bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultra-compact half-mode substrate integrated waveguide bandpass filters with IRCSRR metamaterial on reinforced hydrocarbon polymer ceramic composites
Authors: Wang Weilai , Huang Yong Mao , Wang Guoan , Bozzi Maurizio
Published: October 2022

In this work, metamaterial-enabled ultra-compact evanescent-mode half-mode substrate integrated waveguide (HMSIW) bandpass filters are developed by loading inner-rotary complementary split-ring resonator (IRCSRR) on reinforced hydrocarbon polymer ceramic composites substrate. In the proposed IRCSRR, inner-rotary slots are etched inside the conventional complementary split-ring resonator (CSRR) metamaterials to enhance the product of equivalent inductance and capacitance without occupying extra circuit area. Therefore, the proposed HMSIW-IRCSRR filters can obtain more size reduction with the same operation frequency as compared with the conventional CSRR-based ones. Similar as the conventional CSRR case, the evanescent-mode transmission below the dominant cutoff frequency of HMSIW can be produced by the negative permittivity effect of IRCSRR, and a transmission zero (TZ) at the upper stopband can be simultaneously generated by the mutual coupling between HMSIW and IRCSRR. Then, to improve the upper stopband performance, source-load coupling topology is utilized in the two-pole filters, which can produce multiple extra TZs. Meanwhile, multiple microstrip L/T-shaped open stubs are employed to introduce hybrid low-pass effect to further extend the upper stopband much wider. To demonstrate the availability of the aforementioned concepts, a series of HSMIW-IRCSRR filters are experimentally designed, fabricated and verified. Measured results shows that both ultra-compact sizes and excellent frequency-selecting performance are achieved simultaneously, as well as good agreement with simulations, all of which illustrating quite good promises for the practical radio frequency and microwave applications.
Polarization-sensitive infrared photodetectors based on van der Waals heterojunction with the unilateral depletion region
Authors: Zhang Kun , Chen Yue , Liu Anna , Deng Ke , Gu Yue , He Ting , Wang Yang , Li Qing , Wang Zhen , Ge Haonan , Zhong Fang , Wang Peng
Published: October 2022

In recent years, polarization infrared detection technology has made great progress and has been successfully applied in various fields such as national defense, astronomy, and civil applications. However, so far, the integration of micro polarizers and infrared photodetectors is still a big challenge since metal microstructures are severely limited in their size. As anisotropic two-dimensional (2D) materials rapidly appear, this distinctive polarization characteristic regardless of the size provides new freedom to polarization infrared photodetectors. In this paper, a van der Walls heterojunction with the unilateral depletion region was constructed to obtain polarization-sensitive infrared photodetection, in which black phosphorus (BP) serves as a natural polarizer. BP/PtS2 infrared photodetectors possess a fast response speed (the rise time is 56 μs and the fall time is 64 μs). At the same time, these photovoltaic detectors achieve a high detectivity of 4.47 × 1010 cm Hz1/2 W−1 at 830 nm. Using the anisotropic structure of BP, the photovoltaic polarization detector was realized, and its polarization extinction ratio at 830 nm was 2.66 (3.18 @ 1310 nm and 2.63 @ 1550 nm). This work discovers the potential value of anisotropic 2D materials in infrared polarization-sensitive photodetection and provides a possibility for a new infrared polarization detection system.
On the performance of 2D materials based plexcitonic sensor: numerical analysis
Authors: Srivastava Triranjita , Jha Rajan
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we propose the implementation of few layers of 2D materials in plexcitonic sensor for sensitivity enhancement. The positioning of the graphene layer implantation in such structure affects the sensitivity. The presence of graphene in contact with analyte offers ∼14% increase in the sensitivity of a bare plexcitonic sensor. Also, the performance of the sensor with the application of other 2D materials such as black phosphorus and MoS2 has been studied. It is found that among graphene and black phosphorous, though MoS2 offers highest sensitivity yet, low operating range limits its appropriateness. We believe that this study will provide a new insight in the applicability of 2D materials for sensing application.
Moiré modulation of charge density waves
Authors: Goodwin Zachary A H , Fal’ko Vladimir I
Published: October 2022

Here we investigate how charge density waves (CDWs), inherent to a monolayer, are effected by creating twisted van der Waals structures. Homobilayers of metallic transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), at small twist angles where there is significant atomic reconstruction, are utilised as an example to investigate the interplay between the moiré domain structure and CDWs of different periods. For

3

×

3

CDWs, there is no geometric constraint to prevent the CDWs from propagating throughout the moiré structure. Whereas for

2
×
2

CDWs, to ensure the CDWs in each layer have the most favourable interactions in the domains, the CDW phase must be destroyed in the connecting domain walls. For

3
×
3

CDWs with twist angles close to 180∘, moiré-scale triangular structures can form; while close to 0∘, moiré-scale dimer domains occur. The star-of-David CDW (

13

×

13

) is found to host CDWs in the domains only, since there is one low energy stacking configuration, similar to the

2
×
2

CDWs. These predictions are offered for experimental verification in twisted bilayer metallic TMDs which host CDWs, and we hope this will stimulate further research on the interplay between the moiré superlattice and CDW phases intrinsic to the comprising 2D materials.
Emergent magnetism and exchange bias effect in iron oxide nanocubes with tunable phase and size
Authors: Attanayake Supun B , Chanda Amit , Das Raja , Kapuruge Nalaka , Gutierrez Humberto R , Phan Manh-Huong , Srikanth Hariharan
Published: October 2022

