bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical urchin-like CoSe2/CoSeO3 electro-catalysts for dye-sensitized solar cells: up to 19% PCE under dim light illumination
Authors: Huang Yi-June , Chen Han-Ting , Ann Shiuan-Bai , Li Chun-Ting , Lin Jiann T. , Lee Chuan-Pei , Ho Kuo-Chuan
Published: October 2019

A hierarchical urchin-like structure of CoSe2/CoSeO3 (denoted as CoSe2/CoSeO3-UL) is synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method and investigated as the electro-catalyst for the counter electrode (CE) of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
Nanowire-percolated piezoelectric copolymer-based highly transparent and flexible self-powered sensors
Authors: Jeong Chang Kyu , Hyeon Dong Yeol , Hwang Geon-Tae , Lee Gyoung-Ja , Lee Min-Ku , Park Jin-Ju , Park Kwi-Il
Published: October 2019

A transparent, flexible, and self-powered pressure sensor device was developed, monitoring the discrepancy of external pressure input from different shapes.
Surface modification of triboelectric materials by neutral beams
Authors: Kim Wook , Okada Takeru , Park Hyun-Woo , Kim Jihye , Kim Sungsoo , Kim Sang-Woo , Samukawa Seiji , Choi Dukhyun
Published: October 2019

Neutral beam (NB) based surface engineering on triboelectric materials and its effect on triboelectric performance.
A universal approach for optimizing charge extraction in electron transporting layer-free organic solar cells via Lewis base doping
Authors: Wang Rong , Wang Boxin , Wang Jianqiu , Zhang Xuning , Zhang Dongyang , Wei Donghui , Sun Xiaobo , Zhou Huiqiong , Zhang Yuan
Published: October 2019

Applying anion-induced electron transfer doping with a series of TXABr salts to non-fullerene organic solar cells enables to tune the doping efficiency and photovoltaic device performance.
Correction: Tailoring a dynamic crystalline process during the conversion of lead-halide perovskite layer to achieve high performance solar cells
Authors: Sun Mengjie , Liang Chunjun , Zhang Huimin , Ji Chao , Sun Fulin , You Fangtian , Jing Xiping , He Zhiqun
Published: October 2019

Correction for ‘Tailoring a dynamic crystalline process during the conversion of lead-halide perovskite layer to achieve high performance solar cells’ by Mengjie Sun et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2018, 6, 24793–24804.
PLGA–collagen–ECM hybrid scaffolds functionalized with biomimetic extracellular matrices secreted by mesenchymal stem cells during stepwise osteogenesis-co-adipogenesis
Authors: Chen Yazhou , Lee Kyubae , Kawazoe Naoki , Yang Yingnan , Chen Guoping
Published: October 2019

Development of an in vitro 3D model that reflects the dynamic remodeling of ECMs during simultaneous osteogenesis and adipogenesis of hMSCs.
Perylene diimide–Cu2+ based fluorescent nanoparticles for the detection of spermine in clinical and food samples: a step toward the development of a diagnostic kit as a POCT tool for spermine
Authors: Kumar Kapil , Kaur Sandeep , Kaur Satwinderjeet , Bhargava Gaurav , Kumar Subodh , Singh Prabhpreet
Published: October 2019

EA-PDI∩Cu2+ complex can be established as cost-effective method to develop diagnostic kit for POCT of spermine for real time detection of spermine in vapor and solution form released from fermented food samples.
6H-Benzo[4,5]thieno[2,3-b]indole as a novel donor for efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters with EQEs over 20%
Authors: Konidena Rajendra Kumar , Lee Kyung Hyung , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: October 2019

In this report, we developed two novel indole-based electron donors, 6H-benzo[4,5]thieno[2,3-b]indole (synBTI) and 6H-benzofuro[2,3-b]indole (synBFI), for designing green thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters.
Self energy and excitonic effect in (un)doped TiO2 anatase: a comparative study of hybrid DFT, GW and BSE to explore optical properties
Authors: Basera Pooja , Saini Shikha , Bhattacharya Saswata
Published: October 2019

Anisotropy in non-metal doped TiO2: p-type dopants (S and Se) are optically active only for light polarized along the xy direction, and n-type dopants (N and C) are optically active along the xy as well as z directions.
Structures of c-di-GMP/cGAMP degrading phosphodiesterase VcEAL: identification of a novel conformational switch and its implication
Authors: Yadav Malti , Pal Kamalendu , Sen Udayaditya
Published: October 2019

Cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) have emerged as the central molecules that aid bacteria to adapt and thrive in changing environmental conditions. Therefore, tight regulation of intracellular CDN concentration by counteracting the action of dinucleotide cyclases and phosphodiesterases (PDEs) is critical. Here, we demonstrate that a putative stand-alone EAL domain PDE from Vibrio cholerae (VcEAL) is capable to degrade both the second messenger c-di-GMP and hybrid 3′3′-cyclic GMP–AMP (cGAMP). To unveil their degradation mechanism, we have determined high-resolution crystal structures of VcEAL with Ca2+, c-di-GMP-Ca2+, 5′-pGpG-Ca2+ and cGAMP-Ca2+, the latter provides the first structural basis of cGAMP hydrolysis. Structural studies reveal a typical triosephosphate isomerase barrel-fold with substrate c-di-GMP/cGAMP bound in an extended conformation. Highly conserved residues specifically bind the guanine base of c-di-GMP/cGAMP in the G2 site while the semi-conserved nature of residues at the G1 site could act as a specificity determinant. Two metal ions, co-ordinated with six stubbornly conserved residues and two non-bridging scissile phosphate oxygens of c-di-GMP/cGAMP, activate a water molecule for an in-line attack on the phosphodiester bond, supporting two-metal ion-based catalytic mechanism. PDE activity and biofilm assays of several prudently designed mutants collectively demonstrate that VcEAL active site is charge and size optimized. Intriguingly, in VcEAL-5′-pGpG-Ca2+ structure, β5–α5 loop adopts a novel conformation that along with conserved E131 creates a new metal-binding site. This novel conformation along with several subtle changes in the active site designate VcEAL-5′-pGpG-Ca2+ structure quite different from other 5′-pGpG bound structures reported earlier.
Depletion of CD11c+ dendritic cells in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice limits angiotensin II-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm formation and growth
Authors: Krishna Smriti M. , Moran Corey S. , Jose Roby J. , Lazzaroni Sharon , Huynh Pacific , Golledge Jonathan
Published: October 2019

Objective: The role of chronic inflammation in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is controversial. CD11c+ antigen-presenting cells (APCs) (dendritic cells (DCs)) have been reported in human AAA samples but their role is unclear. The effect of conditional depletion of CD11c+ cells on experimental AAA was investigated in the angiotensin II (AngII)-infused apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE–/–) mouse model.

Approach: CD11c-diphtheria toxin (DT or D.tox) receptor (DTR), ovalbumin (OVA) fragment aa 140–386, and enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP)-ApoE–/– (CD11c.DOG.ApoE–/–) mice were generated and CD11c+ cell depletion achieved with D.tox injections (8 ng/g body weight, i.p., every-other-day). AAA formation and growth were assessed by measurement of supra-renal aortic (SRA) diameter in vivo by serial ultrasound and by morphometry assessment of harvested aortas at the end of the study.

Results: Depletion of CD11c+ cells by administration of D.tox on alternative days was shown to reduce the maximum diameter of AAAs induced by 28 days AngII infusion compared with controls (D.tox, 1.58 ± 0.03 mm vs Vehicle control, 1.81 ± 0.06 mm, P<0.001). CD11c+ depletion commencing after AAA establishment by 14 days of AngII infusion, was also shown to lead to smaller AAAs than controls after a further 14 days (D.tox, 1.54 ± 0.04 mm vs Vehicle control, 1.80 ± 0.03 mm, P<0.001). Flow cytometry revealed significantly lower numbers of circulating CD44hi CD62Llo effector CD4 T cells, CD44hi CD62Llo effector CD8 T cells and B220+ B cells in CD11c+ cell-depleted mice versus controls. CD11c+ depletion attenuated SRA matrix degradation indicated by decreased neutrophil elastase activity (P=0.014), lower elastin degradation score (P=0.012) and higher collagen content (P=0.002).

Conclusion: CD11c+ cell-depletion inhibited experimental AAA development and growth associated with down-regulation of circulating effector T cells and attenuated matrix degradation. The findings suggest involvement of autoreactive immune cells in AAA pathogenesis.
Low-redshift measurement of the sound horizon through gravitational time-delays
Authors: Arendse Nikki , Agnello Adriano , Wojtak Radosław J.
Published: October 2019

Context. The matter sound horizon can be infered from the cosmic microwave background within the Standard Model. Independent direct measurements of the sound horizon are then a probe of possible deviations from the Standard Model.

Aims. We aim at measuring the sound horizon rs from low-redshift indicators, which are completely independent of CMB inference.

Methods. We used the measured product H(z)rs from baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO) together with supernovae Ia to constrain H(z)/H0 and time-delay lenses analysed by the H0LiCOW collaboration to anchor cosmological distances (∝ H0−1). Additionally, we investigated the influence of adding a sample of quasars with higher redshift with standardisable UV-Xray luminosity distances. We adopted polynomial expansions in H(z) or in comoving distances so that our inference was completely independent of any cosmological model on which the expansion history might be based. Our measurements are independent of Cepheids and systematics from peculiar motions to within percent-level accuracy.

Results. The inferred sound horizon rs varies between (133 ± 8) Mpc and (138 ± 5) Mpc across different models. The discrepancy with CMB measurements is robust against model choice. Statistical uncertainties are comparable to systematics.

Conclusions. The combination of time-delay lenses, supernovae, and BAO yields a distance ladder that is independent of cosmology (and of Cepheid calibration) and a measurement of rs that is independent of the CMB. These cosmographic measurements are then a competitive test of the Standard Model, regardless of the hypotheses on which the cosmology is based.
Characterization and formation of on-disk spicules in the Ca II K and Mg II k spectral lines
Authors: Bose Souvik , Henriques Vasco M. J. , Joshi Jayant , Rouppe van der Voort Luc
Published: October 2019

