bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulations of blood cell flow in non-Newtonian fluid
Authors: Shitara Kazuhiro , Hyakutake Toru
Published: January 2020

We investigated how non-Newtonian viscosity behavior affects the flow characteristics of blood cells. Our findings offer insight about how shear thinning affects the dispersion of liposome-encapsulated hemoglobin and red blood cells in blood. The lattice Boltzmann method was used for fluid calculations, and the rheological properties of the non-Newtonian fluid were modeled with power-law relationships. The deformable three-dimensional red blood cell model was applied. First, we investigated the effects of shear thinning on the flow behavior of single blood cell. Simulation results indicate that shear thinning promotes the axial concentration of red blood cells. Next, varied the hematocrit to see how mutual interference between blood cells affects flow. At low hematocrit, shear thinning clearly promotes the axial concentration of red blood cells. As the hematocrit increases, in contrast, mutual interference has a greater effect, which counteracts shear thinning so the red blood cell distribution resembles the distribution within a Newtonian fluid.
Vertical Dynamic Analysis of Ballastless Tracks on Train-Track- Bridge System
Authors: Xie Haoran , Yan Bin , Huang Jie
Published: January 2020

In order to investigate the vertical dynamic response characteristics of train-track-bridge system on CWR (Continunously Welded Rail) under dynamic load of train on HSR (High-Speed Railway) bridge. Based on the principle of vehicle train-track-bridge coupling dynamics, taking the 32m simply supported bridge of a section of Zhengzhou-Xuzhou Passenger Dedicated Line as an example, the finite element software ANSYS and the dynamic analysis software SIMPACK are used for co-simulation, and bridge model of the steel spring floating slab track and the CRTSIII ballastless track (China Railway Track System) considering the shock absorbing steel spring, the limit barricade and the contact characteristics of track structure layers are established. On this basis, in order to study the dynamic response laws of the design of ballastless track structure parameters to the system when the train crosses the bridge and provide the basis for the design and construction, by studying the influence of the speed of train on the bridge, the damage of fasteners and the parameters of track structure on the train-track-bridge system, the displacement of rail, vertical vibration acceleration and wheel-rail force response performance are analyzed. Studies have shown that: At the train speed of 40 km/h, the displacement and acceleration of the rail and track slab in the CRTSIII ballastless track are smaller than the floating slab track structure, but the floating slab track structure has better vibration reduction performance for bridges. The acceleration of rail, track slab and bridge increases obviously with the increase of train speed, the rail structure has the largest increasement. Reducing the stiffness of fasteners could decrease the vertical acceleration response of the steel spring floating slab track system, the ability to absorb shock can be enhanceed by reducing the stiffness of the fastener appropriately. Increasing the density of the floating slab can increase the vertical acceleration of the floating slab and the bridge, thereby decreasing the vibration amplitude of the system.
A Referenced Cyber Physical System for Compressor Manufacturing
Authors: Cao Jin , Wang Junliang , Lu Junqing
Published: January 2020

Compressor is a typical high-end discrete product，with the shortening of product life cycle and the enhancement of the degree of product customization, the traditional compressor manufacturing system architecture cannot meet the requirements of comprehensive digital management of compressor from body scheme design to parts production line, logistics management, operation and maintenance monitoring and evaluation. This paper presents a compressor manufacturing system architecture based on digital twinning, and establishes an Internet platform for compressor industry oriented to remote coordination from three aspects of compressor design, production, operation and maintenance. The platform includes industrial Internet infrastructure layer, physical space entity model layer, virtual space multidimensional model layer, physical space and virtual space multidimensional model correlation and mapping layer, big data intelligent analysis decision-making layer, and digital twin application layer. Through the establishment of the compressor product design and simulation model of digital twin, compressor production process digital twin model, compressor fault diagnosis and remote operations digital twin model, implementation is based on the number of compressor collaboration in manufacturing industrial Internet platform twin system, leading the transformation and upgrading of intelligent manufacturing industry, compressor industry sustainable development ability and international competitiveness.
Development of advanced intumescent flame-retardant binder for fire rated timber door
Authors: Jong Kwang Yin Jessica , Ming Chian Yew , Ming Kun Yew
Published: January 2020

Intumescent flame-retardant binder (IFRB) offers a great advancement for the most efficient utilization of a wide variety of passive fire safety system at the recent development. This article highlights the fire-resistance and thermal properties of the IFRB using Bunsen burner and thermogravimetric analysis. The five IFRB formulations were mixed with vermiculite and perlite for the fabrication of fire-resistant timber door prototypes. Additionally, the fire rated door prototypes were compared under 2 hours fire test. The prototype (P2), with a low density of 637 kg/m3 showed the superlative fire-resistance rating performance, resulting in temperature reduction by up to 58.9 °C, as compared with that of prototype (P1). Significantly, an innovative fire rated timber door prototype with the addition of formulating intumescent binder has verified to be effective in stopping fires and maintaining its integrity by surviving a fire resistance period of 2 hours.
Implementation and investigation of a force control for a forming demonstrator with coupled servo drives
Authors: Sewohl André , Schleinitz Armin , Schlegel Holger , Putz Matthias
Published: January 2020