We report a systematic investigation of the magnetic properties including the exchange bias (EB) effect in an iron oxide nanocube system with tunable phase and average size (10, 15, 24, 34, and 43 nm). X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy reveal the presence of Fe3O4, FeO, and α-Fe2O3 phases in the nanocubes, in which the volume fraction of each phase varies depending upon particle size. While the Fe3O4 phase is dominant in all and tends to grow with increasing particle size, the FeO phase appears to coexist with the Fe3O4 phase in 10, 15, and 24 nm nanocubes but disappears in 34 and 43 nm nanocubes. The nanocubes exposed to air resulted in an α-Fe2O3 oxidized surface layer whose thickness scaled with particle size resulting in a shell made of α-Fe2O3 phase and a core containing Fe3O4 or a mixture of both Fe3O4 and FeO phases. Magnetometry indicates that the nanocubes undergo Morin (of the α-Fe2O3 phase) and Verwey (of the Fe3O4 phase) transitions at ∼250 K and ∼120 K, respectively. For smaller nanocubes (10, 15, and 24 nm), the EB effect is observed below 200 K, of which the 15 nm nanocubes showed the most prominent EB with optimal antiferromagnetic (AFM) FeO phase. No EB is reported for larger nanocubes (34 and 43 nm). The observed EB effect is ascribed to the strong interfacial coupling between the ferrimagnetic (FiM) Fe3O4 phase and AFM FeO phase, while its absence is related to the disappearance of the FeO phase. The Fe3O4/α-Fe2O3 (FiM/AFM) interfaces are found to have negligible influence on the EB. Our findings shed light on the complexity of the EB effect in mixed-phase iron oxide nanosystems and pave the way to design exchange-coupled nanomaterials with desirable magnetic properties for biomedical and spintronic applications.
Correction method for 3D non-linear drift distortions in atomic force microscopy raster measurements
Authors: Degenhardt Johannes , Tutsch Rainer , Dai Gaoliang
Published: October 2022

A method to correct non-linear drift distortions in all three coordinate axes of atomic force microscope (AFM) images is presented. The method uses two measurements of the sample with two fast scan axes orthogonal to each other. Both AFM images are divided into segments and the shifts of the surface features of the segments of both images are determined. From these shifts subsequently the drift of both measurements is calculated. Depending on the segments used, significant non-linearities of the drift can be corrected. The two required measurements for this method do not have to be carried out in direct succession. With this method it is therefore possible to correct drift in an existing AFM image by measuring the sample again later. Although the method has been developed for AFM, it can also be used for other scanning probe microscopes.
Facile one-pot iodine gas phase doping on 2D MoS2/CuS FET at room temperature
Authors: Pak Sangyeon , Son Jiwon , Kim Taehun , Lim Jungmoon , Hong John , Lim Younhee , Heo Chul-Joon , Park Kyung-Bae , Jin Yong Wang , Park Kyung-Ho , Cho Yuljae , Cha SeungNam
Published: October 2022

Electronic devices composed of semiconducting two-dimensional (2D) materials and ultrathin 2D metallic electrode materials, accompanying synergistic interactions and extraordinary properties, are becoming highly promising for future flexible and transparent electronic and optoelectronic device applications. Unlike devices with bulk metal electrode and 2D channel materials, devices with ultrathin 2D electrode and 2D channel are susceptible to chemical reactions in both channel and electrode surface due to the high surface to volume ratio of the 2D structures. However, so far, the effect of doping was primary concerned on the channel component, and there is lack of understanding in terms of how to modulate electrical properties of devices by engineering electrical properties of both the metallic electrode and the semiconducting channel. Here, we propose the novel, one-pot doping of the field-effect transistor (FET) based on 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) channel and ultrathin copper sulfide (CuS) electrodes under mild iodine gas environment at room temperature, which simultaneously modulates electrical properties of the 2D MoS2 channel and 2D CuS electrode in a facile and cost-effective way. After one-pot iodine doping, effective p-type doping of the channel and electrode was observed, which was shown through decreased off current level, improved I
on/I
off ratio and subthreshold swing value. Our results open up possibility for effectively and conveniently modulating electrical properties of FETs made of various 2D semiconductors and ultrathin contact materials without causing any detrimental damage.
Atomic layer deposition of Zr-sandwiched ZnO thin films for transparent thermoelectrics
Authors: Koskinen Tomi , Volin Ulrika , Tossi Camilla , Raju Ramesh , Tittonen Ilkka
Published: October 2022

Atomic layer deposited (ALD) transparent thermoelectric materials enable the introduction of energy harvesting and sensing devices onto surfaces of various shapes and sizes in imperceptible manner. Amongst these materials, ZnO has shown promising results in terms of both thermoelectric and optical characteristics. The thermoelectric performance of ZnO can be further optimized by introducing extrinsic doping, to the realization of which ALD provides excellent control. Here, we explore the effects of sandwiching of ZrO2 layers with ZnO on glass substrates. The room-temperature thermoelectric power factor is maximised at 116μW m−1 K−2 with samples containing a 2% nominal percentage of ZrO2. The addition of ZrO2 layers is further shown to reduce the thermal conductivity, resulting in a 20.2% decrease from the undoped ZnO at 2% doping. Our results contribute to increasing the understanding of the effects of Zr inclusion in structural properties and growth of ALD ZnO, as well as the thermal and thermoelectric properties of Zr-doped ZnO films in general.
Atomic layer etching of Sn by surface modification with H and Cl radicals
Authors: Kim Doo San , Jang Yun Jong , Kim Ye Eun , Gil Hong Seong , Jeong Byeong Hwa , Yeom Geun Young
Published: October 2022

