffusivity is in good agreement with the literature value. The uncertainty analysis shows that the measurement uncertainty is within 6%. This proposed approach, designed for microscale samples, offers a unique option for thermal property measurements of special materials, such as irradiated nuclear fuel or other irradiated materials, to enable microscale property determination while minimizing sample radioactivity.
Radial runaway losses in tokamak disruptions
Authors: Martín-Solís J. R.
Published: March 2021

A simple zero-dimensional model for a tokamak disruption is used to evaluate the effect of radial runaway losses on the avalanche multiplication of a runaway primary seed during the current quench phase of a fast disruptive event as well as during its termination phase. Analytical expressions for the resulting runaway current, the energy of the runaway beam, and the runaway energy distribution function are obtained. It is found that the formation of the runaway current takes place under an effective critical electric field for runaway current generation due to the radial losses larger than the avalanche threshold associated with the energy losses only. As a result, the amount of runaway current generated by avalanche decreases due to the radial losses, but because of the lower amount of runaway current during the formation phase, the electric field increases, which can lead to a noticeable energy deposition on the runaway population, most of it ultimately deposited onto the plasma facing components, unless the radial losses are sufficiently large. The decay of the current after the formation phase follows a marginal stability scenario, during which the electric field remains close (but below) to the effective critical field for the runaway current, which, as the critical field is larger than the avalanche threshold due to the energy losses only, can result in a substantial conversion of magnetic into runaway kinetic energy during slow current terminations.
Dynamic band-shift signal in two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy: A case of bacterial reaction center
Authors: Bukartė Eglė , Paleček David , Edlund Petra , Westenhoff Sebastian , Zigmantas Donatas
Published: March 2021

Optical nonlinear spectroscopies carry a high amount of information about the systems under investigation; however, as they report polarization signals, the resulting spectra are often congested and difficult to interpret. To recover the landscape of energy states and physical processes such as energy and electron transfer, a clear interpretation of the nonlinear signals is prerequisite. Here, we focus on the interpretation of the electrochromic band-shift signal, which is generated when an internal electric field is established in the system following optical excitation. Whereas the derivative shape of the band-shift signal is well understood in transient absorption spectroscopy, its emergence in two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy (2DES) has not been discussed. In this work, we employed 2DES to follow the dynamic band-shift signal in reaction centers of purple bacteria Rhodobacter sphaeroides at 77 K. The prominent two-dimensional derivative-shape signal appears with the characteristic formation time of the charge separated state. To explain and characterize the band-shift signal, we use expanded double-sided Feynman diagram formalism. We propose to distinguish two types of Feynman diagrams that lead to signals with negative amplitude: excited state absorption and re-excitation. The presented signal decomposition and modeling analysis allows us to recover precise electrochromic shifts of accessory bacteriochlorophylls, identify additional signals in the B band range, and gain a further insight into the electron transfer mechanism. In a broader perspective, expanded Feynman diagram formalism will allow for interpretation of all 2D signals in a clearer and more intuitive way and therefore facilitate studying the underlying photophysics.
Single photon sources with near unity collection efficiencies by deterministic placement of quantum dots in nanoantennas
Authors: Abudayyeh Hamza , Lubotzky Boaz , Blake Anastasia , Wang Jun , Majumder Somak , Hu Zhongjian , Kim Younghee , Htoon Han , Bose Riya , Malko Anton V. , Hollingsworth Jennifer A. , Rapaport Ronen
Published: March 2021

Deterministic coupling between photonic nodes in a quantum network is an essential step toward implementing various quantum technologies. The omnidirectionality of free-standing emitters, however, makes this coupling highly inefficient, in particular if the distant nodes are coupled via low numerical aperture (NA) channels such as optical fibers. This limitation requires placing quantum emitters in nanoantennas that can direct the photons into the channels with very high efficiency. Moreover, to be able to scale such technologies to a large number of channels, the placing of the emitters should be deterministic. In this work, we present a method for directly locating single free-standing quantum emitters with high spatial accuracy at the center of highly directional bullseye metal–dielectric nanoantennas. We further employ non-blinking, high quantum yield colloidal quantum dots for on-demand single-photon emission that is uncompromised by instabilities or non-radiative exciton recombination processes. Taken together, this approach results in a record-high collection efficiency of 85% of the single photons into a low NA of 0.5, setting the stage for efficient coupling between on-chip, room temperature nanoantenna-emitter devices and a fiber or a remote free-space node without the need for additional optics.
Electrostatic gating enhanced persistent photoconductivity at the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface
Authors: Hong Yanpeng , Jia Jinshan , Zhang Zitao , Wang Shuai , Dou Ruifen , Nie Jiacai , Xiong Changmin
Published: March 2021