We characterize, for the first time, type-II spicules in Ca II K 3934 Å using the CHROMIS instrument at the Swedish 1 m Solar Telescope. We find that their line formation is dominated by opacity shifts with the K3 minimum best representing the velocity of the spicules. The K2 features are either suppressed by the Doppler-shifted K3 or enhanced via increased contribution from the lower layers, leading to strongly enhanced but unshifted K2 peaks, with widening towards the line core as consistent with upper-layer opacity removal via Doppler-shift. We identify spicule spectra in concurrent IRIS Mg II k 2796Å observations with very similar properties. Using our interpretation of spicule chromospheric line formation, we produce synthetic profiles that match observations.
A Semi-Automatic Approach in GIS for 3D Modeling and Visualization of Utility Networks: Application for Sewer & Stormwater networks
Authors: Chaaban Fadi , Darwishe Hanan , El Khattabi Jamal
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a semi-automatic methodology proposed for 3D modeling of utility networks in GIS environment. The ModelBuilder in ArcGIS (ESRI) software is used for implementing this methodology, by developing two tools to automate the construction processes of 3D networks. The first presents a tool to create a 3D Manhole layer from points layer, and the second is a tool to create a 3D pipe layer. For both tools, a work algorithm has been built, in addition to designing user interfaces elements. These tools are stored in a Toolbox called “3D Manhole & Pipe.tbx”. The two previous tools were tested and applied to spatial data for a proposed residential area. The final 3D model of the residential area includes the sewage and stormwater networks, as well as other spatial data such as buildings, parks, roads, etc. This model is able to spot the intersection points in the network, visually or using the 3D analysis available in the software, allowing us to identify problems to be processed and resolved before starting a project, leading consequently to time and cost savings, effort and money. The proposed methodology is an easy and an effective way to build 3D network models (sewer, water..etc), and the developed tools allow the implementation of a set of necessary processes needed to build 3D networks.
Anomalies de la β-oxydation mitochondriale des acides gras
Authors: Bastin Jean , Djouadi Fatima
Published: October 2019

Certaines anomalies de la β-oxydation mitochondriale des acides gras (β-OAG) apparaissent jouer un rôle majeur dans la pathogenèse de plusieurs maladies communes (diabète, obésité, maladies cardiaques). Des déficits génétiques touchant la β-OAG sont également à l’origine d’un ensemble de maladies rares de phénotypes très variables, allant de défaillances cardio-hépatiques fatales chez le nourrisson à des myopathies chez l’adulte. Ces différentes pathologies sont révélatrices du rôle clé de la β-OAG dans plusieurs organes à forts besoins en ATP (cœur, muscle, foie, rein). Des données récentes suggèrent que la β-OAG participerait également à d’autres fonctions complexes (modifications de la chromatine, contrôle de l’activité de cellules souches, devenir de cellules cancéreuses).
Location and scale behaviour of the quantiles of a natural exponential family
Authors: Piccioni Mauro , Kołodziejek Bartosz , Letac Gérard
Published: October 2019

Let P0 be a probability on the real line generating a natural exponential family (Pt)t∈ℝ. Fix α in (0, 1). We show that the property that Pt((−∞, t)) ≤ α ≤ Pt((−∞, t]) for all t implies that there exists a number μα such that P0 is the Gaussian distribution N(μα, 1). In other terms, if for all t, the number t is a quantile of Pt associated to some threshold α ∈ (0, 1), then the exponential family must be Gaussian. The case α = 1∕2, i.e. when t is always a median of Pt, has been considered in Letac et al. [Statist. Prob. Lett. 133 (2018) 38–41]. Analogously let Q be a measure on [0, ∞) generating a natural exponential family (Q−t)t>0. We show that Q−t([0, t−1)) ≤ α ≤ Q−t([0, t−1]) for all t > 0 implies that there exists a number p = pα > 0 such that Q(dx) ∝ xp−1dx, and thus Q−t has to be a gamma law with parameters p and t.
Spindelzelliges Sarkom am Unterkiefer einer 5 Jahre alten Holstein-Friesian-Kuh
Authors: Gaude Ina , Otzen Henning , Hoedemaker Martina , Attig Friederike , Gerhauser Ingo , Hewicker-Trautwein Marion , Heppelmann Maike
Published: October 2019

Eine 5 Jahre alte Kuh der Rasse Deutsche Holstein wurde aufgrund einer seit 3 Monaten bestehenden Umfangsvermehrung am Kopf vorgestellt. Bei der klinischen Untersuchung zeigte sich eine 15 × 20 × 15 cm große, derbe Umfangsvermehrung an der rechten Kopfseite. Das apathische Tier wies eine gestreckte Kopf-Hals-Haltung, nasalen Stridor, mukopurulenten Nasenausfluss sowie eine inspiratorische Dyspnoe mit verschärfter Atmung auf. Weiterhin bestanden eine Dysphagie und eine mäßige bis starke Salivation. Auf den Röntgenaufnahmen wurden die knöchernen Strukturen des Schädels deutlich von einer diffusen, schlecht abgegrenzten Masse unterschiedlicher Röntgendichte überlagert. Die endoskopische Untersuchung ergab einen raumfordernden Prozess im Pharynxbereich. Sonografisch stellte sich die Umfangsvermehrung als kompaktes, deutlich inhomogenes Gewebe mit fokalen Bereichen unterschiedlicher Echogenität dar. Die pathomorphologische Untersuchung des euthanasierten Rindes bestätigte das Vorliegen eines Tumors, der bereits in die Lunge metastasiert hatte. Histologisch und immunhistochemisch wurde ein spindelzelliges, Vimentin exprimierendes Weichgewebssarkom nachgewiesen, wobei es sich wahrscheinlich um ein Fibrosarkom handelte.
Datenerfassung in der medizinischen Forschung mittels Fragebogen: Ergebnisse einer Befragung von Frauen mit Ullrich-Turner-Syndrom
Authors: Dörr Helmut G. , Bettendorf Markus , Binder Gerhard , Brämswig Jürgen , Hauffa Berthold P. , Holterhus Paul-Martin , Mohnike Klaus , Schmidt Heinrich , Stalla Günter K , Wabitsch Martin , Wölfle Joachim ,   Turner-Syndrom-Vereinigung Deutschland e. V.
Published: October 2019

Hintergrund In Frankreich wurde 2001 bei Frauen mit Ullrich-Turner-Syndrom (UTS) eine Studie mit einem Papierfragebogen durchgeführt. Von insgesamt 891 angeschriebenen Frauen, schickten 568 Frauen (64 %) den ausgefüllten Fragebogen zurück.