Sn is the one of the materials that can be used for next generation extreme ultraviolet (EUV) mask material having a high absorption coefficient and, for the fabrication of the next generation EUV mask, a precise etching of Sn is required. In this study, the atomic layer etching (ALE) process was performed for the precise etch thickness control and low damage etching of Sn by the formation SnHxCly compounds on the Sn surface using with H and Cl radicals during the adsorption step and by the removal of the compound using Ar+ ions with a controlled energy during the desorption step. Through this process, optimized ALE conditions with different H/Cl radical combinations that can etch Sn at ∼2.6 Å cycle−1 were identified with a high etch selectivity over Ru which can be used as the capping layer of the EUV mask. In addition, it was confirmed that not only the Sn but also Ru showed almost no physical and chemical damage during the Sn ALE process.
Synthesis, characterization, and applications of gold nanoparticles in development of plasmonic optical fiber-based sensors
Authors: Kumari Anamika , Vyas Vibha , Kumar Santosh
Published: October 2022

Gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) are readily used nanoparticles which finds applications in fields like biosensors, drug delivery, optical bioimaging and many state of art systems used for detection. In the recent years fiber optic sensors have seen utilization of Au-NPs along with other nanoparticles for implementation of sensors for sensing various biomolecules like cholesterol, glucose, and uric acid. The cancer cells, creatinine and bacteria can also be detected with the fiber optic sensors. Given the significance of Au-NPs in fiber optic sensors, the current work is a review of the synthesis, the common methods used for characterization, and the applications of Au-NPs. It is important to discuss and analyse the work reported in the literature to understand the trend and gaps in developing plasmonic optical fiber sensors.
Analysis of the highest energy confinement in tokamaks based on thermodynamic approach
Authors: Razumova K A , Kasyanova N V , Andreev V F , Lysenko S E
Published: October 2022

We analyze the highest energy confinement in tokamak plasmas based on thermodynamic approach (plasma self-organization). The energy transport coefficients in the saturated confinement regimes are calculated from experiments in the T-10 tokamak. Using these coefficients, we estimate the maximal energy confinement for JET, ASDEX Upgrade, JT-60U, DIII-D and KSTAR tokamaks. Calculated energy confinement is in a good agreement with measured ones. Obtained results allow us to predict the maximal energy confinement in newly constructed machines up to a fusion reactor. The energy confinement for two basic scenarios for ITER is accessed.
Complementary transient thermal models and metaheuristics to simultaneously identify linearly temperature-dependent thermal properties of austenitic stainless steels
Authors: Ramos Nícolas Pinheiro , Antunes Mariana de Melo , Lima e Silva Sandro Metrevelle Marcondes de
Published: October 2022

This paper presents an experimental approach for simultaneously identifying the temperature-dependent thermal conductivity (k) and specific heat (c

p
) of 304 austenitic stainless steel (ASS) using complementary transient experiments and metaheuristics. Inverse thermal analysis was based on two heat conducting solids with different geometries. In estimation problems in general, one seeks to obtain as much sensitive data as possible using as few sensors as possible. Single thermocouple data were collected for each thermal model. An objective function fitting these complementary measurements to the corresponding numerical temperatures was minimized using the Lichtenberg algorithm. This metaheuristic algorithm takes advantage of more sensitive information provided by using complementary data, enabling for an accurate inverse solution, even when dealing with wide search ranges. The proposed technique provides a cost-effective and robust property estimation from tests conducted at room temperature. Single-step estimation occurred throughout the whole temperature domain to determine the parameters for linear functions representing the temperature dependence of k and c

p
. The obtained lines agreed well with curves from the literature. The 95% confidence bounds for the parameters of interest indicated deviations below ± 8.5%. Error analysis considering numerical and experimental processes showed an uncertainty close to ± 3%, applied to all estimated parameters.
Passive Comfort Strategies for Typical Peruvian Meso-Andean Houses
Authors: Resano David , Rodriguez Rodolfo , Guillen Oscar
Published: October 2022

This article focuses on the climatic behavior of typical houses in the Meso-Andean zone of Peru. Firstly, the usual construction systems used in this region is described. Secondly, some climate parameters of Cuzco (3.399 meters above sea level) and Alto de Poclús (3.086 meters above sea level), both located at an altitude range of the Meso-Andean zone are reported. Following this, the hygrothermal performance of a typical dwelling situated in Alto de Poclús is monitored. According to these weather conditions and building systems, various passive design strategies to achieve thermal comfort in this type of dwelling are proposed. This study is expected to serve as a reference for future research on this topic, on the one hand. On the other hand, we hope to raise awareness about improving the dwelling where people live in mountainous areas in the Andes.
Depletion of COPI in cancer cells: the role of reactive oxygen species in the induction of lipid accumulation, noncanonical lipophagy and apoptosis
Authors: Gasparian A. , Aksenova M. , Oliver D. , Levina E. , Doran R. , Lucius M. , Piroli G. , Oleinik N. , Ogretmen B. , Mythreye K. , Frizzell N. , Broude E. , Wyatt M. D. , Shtutman M.
Published: October 2022

