bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills in Endoscopy (GEARS-E): objective assessment tool for master and slave transluminal endoscopic robot
Authors: Takeshita Nobuyoshi , Phee Soo Jay , Chiu Philip WaiYan , Ho Khek Yu
Published: December 2018

Background and study aims The Master and Slave Transluminal Endoscopic Robot (MASTER) is a novel robotic endosurgical system with two operating arms that offer multiple degrees of freedom. We developed a new assessment tool, the Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills in Endoscopy (GEARS-E), derived from existing tools in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, and evaluated its utility in the performance of procedures using MASTER.

Methods This was a pilot study conducted in vivo and ex vivo on animals. Three operators (Novice-1, Novice-2 and Expert) performed a total of five endoscopic submucosal dissections (ESD) using MASTER. Novice operators had no MASTER experience and the expert had previously performed eight MASTER ESDs. Operator performance was assessed by four independent evaluators using GEARS-E, which has a maximum score of 25 for five domains representing various skill-related variables (depth perception, bimanual dexterity, efficiency, tissue handling and autonomy).

Results The mean global rating scores for Novice-1 first attempt, Novice-1 second attempt, Novice-2 first attempt, Novice-2 second attempt and Expertʼs cases were 13.0, 16.0, 13.3, 15.5, and 21.5, respectively. The mean scores of each of the five domains were statistically higher for the second attempts compared to the first attempts for both Novice-1 and Novice-2. The mean scores of each of the five domains for the Expertʼs case were consistently higher than those for the two novice operators in both their first and second attempts.

Conclusion Results using GEARS-E showed correlations between surgical experience and MASTER ESD. As an assessment tool for evaluation of surgical skills, GEARS-E has great potential for application in MASTER procedures.
Lebensqualität mit Stimmprothese nach totaler
Laryngektomie
Authors: Seidel David Ulrich
Published: December 2018

Patel RS et al. Tracheoesophageal Prosthesis Use Is Associated With Improved
Overall Quality of Life in Veterans With Laryngeal Cancer. Ann Otol Rhinol
Laryngol 2018; 127: 421–428

Etwa 20 000 Menschen erkranken jährlich an einem Larynxkarzinom (LASCC) in den
USA. Die totale Laryngektomie gilt als Standard in der Behandlung, aber die
onkologischen und funktionellen Ergebnisse sind wenig erforscht.
Amerikanische Chirurgen haben den Langzeiteffekt der tracheoösophagealen
Punktion und Einsetzung einer Stimmprothese auf die Lebensqualität bei
Veteranen untersucht.
Erkrankungen der Sprache und des Sprechens im
Alter
Authors: Olthoff Arno
Published: December 2018

Die häufigsten Ursachen für erworbene Erkrankungen der Sprache und des Sprechens
sind Schlaganfälle und neurodegenerative Erkrankungen. Für beide Ursachen liegt
eine stark zunehmende Prävalenz ab dem 65. Lebensjahr vor. Die gemeinsamen
Risikofaktoren sind Adipositas, Bluthochdruck und Diabetes mellitus. Die Aphasie
stellt den Oberbegriff für die erworbenen Sprachstörungen dar, deren
Differenzierung sowohl vor dem Hintergrund der Diagnostik als auch der Therapie
und Prognose bedeutsam ist. Die Primäre Progressive Aphasie (PPA) beruht auf
Degenerationen kortikaler Areale und stellt eine Erweiterung der bisherigen
Klassifikation in Broca- und Wernicke-Aphasien dar, deren häufigste Ursache
zerebrovaskuläre Ereignisse sind. Dysarthrien und Dysarthrophonien bezeichnen
Störungen der Artikulation und Stimmgebung, die sowohl aufgrund kortikaler
Läsionen als auch auf dem Boden extrapyramidaler Erkrankungen oder durch
Erkrankungen des Klein- und Mittelhirns entstehen können. Hierbei können
vaskuläre Ereignisse oder Neurodegeneration ursächlich sein. Therapeutische
Ansätze sind stark vom Charakter der Erkrankung (progressiv oder regressiv)
abhängig.
Transkranielle Gleichstromstimulation (tDCS) bei Zwangsstörung: Eine neue Therapieoption?
Authors: Palm Ulrich , Brunelin Jérôme , Wulf Linda , Mondino Marine , Brunoni Andre R. , Padberg Frank
Published: December 2018

Trotz der Fortschritte in Psychopharmakologie und etablierter psychotherapeutischer Interventionen respondieren mehr als 40 % der Patienten mit Zwangsstörung nicht auf konventionelle Behandlungsversuche. Seit einigen Jahren gewinnen nicht-invasive Hirnstimulationsverfahren Bedeutung in der Behandlung psychiatrischer Erkrankungen. Die transkranielle Gleichstromstimulation (transcranial direct current stimulation – tDCS), ein nicht-invasives Hirnstimulationsverfahren mit Applikation eines niedrigen konstanten Gleichstroms zur Modulation neuronaler Netzwerkstrukturen, wird seit einiger Zeit als neues therapeutisches Verfahren beforscht, um Symptome behandlungsresistenter Zwangsstörungen zu verbessern. Ziel dieser Übersichtarbeit ist ein umfassender Überblick über den aktuellen Stand der Literatur zu diesem Thema sowie ein Ausblick auf zukünftige Anwendung der tDCS bei Zwangsstörungen. Die Suche in der NIH-Datenbank pubmed und eine erweitere manuelle Suche ergab eine bislang geringe Zahl von neun Fallberichten, drei offenen Studien und einer randomisierten Studie mit zwei aktiven Bedingungen. Plazebokontrollierte Studien liegen nicht vor. Eine Gesamtzahl von 78 Patienten erhielt aktive tDCS mit einer Vielzahl unterschiedlicher Elektrodenplatzierungen, wobei das Hauptziel der dorsolaterale präfrontale Kortex, der orbitofrontale Kortex oder (prä-)supplementär-motorische Areale waren. Trotz der Heterogenität der Stimulationsbedingungen zeigen die berichteten Fälle nicht nur eine Verbesserung von Zwangssymptomen, sondern auch von komorbiden Depressionen und Angststörungen bei Patienten mit therapieresistenter Zwangsstörung. Einschränkend ist festzuhalten, dass keine plazebokontrollierten Studien vorliegen und die bisherigen Resultate einer Bestätigung bedürfen.
Prenatal Diagnosis and Intrapartum Management of Congenital Ranula
Authors: Ercan Fedi , Sarikaya Muslum , Toprak Erzat , Findik Sidika , Arbag Hamdi , Acar Ali
Published: December 2018