In the area of production engineering, there are ongoing efforts to improve manufacturing strategies and processes in terms of stability, quality and efficiency. One possibility for ensuring stable process conditions and reducing rejected parts is closed loop control of quality determining parameters. For many applications, the machining forces often represent the limiting factor for the design of the processes and the choice of parameters. As a controlled value, they are predestined for ensuring process stability and safety. For the tasks and problems of forming technology, control of process forces is not yet mature and offers significant potential for improvement. The drafting of sophisticated control concepts, which enable a mutual use or a combination of force and position control, is the focus of future developments. The design and implementation of a force control for a forming demonstrator with coupled servo drives is described in this publication. The combination of force and position control is realized by direct switching. In addition, further combination options and structures are explained. The focus here is first on the parameterization of the force control and the assessment of the control performance using appropriate comparison criteria in the time domain.
Research on load simulator control strategy based on BP neural network and PID method
Authors: Zhou Yong , Zhang Yubo , Yang Tianhao
Published: January 2020

In the research of load simulator control method, PID control is the most widely used control strategy, but PID controller’s three parameters is difficult to set. This paper proposes a BP neural network feedforward PID controller system which uses BP neural network for setting these parameters, and in order to make the network learning speed up the convergence speed and not fall into local minimum, the adaptive vector method is adopted to improve the algorithm. The simulation and experimental results show that this method is good at avoiding the primeval shock and the sine tracking performance of the system has also been improved.
Residual life of steel structures and equipment: problems and application to cranes
Authors: Depale Bruno , Bennebach Mohamed
Published: January 2020

The paper starts by considering, in general, the problem of evaluating residual life of structures and equipment that may have reached or exceeded the end of their design life. Whilst the problem is encountered in many industrial sectors, references available for dealing with it are often limited. Selected European references potentially suitable for this purpose for steel structures and cranes are presented and discussed in this paper together with some of the practical problems faced by the engineers responsible for evaluating the residual life of equipment and structures. This includes an overview of FEM Crane Codes and European EN standards for steel structures and cranes, their methods for assessing fatigue lives and their application to evaluating residual lives. A procedure developed in France and in use for such purpose since 2003, an approach developed in Italy and approach taken by ISO 12482 standard are all reviewed next. Finally, the paper presents a general methodology for the assessment and management of residual life of existing equipment and structures that has been developed by CETIM (Technical Institute for Mechanical Industry) and concludes with an example of its application to an AIRBUS load manipulating device.
Effects of cholesterol content on activity of P-glycoproteins and membrane physical state, and consequences for anthelmintic resistance in the nematodeHaemonchus contortus
Authors: Riou Mickaël , Guégnard Fabrice , Le Vern Yves , Grasseau Isabelle , Koch Christine , Blesbois Elisabeth , Kerboeuf Dominique
Published: January 2020

Eukaryote plasma membranes protect cells from chemical attack. Xenobiotics, taken up through passive diffusion, accumulate in the membranes, where they are captured by transporters, among which P-glycoproteins (Pgps). In nematodes such asHaemonchus contortus, eggshells and cuticles provide additional protective barriers against xenobiotics. Little is known about the role of these structures in the transport of chemical molecules. Pgps, members of the ABC transporter family, are present in eggshells and cuticles. Changes in the activity of these proteins have also been correlated with alterations in lipids, such as cholesterol content, in eggshells. However, the cellular mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. We show here that an experimental decrease in the cholesterol content of eggshells ofHaemonchus contortus, with Methyl-beta-CycloDextrin (MβCD), results in an increase in membrane fluidity, favouring Pgp activity and leading to an increase in resistance to anthelmintics. This effect is modulated by the initial degree of anthelminthic resistance of the eggs. These results suggest that eggshell fluidity plays a major role in the modulation of Pgp activity. They confirm that Pgp activity is highly influenced by the local microenvironment, in particular sterols, as observed in some vertebrate models. Thus, eggshell barriers could play an active role in the transport of xenobiotics.
PET/CT und PET/MRT bei Tumoren des Kopf-Hals-Bereichs
Authors: Grosse Jirka , Hellwig Dirk
Published: January 2020

Die Positronen-Emissions-Tomografie (PET) mit 18F-Fluorodesoxyglukose (FDG) in Verbindung mit einer Computertomografie (CT) wird bei speziellen Indikationen in der Diagnostik bei Patienten mit Kopf-Hals-Tumoren eingesetzt. Die Einsatzmöglichkeiten umfassen die Suche nach einem okkulten Primärtumor bei zervikaler Lymphknotenmetastasierung mit zuvor inkonklusiver Diagnostik, das lokale Staging, die Beurteilung des Therapieansprechens nach Radio(chemo)therapie sowie Nachsorgeuntersuchungen, wenn zwischen therapieinduzierten Gewebealterationen und einem Tumorrezidiv differenziert werden muss. Der Erfolg einer Bestrahlung in Hochpräzisionslagerungstechnik (Stereotaxie) bzw. einer intensitätsmodulierten Strahlentherapie scheint durch die Bestimmung des Tumorvolumens unter Einbeziehung der PET/CT verbessert zu werden. Die kombinierte PET/Magnetresonanztomografie (MRT) bietet in diesem Indikationsfeld durch höhere anatomische Detailgenauigkeit Vorteile beim Staging hinsichtlich der Beurteilung des lokalen und lokoregionären Befundes, ist der PET/CT bei der Detektion pulmonaler Metastasen/Zweittumoren jedoch deutlich unterlegen.