The two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 (LAO/STO) interface exhibits many emergent properties, such as high mobility, giant photoconductivity, the light-enhanced gating effect, etc., which are invaluable for basic research and potential applications. In this work, we report an unusual enhancement of persistent photoconductivity (PPC) by electrostatic gating (EG) at the LAO/STO interface. Under the influence of pre-EG processing, the 2DEG at the LAO/STO interface is triggered into a resistance state showing a more pronounced optical response and greatly enhanced PPC under light illumination (LI) at room temperature. These observations are found to be attributed to EG-induced interfacial polarization and the subsequent LI-accelerated depolarization at the interface. Based on these findings, a nonvolatile memory device made by this interface is proposed. Our work offers a new perspective for tuning the photoelectrical properties at the oxide interface, which is helpful for designing advanced photoelectric devices with high performance and multifunctionality.
All-epitaxial long-range surface plasmon polariton structures with integrated active materials
Authors: Nordin L. , Petluru P. , Muhowski A. J. , Shaner E. A. , Wasserman D.
Published: March 2021

We demonstrate all-epitaxial structures capable of supporting short- and long-range surface plasmon polariton (SRSPP and LRSPP) modes in the long-wave infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The SRSPP and LRSPP modes are bound to the interfaces of a buried heavily doped (n++) semiconductor layer and surrounding quantum-engineered type-II superlattice (T2SL) materials. The surrounding T2SLs are designed to allow optical transitions across the frequency dispersion of the SPP modes. We map the SPP dispersion in our structure using grating-coupled angle- and polarization-dependent reflection and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The epitaxial structures are analytically described using a simplified three-layer system (T2SL/n++/T2SL) and modeled using rigorous coupled wave analysis with excellent agreement to our experimental results. The presented structures offer the potential to serve as long-range interconnects or waveguides in all-epitaxial plasmonic/optoelectronic systems operating in the long-wave infrared.
High voltage nanosecond pulse generator based on avalanche transistor Marx bank circuit and linear transformer driver
Authors: Deng Zichen , Yuan Qi , Shen Saikang , Yan Jiaqi , Wang Yanan , Ding Weidong
Published: March 2021

Avalanche transistor Marx bank circuits (MBCs) are widely used in high voltage repetitive nanosecond pulse generators, but problems exist with respect to increasing the output voltage due to the limited pulsed current. Accordingly, a novel topology based on an avalanche transistor MBC combined with a linear transformer driver is proposed, the latter of which exhibits advantageous stress distribution and modular structure. A four-module prototype with four units in each module is developed in the laboratory. The output characteristics are investigated by varying important parameters such as the main capacitance, the number of conducting units, the number of cascaded modules, and the trigger signal time delay. The test results verify the validity of the proposed topology. For a 50 Ω resistive load, the prototype can generate pulses with an amplitude of 10.9 kV, a rise time of 3.3 ns, and a voltage superposition efficiency of 89%. The topology proposed in this paper may help to provide a method to further improve the output performance of avalanche transistor MBCs.
Recent progress in wearable tactile sensors combined with algorithms based on machine learning and signal processing
Authors: Jiang Xin , Chen Ruoran , Zhu Hongwei
Published: March 2021