Methode Für die Erfassung der Daten wurde der gleiche Fragebogen wie in Frankreich verwendet und ins Deutsche übersetzt. Der Fragebogen hatte einen Umfang von 11 Seiten und beinhaltete verschiedene Themen zur familiären, schulischen und beruflichen Situation, zur medizinischen Betreuung, zur Behandlung mit Wachstumshormon sowie zum Gefühls- und Sexualleben. Voraussetzung für die Teilnahme waren ein Alter ≥ 18 Jahre und eine Therapie mit Wachstumshormon im Kindesalter. Die Studie wurde in Deutschland 2015 durchgeführt. Die Untersuchung wurde von der Ethikkommission der Medizinischen Fakultät der Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg genehmigt. Die Daten wurden anonymisiert erhoben. Die Patientinnen wurden nur nach dem Alter, der Postleitzahl dem Wohnort und nach Mitgliedschaft in der Selbsthilfegruppe gefragt.

Ergebnisse Über elf Zentren (n = 629) und über die Selbsthilfegruppe (n = 150) wurden 779 Frauen identifiziert. Von den 779 verschickten Fragebögen kamen 176 zurück (Rücklaufquote 22,6 %). Aufgrund fehlender Daten oder Nichteinhalten der Einschlusskriterien konnten 46 Fragebögen nicht ausgewertet werden, sodass die Daten von 130 Frauen (16,7 % der angeschriebenen Patientinnen) für die Analyse zur Verfügung standen. Davon waren 26 Frauen (20,5 %) Mitglied in der Selbsthilfegruppe. Die einzelnen Fragenkomplexe wurden von den Frauen nicht gleich häufig beantwortet. Fragen zu „Familie, Schule und Beruf“ oder zu „Gesundheitsproblemen“ wurden von allen Frauen (100 %) beantwortet, Fragen zum „Gefühlsleben“ und Fragen zu „Beziehungen“ nur von 71,5 % bzw. 53,1 %.

Schlussfolgerungen Der Fragebogen wurde in Deutschland deutlich schlechter akzeptiert als in Frankreich, obwohl die deutschen Frauen überwiegend von den Kinder-Endokrinologen angeschrieben wurden, die bei ihnen die Therapie mit Wachstumshormon durchgeführt hatten.
Downregulation of miR-320 Alleviates Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Inflammatory Response in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Liu Lu , Li Xiaohua
Published: October 2019

Objective MicroRNAs serve important roles in the regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERs). This study aimed to investigate the role of microRNA-320 (miR-320) in the development of ERs and the inflammatory response in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

Materials and Methods The adipose tissue expression levels of miR-320 and ERs markers (GRP78, GRP94, Derlin-1 and CHOP) and the serum concentration of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, NF-κB and IL-6) in obese patients were evaluated using quantitative real-time RT-PCR or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The correlation of miR-320 with genes involved in ERs and inflammation was analyzed. The effects of miR-320 on ERs and inflammation were explored using mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes, which were pretreated with palmitic acid (PA).

Results ERs markers and inflammatory cytokines were all upregulated in obese patients. Adipose tissue miR-320 expression was also increased in obese patients, and had positive correlations with the levels of ERs markers and inflammatory cytokines. After PA treatment, the levels of ERs markers and inflammatory cytokines were elevated significantly in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Moreover, miR-320 expression was increased in the cells under ERs status. The upregulation of miR-320 could enhance the expression of ERs markers and inflammatory cytokines, but the downregulation of miR-320 resulted in the opposite results.

Conclusion The data of this study indicate that miR-320 expression is upregulated in ERs status, and the downregulation of miR-320 ameliorates ERs and the inflammatory response in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We consider that the approaches to decrease miR-320 expression may be novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases.
Access to N-Alkylpyrazin-2-ones via C–O to C–N Rearrangement of Pyrazinyl Ethers
Authors: Dacho Vladimír , Nitrayová Dária , Šoral Michal , Machyňáková Andrea , Moncoľ Ján , Szolcsányi Peter
Published: October 2019

The reaction of tosylated 2-alkoxypyrazines with potassium halides led to the unexpected formation of N-alkylated pyrazinones. Such rare example of substitutive C–O → C–N rearrangement on pyrazines was then scrutinised by using various nucleophiles to afford the respective products in moderate to good yields. This method provides a direct access to N-alkylated-1H-pyrazin-2-ones. The formation of the rearranged products is conveniently and reliably determined by characteristic NMR shifts of their heteroaromatic protons.
Scalable Synthesis of Acridinium Catalysts for Photoredox Deuterations
Authors: Zilate Bouthayna , Fischer Christian , Schneider Lukas , Sparr Christof
Published: October 2019