Auf dem höchstmöglichen Evidenzniveau einer randomisierten Studie wurde gezeigt, dass man bei Patienten mit lokal fortgeschrittenem Kopf-Hals-Tumor bei unauffälliger FDG-PET/CT nach Radiochemotherapie operative Eingriffe ohne Überlebensnachteil vermeiden kann. Die FDG-PET/CT bei Kopf-Hals-Tumoren konnte dadurch vom Gemeinsamen Bundesausschuss (G-BA) als notwendige Leistung für die Versorgung gesetzlich Versicherter anerkannt werden.
Systematic Analysis of Readability of Patient Information on Internet Pages from Departments for Trauma Surgery of German University Hospitals
Authors: Paul Simon , Ahrend Marc-Daniel , Lüers Jan-Christoffer , Roth Kersten Sven , Grimmiger Peter P. , Bopp Florian , Janghorban Esfahani Babak
Published: January 2020

Introduction The need-based information transfer in education as well as for the recruitment of patients becomes more and more relevant. Here, the internet has emerged as an increasingly important factor in recent years and therefore information pages on hospital homepages can be very helpful. However, it is known that basic text comprehension skills are lacking among large populations.

Method The aim of the present study was to evaluate the readability of the patient information available on the websites of trauma departments of German university hospitals. For this purpose, a search for information material on 10 different diagnoses was carried out. Out of 360 texts possible, 185 were found and assigned to 2 superordinate thematic areas (emergency vs. elective operations), subjected to a systematic text analysis via software “Text-Lab” and rated using 5 known readability indices (Amstad, G-SMOG, LIX, HIX, WSTF).

Results The indices used for both thematic complexes consistently showed poor readability, so that the texts only seem sufficiently comprehensible to readers with higher education. (Amstad: 21.4 ± 20.8; G-SMOG: 11.6 ± 2.0; WSTF 13.3 ± 2.1; LIX: 60.9 ± 7.6; HIX: 4.1 ± 3.2).

Conclusion For the medical information provided by university hospitals, there is a clear need for improvement in order to make the adequate acquisition of knowledge accessible to a broader spectrum of patients.
Influence of a Field Hamstring Eccentric Training on Muscle Strength
and Flexibility
Authors: Delvaux François , Schwartz Cedric , Decréquy Thibault , Devalckeneer Thibault , Paulus Julien , Bornheim Stephen , Kaux Jean-François , Croisier Jean-Louis
Published: January 2020

Muscle strength imbalances and poor flexibility are frequently described as
risk factors for hamstring injury. Preventive strategies include eccentric
exercises, but the influence of field eccentric exercises on these risk
factors remains unclear. We investigated the influence of a field hamstring
eccentric program on hamstring strength and flexibility. Twenty-seven
amateur athletes were randomly assigned to an intervention (n=13) or
control group (n=14). In the intervention group, participants were
involved in 15 sessions of four eccentric exercises. Peak torque,
hamstring-to-quadriceps ratios, passive and active flexibility were
analyzed. No significant modifications of strength, passive or active
flexibility were observed in the control group (p>0.05). Hamstring
eccentric peak torque (+7.1%) and functional
hamstring-to-quadriceps ratios (9.3%) were significantly increased
(p<0.05) in the intervention group, but not concentric strength
(p<0.05). Passive straight leg raise was significantly increased by
11.4° (+12.7%, p<0.001), but not active
flexibility (+3.1%, p>0.05). In conclusion, a 6-week
eccentric program, including four field exercises for hamstring muscles, is
an effective method of improving eccentric strength, functional ratios and,
especially, passive flexibility. As this program may be easily implemented
in a real-world context, this association of multiple eccentric exercises
might be useful in an injury prevention strategy.
Total and Regional Body Composition of NCAA Division I Collegiate
Basketball Athletes
Authors: Raymond-Pope Christiana J. , Solfest Anna L. , Carbuhn Aaron , Stanforth Philip R. , Oliver Jonathan , Bach Christopher W. , Bosch Tyler , Dengel Donald R.
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to examine body composition using dual X-ray absorptiometry
(DXA) in male and female NCAA Division I collegiate basketball athletes.
Two-hundred ten (male [M]/female [F]=88/122)
basketball athletes’ total and regional fat mass, lean mass, bone
mineral density, and visceral adipose tissue were measured. Athletes were
classified as: point guards (M/F=27/34), shooting
guards (M/F=18/27), small forwards
(M/F=13/18), power forwards
(M/F=21/27), and centers
(M/F=9/16). ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD assessed
positional differences by sex. In males, centers and power forwards had
greater total fat mass (p<0.025), lean mass (p≤0.001), and
visceral adipose tissue (p<0.001) than other positions. Male centers
had greater arm and leg fat mass and lean mass than point guards, shooting
guards, and small forwards (p≤0.049), and greater arm bone mineral
density than point guards (p=0.015). In females, centers had greater
total fat mass (p<0.001) vs. other positions and greater total lean
mass, arm fat and lean masses, arm and leg bone mineral density, and
visceral adipose tissue vs. point guards and shooting guards
(p≤0.005). Female point guards had lower total bone mineral density
than power forwards (p=0.008). In conclusion, these sex- and
position-specific total and regional body composition measurements in
collegiate basketball players provide population-specific normative
data.
Exercise Interventions and Cardiovascular Health in Childhood Cancer:
A Meta-analysis
Authors: Morales Javier S. , Valenzuela Pedro L. , Herrera-Olivares Alba M. , Baño-Rodrigo Antonio , Castillo-García Adrián , Rincón-Castanedo Cecilia , Martín-Ruiz Asunción , San-Juan Alejandro F. , Fiuza-Luces Carmen , Lucia Alejandro
Published: January 2020