The development of nanomaterials facilitates fabrication of personalized wearable tactile sensors, which are essential components for next generation sophisticated electrical devices, such as smart robotics, robot-assisted surgery, artificial skin, and biomedical devices. Wearable tactile sensors detect various physiologically relevant information from the human body, including mechano-acoustic signatures and precision kinematics. In contemplation to analyze complex superposition of signals with high dimensionality and high frequency, new requirements are put forward for data processing algorithms. The applications of advanced algorithms from machine learning and signal processing greatly boost the performance of the whole tactile sensing system and help redesign the sensor system. Especially, multimodal identification, performed on dataset incorporating different data sources, will be a breakthrough direction in the future. This Perspective highlights the benefits of utilizing advanced algorithms in wearable tactile sensors, summarizes the guidelines for the integration of the algorithm-sensor framework, and proposes potential applications in human body science.
Algebraic model for one-dimensional horizontal water flow with arbitrary initial soil water content
Authors: Su Lijun , Li Meng , Wang Quanjiu , Zhou Beibei , Shan Yuyang , Duan Manli , Sun Yan , Ning Songrui
Published: March 2021

A simple analytical solution of the equation for the one-dimensional horizontal permeability of soil water is important for estimating the hydraulic properties of soil. Our main objective was to develop analytical solutions to the nonlinear Richards equation, with constant-saturation upper boundary and an arbitrary initial soil water content (SWC) for horizontal absorption. We estimated the infiltration rate based on the hypothesis proposed by Parlange and carried out a series of transformations based on the Brooks–Corey model to obtain a theoretical function of the one-dimensional movement of water in unsaturated soil under an arbitrary initial SWC. The algebraic analytical solutions were simple, and the selection of the initial SWC was arbitrary. We assumed three scenarios of linear distributions of initial SWC, and Hydrus-1D software was used to simulate horizontal infiltration. Based on the comparison of algebraic and numerical results, the corrected algebraic model was proposed and verified by the arbitrary initial water content conditions when the maximum SWC was less than the half of saturated water content. The proposed method provides a description of horizontal infiltration for the heterogeneous initial SWCs.
A time course transcriptomic analysis of host and injected oncogenic cells reveals new aspects of
Drosophila
immune defenses
Authors: Chen Di , Roychowdhury-Sinha Arghyashree , Prakash Pragya , Lan Xiao , Fan Wenmin , Goto Akira , Hoffmann Jules A.
Published: March 2021

Significance

Injection of oncogenic RasV12 cells into male flies induces the up-regulation of several hundreds of genes, many of which code for chemoreceptors, but not for proteins involved in the classical fly defenses against foreign invaders (e.g., microbes). Injection further induces stress-related and inflammatory-like responses within the flies. Over time, the injected cells change their transcriptomic profiles within the host, and a majority evolve into classical antimicrobial immune response cells. The roles of the chemoreceptors in the reactions to oncogenic cells, the identities of the ligands, the molecular and cellular responses induced in the flies, and the dialogue established over time between the host and the injected cells open challenging new avenues of studies.
Theoretical and experimental study of the looping pendulum
Authors: Wang Yujing , Shi Yujun
Published: March 2021

We investigate the looping pendulum phenomenon proposed by the International Young Physicists’ tournament (IYPT) in 2019 with experiments and theoretical model based on Newtonian mechanics. When using high-speed video to measure the motion of objects, the acceleration measurement error may worsen significantly at a high frame rate due to position uncertainty. This issue is emphasized and can be resolved by additionally using a wireless acceleration sensor. The falling acceleration curves of heavy-load given by our theoretical model are in good agreement with the experimental measurement data. The mass ratio-release angle parameter space for a successful demonstration is given by numerical simulation, showing that a large value of heavy-light mass ratio should be more likely to make a successful demonstration experiment. The experiments reported here are appropriate for junior undergraduates to carry out experimental research.
On Calderón’s inverse inclusion problem with smooth shapes by a single partial boundary measurement
Authors: Liu Hongyu , Tsou Chun-Hsiang , Yang Wei
Published: March 2021

We consider Calderón’s inverse inclusion problem of recovering the shape of an anomalous inhomogeneity embedded in a homogeneous conductivity by the associated electric boundary measurements. It is a longstanding problem whether one can establish the unique recovery result by a single boundary measurement. In several existing works, it is shown that corner singularities can help to resolve the problem within polygonal or polyhedral shapes. In this paper, under a generic technical condition, we show that the corner singularity can be relaxed to be a certain high-curvature condition and derive novel unique recovery results within smooth shapes.