The continuous development of photocatalytic methods incentivizes the design of organic catalysts to complement the frequently used and precious polypyridyl transition metal systems. Herein, a scalable synthesis of suitable acridinium dyes and their application in photoredox deuterations are described. The acridinium catalysts, prepared on multi-gram scale, allowed the deuteration of a pharmaceutically relevant scaffold in high yield and selectivity under mild conditions.
Comparison of Surgical Outcomes and Recurrence Rates of Cystic and Solid Vestibular Schwannomas
Authors: Almefty Rami O. , Xu David S. , Mooney Michael A. , Montoure Andrew , Naeem Komal , Coons Stephen W. , Spetzler Robert F. , Porter Randall W.
Published: October 2019

Objective Cystic vestibular schwannomas (CVSs) are anecdotally believed to have worse clinical and tumor-control outcomes than solid vestibular schwannomas (SVSs); however, no data have been reported to support this belief. In this study, we characterize the clinical outcomes of patients with CVSs versus those with SVSs.

Design This is a retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Setting This study is set at single high-volume neurosurgical institute.

Participants We queried a database for details on all patients diagnosed with vestibular schwannomas between January 2009 and January 2014.

Main Outcome Measures Records were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses to study the differences in clinical outcomes and tumor progression or recurrence.

Results Of a total of 112 tumors, 24% (n = 27) were CVSs and 76% (n = 85) were SVSs. Univariate analysis identified the extent of resection, Koos grade, and tumor diameter as significant predictors of recurrence (p ≤ 0.005). However, tumor diameter was the only significant predictor of recurrence in the multivariate analysis (p = 0.007). Cystic change was not a predictor of recurrence in the univariate or multivariate analysis (p ≥ 0.40). Postoperative facial nerve and hearing outcomes were similar for both CVSs and SVSs (p ≥ 0.47).

Conclusion Postoperative facial nerve outcome, hearing, tumor progression, and recurrence are similar for patients with CVSs and SVSs. As CVS growth patterns and responses to radiation are unpredictable, we favor microsurgical resection over radiosurgery as the initial treatment. Our data do not support the commonly held belief that cystic tumors behave more aggressively than solid tumors or are associated with increased postoperative facial nerve deficits.
Limitation of Near Infrared Spectroscopy Cerebral Oximetry in Predicting Neurologic Intolerance during Carotid Artery Stenting with Proximal Protection
Authors: Bilgi Kanchan , Mishra Rajeeb Kumar , HR Aravinda ,   Radhakrishnan M
Published: October 2019

Proximal balloon occlusion prior to carotid artery stenting is considered a relatively safe practice during endovascular treatment of carotid artery stenosis. Transient neurological deterioration affecting the ipsilateral hemisphere is seen soon after balloon inflation, when placed proximal to the stenotic segment. This occurs in cases of bilateral carotid disease due to insufficient collateral blood flow from the contralateral side. Near infrared spectroscopy cerebral oximetry (NIRS) is a valuable tool in detecting hypoperfusion- induced cerebral tissue desaturation (rSO2) during these procedures. This helps the interventional radiologist to deflate the balloon at the earliest to re-establish the cerebral blood flow. The non-invasive nature and continuous real-time interpretation make NIRS an attractive adjunct in the neuroanesthesiolgist's armamentarium for monitoring cerebral ischemia. However, significant contribution from chromophores in the extra-cerebral tissues and external carotid artery circulation can limit its sensitivity during occlusion of the internal carotid artery. In our case, it did not reflect brain ischemia during hypotension and when the neurologic symptoms were obvious. Commonly available cerebral oximetry sensors placed over the frontal region do not cover the parietal lobe where ischemia is likely to occur during occlusion of the carotid artery. In such scenarios, it has been shown that multi-channel NIRS has a better sensitivity in detecting cerebral ischemia. This case report highlights the importance of frequent neurological examination during carotid stenting as rSO2 values might not always suggest cerebral ischemia.
Early Surgical Repair of Bile Duct Injuries following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: The Sooner the Better
Authors: Battal Muharrem , Yazici Pinar , Bostanci Ozgur , Karatepe Oguzhan
Published: October 2019

Background We aimed to investigate the outcomes of the immediate surgical repair of bile duct injuries (BDIs) following laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Materials and Methods Between January 2012 and May 2017, patients, who underwent immediate surgical repair (within 72 hours) for postcholecystectomy BDI, by the same surgical team expert in hepatobiliary surgery, were enrolled into the study. Data collection included demographics, type of BDI according to the Strasberg classification, time to diagnosis, surgical procedures, and outcome.

Results There were 13 patients with a mean age of 43 ± 12 years. Classification of BDIs were as follows: type E in six patients (46%), type D in three patients (23%), type C in two (15%), and types B and A in one patient each (7.6%). Mean time to diagnosis was 22 ± 15 hours. Surgical procedures included Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy for all six patients with type-E injury, primary repair of common bile duct for three patients with type-D injury, and primary suturing of the fistula orifice was performed in two cases with type-C injury. Other two patients with type-B and -A injury underwent removal of clips which were placed on common bile duct during index operation and replacing of clips on cystic duct where stump bile leakage was observed probably due to dislodging of clips, respectively. Mean hospital stay was 6.6 ± 3 days. Morbidity with a rate of 30% (n = 4) was observed during a median follow-up period of 35 months (range: 6–56 months). Mortality was nil.