COPI depletion in tumor cells causes ROS accumulation and ROS-dependent formation of lipid droplets. ROS-dependent noncanonical lipophagy is marked by the accumulation of LC3-II and SQSTM1 and colocalization of the proteins with lipid droplets.
Newfound features of meiotic chromosome organization that promote efficient congression and segregation in Caenorhabditis elegans oocytes
Authors: Horton Hannah H. , Divekar Nikita S. , Wignall Sarah M.
Published: October 2022

In Caenorhabditis elegans oocytes, end-on kinetochore-microtubule attachments do not form; instead, chromosome alignment is mediated by a protein complex that encircles the chromosome (the “ring complex,” RC). Here we combine high-resolution imaging with mutant analysis to reveal previously unappreciated features of RC and chromosome structure that promote efficient congression and segregation during meiosis.
Influence of Baseline Diastolic Blood Pressure on the Effects of Systolic Blood Pressure Lowering on Cognitive Function in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Gupta Aditi , Boucher Robert , Wei Guo , Gronseth Gary , Parks Adam , Beddhu Srinivasan
Published: October 2022

Background

Lowering of systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with low diastolic blood pressure (DBP), can further lower DBP. This can potentially decrease cerebral perfusion and cognition. We examined the influence of baseline DBP on the effect of lowering SBP on cognition.

Methods

This is a post hoc analysis of the Memory in Diabetes (MIND) substudy (N = 1,430) of the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) study (NCT00000620). Standard neuropsychological tests (Digit Symbol Substitution Test [DSST], Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE], Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test [RAVLT], and Stroop test) were performed at baseline and months 20 and 40. We compared the effects of intensive (goal SBP <120 mm Hg) vs. standard (goal SBP <140 mm Hg) SBP control on the changes in the 4 test scores from baseline to the averages of months 20 and 40 across the range of baseline DBP using cubic spline terms.

Results

Mean age was 63 ± 6 years, 55% were women and 66% White. Participates with lower baseline DBP were older, had more cardiovascular events and a longer duration of diabetes. There was no difference in the change in DSST (−0.22; 95% CI −0.97, 0.52), MMSE (−0.14; 95% CI −0.34, 0.06), RAVLT (−0.12; 95% CI −0.29, 0.06), and Stroop interference (−0.47; 95% CI −1.76, 0.82) in the intensive vs. standard SBP intervention. There was no interaction between baseline DBP and change in scores with the SBP intervention.

Conclusions

Intensive SBP reduction does not adversely affect cognition, even in those with low baseline DBP.
Friendship as the Primary Purpose of Law
Authors: Moreland Michael P
Published: October 2022

A significant aspect of the legacy of John Finnis is the restoration of friendship to a central place in moral, political, and legal theory building on the classical tradition in Plato, Aristotle, and Aquinas. This essay surveys the implications of friendship for law by way of exploring Finnis’s treatment of friendship in several of his works, including friendship as a condition for discourse, friendship as an especially important illustration of the central case, the relationship between friendship and the common good, and the place of civic friendship in a political community. The essay concludes with a discussion of friendship with God.
Early Improvement of Neuropsychological Impairments During Detoxification in Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Angerville Bernard , Ritz Ludivine , Pitel Anne-Lise , Beaunieux Hélène , Houchi Hakim , Martinetti Margaret P , Naassila Mickaël , Dervaux Alain
Published: October 2022

Aims

To assess recovery of alcohol-related neuropsychological deficits in a group of patients with pure severe alcohol use disorder (AUD) during a detoxification program using the Brief Evaluation of Alcohol-Related Neuropsychological Impairment (BEARNI) test.

Methods

Thirty-two patients with severe AUD using DSM-IV criteria (24 men, mean age = 45.5 ± 6.8 years old) were assessed using the BEARNI 8 ± 2 days after alcohol cessation (T1) and then were reassessed within 18 ± 2 days after alcohol cessation (T2). The primary study endpoint was the number of patients initially impaired at T1 who recovered cognitive functions at T2 assessment.

Results

At T1, 59% (n = 19) patients with pure severe AUD had at least one impaired cognitive function assessed by the BEARNI. At T2, 63% of the patients with AUD with deficits at T1 had normal BEARNI cognitive scores (χ2 = 7.7, P = 0.005); specifically, the percentages of participants with normal subtest scores were 63% on memory (χ2 = 12.4, P = 0.0004), 100% on verbal fluency (χ2 = 16; P = <0.0001), 60% on alphabetical span (χ2 = 12.8; P = 0.0003) and 67% on visuospatial (χ2 = 15, P = 0.0001).

Conclusions

The cognitive impairments of two-thirds of patients with pure AUD included in the present study recovered within 18 days of abstinence, earlier than reported in previous studies.
Offending and the Long-Term Risk of Death: An Examination of Mid-Life Mortality Among an Urban Black American Cohort
Authors: Doherty Elaine Eggleston , Green Kerry M
Published: October 2022

Research on the long-term relationship between offending and mortality is limited, especially among minorities who have higher risk of premature mortality and criminal offending, particularly arrest. Using Cox proportional hazard models, we estimate the relationship between young adult offending and later mortality (to age 58) among a community cohort of Black Americans (n = 1,182). After controlling for a wide range of covariates, results indicate that violent offenders are at heightened risk of mortality from young adulthood through midlife compared with both non-violent only offenders and non-offenders. Further analysis shows that this result is driven by the frequent, largely non-violent, arrests incurred among violent offenders. Criminal justice reform and collaboration with public health practitioners might be fruitful avenues to reduce mortality disparities.
Platform power: monopolisation and financialisation in the era of big tech
Authors: Li Zhongjin , Qi Hao
Published: October 2022