A foetal sublingual cystic lesion was diagnosed by routine prenatal ultrasonography at 27 weeks of gestation. Foetal growth and amniotic fluid volume were normal. An ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure was performed, and the cyst was aspirated to allow breathing during planned Caesarean section. The cyst was totally excised when the newborn was 60 days old, and histopathological examination revealed a mucous cyst of the mouth floor.
Rückkehr in das Erwerbsleben nach kurativer Therapie von
Kopf-Hals-Karzinomen
Authors: Zebralla Veit , Kaminski Karin , Wichmann Gunnar , Dietz Andreas , Wiegand Susanne
Published: December 2018

Hintergrund Die Reintegration von Tumorpatienten in die Erwerbsfähigkeit
ist ein bedeutender sozialer und ökonomischer Faktor. Für maligne
Kopf-Hals-Tumoren (KHT) sind hierzu, verglichen mit anderen Tumorentitäten,
bislang wenige Daten zusammengetragen und veröffentlicht worden.

Material und Methoden In einer selektiven Literaturrecherche wurden
Originalarbeiten zwischen 1997 und 2018 zum Thema „Rückkehr in das Erwerbsleben
nach Therapie von Kopf-Hals-Karzinomen“ eingeschlossen und analysiert.

Ergebnisse Es konnten 18 Originalarbeiten zum Thema berufliche
Reintegration nach KHT identifiziert werden. Posttherapeutisch scheiden 10–52 %
der vormals berufstätigen Patienten aus dem Berufsleben aus. Hinsichtlich der
Tumorlokalisation, der Therapiemodalität und des Geschlechts als Prädiktoren der
Rückkehr ins Erwerbsleben zeigte sich in den Studien ein inhomogenes Bild. Es
scheinen Alter, sozioökonomischer Status, therapiebedingte Einschränkungen
(z. B. Fatigue, Depression) und Nebenerkrankungen einen signifikanten Einfluss
auf die berufliche Wiedereingliederung zu haben. Rehabilitationsmaßnahmen
bewirken positive Effekte.

Schlussfolgerungen Patienten mit KHT haben ein hohes Risiko aus dem
Berufsleben auszuscheiden. Die wenigen bisher zum Thema publizierten Studien
sind wegen heterogener Methodik, den uneinheitlichen Messzeitpunkten und
inhomogener Verteilung untersuchter Tumorlokalisationen nur schwer miteinander
vergleichbar. Es zeigt sich weiterhin ein unzureichend adressierter
Forschungsbedarf, um evidenzbasierte Konzepte zur Förderung der beruflichen
Rehabilitation von KHT-Patienten entwickeln zu können
Geburtshilfliche Notfälle – eine neue Serie zum Neuen Jahr
Authors: de Sousa Manuela
Published: December 2018

Liebe Leserinnen und Leser,

vielleicht befinden Sie sich in der Ausbildung zum Facharzt für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe oder erinnern sich noch gut daran. Ein großer Anteil der Weiterbildung findet in einer Klinik statt, und man fürchtet den ersten Dienst. Man steht am Kreißbett und ist stets respektvoll gespannt, geburtshilfliche Notfälle rechtzeitig zu erkennen und ihnen möglichst entspannt zu begegnen.
Weizenunverträglichkeiten – Hype oder Herausforderung?
Authors: Bischoff Stephan , Zimmermann Julia
Published: December 2018

Die Weizenallergie, die Zöliakie und die Nicht-Zöliakie-Nicht-Allergie-Weizensensitivität (Non-celiac-wheat sensitivity; NCWS) werden als Weizenunverträglichkeiten zusammengefasst. Trotz unterschiedlicher Pathomechanismen äußern sich alle 3 Entitäten durch zum Teil überlappende Symptome. Die Weizenallergie ist weltweit die häufigste Nahrungsmittelallergie bei Erwachsenen und kann entweder IgE- oder nicht-IgE-vermittelt auftreten. Sie ist gegen verschiedene Weizenproteine gerichtet, weshalb die Betroffenen eine lebenslange weizenfreie Therapie einhalten müssen. Auch glutenfreie Lebensmittel sollten aufgrund eventuell vorhandener, glutenfreier Weizenstärke gemieden werden.

Zöliakie, eine glutensensitive Enteropathie, tritt fast ausschließlich bei genetisch disponierten Individuen auf. An der Pathogenese sind sowohl das angeborene als auch das adaptive Immunsystem beteiligt. Durch die Entstehung von Antikörpern gegen ein körpereigenes Enzym, die Gewebstransglutaminase, besitzt diese Krankheit zusätzlich eine autoimmune Komponente. Unter Einhaltung einer strikt glutenfreien Diät (< 10 mg Gluten pro Tag) verbessern sich bei den meisten Patienten die Symptome rasch.

Während die Mechanismen der Weizenallergie und der Zöliakie bereits eingehend untersucht wurden, besteht noch Unklarheit bezüglich der NCWS. Diese relativ neue Krankheitsentität kann bisher nur mittels Ausschlussdiagnose von Weizenallergie und Zöliakie festgestellt werden. Obwohl die genauen Auslöser dieser Krankheit noch nicht identifiziert sind, es werden FODMAPS, Gluten und α-Amylase-Trypsin-Inhibitoren diskutiert, stellt eine glutenfreie Ernährung die einzig mögliche Therapie dar.