Conclusion Immediate surgical repair of postcholecystectomy BDIs in selected patients leads to promising outcome.
Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy in Cases of Hydrocephalus: An Institutional Experience
Authors: Saxena Prarthana , Pandey Sharad , Kumar Pankaj , Kausik Kaviraj , Soni Shiv Lal
Published: October 2019

Background With the recent advances in optical and mechanical instrumentation, endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) has emerged as the procedure of choice for the treatment of hydrocephalus in selected patients.

Objective: To study the role of ETV in therapeutic management of hydrocephalus in a tertiary care center.

Materials and Methods The present study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy was performed as a therapeutic procedure in patients diagnosed with hydrocephalus requiring surgical intervention and admitted from June 2017 to July 2018. ETV success was defined by resolution or improvement in clinical symptoms and ETV failure was considered in patients whose symptoms either deteriorated or did not improve from the baseline and required ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Results A total of 85 patients were included in this study who underwent the therapeutic ETV. In the present study, the overall ETV success rate was 75.2% (64/85). 86.7% cases of aqueductal stenosis, 74.4% cases of post meningitis (including tubercular meningitis) hydrocephalus, and 71% of posterior fossa tumors showed resolution or improvement in clinical symptoms.

Conclusion ETV is an effective treatment modality for obstructive hydrocephalus and with better results in post meningitis hydrocephalus and post tubercular meningitis hydrocephalus. However, more extensive studies dedicated to ETV with a larger sample size are required to further study its efficacy in various etiologies.
Heterotopic Ossification after Direct Anterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Cohen Eric M. , Babu Jacob M. , Ritterman Scott , Tuttle John , Eisenson Daniel , Rubin Lee E.
Published: October 2019

Previous studies have demonstrated varying rates of heterotopic ossification (HO) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) depending on which anatomical approach is utilized. The direct anterior approach (DAA) is considered to be a muscle-sparing approach to the hip, which may lead to decreased rates of HO formation. This study evaluated the incidence of HO formation after DAA THA. The current work is a retrospective review of patients who underwent DAA THA. Six-month postoperative radiographs were evaluated and HO grade was classified using the Brooker classification system. Baseline characteristic differences between the Brooker classification groups were analyzed, specifically looking at: age, sex, type of deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis utilized, and preoperative Bombelli arthritis type. The overall incidence of HO in this DAA group was 179/485 patients (36.9%). There were 14 patients (2.9%) with Brooker Type 3 HO and 1 patient (0.21%) with Brooker Type 4 HO. No surgical excision of HO was performed. Patients were significantly more likely to develop HO if they had Bombelli hypertrophic arthritis (p < 0.00003). Preoperative radiographic imaging suggesting Bombelli hypertrophic arthritis is predictive of HO formation, warranting consideration for HO prophylactic treatment. The radiographic incidence of HO in DAA THA was 36.9%, which is within the previously reported range of HO seen for lateral and posterior approaches to the hip. HO after total hip arthroplasty is likely due to soft tissue handling, hemostasis, and patient factors, rather than type of surgical approach.
Pediatric Sepsis in Our Community: A Point Prevalence Study
Authors: Breuer Ryan K. , Carnevale Frank , Donhauser Jessica , Iwano Mika , Kramer Bree , Marthia Vanessa , Nutty Kirsten , Patankar Nikhil , Wilkowski Scott , Hassinger Amanda B.
Published: October 2019

Objective Hospital-based studies are the main sources of epidemiologic data on pediatric sepsis, underrepresenting those managed as outpatients. This may disadvantage community providers, especially when determining triage, referral, and follow-up. Our objective was to characterize sepsis in nonhospitalized children and describe resources allocated to their care.

Methods This was a point prevalence study conducted in 11 primary care (PC) offices, 2 urgent care (UC) centers, and 1 pediatric emergency department (ED) serving Western New York. Patients aged 18 years and younger evaluated at a participating site on one of four study dates over a 12-month period were eligible to participate. Patients were included if temperature and heart rate and/or respiratory rate were documented during their visit. The primary outcome was the prevalence of sepsis in participating sites.

Results Of 3,269 eligible children, 52.6% (n = 1,719) met inclusion criteria, 91% of whom (n = 1,576) were evaluated for acute infection. Sepsis criteria were met by 8.8% of these patients (22.4% in ED, 13.0% in UC centers, and 1.6% in PC offices). Most (74%) patients with sepsis were managed solely by initial site and sent home. However, meeting sepsis criteria was associated with higher odds of escalation of care beyond initial site (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.62–4.17). The presence of tachycardia (aOR: 2.88, 95% CI: 1.70–4.90) or a lower respiratory tract infection (aOR: 3.69, 95% CI: 2.28–5.99) was also independently associated with higher odds of care escalation.

Conclusion Nearly 1 in 10 children seeking outpatient evaluation for infection met sepsis criteria. While most were managed without transfer or hospital admission, the diagnosis did carry higher odds of care escalation. Tachycardia and lower respiratory tract infections also conveyed an increased likelihood, suggesting additional screening possibilities for outpatient clinicians.
Serum D-Dimer in the Diagnosis of Periprosthetic Knee Infection: Where Are We Today?
Authors: Pannu Tejbir S. , Villa Jesus M. , Riesgo Aldo M. , Patel Preetesh D. , Barsoum Wael K. , Higuera-Rueda Carlos A.
Published: October 2019