This paper addresses the questions of corporate power represented by digital platforms. We undertake a conceptual analysis of platform power so that it can provide an explanation of key motivations and behaviours for monopolisation in the platform economy. We argue that there emerges a hierarchical power structure in which platform companies relentlessly pursue power over users, and small platforms increasingly depend on big tech and financial capital. Drawing theoretical insights from the monopoly capital school and empirical evidence from platform companies in China, this paper further explores the macroeconomic implications of platform monopolisation and financialisation. It is demonstrated that the hierarchical power structure in the platform economy may increase income inequality, exacerbate overcapacity and generate financial instability.
Comparison of hand-sewn and circular stapled esophagogastric anastomoses in the neck after esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal cancer: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Ozawa Hiroki , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Nishimura Erica , Matsuda Satoru , Takemura Ryo , Irino Tomoyuki , Fukuda Kazumasa , Nakamura Rieko , Wada Norihito , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: October 2022

Esophagectomy is a highly invasive surgical procedure; however, anastomotic leakage is one of the major surgical complications that should be prevented. Institutions have their own inherited or specialized anastomosis methods. The superior anastomosis procedure remains unknown despite the many studies to determine the optimal method. The present study enrolled 341 patients who underwent esophagectomy at Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan, between January 2009 and January 2019. The anastomosis method was changed from circular stapled anastomosis to hand-sewn anastomosis in February 2014 to reduce the risk of anastomotic leakage. We retrospectively compared short-term results (anastomotic leakage and stricture) between hand-sewn and circular stapled anastomoses. Analysis of heterogeneity after propensity score matching between the 107 patients in the hand-sewn anastomosis group and 107 patients in the circular stapled anastomosis group revealed almost equal distributions. The incidence rate of anastomotic leakage was significantly lower in the hand-sewn anastomosis group than in the circular stapled anastomosis group (9 vs. 20%, hazard ratio: 2.521; 95% confidence interval: 1.112–5.716; P = 0.027). No significant difference was found in the incidence of anastomotic stricture (16 vs. 18%, P = 0.844). Furthermore, no significant difference was found in the incidence of anastomotic leakage in any of the tumor locations between the two anastomosis procedures. For esophagogastric anastomosis in the neck after esophagectomy, hand-sewn anastomosis is superior to circular stapled anastomosis with regard to reducing the risk of anastomotic leakage.
The surgical anatomy of a (robot-assisted) minimally invasive transcervical esophagectomy
Authors: Filz von Reiterdank I C L J , Defize I L , de Groot E M , Wedel T , Grimminger P P , Egberts J H , Stein H , Ruurda J P , van Hillegersberg R , Bleys R L A W
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Transcervical esophagectomy allows for esophagectomy through transcervical access and bypasses the thoracic cavity, thereby eliminating single lung ventilation. A challenging surgical approach demands thorough understanding of the encountered anatomy. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of surgical anatomy encountered during the (robot-assisted) minimally invasive transcervical esophagectomy (RACE and MICE).

METHODS

To assess the surgical anatomy of the lower neck and mediastinum, MR images were made of a body donor after, which it was sliced at 24-μm intervals with a cryomacrotome. Images were made every 3 slices resulting in 3.200 images of which a digital 3D multiplanar reconstruction was made. For macroscopic verification, microscopic slices were made and stained every 5 mm (Mallory-Cason). Schematic drawings were made of the 3D reconstruction to demonstrate the course of essential anatomical structures in the operation field and identify anatomical landmarks.

RESULTS

Surgical anatomy ‘boxes’ of three levels (superior thoracic aperture, upper mediastinum, subcarinal) were created. Four landmarks were identified: (i) the course of the thoracic duct in the mediastinum; (ii) the course of the left recurrent laryngeal nerve; (iii) the crossing of the azygos vein right and dorsal of the esophagus; and (iv) the position of the aortic arch, the pulmonary arteries, and veins.

CONCLUSIONS

The presented 3D reconstruction of unmanipulated human anatomy and schematic 3D ‘boxes’ provide a comprehensive overview of the surgical anatomy during the RACE or MICE. Our findings provide a useful tool to aid surgeons in learning the complex anatomy of the mediastinum and the exploration of new surgical approaches such as the RACE or MICE.
Real-life introduction of powered circular stapler for esophagogastric anastomosis: cohort and propensity matched score study
Authors: Vanstraelen Stijn , Coosemans Willy , Depypere Lieven , Mandeville Yannick , Moons Johnny , Van Veer Hans , Nafteux Philippe
Published: October 2022

Anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy is one of the most feared complications, which results in increased morbidity and mortality. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of a powered circular stapler on complications after esophagectomy with intrathoracic anastomosis for esophageal cancer. Between May 2019 and July 2021, all consecutive oesophagectomies for cancer with intrathoracic anastomosis in a high-volume center were included in this retrospective study. Surgeons were free to choose either a manual or a powered circular stapler. Preoperative characteristics and postoperative complications were recorded in a prospective database, according to EsoData. Propensity score matching (age, body mass index, Eastern cooperative oncology group (ECOG) performance and neoadjuvant therapy) was conducted to reduce potential confounding. We included 128 patients. Powered and manual circular staplers were used in 62 and 66 patients, respectively. Fewer anastomotic leakages were observed with the powered stapler group (OR = 7.3 (95%CI: 1.58–33.7); [3.2% (n = 2) vs 19.7% (n = 13), respectively; p = 0.004]). After propensity score matching, this remained statistically significant (OR = 8.5 (95%CI: 1.80–40.1); [4.1% (n = 2) vs 20.4% (n = 10), respectively; p = 0.013]). Additionally, anastomotic diameter was significantly higher with the powered stapler (median: 29 mm (63.3%) vs 25 mm (57.1%), respectively; p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in comprehensive complication index (p = 0.146). A decreased mean length of stay was observed in the powered stapler group (11.1 vs 18.7 days respectively; p = 0.022). Postoperative anastomotic leakage after esophageal resection was significantly reduced after the introduction of the powered circular stapler, consequently resulting in a reduced length of stay. Further evaluation on long-term strictures and quality of life are warranted to support these results.
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease–a Case Series
Authors: Vieujean Sophie , Moens Annick , Hassid Deborah , Rothfuss Katja , Savarino Edoardo Vincenzo , Vavricka Stephan R , Reenaers Catherine , Jacobsen Bent Ascanius , Allez Matthieu , Ferrante Marc , Rahier Jean-Francois
Published: October 2022

Background and Aim

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia [PJP] is a very rare, potentially life-threatening pulmonary fungal infection that occurs in immunocompromised individuals including patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Our aim was to describe immunosuppressive treatment exposure as well as the outcome in IBD patients with PJP.

Methods

PJP cases were retrospectively collected through the COllaborative Network For Exceptionally Rare case reports of the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation. Clinical data were provided through a case report form.

Results

In all, 18 PJP episodes were reported in 17 IBD patients [10 ulcerative colitis and seven Crohn’s disease]. The median age at PJP diagnosis was 55 years (interquartile range [IQR], 40–68 years]. Two PJP [11.1%] occurred in patients on triple immunosuppression, 10 patients [55.6%] had double immunosuppressive treatment, four patients [22.2%] had monotherapy and two PJP occurred in absence of immunosuppressive treatment [one in a human immunodeficiency virus patient and one in a patient with a history of autologous stem cell transplantation]. Immunosuppressive therapies included steroids [n = 12], thiopurines [n = 10], infliximab [n = 4], ciclosporin [n = 2], methotrexate [n = 1], and tacrolimus [n = 1]. None of the patients diagnosed with PJP had received prophylaxis. All patients were treated by trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole or atovaquone and an intensive care unit [ICU] stay was required in seven cases. Two patients [aged 71 and 32 years] died, and one patient had a recurrent episode 16 months after initial treatment. Evolution was favourable for the others.

Conclusion

This case series reporting potentially fatal PJP highlights the need for adjusted prophylactic therapy in patients with IBD on immunosuppressive therapy.
Patient-reported outcomes via electronic health record portal versus telephone: a pragmatic randomized pilot trial of anxiety or depression symptoms in epilepsy
Authors: Munger Clary Heidi M , Snively Beverly M , Topaloglu Umit , Duncan Pamela , Kimball James , Alexander Halley , Brenes Gretchen A
Published: October 2022

Objective

To close gaps between research and clinical practice, tools are needed for efficient pragmatic trial recruitment and patient-reported outcome collection. The objective was to assess feasibility and process measures for patient-reported outcome collection in a randomized trial comparing electronic health record (EHR) patient portal questionnaires to telephone interview among adults with epilepsy and anxiety or depression symptoms.

Materials and Methods

Recruitment for the randomized trial began at an epilepsy clinic visit, with EHR-embedded validated anxiety and depression instruments, followed by automated EHR-based research screening consent and eligibility assessment. Fully eligible individuals later completed telephone consent, enrollment, and randomization. Participants were randomized 1:1 to EHR portal versus telephone outcome assessment, and patient-reported and process outcomes were collected at 3 and 6 months, with primary outcome 6-month retention in EHR arm (feasibility target: ≥11 participants retained).

Results

Participants (N = 30) were 60% women, 77% White/non-Hispanic, with mean age 42.5 years. Among 15 individuals randomized to EHR portal, 10 (67%, CI 41.7%–84.8%) met the 6-month retention endpoint, versus 100% (CI 79.6%–100%) in the telephone group (P = 0.04). EHR outcome collection at 6 months required 11.8 min less research staff time per participant than telephone (5.9, CI 3.3–7.7 vs 17.7, CI 14.1–20.2). Subsequent telephone contact after unsuccessful EHR attempts enabled near complete data collection and still saved staff time.

Discussion

In this randomized study, EHR portal outcome assessment did not meet the retention feasibility target, but EHR method saved research staff time compared to telephone.

Conclusion

While EHR portal outcome assessment was not feasible, hybrid EHR/telephone method was feasible and saved staff time.
Clinical, technical, and implementation characteristics of real-world health applications using FHIR
Authors: Griffin Ashley C , He Lu , Sunjaya Anthony P , King Andrew J , Khan Zubin , Nwadiugwu Martin , Douthit Brian , Subbian Vignesh , Nguyen Viet , Braunstein Mark , Jaffe Charles , Schleyer Titus
Published: October 2022

Objective

Understanding the current state of real-world Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) applications (apps) will benefit biomedical research and clinical care and facilitate advancement of the standard. This study aimed to provide a preliminary assessment of these apps’ clinical, technical, and implementation characteristics.

Materials and Methods

We searched public repositories for potentially eligible FHIR apps and surveyed app implementers and other stakeholders.