Als Ursache für die Zunahme von Getreideunverträglichkeiten werden Veränderungen bezüglich der Hygienemaßnahmen, der Getreidegenetik, der Herstellungsverfahren für Brot und Backwaren, der Ernährungsweise, und schließlich eine intensiver verwendete Diagnostik diskutiert.
Hyperplastic polyps and nonadvanced adenomas, but not advanced polypoid lesions, are detected more frequently in the presence of colonic diverticula during screening colonoscopies
Authors: Schramm Christoph , Kütting Fabian , Lang Sonja , Kasper Philipp , Chon Seung-Hun , Steffen Hans-Michael
Published: December 2018

Hintergrund Die bisher veröffentlichte Studienlage zur Assoziation von Kolondivertikeln und kolorektalen Polypen einschließlich des kolorektalen Karzinoms (KRK) ist konträr. Ziel der Studie war es, die Assoziation für sämtliche relevanten histologischen Polypensubtypen, d. h. hyperplastische Polypen (HP), sessil und traditionell serratierte Adenome (SSA und TSA), klinisch relevante serratierte Polypen (krSP), tubuläre Adenome und fortgeschrittene Adenome in einer ausschließlichen Vorsorgekoloskopie-Kohorte zu untersuchen.

Material und Methoden Wir führten eine retrospektive Analyse von Personen ≥ 50 Jahre und einem durchschnittlichen Risiko für ein KRK, die eine Vorsorgekoloskopie zwischen dem 01.01.2012 und dem 14.12.2016 in einer Universitätsklinik und 6 gastroenterologischen Schwerpunktpraxen erhalten haben, durch. Ausschlusskriterien waren Erkrankungen mit einem erhöhten KRK-Risiko (z. B. chronisch-entzündliche Darmerkrankungen, KRK in der Vorgeschichte, hereditäre Karzinomsyndrome), eine vorherige Koloskopie und eine unvollständige Untersuchung.

Ergebnisse 4196 Koloskopien wurden eingeschlossen (mittleres Alter 63,4 Jahre, Standardabweichung ± 7,6 Jahre, 48,6 %). Bei Vorliegen von Divertikeln zeigten sich nach Adjustierung für Alter und Geschlecht erhöhte Odds-Ratios (OR) für den Nachweis von HP im gesamten (OR 1,340, 95 %-Konfidenzintervall 1,133 – 1,584, p = 0,001) und im distalen Kolon (OR 1,459, 95 %-KI 1,208 – 1,763, p < 0,001) sowie von tubulären Adenomen im distalen Kolon (OR 1,355, 95 %-KI 1,144 – 1,604, p < 0,001). Die mittlere Polypenanzahl pro Untersuchung mit dem Nachweis von mindestens einem Polypensubtypen unterschied sich nicht zwischen beiden Gruppen.

Schlussfolgerung Die Untersucher sollten beim Vorliegen einer Divertikulose wachsam für den Nachweis von vor allem distal gelegenen Adenomen sein.
Sexualität der Vielfalt? Eine empirische Untersuchung
niedersächsischer Biologiebücher
Authors: Leitz Stephanie , Signerski-Krieger Jörg
Published: December 2018

Einleitung: Der Landtagsbeschluss in Niedersachsen vom 15.12.2014 fordert,
Schule müsse bei der Förderung der Persönlichkeitsentwicklung von Kindern und
Jugendlichen die Vielfalt sexueller und geschlechtlicher Identitäten (Homo-,
Bi-, Trans- und Intersexualität) berücksichtigen. Die Schulbuchverlage wurden
aufgefordert, die Schulbücher für das Land Niedersachen dieser Zielsetzung
folgend zu überarbeiten.

Forschungsziele: Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war es, die Umsetzung der
veränderten Anforderungen exemplarisch anhand von zwei Schulbuchreihen des
Faches Biologie zu analysieren.

Methoden: Die Schulbücher wurden anhand einer strukturierenden
qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse nach Mayring
(2002) untersucht und verglichen.

Ergebnisse: Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass die Umsetzung der Beschlüsse
des Niedersächsischen Landtags partiell erfolgt ist. Eine Unterstützung von
Jugendlichen in der Entwicklung ihrer sexuellen und geschlechtlichen Identität
findet teilweise statt, jedoch sind die Ergebnisse qualitativ sehr
unterschiedlich: Während die Schulbuchtexte in Bezug auf verschiedene Formen
sexueller Orientierung zunehmend inklusiver verfasst wurden, ist die Darstellung
von Intergeschlechtlichkeit und Transidentität in den beiden untersuchten
aktuellen Schulbüchern knapp gehalten, teilweise fehlerhaft oder steht im
Widerspruch zu anderen Teilen der Schulbuchtexte.

Schlussfolgerung: Die Ergebnisse weisen darauf hin, dass die Vielfalt
sexueller und geschlechtlicher Identitäten bisher in Schulbüchern nur
unzureichend abgebildet ist.
Glutenfrei = Problemfrei?
Authors: Wünsche Julia , Lambert Christine , Biesalski Hans , Gola Ute
Published: December 2018

Immer mehr Menschen, die nicht an Zöliakie erkrankt sind, ernähren sich glutenfrei. Neben ungeklärten abdominellen Symptomen sind auch andere Beschwerden (z. B. Müdigkeit, Hautveränderungen, Gelenkbeschwerden) Gründe für eine gluten- bzw. weizenfreie Ernährung. Aber auch gesunde Personen erhoffen sich vom Glutenverzicht im Rahmen des „frei-von“-Trends einen gesundheitlichen Nutzen. Inzwischen weisen Studien auf eine mögliche Schwermetallbelastung durch eine glutenfreien Diät hin, die sich u. a. in erhöhten Arsenurinkonzentrationen und Quecksilberblutspiegeln manifestiert. Ursache hierfür ist vor allem der hohe Anteil an belastetem Reis und Reismehl in vielen glutenfreien Produkten. Als weitere negative Effekte einer glutenfreien Diät werden ein erhöhtes Herz-Kreislauf- und Typ-2-Diabetes-Risiko durch eine verringerte Ballaststoffzufuhr diskutiert.

Zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt gibt es außer bei einer Zöliakiediagnose keine weitere eindeutige Indikation für eine glutenfreie Ernährung.
Diabetestherapie bei chronischer Niereninsuffizienz
Authors: Bohnert Bernhard N. , Heni Martin
Published: December 2018

Der Diabetes mellitus ist eine der häufigsten Komorbiditäten bei Patienten mit chronischer Niereninsuffizienz, weshalb seine Therapie bei der Behandlung dieser Patienten einen vorrangigen Stellenwert einnimmt. Eine Veränderung der Pharmakokinetik antidiabetischer Medikamente erschwert die Diabetestherapie bei dieser Patientengruppe. Komplizierend kommen Veränderungen im Metabolismus wie beispielsweise eine Insulinresistenz hinzu. Patienten mit Diabetes mellitus und chronischer Niereninsuffizienz profitieren von einer optimalen und stabilen Kontrolle der Glykämie. Durch eine große Auswahl an Antidiabetika und eine möglichst individuelle Anpassung der Therapie an den Patienten können der Allgemeinzustand des Patienten entscheidend verbessert und die Prognose des Patienten positiv beeinflusst werden.
Hypervalent Iodine Chemistry as a Platform for Aerobic Oxidation Catalysis
Authors: Maity Asim , Powers David
Published: December 2018

Here, we highlight the recent development of aerobic oxidation catalysis via hypervalent I(III) and I(V) intermediates. The described chemistry intercepts reactive intermediates generated during aldehyde autoxidation to accomplish the oxidation of aryl iodides. The aerobically generated hypervalent iodine intermediates are utilized to couple an array of substrate functionalization chemistry to the reduction of O2.

1 Introduction

2 Chemistry of Aerobically Generated I(III) Intermediates

3 Chemistry of Aerobically Generated I(V) Intermediates

4 Conclusions
The Challenge of Managing the “Third-Space” in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Review of Current Concepts
Authors: Antinolfi Pierluigi , Manfreda Francesco , Placella Giacomo , Teodori Julien , Cerulli Giuliano , Caraffa Auro
Published: December 2018

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the best treatment for advanced knee osteoarthritis and it has proven to be durable and effective. Anterior knee pain (AKP) is still one of the most frequent complications after TKA, but sometimes no recognized macroscopic causes can be found. The correct treatment of patella is considered the key for a proper management of AKP. The inclusion of patellar resurfacing during TKA has been described as a potential method for the reduction of AKP. After surgeons started to resurface the patella, new complications emerged, such as component failure, instability, fracture, tendon rupture, and soft tissue impingement. Patelloplasty has been proposed as a good alternative to resurfacing but whether or not to resurface the patella is still a controversial topic in the literature. Therefore, patellofemoral joint is a complex critical aspect in TKA and choosing between the several options of treatment of patella could not be sufficient. In this review, evidence-based studies do not succeed in resolving this difficult argument. The accurate management of the so-called “third space” should include an accurate assessment of cartilage layers, balance of soft tissue, preoperative anterior tracking, and positioning of the femoral and tibial components. In fact, the selection of suitable implants and adherence to proper surgical technique are the fundamental principles for the success of TKA.
Tomografía computada y resonancia magnética de variantes normales/congénitas de apariencia quística y presentación frecuente en el encéfalo
Authors: Sartori Pablo , Sgarbi Nicolás
Published: December 2018

La presentación de una imagen de apariencia quística durante el estudio del encéfalo constituye un hallazgo incidental cada vez más frecuente, pudiendo encontrarse en el espacio extra o intraaxial. Las mismas pueden ser de naturaleza congénita o adquirida, benigna o maligna, ocupantes de espacio con desplazamiento de la línea media o simplemente presentarse sin efecto compresivo alguno. De localización supra o infratentorial, esas imágenes constituyen un desafío diagnóstico, siendo imprescindible su reconocimiento para no solicitar estudios o tratamientos innecesarios. Valoraremos las imágenes de apariencia quística más frecuentes empleando tomografía computada o imágenes de resonancia magnética.
Outcomes beyond the Third Month of Anticoagulation in Patients Aged >75 Years with a First Episode of Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Iñurrieta Amaia , Pedrajas José , Núñez Manuel , López-Jiménez Luciano , Velo-García Alba , García Juan , Lecumberri Ramón , Jiménez David , Pons Isaac , Monreal Manuel ,   the RIETE Investigators
Published: December 2018

Background The ideal duration of anticoagulant therapy in elderly patients with unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE) has not been consistently evaluated.

Methods We used the RIETE (Registro Informatizado Enfermedad TromboEmbólica) registry to compare the rate and severity of pulmonary embolism (PE) recurrences versus major bleeding beyond the third month of anticoagulation in patients >75 years with a first episode of unprovoked VTE.

Results As of September 2017, 7,830 patients were recruited: 5,058 (65%) presented with PE and 2,772 with proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT). During anticoagulant therapy beyond the third month (median, 113 days), 44 patients developed PE recurrences, 36 developed DVT recurrences, 101 had major bleeding, and 241 died (3 died of recurrent PE and 19 of bleeding). The rate of major bleeding was twofold higher than the rate of PE recurrences (2.05 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.68–2.48] vs. 0.90 [95% CI: 0.66–1.19] events per 100 patient-years) and the rate of fatal bleeding exceeded the rate of fatal PE events (0.38 [95% CI: 0.24–0.58] vs. 0.06 [95% CI: 0.02–0.16] deaths per 100 patient-years). On multivariable analysis, patients who had bled during the first 3 months (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.32; 95% CI: 1.58–11.8) or with anemia at baseline (HR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.24–2.81) were at increased risk for bleeding beyond the third month. Patients initially presenting with PE were at increased risk for PE recurrences (HR: 3.60; 95% CI: 1.28–10.1).