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) continues to impact a remarkable number of patients who undergo total knee arthroplasty (2.0–2.1%). Substantial efforts to curtail these rates have been seen in the past decade including various attempts to reach a clear definition of PJI that the orthopaedic community could adopt as a gold standard. The Musculoskeletal Infection Society (MSIS) criteria, slightly modified by the International Consensus Meeting (ICM), has gained widespread acceptance and it is a step closer to that goal. Research on markers such as serum cross-linked D-fragments (D-dimer) seems promising in the diagnosis of infection. In the setting of PJI, a recent publication has established a threshold of 850 ng/mL as the optimal cutoff value for serum D-dimer. Therefore, our objective is to present a summary of the current literature on the changing indications of D-dimer and its rising importance in the setting of PJI. Serum D-dimer has been shown to outperform other conventional tests such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein that have been a major part of the ICM criteria and it has been included in the newly proposed diagnostic criteria for PJI that correctly diagnoses infection in 95.5% of septic patients (overall sensitivity: 97.7%, specificity: 99.5%). In comparison with the ICM and MSIS infection definitions, the new criteria revealed a higher sensitivity (97.7 vs. 86.9% and 97.7 vs. 79.3%, respectively), while specificity was similar. In conclusion, high D-dimer levels in primary or revision knee arthroplasty seem indicative of diagnosis of PJI. However, future studies are warranted to conclusively support the routine use of this marker and to validate the performance of the newly developed PJI diagnostic criteria under different clinical scenarios.
Management of Paroxysmal Sympathetic Hyperactivity with Dexmedetomidine and Propranolol Following Traumatic Brain Injury in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Branstetter Joshua W. , Ohman Kelsey L. , Johnson Donald W. , Gilbert Brian W.
Published: October 2019

We report a case of pharmacologic management of pediatric paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) in a patient who experienced symptomatic resolution with dexmedetomidine and propranolol. Following a blunt traumatic subdural hematoma and diffuse axonal injury, an 8-year-old male developed PSH on approximately day 5 of the hospitalization. PSH symptoms identified in this patient were hyperthermia, tachycardia, posturing, and hypertension with associated elevations in intracranial pressure. Episodes of PSH continued to be observed despite appropriate titration of opiates, sedatives, and traditional blood pressure management. Dexmedetomidine and propranolol were subsequently initiated to attenuate acute episodes of PSH. A reduction in sedative requirements and improvement in symptoms followed, which facilitated successful extubation. The combination of propranolol and dexmedetomidine was followed by a decrease in the frequency and severity of acute episodes of PSH. After utilization of multiple treatment modalities to control PSH episodes in our patient, propranolol and dexmedetomidine may have helped attenuate PSH signs and symptoms.
Multidisciplinary Team Care in the Surgical Management of Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Grayson Jessica W. , Nayak Agnish , Winder Mark , Jonker Benjamin , Alvarado Raquel , Barham Henry , McCormack Ann , Harvey Richard J.
Published: October 2019

Objective Despite multidisciplinary care being commonly recommended, there remains limited evidence supporting its benefits in pituitary disease management. This study aimed to assess the impact of multidisciplinary care in pituitary surgery.

Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed comparing pituitary surgery outcomes among consecutive patients within a quaternary referral center in 5 years before and after introduction of a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Primary outcomes were endocrine (transient diabetes insipidus [DI], syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone [SIADH], and new hypopituitarism) and surgical (cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] leak, epistaxis, intracranial hemorrhage, and meningitis) complications, length of hospital stay, and intrasellar residual tumor.

Results 279 patients (89 pre-MDT vs. 190 post-MDT) were assessed (age 54 ± 17 years, 48% female). Nonfunctioning adenomas were most common (54%). In the post-MDT era, more clinically functioning tumors (42 vs. 28%, p = 0.03) were treated. Transient DI and SIADH occurred less often post-MDT (20 vs. 36%, p < 0.01 and 18 vs. 39%, p < 0.01), as well as new hypothyroidism (5 vs. 15, p < 0.01). Hospital stay was shorter post-MDT (5[3] vs. 7[5] days, p < 0.001) and intrasellar residuals were less common (8 vs. 35%, p < 0.001). Complications were more frequent pre-MDT independent of tumor size, hormone status, and surgical technique (odds ratio [OR] = 2.14 [1.05–4.32], p = 0.04).

Conclusion Outcomes of pituitary surgery improved after the introduction of an MDT. Pituitary MDTs may benefit both patients and the health system by improving quality of care and reducing hospital stays.
Concentration in the flux approximation limit of Riemann solutions to the extended Chaplygin gas equations with friction
Authors: Zhang Qingling
Published: October 2019

In this paper, two kinds of occurrence mechanisms on the phenomenon of concentration and the formation of delta shock waves are analyzed and identified in the flux approximation limit of Riemann solutions to the extended Chaplygin gas equations with Coulomb-like friction, whose special case can also be seen as the model of the magnetogasdynamics with Coulomb-like friction. First, by introducing a transformation, the Riemann problem for the extended Chaplygin gas equations with Coulomb-like friction is solved completely. Second, we rigorously show that, as the pressure vanishes, any two-shock Riemann solution to the nonhomogeneous extended Chaplygin gas equations tends to a δ-shock solution to the corresponding nonhomogeneous transportation equations, and the intermediate density between the two shocks tends to a weighted δ-measure that forms the δ-shock; any two-rarefaction-wave Riemann solution to the nonhomogeneous extended Chaplygin gas equations tends to a two-contact-discontinuity solution to the corresponding nonhomogeneous transportation equations, and the nonvacuum intermediate state between the two rarefaction waves tends to a vacuum state. Finally, we also show that, as the pressure approaches the generalized Chaplygin pressure, any two-shock Riemann solution to the nonhomogeneous extended Chaplygin gas equations tends to a delta-shock solution to the corresponding nonhomogeneous generalized Chaplygin gas equations. In a word, we have not only generalized all the results about the vanishing pressure limit now available for homogeneous equations to nonhomogeneous cases but also obtained the stability of the delta shock Riemann solutions to the nonhomogeneous transportation equations and generalized Chaplygin gas equations with respect to flux function perturbation.
The interaction between the supersonic molecular beam and electron beam for the optimization of an electron ionization ion source
Authors: Liu D. , Qu G. F. , Wang Y. Z. , Zhou M. L. , Li M. , Xu Z. X. , Yang C. W. , Han J. F.
Published: October 2019