Results

Of the 112 apps surveyed, most focused on clinical care (74) or research (45); were implemented across multiple sites (56); and used SMART-on-FHIR (55) and FHIR version R4 (69). Apps were primarily stand-alone web-based (67) or electronic health record (EHR)-embedded (51), although 49 were not listed in an EHR app gallery.

Discussion

Though limited in scope, our results show FHIR apps encompass various domains and characteristics.

Conclusion

As FHIR use expands, this study—one of the first to characterize FHIR apps at large—highlights the need for systematic, comprehensive methods to assess their characteristics.
Coke of Norfolk: politician, agriculturalist and art collector
Authors: Hardwick Katherine
Published: October 2022

While much has been written about the collecting practices of Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester of the 5th Creation (1697–1759), less attention has been paid to those of his successor Thomas William Coke, later 1st Earl of Leicester of the 7th Creation (1754–1842). The first Thomas Coke was responsible for the construction and decoration of Holkham Hall in Norfolk. He was a passionate and enlightened collector, celebrated for his artistic contribution to Holkham. By contrast, biographers of Thomas William Coke have tended to focus on his career as a parliamentarian and agricultural reformer. This article seeks to redress that imbalance and examine the collecting habits of Thomas William Coke to demonstrate that he was an equally able collector, and to situate his collecting habits within the context of his time.
Falsely Elevated Estradiol Results in a 62-Year-Old Male Patient
Authors: Talaber Gergely , Meisel Tomas , Rosen Thord
Published: October 2022

Falsely increased estradiol levels can lead to unnecessary tests and therapeutic interventions. Here, we present a case of a 62-year-old man with falsely elevated estradiol, which led to subsequent follow-up testing and prescriptions. Alternative immunoassay testing, in conjunction with Scantibodies’ blocking reagents, polyethylene glycol precipitation, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry confirmation demonstrated that the falsely elevated estradiol was due to the presence of macro-estradiol. This report emphasizes the importance of recognizing analytical interferences in immunoassays to appropriately manage subsequent testing and patient care.
Living Intimately with Loss: Embodied Memory in Nadia Boulanger’s Post-1918 Work of Mourning
Authors: Rogers Jillian C
Published: October 2022

This article examines and contextualizes Nadia Boulanger’s musical and non-musical mourning practices within fin de siècle French culture, her family history with mourning, and her personal approaches to loss. Through examination of archival materials, including letters, datebooks, and concert programmes, as well as her published writings, I argue that Nadia mourned her sister Lili after her death in 1918 through a set of embodied practices that either viscerally reminded her of Lili or allowed her to resemble an idealized image of her sister. In addition, through analysis of Nadia’s and Lili’s post-1914 compositions in the context of mourning, this article also shows how both Boulanger sisters’ mourning practices and their idiosyncratic, although socio-culturally and spiritually inflected, understandings of loss and grief shaped their musical compositions. By detailing the ways that mourning and musical choices intertwined for Nadia Boulanger, this essay sheds new light on her career, while also demonstrating the importance of considering emotional practices in music history.
Revisit the periodicity of SGR J1935+2154 bursts with updated sample
Authors: Xie Sheng-Lun , Cai Ce , Xiong Shao-Lin , Yu Yun-Wei , Zhang Yan-Qiu , Lin Lin , Zhang Zhen , Xue Wang-Chen , Liu Jia-Cong , Zhao Yi , Xiao Shuo , Zheng Chao , Yi Qi-Bin , Zhang Peng , Wang Ping , Qiao Rui , Peng Wen-Xi , Huang Yue , Ma Xiang , Zhao Xiao-Yun , Li Xiao-Bo , Zheng Shi-Jie , Ge Ming-Yu , Li Cheng-Kui , Li Xin-Qiao , Wen Xiang-Yang , Zhang Fan , Song Li-Ming , Zhang Shuang-Nan , Guo Zhi-Wei , Zhang Xiao-Lu , Zhao Guo-Ying , Li Chao-Yang
Published: October 2022

Since FRB 200428 has been found to be associated with an X-ray burst from the Galactic magnetar SGR J1935+2154, it is interesting to explore whether the magnetar bursts also follow the similar active periodic behaviour as some repeating FRBs. Previous studies show that there is possible period of about 230 days in SGR J1935+2154 bursts. Here, we collected an updated burst sample from SGR J1935+2154, including all bursts reported by Fermi/GBM and GECAM till 2022 January. We also developed a targeted search pipeline to reveal more bursts from SGR J1935+2154 in the Fermi/GBM data from 2008 August to 2014 December (i.e. before the first burst detected by Swift/BAT). With this burst sample, we re-analysed the possible periodicity of SGR J1935+2154 bursts using the Period Folding and Lomb–Scargle Periodogram methods. Our results show that the periodicity ∼238 days reported in literature is probably fake and the observation effects may introduce false periods (i.e. 55 days) according to simulation tests. We find that, for the current burst sample, the most probable period is 126.88 ± 2.05 days, which could be interpreted as the precession of the magnetar. However, we note that the whole burst history is very complicated and difficult to be perfectly accommodated with any period reported thus far, therefore more monitoring observations of SGR J1935+2154 are required to test any periodicity hypothesis.
Loss of MYB34 Transcription Factor Supports the Backward Evolution of Indole Glucosinolate Biosynthesis in a Subclade of the Camelineae Tribe and Releases the Feedback Loop in This Pathway in Arabidopsis
Authors: Czerniawski Paweł , Piślewska-Bednarek Mariola , Piasecka Anna , Kułak Karolina , Bednarek Paweł
Published: October 2022