Conclusion Prolonging anticoagulation beyond the third month was associated with more bleeds than PE recurrences. Prior bleeding, anemia, and initial VTE presentation may help decide when to stop therapy.
Fabrication and investigation of a thermoacoustic loudspeaker based on carbon nanotube coated laser-scribed graphene
Authors: Ghasemi Yeklangi Akbar , Khadem S. E. , Darbari Sara
Published: December 2018

In spite of being known since a century ago, high operational voltage and low sound pressure level have limited wide applications of thermophones. In recent years, utilizing graphene in thermophones has been proposed as an attractive solution, which is benefiting from high electrical and thermal conductivity and inherent high surface area, to enhance the heat transfer and lowering the required electrical input power. In this paper, a laser-scribed graphene (LSG) layer is utilized to realize graphene-based thermophones, which provide a considerably high sound pressure level of about 80 dB (Pin = 0.6 W). Furthermore, a layer of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is incorporated on the prepared LSG sheets, which benefits from both randomly oriented CNTs over the surface of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sheets and suspended CNTs, which act like heat exchanger nano-fins on rGO sheets and efficient heat generators, respectively. The input voltage for CNT/LSG based thermophones is measured 7 times lower than the prepared LSG samples, in order to generate the same sound pressure level (75 dB). The achieved sound pressure, normalized to the input power, has increased about 80 dB by incorporating CNTs which entitles the proposed structure as a promising candidate for novel thermophones.
Bandwidth enhancement of inter-modal four wave mixing Bragg scattering by means of dispersion engineering
Authors: Anjum Omar F. , Horak Peter , Jung Yongmin , Suzuki Masato , Yamamoto Yoshinori , Hasegawa Takemi , Petropoulos Periklis , Richardson David J. , Parmigiani Francesca
Published: December 2018

We report on the design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of germanium-doped graded-index multi-mode fibers that are tailored to achieve broadband operation for the inter-modal Bragg scattering four wave mixing process. First, we show that increasing the core diameter decreases the separation between the pumps and the signal/idler pair. Second, we demonstrate a conversion efficiency bandwidth (7 nm) of more than twice that achieved previously with half the fiber length (50 m).
LaPr3Ni3O9.76 as a candidate solid oxide fuel cell cathode: Role of microstructure and interface structure on electrochemical performance
Authors: Yatoo Mudasir A. , Aguadero Ainara , Skinner Stephen J.
Published: December 2018

A new higher-order Ruddlesden-Popper phase composition LaPr3Ni3O9.76 was synthesised by a sol-gel route and studied for potential intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell cathode properties by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The focus of the work was optimisation of the microstructure and interface structure to realise the best performance, and therefore symmetrical cells after impedance testing were subsequently studied by scanning electron microscopy for post-microstructural analysis. It was observed that the cathode ink prepared after ball milling the material and then triple roll milling the prepared ink gave the lowest area specific resistance (ASR) of 0.17 Ω cm2 at 700 °C when a La0.8Sr0.2Ga0.8Mn0.2O3-δ (LSGM) electrolyte that had been previously polished was used. The post-microstructural studies, as expected, showed an improved interface structure and relatively good particle interconnectivity and much less sintering when compared to the symmetrical half-cells constructed using the ink prepared from the as-synthesised material. The interface structure was further improved significantly by adding a ∼10 µm thick LSGM ink interlayer, which was reflected in the electrochemical performance, reducing the ASR of the material from 0.17 Ω cm2 to 0.08 Ω cm2 at 700 °C. This is to date the best performance reported for an n = 3 Ruddlesden-Popper phase material with LSGM as the electrolyte.
Mid-infrared emissions from In(Ga)As quantum wells grown on GaP/Si(001) substrates
Authors: Gu Y. , Huang W. G. , Zhang J. , Chen X. Y. , Ma Y. J. , Huang H. , He G. X. , Zhang Y. G.
Published: December 2018

This work reports on the approach of metamorphic In(Ga)As quantum wells on GaP/Si(001) substrates for Si-based mid-infrared applications. Metamorphic InP and In0.83Al0.17As templates are grown on Si, and room temperature photoluminescence emissions at 2.1 μm and 2.6 μm have been demonstrated from InAs/In0.53Ga0.47As triangular quantum wells and InAs quantum wells on the templates, respectively. The surface root mean square roughness is 4-5 nm. The quantum wells act fully strained and the threading dislocation density is 107-108 cm-2 in the upper side of buffer.
Flow-induced density fluctuation assisted nucleation in polyethylene
Authors: Tang Xiaoliang , Yang Junsheng , Tian Fucheng , Xu Tingyu , Xie Chun , Chen Wei , Li Liangbin
Published: December 2018

The nucleation processes of polyethylene under quiescent and shear flow conditions are comparatively studied with all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. Under both conditions, nucleation is demonstrated to be a two-step process, which, however, proceeds via different intermediate orders. Quiescent nucleation is assisted by local order structures, while flow-induced nucleation is promoted by density fluctuation, which is a coupling effect of conformational and orientational orderings. Flow drives the transformation from flexible chains to conformational ordered segments and circumvents the entropic penalty, which is the most peculiar and rate-limited step in polymer crystallization. This work suggests that the acceleration of the nucleation rate in orders of magnitude by flow is mainly attributed to the different kinetics pathway via conformational/orientational ordering—density fluctuation—nucleation.
Bilayer nanocarbon heterojunction for full-solution processed flexible all-carbon visible photodetector
Authors: Zhou Zhe , Ding Yamei , Ma Haiyun , Cao Lijun , Wang Xiang , Huang Xiao , Liu Juqing , Huang Wei
Published: December 2018