The interaction between the supersonic molecular beam (SMB) and electron beam is a key issue in the design of electron ionization mass spectrometry with SMB (EI-MS with SMB). In this paper, one EI ion source prototype was designed based on an electron gun, whose filament was far away from the interaction range and the influence of the filament field could be neglected. The interaction was studied by one high-speed camera and one Faraday cup. The ion flux as well as the variation with stagnation pressure and axial distance was studied. The experimental results were consistent with the simple simulated results about the ionization and photon emission process in the interaction. It was found that higher stagnation pressure was necessary for higher electron energy to acquire the maximum ion flux. The optimized parameters for the EI ion source including the axial position, stagnation pressure, and electron energy were reported. These results were meaningful for the design and optimization of the ion source.
On the area scalability of valence-change memristors for neuromorphic computing
Authors: Ang D. S. , Zhou Y. , Yew K. S. , Berco D.
Published: October 2019

The ability to vary the conductance of a valence-change memristor in a continuous manner makes it a prime choice as an artificial synapse in neuromorphic systems. Because synapses are the most numerous components in the brain, exceeding the neurons by several orders of magnitude, the scalability of artificial synapses is crucial to the development of large scale neuromorphic systems but is an issue which is seldom investigated. Leveraging on the conductive atomic force microscopy method, we found that the conductance switching of nanoscale memristors (∼25 nm2) is abrupt in a majority of the cases examined. This behavior is contrary to the analoglike conductance modulation or plasticity typically observed in larger area memristors. The result therefore implies that plasticity may be lost when the device dimension is scaled down. The contributing factor behind the plasticity behavior of a large-area memristor was investigated by current mapping, and may be ascribed to the disruption of the plurality of conductive filaments happening at different voltages, thus yielding an apparent continuous change in conductance with voltage. The loss of plasticity in scaled memristors may pose a serious constraint to the development of large scale neuromorphic systems.
Non-adiabatic molecular dynamics of molecules in the presence of strong light-matter interactions
Authors: Zhang Yu , Nelson Tammie , Tretiak Sergei
Published: October 2019

When the interaction between a molecular system and confined light modes in an optical or plasmonic cavity is strong enough to overcome the dissipative process, hybrid light-matter states (polaritons) become the fundamental excitations in the system. The mixing between the light and matter characters modifies the photophysical and photochemical properties. Notably, it was reported that these polaritons can be employed to control photochemical reactions, charge and energy transfer, and other processes. In addition, according to recent studies, vibrational strong coupling can be employed to resonantly enhance the thermally-activated chemical reactions. In this work, a theoretical model and an efficient numerical method for studying the dynamics of molecules strongly interacting with quantum light are developed based on nonadiabatic excited-state molecular dynamics. The methodology was employed to study the cis-trans photoisomerization of a realistic molecule in a cavity. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the photochemical reactions can be controlled by tuning the properties of the cavity. In the calculated example, the isomerization is suppressed when polaritonic states develop a local minimum on the lower polaritonic state. Moreover, the observed reduction of isomerization is tunable via the photon energy and light-molecule coupling strength. However, the fluctuation in the transition dipole screens the effect of light-matter, which makes it harder to tune the photochemical properties via the coupling strength. These insights suggest quantum control of photochemical reactions is possible by specially designed photonic or plasmonic cavities.
Molecular free energy profiles from force spectroscopy experiments by inversion of observed committors
Authors: Covino Roberto , Woodside Michael T. , Hummer Gerhard , Szabo Attila , Cossio Pilar
Published: October 2019

In single-molecule force spectroscopy experiments, a biomolecule is attached to a force probe via polymer linkers and the total extension of the molecule plus apparatus is monitored as a function of time. In a typical unfolding experiment at constant force, the total extension jumps between two values that correspond to the folded and unfolded states of the molecule. For several biomolecular systems, the committor, which is the probability to fold starting from a given extension, has been used to extract the molecular activation barrier (a technique known as “committor inversion”). In this work, we study the influence of the force probe, which is much larger than the molecule being measured, on the activation barrier obtained by committor inversion. We use a two-dimensional framework in which the diffusion coefficient of the molecule and of the pulling device can differ. We systematically study the free energy profile along the total extension obtained from the committor by numerically solving the Onsager equation and using Brownian dynamics simulations. We analyze the dependence of the extracted barrier on the linker stiffness, molecular barrier height, and diffusion anisotropy and, thus, establish the range of validity of committor inversion. Along the way, we showcase the committor of 2-dimensional diffusive models and illustrate how it is affected by barrier asymmetry and diffusion anisotropy.