Glucosinolates are specialized defensive metabolites characteristic of the Brassicales order. Among them, aliphatic and indolic glucosinolates (IGs) are usually highly abundant in species from the Brassicaceae family. The exceptions this trend are species representing a subclade of the Camelineae tribe, including Capsella and Camelina genera, which have reduced capacity to produce and metabolize IGs. Our study addresses the contribution of specific glucosinolate-related myeloblastosis (MYB) transcription factors to this unprecedented backward evolution of IG biosynthesis. To this end, we performed phylogenomic and functional studies of respective MYB proteins. The obtained results revealed weakened conservation of glucosinolate-related MYB transcription factors, including loss of functional MYB34 protein, in the investigated species. We showed that the introduction of functional MYB34 from Arabidopsis thaliana partially restores IG biosynthesis in Capsella rubella, indicating that the loss of this transcription factor contributes to the backward evolution of this metabolic pathway. Finally, we performed an analysis of the impact of particular myb mutations on the feedback loop in IG biosynthesis, which drives auxin overproduction, metabolic dysregulation and strong growth retardation caused by mutations in IG biosynthetic genes. This uncovered the unique function of MYB34 among IG-related MYBs in this feedback regulation and consequently in IG conservation in Brassicaceae plants.
Cardenolide Increase in Foxglove after 2,1,3-Benzothiadiazole Treatment Reveals a Potential Link between Cardenolide and Phytosterol Biosynthesis
Authors: Raghavan Indu , Ravi Gopal Baradwaj , Carroll Emily , Wang Zhen Q
Published: October 2022

Cardenolides are steroidal metabolites in Digitalis lanata with potent cardioactive effects on animals. In plants, cardenolides are likely involved in various stress responses. However, the molecular mechanism of cardenolide increase during stresses is mostly unknown. Additionally, cardenolides are proposed to arise from cholesterol, but indirect results show that phytosterols may also be substrates for cardenolide biosynthesis. Here, we show that cardenolides increased after methyl jasmonate (MJ), sorbitol, potassium chloride (KCl) and salicylic acid analog [2,1,3-benzothiadiazole (BTH)] treatments. However, the expression of three known genes for cardenolide biosynthesis did not correlate well with these increases. Specifically, the expression of progesterone-5β-reductases (P5βR and P5βR2) did not correlate with the cardenolide increase. The expression of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3βHSD) correlated with changes in cardenolide levels only during the BTH treatment. Mining the D. lanata transcriptome identified genes involved in cholesterol and phytosterol biosynthesis: C24 sterol sidechain reductase 1 (SSR1), C4 sterol methyl oxidase 1, and 3 (SMO1 and SMO3). Surprisingly, the expression of all three genes correlated well with the cardenolide increase after the BTH treatment. Phylogenetic analysis showed that SSR1 is likely involved in both cholesterol and phytosterol biosynthesis. In addition, SMO1 is likely specific to phytosterol biosynthesis, and SMO3 is specific to cholesterol biosynthesis. These results suggest that stress-induced increase of cardenolides in foxglove may correlate with cholesterol and phytosterol biosynthesis. In summary, this work shows that cardenolides are important for stress responses in D. lanata and reveals a potential link between phytosterol and cardenolide biosynthesis.
Functional autoantibodies in systemic sclerosis: influence of autologous stem cell transplantation and correlation with clinical outcome
Authors: Bankamp Lukas , Preuß Beate , Pecher Ann-Christin , Vogel Wichard , Henes Jörg , Klein Reinhild
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of autologous stem cell transplantation (aSCT) on functional antibodies (abs) to the angiotensin II type-1-receptor (AT1R) and topoisomerase-I (topo-I) in SSc-patients and to analyse their prognostic relevance.

Material and methods

Forty-three SSc-patients in whom aSCT was performed were analysed. Thirty-one patients had a favourable outcome after aSCT (group 1), 12 patients showed no response or relapse (group 2). Patients’ sera were tested for anti-AT1R and anti-topo-I antibodies by ELISA and in a luminometric assay (LA) using AT1R-expressing Huh7-cells for inhibitory or stimulatory anti-AT1R antibodies before and after aSCT (4–217 months, median 28 months). Anti-topo-I antibodies were also analysed for their capacity to inhibit enzyme function.

Results

A total of 70% of the SSc patients had anti-topo-I- and 51% anti-AT1R antibodies in the ELISA before aSCT. In all instances, anti-topo-I antibodies inhibited topo-I-enzyme function. In the LA, 40% had stimulatory and 12% inhibitory anti-AT1R antibodies. Anti-topo-I- and anti-AT1R-reactivity (ELISA) significantly decreased after aSCT. Before aSCT, anti-topo-I-reactivity was significantly higher in group 2 patients than in group 1 patients (P < 0.001), while there was no difference between both groups for anti-AT1R antibodies detected by ELISA. Stimulatory anti-AT1R antibodies detected by LA were confined to group 1-patients.

Conclusions

Reactivity of functionally active anti-AT1R antibodies was not influenced by aSCT, while anti-topo-I antibodies decreased after aSCT. The fact that anti-topo-I antibodies inhibited enzyme function in all instances supports the hypothesis of a pathogenetic role of the topo-I antigen/antibody-system in SSc. High anti-topo-I reactivity before aSCT was associated with an unfavourable, presence of stimulatory anti-AT1R antibodies with a favourable course after aSCT.