This study analyzed the effects of physical exercise interventions on
cardiovascular endpoints in childhood cancer survivors. Relevant articles
were systematically searched in PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases
(since inception to 11th September 2019). We performed a meta-analysis
(random effects) to determine the mean difference (expressed together with
95% confidence intervals) between pre- and post-intervention values
for those cardiovascular endpoints reported in more than three studies.
Twenty-seven studies (of which 16 were controlled studies) comprising 697
participants were included. Only three studies reported adverse events
related to exercise interventions. Exercise resulted in an increased
performance on the 6-minute walk distance test (mean
difference=111 m, 95% confidence
interval=39–183, p=0.003) and a non-significant
trend (mean
difference=1.97 ml∙kg−1∙min−1,
95% confidence interval=−0.12–4.06,
p=0.065) for improvement in peak oxygen uptake. Furthermore, left
ventricular ejection fraction was preserved after exercise interventions
(mean difference=0.29%, 95% confidence
interval=−1.41–1.99, p=0.738). In summary,
exercise interventions might exert a cardioprotective effect in childhood
cancer survivors by improving – or attenuating the decline of
– physical capacity and cardiovascular function. Further studies,
particularly randomized controlled trials, are needed to confirm these
benefits.
Early Rupture of a Giant Basilar Artery Aneurysm after LEO Stenting: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Strange Fabio , Kienzler Jenny , Muehleisen Beda , Diepers Michael , Fandino Javier , Remonda Luca , Marbacher Serge
Published: January 2020

Background Advances in the endovascular armamentarium, such as flow diversion and stenting devices, provide treatment options for posterior circulation intracranial aneurysms (IAs) with complex angioarchitecture. Delayed IA rupture following flow diversion is a rare but often fatal complication. Giant IAs likely pose a higher risk because of the extensive clot formation and its suspected detrimental effect on the aneurysmal wall. However, mechanisms that lead to delayed rupture are poorly understood, and few cases provide thorough documentation of macroscopic and histologic findings.

Clinical Presentation After our 60-year-old patient with a giant basilar aneurysm underwent treatment with a LEO stent, the postoperative clinical course remained uneventful until day 4 when he suffered an unexpected fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Autopsy demonstrated extensive hemorrhage, large intraluminal thrombus, and ruptured IA wall. The aneurysm, which ruptured linearly, was completely filled with a clot that seemed to have outgrown the thin aneurysm wall. Histologic specimens revealed thinning and degenerative changes of the aneurysm's wall, and sparse neutrophilic and histiocytic inflammatory infiltrate adjacent to the rupture site, a finding consistent with recently published cases of IA rupture.

Conclusions Our case report highlighting the clinical course and autopsy findings of a fatal SAH shortly after stenting this giant basilar artery aneurysm adds to the few previously reported fatal cases of IA rupture after endovascular treatment. Our macroscopic and histologic findings suggested that multimodal changes of inflammation, wall sheer tress (mechanical), and recanalization were involved.
Continuous Dynamic Mapping to Identify the Corticospinal Tract in Motor Eloquent Brain Tumors: An Update
Authors: Seidel Kathleen , Schucht Philippe , Beck Jürgen , Raabe Andreas
Published: January 2020

Objective We recently developed a new subcortical mapping technique based on the concept of stimulating the tissue at the site of and synchronously with resection. Our hypothesis was that instead of performing resection and mapping sequentially, a synchronized resection and mapping could potentially improve deficit rates.

Methods We report our 5-year series of patients who prospectively underwent tumor surgery adjacent to the corticospinal tract (CST) (defined as < 1 cm using diffusion tension imaging and fiber tracking) with simultaneous subcortical short train cathodal monopolar mapping, equipped with a new acoustic motor evoked potential (MEP) alarm. Continuous (temporal coverage) and dynamic (spatial coverage) mapping was realized technically by integrating the mapping probe at the tip of a new suction device. Motor function was assessed using the Medical Research Council scale (from M1 to M5) 1 day after surgery, at discharge, and at 3 months.

Results Technically, the method was successful in all 182 cases. The lowest individual motor thresholds reached during resection were > 10 mA, n = 56; 6–10 mA, n = 31; 4–5 mA, n = 37; and 1–3 mA, n = 58. At 3 months, six patients (3%) had a persisting postoperative motor deficit that was caused by direct mechanical injury in three of these patients (1.7%).