Low-dimensional carbon nanomaterials have emerged as promising materials for optoelectronic devices, fueled by their predominant optical and electronic properties. Herein, by utilizing a bilayer nanocarbon heterojunction comprising one dimensional (1D) single-walled carbon nanotubes and zero dimensional (0D) fullerenes (C60), a flexible all-carbon visible photodetector consisting of the bilayer nanocarbon heterojunction onto parallel dimethyl sulfoxide -doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonic acid) electrodes is fabricated on a polyethylene terephthalate substrate via the full-solution process. The obtained photodetector exhibits excellent air-stable photosensitivity under the visible light condition with a high light/dark current ratio, which is attributed to the efficient separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs at the interface of the bilayer heterojunction. Moreover, the photodetector shows stable photoresponse during the bending test with a small bending radius owing to its intrinsic flexible properties of each component. This work affords new opportunities for high-throughput fabrication of next-generation flexible carbon electronics toward greener electronics.
Multifocal point beam forming by a single ultrasonic transducer with 3D printed holograms
Authors: Zhang Jun , Yang Yang , Zhu Benpeng , Li Xiangjia , Jin Jie , Chen Zeyu , Chen Yong , Zhou Qifa
Published: December 2018

This paper reported a method for designing monolithic acoustic holograms with consideration of both amplitude and phase modulation, which can be used for multifocal point beam forming by a single element ultrasonic transducer in the frequency of megahertz range. Mask-image-projection-based stereolithography 3D printing technology was induced to manufacture the complex hologram with a pixel resolution of 25 μm. A nine foci pattern and a letter U pattern acoustic field shown by a 2 MHz transducer and holograms were designed to validate the proposed designing method. Both the hydrophone testing and the simulation results indicated that the holograms designed by our method could form beam patterns accurately in the expected position.
Invited Article: Emerging soft bioelectronics for cardiac health diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Ershad Faheem , Sim Kyoseung , Thukral Anish , Zhang Yu Shrike , Yu Cunjiang
Published: December 2018

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Conventional technologies for diagnosing and treating lack the compliance and comfort necessary for those living with life-threatening conditions. Soft electronics presents a promising outlet for conformal, flexible, and stretchable devices that can overcome the mechanical mismatch that is often associated with conventional technologies. Here, we review the various methods in which electronics have been made flexible and stretchable, to better interface with the human body, both externally with the skin and internally with the outer surface of the heart. Then, we review soft, wearable, noninvasive heart monitors designed to be attached to the chest or other parts of the body for mechano-acoustic and electrophysiological sensing. A common method of treatment for various abnormal heart rhythms involves catheter ablation procedures and we review the current soft bioelectronics that can be placed on the balloon or head of the catheter. Cardiac mapping is integral to determine the state of the heart; we discuss the various parameters for sensing aside from electrophysiological sensing, such as temperature, pH, strain, and tactile sensing. Finally, we review the soft devices that harvest energy from the natural and spontaneous beating of the heart by converting its mechanical motion into electrical energy to power implants.
Stabilization of ferroelectric HfxZr1−xO2 films using a millisecond flash lamp annealing technique
Authors: O’Connor Éamon , Halter Mattia , Eltes Felix , Sousa Marilyne , Kellock Andrew , Abel Stefan , Fompeyrine Jean
Published: December 2018

We report on the stabilization of ferroelectric HfxZr1−xO2 (HZO) films crystallized using a low thermal budget millisecond flash lamp annealing technique. Utilizing a 120 s 375 °C preheat step combined with millisecond flash lamp pulses, ferroelectric characteristics can be obtained which are comparable to that achieved using a 300 s 650 °C rapid thermal anneal. X-ray diffraction, capacitance voltage, and polarization hysteresis analysis consistently point to the formation of the ferroelectric phase of HZO. A remanent polarization (Pr) of ∼21 μC/cm2 and a coercive field (Ec) of ∼1.1 MV/cm are achieved in 10 nm thick HZO layers. Such a technique promises a new alternative solution for low thermal budget formation of ferroelectric HZO films.
Studies of high order modes in asymmetric dual-axis cavity
Authors: Topp-Mugglestone M. , Konoplev I. V. , Zhang H. , Seryi A.
Published: December 2018

Electron-beam current in superconducting radiofrequency energy recovery linear accelerators (SCRF ERLs) is limited by beam break-up (BBU) instabilities disrupting beam transport and energy recuperation. The instabilities originate from the accumulation of high order modes (HOMs) in the cavity and positive feedback between the beam and HOMs which is especially evident in multi-pass ERLs. Overcoming the beam current limitations due to BBU instabilities is one of the challenges in accelerator science. A dual-axis asymmetric SCRF ERL has been proposed as a possible way to drive a high average current electron beam for next-generation light sources and beam cooling in electron-ion colliders (EICs). In this work, detailed studies on HOMs in the asymmetric dual axis cavity were carried out. The asymmetric field distribution of HOMs (i.e., confinement to one or another axis) has been demonstrated and their excitation from different axes has been studied. The results confirm the numerical predictions and theory developed to describe the asymmetric dual axis cavity.
Prediction of line shape parameters and their temperature dependences for CO2–N2 using molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Nguyen H. T. , Ngo N. H. , Tran H.
Published: December 2018