Conclusions Continuous dynamic mapping was found to be a feasible and ergonomic technique for localizing the exact site of the CST and distance to the motor fibers. This new technique may improve the safety of motor eloquent tumor surgery.
Dual Pathologies: Pial Arteriovenous Fistula in Combination with an Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Jannelli Gianpaolo , Joswig Holger , Bernava Gianmarco , Meling Torstein R. , Bijlenga Philippe
Published: January 2020

Background A pial arteriovenous fistula (PAVF) is a rare neurovascular pathology consisting of a direct connection between one or more arterial feeders and a single venous channel. A PAVF was previously considered a subtype of an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). In the current literature these are distinguished as two independent entities with different clinical, physiopathologic, and structural characteristics. We report a case of a surgically treated 37-year-old woman with an extremely rare combination of an unruptured PAVF and AVM.

Patient The AVM was mainly supplied by feeders of the middle cerebral artery and drained into the sigmoid sinus via an abnormally dilated and tortuous vein. Following its resection, intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in the hybrid operating room revealed the presence of a PAVF that had not been noted during the preoperative planning. Hence the PAVF was completely disconnected as confirmed by DSA again.

Conclusion This is the second reported case of an AVM-associated PAVF. Without the intraoperative DSA in the hybrid operating room, this unusual complex cerebrovascular entity would likely have been missed.
Hot Water Epilepsy
Authors: Torres Alcy R. , Aquino-Cabrera Marleny , Mohanty Mugdha
Published: January 2020

Hot water epilepsy (HWE) is a type of reflex epilepsy in which seizures are precipitated by pouring water at a higher temperature during bathing onto the head or body. The etiology is still not known and is presumably both genetic and environmental. Focal seizures with impaired awareness are the most common seizure types and generalized tonic-clonic seizures are the second common type of seizures. The diagnosis is clinical. Interictal electroencephalography and neuroimaging are usually normal. Treatment consists of avoidance of the triggering factor. However, in cases where this option is not effective, antiepileptics can be used. Clobazam appears to be the most effective therapy, particularly for pure HWE. This is an up-to-date review of the literature.
Do We Need Chemoprophylaxis to Prevent Venous Thromboembolism following Medial Open-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy?
Authors: Kim Kang-Il , Kim Gi Beom , Lee Myeong Gu , Song Sang Jun
Published: January 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate the overall incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and to assess the efficacy of chemoprophylaxis to prevent VTE following medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) in Asian patients. A total of 133 patients who consecutively underwent MOWHTO for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis with varus deformity were enrolled. All patients underwent preoperative ultrasonography and computed tomography venography on postoperative day 5 to detect deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Patients were divided into two groups: chemoprophylaxis group included patients (n = 66) who received 2.5 mg fondaparinux for 5 days postoperatively, whereas control group comprised patients (n = 67) who received placebo (67 patients). We evaluated the efficacy and safety outcomes of the treatment. We also assessed the predisposing factors that may affect the occurrence of VTE. The incidence of overall DVT was 14.9% in the control group and 10.6% in the chemoprophylaxis group (p > 0.05). Proximal DVT occurred in one patient in the control group. There was no symptomatic DVT or pulmonary embolism in either group. The patients with DVT had significantly higher mean body mass index (BMI) than the patients without DVT. Multivariate logistic regression showed BMI > 30 kg/m2 that was significantly correlated with the development of DVT (odds ratio = 0.8; p = 0.017). There were no cases of major bleeding; however, minor bleeding episodes occurred in four patients in the chemoprophylaxis group. The current study showed that the overall incidence of VTE following MOWHTO was low in Asian patients even without chemoprophylaxis. Therefore, routine chemoprophylaxis following MOWHTO seems to be not necessary in a population with low-VTE incidence. However, selective chemoprophylaxis should be considered in patients with BMI > 30 kg/m2.
Radiographic Evaluation of Medial Opening-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy Using a New Internal Fixator with a Wedge-Shaped Spacer Block
Authors: Okimura Shinichiro , Teramoto Atsushi , Watanabe Kota , Nuka Satoshi , Kamiya Tomoaki , Yamashita Toshihiko
Published: January 2020

We developed a new internal fixator: a rigid T-shaped plate with locking screws and wedge-shaped spacer block for high tibial osteotomy. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the radiographic outcome of opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) using this new internal fixator. Sixty OWHTOs were performed in patients with medial compartment osteoarthritis and varus deformity (28 males and 23 females). Patients' mean age was 60.4 years. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were obtained. The paired t-test was used to evaluate the differences over time with respect to radiographic variables. Union of the osteotomy gap was obtained in all patients, and no implant breakage was found. On anterior–posterior radiographs, a significant difference was observed (p < 0.01) between the preoperative and postoperative mean values of femorotibial angles (179.6 ± 3.2 vs. 170.6 ± 2.5 degrees), weight-bearing line ratios (23.8 ± 13.5 vs. 60.5 ± 11.5%), anatomical medial proximal tibial angles (84.8 ± 2.5 vs. 91.0 ± 2.6 degrees), and joint line coverage angles (3.6 ± 2.0 vs. 2.4 ± 1.7 degrees). On lateral radiographs, posterior tibial slopes were 11.5 ± 3.9 degrees preoperatively and 12.2 ± 4.0 degrees postoperatively (p < 0.01), and Insall–Salvati ratios were 1.04 ± 0.12 preoperatively and 1.06 ± 0.13 postoperatively (p = 0.24). Performing OWHTO using a new internal fixator with a wedge-shaped spacer achieves adequate correction of lower limb alignment without implant-related complications. This is a Level IV, case series study.
Posttraumatic Rupture of Branch Pseudoaneurysm of Deep Femoral artery: A Rare Case
Authors: Prasad Rajendra , Luthra Luv , Maruthu Adharsh
Published: January 2020

Introduction Traumatic pseudoaneurysms of deep femoral artery (DFA) are usually seen secondary to sports injuries, postendovascular procedures, trauma to thigh, or after orthopaedic interventions for femur fractures. They usually present as either a pulsatile mass or even as thigh compartment syndrome if not diagnosed early.

Case Report We present a case of a 65-year-old male who was referred for thigh swelling with severe anemia. On angiographic evaluation, patient was diagnosed to have pseudoaneurysm of DFA branch with hematoma in the thigh. Patient underwent an emergency surgery in view of hemodyanamic instability and ligation of ruptured DFA branch pseudoaneurysm.

Conclusion Pseudoaneurysms of the DFA are rare entity and can be asymptomatic or may present with active bleeding in the compartment on rupture. Both surgical and endovascular treatments are available options and mainly depend on the hemodyanamic condition of the patient.
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis followed by Optic Neuritis: A Rare Syndrome of Uncertain Treatment and Prognosis
Authors: Serra Maria , Presicci Anna , Fucci Martina , Margari Mariella , Palumbi Roberto , Peschechera Antonia , Margari Lucia
Published: January 2020

Aim Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis followed by optic neuritis (ADEM-ON), first described in 2013, is a rare demyelinating syndrome, typical of the pediatric age. We conducted a mini review of the existing literature, focusing on clinical, laboratory, radiological, therapeutic, and prognostic aspects in order to improve the identification of new cases.

Methods We searched PubMed and Cochrane Library for studies on ADEM-ON between 2013 and 2018.

Results Examination of the reported cases (three case reports and eight observational studies) established the following features. Time between ADEM and ON is highly variable. Almost all patients show antimyelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-abs) seropositivity. High-dose intravenous steroid and plasmapheresis efficacy is reported for the acute phase; oral prednisone and other maintenance drugs may be useful in avoiding relapses. The clinical history may lead to a complete recovery but also to residual deficits.

Conclusion MOG-abs detection strongly supports ADEM-ON diagnosis, confirming this entity as part of MOG-abs spectrum disorder. Owing to the very small number of cases so far reported, predicting clinical evolution is very difficult.
Recurrent Dystonic Crisis and Rhabdomyolysis Treated with Dantrolene in Two Patients with Aromatic L-Amino Acid Decarboxylase Deficiency
Authors: Micallef J. , Stockler-Ipsiroglu S. , van Karnebeek C.D. , Salvarinova-Zivkovic R. , Horvath G.
Published: January 2020

Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency is a rare, autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism in which several neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine are deficient. Symptoms typically appear in the first year of life and include oculogyric crises and dystonia, hypotonia, and global developmental delay. Dystonia is of particular concern as a dystonic storm can ensue leading to rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis can become life-threating and therefore its recognition and prompt management is of significant importance. Here we present two cases of patients with AADC deficiency and a history of dystonic crisis causing rhabdomyolysis. We hypothesize that in addition to the hypodopaminergic, a hypercholinergic state is contributing to the pathophysiology of dystonia in AADC deficiency, as well as to the associated rhabdomyolysis. We were able to prevent rhabdomyolysis in both patients with using Dantrolene and we suggest using a trial of this medication in cases of sustained dystonic crisis in AADC deficiency patients.
Induction Therapy Prior to Surgical Resection for Patients Presenting with Locally Advanced Esthesioneuroblastoma
Authors: Miller Kevin C. , Marinelli John P. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Chintakuntlawar Ashish V. , Foote Robert L. , Link Michael J. , Choby Garret , Van Gompel Jamie J.
Published: January 2020

Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare olfactory malignancy that can present with locally advanced disease. At our institution, patients with ENB in whom the treating surgeon believes that a margin-negative resection is initially not achievable are selected to undergo induction with chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy prior to surgery. In a retrospective review of 61 patient records, we identified six patients (10%) treated with this approach. Five of six patients (83%) went on to definitive surgery. Prior to surgery, three of five patients (60%) had a partial response after induction therapy, whereas two of five (40%) had stable disease. Microscopically margin-negative resection was achieved in four of five (80%) of the patients who went on to surgery, while one patient had negative margins on frozen section but microscopically positive margins on permanent section. Three of five patients (60%) recurred after surgery; two of these patients died with recurrent/metastatic ENB. In summary, induction therapy may facilitate margin-negative resection in locally advanced ENB. Given the apparent sensitivity of ENB to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, future prospective studies should investigate the optimal multidisciplinary approach to improve long-term survival in this rare disease.
Video Head Impulse Testing: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Chen Luke , Halmagyi G. Michael
Published: January 2020