We show in this paper that requantized classical molecular dynamics simulations (rCMDSs) are capable of predicting various refined spectral-shape parameters of absorption lines of CO2 broadened by N2 with high precision. Combining CMDSs and a requantization procedure, we computed the auto-correlation function of the CO2 dipole moment responsible for the absorption transition. Its Fourier-Laplace transform directly yields the spectrum. Calculations were made for two temperatures, 200 and 296 K, at 1 atm and for a large range of Doppler widths, from the near-Doppler to the collision-dominant regimes. For each temperature and each line, the spectra calculated for various Doppler widths were simultaneously fit with the Hartmann-Tran (HT) profile. This refined profile, which takes into account the effects of the speed dependent collisional line broadening, the Dicke narrowing, and the collisional line mixing, was recommended as a reference model to be used in high-resolution spectroscopy (instead of the simplified Voigt model). The HT parameters retrieved from the rCMDS-calculated spectra were then directly compared with those deduced from high-precision measurements [J. S. Wilzewski et al., J. Quant. Spectrosc. Radiat. Transfer 206, 296–305 (2018)]. The results show a very good agreement, even for those parameters whose influence on the spectra is very small. Good agreement is also obtained between measured and predicted temperature dependences of these parameters. This demonstrates that rCMDS is an excellent tool, highly competitive with respect to high quality measurements for precise line-shape studies.
Controlling shedding characteristics of condensate drops using electrowetting
Authors: Dey Ranabir , Gilbers Jander , Baratian Davood , Hoek Harmen , van den Ende Dirk , Mugele Frieder
Published: December 2018

We show here that ac electrowetting (ac-EW) with structured electrodes can be used to control the gravity-driven shedding of drops condensing onto flat hydrophobic surfaces. Under ac-EW with straight interdigitated electrodes, the condensate drops shed with relatively small radii due to the ac-EW-induced reduction of contact angle hysteresis. The smaller shedding radius, coupled with the enhanced growth due to coalescence under EW, results in an increased shedding rate. We also show that the condensate droplet pattern under EW can be controlled, and the coalescence can be further enhanced, using interdigitated electrodes with zigzag edges. Such enhanced coalescence in conjunction with the electrically induced trapping effect due to the electrode geometry results in a larger shedding radius, but a lower shedding rate. However, the shedding characteristics can be further optimized by applying the electrical voltage intermittently. We finally provide an estimate of the condensate volume removed per unit time in order to highlight how it is enhanced using ac-EW-controlled dropwise condensation.
A comparative study on the bond features in CO, CS, and PbS
Authors: Jiao Chengxiang , Qin Zhengbo , Cong Ran , Zheng Xianfeng , Cui Zhifeng , Xie Hua , Tang Zichao
Published: December 2018

Covalent and noncovalent interactions dominate most compounds in the condensed phase and gas phase. For a classical diatomic molecule CO, it is usually regarded as a triple-bond system with one dative bond. In this work, the photoelectron velocity-map imaging spectra of the CS and PbS anions were first measured. The two interactions have been intuitively understood by a comparative investigation of electrostatic potential (ESP) and bond features in CO, CS, and PbS. It is suggested that both electrostatic and dative covalent interactions compete in CO molecules, while dative covalent interaction prevails in CS molecules and electrostatic interaction dominates in PbS molecules. As a consequence, CO has a very small dipole moment (∼0.1 D) compared to the large dipole moment in CS (>1.8 D) and PbS (>4 D). It is indicated that the electron affinity value increases with the increasing dipole moment in the order of CO < CS < PbS. In addition, intriguing ESP with negative bond-ends and positive bond-cylindrical-surface in CO is also revealed by comparing with that in CS and PbS. In the latter, the two molecules present opposite ESP maps. Molecular orbital analyses indicate surprising participation of Pb 5d orbitals in the Pb–S chemical bonding although Pb belongs to main-group elements. Further bond analyses using electron localization function, natural resonance theory, and bond order methods suggest that covalence is dominant in CS and ionicity is a major component in PbS, but somewhere in between for CO molecules. By a comparative study in this work, the CS molecule is also revealed as a promising ligand molecule for the transition-metal coordination chemical synthesis.
Systematics of the genus Halgerda Bergh, 1880 (Heterobranchia : Nudibranchia) of Mozambique with descriptions of six new species
Authors: Tibiriçá Yara , Pola Marta , Cervera Juan Lucas
Published: December 2018

The species of the genus Halgerda Bergh, 1880, are restricted to the Indo-Pacific; some being common inhabitants of reefs off the coast of Mozambique. These species have been relatively well studied morphologically, but few molecular data are available. During a seven-year period surveying the reefs of Mozambique, 11 Halgerda spp. were collected, six of which are described here. We provide details on their morphology, anatomy, novel genetic markers and additional information about their colour variation. The new species described herein are Halgerda leopardalis, sp. nov., H. mozambiquensis, sp. nov., H. jennyae, sp. nov., H. meringuecitrea, sp. nov., H. nuarroensis, sp. nov. and H. indotessellata, sp. nov., the last of which was found to be a pseudocryptic species of H. tessellata. Moreover, we identified two species complexes, one composed mainly of specimens from the Western Indian Ocean and another with specimens mostly from the Pacific Ocean and Western Australia.
Integrative taxonomy helps separate four species of freshwater shrimps commonly overlooked as Caridina longirostris (Crustacea : Decapoda : Atyidae) on Indo-West Pacific islands
Authors: de Mazancourt Valentin , Klotz Werner , Marquet Gérard , Keith Philippe
Published: December 2018