Over 30 years ago, the head impulse test (HIT) was measured with search coil recordings and it provided robust evidence for a new test of vestibular function that could detect impairment of a single semicircular canal, that is, the lateral canal. Over the next two decades, the diagnostic spectrum of HIT was expanded to the testing of vertical canals, differentiation of central from peripheral vestibulopathy, and incorporation of visual interaction—the suppressed head impulse. However, HIT measurement was limited to very few specialized laboratories that were able to maintain the time-consuming and expensive operation of the scleral search coil system, which is the gold standard in eye movement recording. The video HIT (vHIT) was validated for the first time over 10 years ago, against the search coils, and its introduction into dizzy clinics worldwide has revolutionized the practice of neuro-otology. Here we review the basic physiology, practical aspects, and clinical application of the vHIT.
Bilateral Vestibular Dysfunction
Authors: Lee Sun-Uk , Kim Hyo-Jung , Kim Ji-Soo
Published: January 2020

Bilateral vestibular dysfunction (BVD) refers to hypofunction of the vestibular nerves or labyrinths on both sides. Patients with BVD present with dizziness, oscillopsia, and unsteadiness, mostly during locomotion, which worsen in darkness or on uneven ground. Although aminoglycoside ototoxicity, Meniere's disease, infection, and genetic disorders frequently cause BVD, the etiology remains undetermined in up to 50% of the patients. The diagnosis of BVD requires both symptoms and documentation of deficient vestibulo-ocular reflex function using head-impulse, bithermal caloric, and rotatory chair tests. Since various neurologic and systemic disorders may present with BVD, clinicians should be cautious not to overlook the symptoms and signs of central nervous system and systemic involvements. Vestibular rehabilitation, application of vibrotactile and auditory feedbacks, and vestibular prosthesis can aid the patients with BVD along with the correction of the underlying causes.
Uncovering the failure of Agile framework implementation using SSM-based action research
Authors: Suryaatmaja Kevin , Wibisono Dermawan , Ghazali Achmad , Fitriati Rachma
Published: January 2020

It is undeniable that the Agile software development (SD) framework has been commonly used in information technology projects. However, many of the early adopters failed to implement it properly. Some researchers had proposed a solution by using the adaptation framework as a support, but they cannot clearly explain its development. Furthermore, the correlation between adaptation framework and problem solving is dubious. This study reviews and discusses the literature and empirical studies on the failure of Agile SD implementation by revisiting the supporting framework that used to comprehend the issues in Agile SD implementation. A comparative approach is used to review the literature available in academic databases, such as ProQuest, EBSCO, IEEE, and Scopus, to ensure research originality and novelty. By filtering 87 papers that met the initial criteria, only 4 researchers focused on the area of knowledge management and used the learning process as a supporting framework in Agile SD implementation. However, they did not clearly explain the development of the framework for Agile SD. The author’s initial research on a corporation reveals the failure of Agile SD implementation. Soft systems methodology (SSM)-based action research (AR) proposed to identify the real issues in Agile SD implementation. SSM-based AR provides a solution by clarifying the development of a framework using tacit and explicit knowledge to validate the development process. This study can help practitioners and academics understand the process of Agile SD implementation by early adopters who still need assistance with its application. This study is the first to explore Agile SD implementation in a corporation using the experience-based approach, contributing to knowledge improvement. It contributes to the scholarly literature by presenting concepts that combine human-centric aspects and knowledge management to improve the learning in the organization.
Development of a reactor for the in situ monitoring of 2D materials growth on liquid metal catalysts, using synchrotron x-ray scattering, Raman spectroscopy, and optical microscopy
Authors: Saedi Mehdi , de Voogd J. M. , Sjardin A. , Manikas A. , Galiotis C. , Jankowski M. , Renaud G. , La Porta F. , Konovalov O. , van Baarle G. J. C. , Groot I. M. N.
Published: January 2020