Caridina longirostris H. Milne Edwards, 1837 described from specimens supposedly from La Macta River near Oran, Algeria, is an emblematic species of the ‘C. nilotica complex’. Until now this species was thought to have a wide distribution in the Indo-Pacific region. Recently, numerous specimens identified as C. longirostris were collected from various Indo-West Pacific localities. In the context of integrative taxonomy, both old and newly collected specimens were morphologically and genetically studied. Four species allied to C. longirostris are here identified: C. appendiculata Jalihal & Shenoy, 1998, C. brevidactyla Roux, 1920, C. gracilipes De Man, 1892 and C. meridionalis Roux, 1926. Detailed re-descriptions of these four species are given as well as their geographical and ecological distributions. Caridina nilotica var. brevidactyla is revalidated as the species C. brevidactyla, and C. coulaborensis Richard & Clark, 2014, C. fritzi Richard & Clark, 2014 and C. solamulieres Richard & Clark, 2014 are considered junior synonyms of C. meridionalis. The position of these species in the troublesome ‘C. nilotica complex’ is clarified and some species are synonymised. A key is provided to facilitate identification.
Modeling research universities: Predicting probable futures of public vs. private and large vs. small research universities
Authors: Rouse William B. , Lombardi John V. , Craig Diane D.
Published: December 2018

The future of the American academic research enterprise is considered. Data are presented that characterize the resources available for the 160 best-resourced research universities, a small subset of the 2,285 4-year, nonprofit, higher education institutions. A computational model of research universities was extended and used to simulate three strategic scenarios: status quo, steady decline in foreign graduate student enrollments, and downward tuition pressures from high-quality, online professional master’s programs. Four specific universities are modeled: large public and private, and small public and private. The former are at the top of the 160 in terms of resources, while the latter are at the bottom of the 160. The model’s projections suggest how universities might address these competitive forces. In some situations, it would be in the economic interests of these universities to restrict research activities to avoid the inherent subsidies these activities require. The computational projections portend the need for fundamental change of approaches to business for universities without large institutional resources.
Pliocene and Eocene provide best analogs for near-future climates
Authors: Burke K. D. , Williams J. W. , Chandler M. A. , Haywood A. M. , Lunt D. J. , Otto-Bliesner B. L.
Published: December 2018

As the world warms due to rising greenhouse gas concentrations, the Earth system moves toward climate states without societal precedent, challenging adaptation. Past Earth system states offer possible model systems for the warming world of the coming decades. These include the climate states of the Early Eocene (ca. 50 Ma), the Mid-Pliocene (3.3–3.0 Ma), the Last Interglacial (129–116 ka), the Mid-Holocene (6 ka), preindustrial (ca. 1850 CE), and the 20th century. Here, we quantitatively assess the similarity of future projected climate states to these six geohistorical benchmarks using simulations from the Hadley Centre Coupled Model Version 3 (HadCM3), the Goddard Institute for Space Studies Model E2-R (GISS), and the Community Climate System Model, Versions 3 and 4 (CCSM) Earth system models. Under the Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5) emission scenario, by 2030 CE, future climates most closely resemble Mid-Pliocene climates, and by 2150 CE, they most closely resemble Eocene climates. Under RCP4.5, climate stabilizes at Pliocene-like conditions by 2040 CE. Pliocene-like and Eocene-like climates emerge first in continental interiors and then expand outward. Geologically novel climates are uncommon in RCP4.5 (<1%) but reach 8.7% of the globe under RCP8.5, characterized by high temperatures and precipitation. Hence, RCP4.5 is roughly equivalent to stabilizing at Pliocene-like climates, while unmitigated emission trajectories, such as RCP8.5, are similar to reversing millions of years of long-term cooling on the scale of a few human generations. Both the emergence of geologically novel climates and the rapid reversion to Eocene-like climates may be outside the range of evolutionary adaptive capacity.
Dominance rank-associated gene expression is widespread, sex-specific, and a precursor to high social status in wild male baboons
Authors: Lea Amanda J. , Akinyi Mercy Y. , Nyakundi Ruth , Mareri Peter , Nyundo Fred , Kariuki Thomas , Alberts Susan C. , Archie Elizabeth A. , Tung Jenny
Published: December 2018

In humans and other hierarchical species, social status is tightly linked to variation in health and fitness-related traits. Experimental manipulations of social status in female rhesus macaques suggest that this relationship is partially explained by status effects on immune gene regulation. However, social hierarchies are established and maintained in different ways across species: While some are based on kin-directed nepotism, others emerge from direct physical competition. We investigated how this variation influences the relationship between social status and immune gene regulation in wild baboons, where hierarchies in males are based on fighting ability but female hierarchies are nepotistic. We measured rank-related variation in gene expression levels in adult baboons of both sexes at baseline and in response to ex vivo stimulation with the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We identified >2,000 rank-associated genes in males, an order of magnitude more than in females. In males, high status predicted increased expression of genes involved in innate immunity and preferential activation of the NF-κB–mediated proinflammatory pathway, a pattern previously associated with low status in female rhesus macaques. Using Mendelian randomization, we reconcile these observations by demonstrating that high status-associated gene expression patterns are precursors, not consequences, of high social status in males, in support of the idea that physiological condition determines who attains high rank. Together, our work provides a test of the relationship between social status and immune gene regulation in wild primates. It also emphasizes the importance of social context in shaping the relationship between social status and immune function.
Epigenetic regulator UHRF1 inactivates REST and growth suppressor gene expression via DNA methylation to promote axon regeneration
Authors: Oh Young Mi , Mahar Marcus , Ewan Eric E. , Leahy Kathleen M. , Zhao Guoyan , Cavalli Valeria
Published: December 2018

Significance

Functional impairment and poor recovery following central nervous system injury is due to the failure of injured axons to regenerate and rebuild functional connections. In contrast, axon regeneration occurs in injured peripheral nerves. Expression of regeneration-associated genes is essential to activate the axon regeneration program. Less is known about the contribution of gene inactivation. We reveal an epigenetic mechanism that silences gene expression by ubiquitin-like containing PHD ring finger 1 (UHRF1)-dependent DNA methylation to promote axon regeneration. We suggest that the transient increase in the transcriptional regulator REST, controlled by miR-9 and UHRF1, allows neurons to enter a less mature state that favors a regenerative state. These results provide a better understanding of the transient gene regulatory networks employed by peripheral neurons to promote axon regeneration.