Liquid metal catalysts (LMCats) (e.g., molten copper) can provide a new mass-production method for two-dimensional materials (2DMs) (e.g., graphene) with significantly higher quality and speed and lower energy and material consumption. To reach such technological excellence, the physicochemical properties of LMCats and the growth mechanisms of 2DMs on LMCats should be investigated. Here, we report the development of a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor which allows the investigation of ongoing chemical reactions on the surface of a molten metal at elevated temperatures and under reactive conditions. The surface of the molten metal is monitored simultaneously using synchrotron x-ray scattering, Raman spectroscopy, and optical microscopy, thereby providing complementary information about the atomic structure and chemical state of the surface. To enable in situ characterization on a molten substrate at high temperatures (e.g., ∼1370 K for copper), the optical and x-ray windows need to be protected from the evaporating LMCat, reaction products, and intense heat. This has been achieved by creating specific gas-flow patterns inside the reactor. The optimized design of the reactor has been achieved using multiphysics COMSOL simulations, which take into account the heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and transport of LMCat vapor inside the reactor. The setup has been successfully tested and is currently used to investigate the CVD growth of graphene on the surface of molten copper under pressures ranging from medium vacuum up to atmospheric pressure.
Using critical curves to compute master stability islands for amplitude death in networks of delay-coupled oscillators
Authors: Huddy Stanley R.
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we present a method to compute master stability islands (MSIs) for amplitude death in networks of delay-coupled oscillators using critical curves. We first demonstrate how critical curves can be used to compute boundaries and contours of MSIs in delay-coupling parameter space and then provide a general study on the effects of the oscillator dynamics and network topology on the number, size, and contour types of all MSIs. We find that the oscillator dynamics can be used to determine the number and size of MSIs and that there are six possible contour types that depend on the choice of oscillator dynamics and the network topology. We introduce contour sequences and use these sequences to study the contours of all MSIs. Finally, we provide example MSIs for several classical nonlinear systems including the van der Pol system, the Rucklidge system, and the Rössler system.
A novel wireless sample temperature control system for field ion, field electron, and atom probe techniques
Authors: Winkler Philipp , Zeininger Johannes , Raab Maximilian , Rupprechter Günther , Suchorski Yuri
Published: January 2020

A novel sample temperature control system for field ion microscopy (FIM), field electron microscopy (FEM), and atom probe techniques based on wireless data transmission was designed, built, and applied for FIM and FEM studies of surface reactions. The system solves the longstanding problem of the temperature control of micrometer- to nanometer-sized samples during the operation in field emission based techniques. The new system can also be used for other applications requiring the specimen to be under high electric potential (tens of kilovolts or even higher). The chosen case studies of nanocatalysis demonstrate the capabilities and superior performance of the new temperature control system.
Non-monotonic response of a sheared magnetic liquid crystal to a continuously increasing external field
Authors: H. Siboni Nima , Shrivastav Gaurav P. , Klapp Sabine H. L.
Published: January 2020

Utilizing molecular dynamics simulations, we report a nonmonotonic dependence of the shear stress on the strength of a continuously increasing (i.e., time-varying) external magnetic field (H) in a liquid-crystalline mixture of magnetic and nonmagnetic anisotropic particles. We relate the origin of this nonmonotonicity of the transient dynamics to the competing effects of particle alignment along the shear-induced direction, on the one hand, and the magnetic field direction, on the other hand. To isolate the role of these competing effects, we consider a two-component mixture composed of particles with effectively identical steric interactions, where the orientations of a small fraction, i.e., the magnetic ones, are coupled to the external magnetic field. By increasing H from zero, the orientations of the magnetic particles show a Fréederickz-like transition and eventually start deviating from the shear-induced orientation, leading to an increase in shear stress. Upon further increase of H, a demixing of the magnetic particles from the nonmagnetic ones occurs, which leads to a drop in shear stress, hence creating a nonmonotonic response to H. Unlike the equilibrium demixing phenomena reported in previous studies, the demixing observed here is neither due to size-polydispersity nor due to a wall-induced nematic transition. Based on a simplified Onsager analysis, we rather argue that it occurs solely due to packing entropy of particles with different shear- or magnetic-field-induced orientations.
Large anomalous Hall effect in L12-ordered antiferromagnetic Mn3Ir thin films
Authors: Iwaki Hiroyuki , Kimata Motoi , Ikebuchi Tetsuya , Kobayashi Yuta , Oda Kent , Shiota Yoichi , Ono Teruo , Moriyama Takahiro
Published: January 2020

Antiferromagnets having negligible net magnetization but a topologically nontrivial spin structure are a good testbed for investigating the intrinsic anomalous Hall effect (AHE). In this Letter, we explore L12-ordered Mn3Ir thin films, which are one of the noncollinear antiferromagnets predicted to exhibit the intrinsic AHE due to their topologically nontrivial spin structure. The anomalous Hall conductivity as large as σAHE = 40 Ω−1 cm−1 was observed at R.T. This value can be translated to the anomalous Hall conductivity per net magnetization M as |σAHE/M| = 0.6 V−1, which is much larger compared to those for general ferromagnetic materials. We also show that σAHE depends on the crystallinity of Mn3Ir as well as the chemical order parameter S characterizing a content of the L12 phase. Our results experimentally verify that L12-ordered Mn3Ir thin films exhibit the topologically originated AHE.
Non-contact and real-time measurement of heart rate and heart rate variability using microwave reflectometry
Authors: Mase A. , Kogi Y. , Maruyama T. , Tokuzawa T. , Sakai F. , Kunugita M. , Koike T. , Hasegawa H.
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we present noncontact and noninvasive vital signal detection using a microwave reflectometer. Elimination of noise components due to random movement of human subjects has been the biggest issue for microwave measurement. Appropriate filtering, amplitude control of the reflectometer signal, and cross correlation among multiple reflectometers together with new algorithms have enabled motion artifact elimination, signal peak detection, and data processing for various parameters related to heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV). We focus here on the real time measurements of instantaneous HR and HRV for practical use. The evaluation by microwave reflectometry is completely noninvasive and feasible even through clothing, which is extremely effective for health maintenance in daily life as well as for preventing sudden death related to, for example, coronary heart disease and ventricular arrhythmia.