bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal width of quasicrystalline slabs of dielectric cylinders to microwave radiation transmission contrast
Authors: Andueza Ángel , Wang Kang , Pérez-Conde Jesús , Sevilla Joaquín
Published: August 2016

Light confinement induced by resonant states in aperiodic photonic structures is interesting for many applications. A particular case of these resonances can be found in 2D quasicrystalline arrangements of dielectric cylinders. These systems present a rather isotropic band gap as well as isolated in-gap photonic states (as a result of spatially localized resonances). These states are built by high symmetry polygonal clusters that can be regarded as photonic molecules. In this paper, we study the transmission properties of a slab of glass cylinders arranged in approximants of the decagonal quasicrystalline structure. In particular, we investigate the influence of the slab width in the transmission contrast between the states and the gap. The study is both experimental and numerical in the microwave regime. We find that the best transmission contrast is found for a width of around three times the radiation wavelength. The transmission in the band gap region is mediated by the resonances of the photonic molecules. If the samples are thin enough, they become transparent except around a resonance of the photonic molecule which reflects the incoming light.
Deoxidation of (001) III–V semiconductors in metal-organic vapour phase epitaxy
Authors: Kaspari Christian , Pristovsek Markus , Richter Wolfgang
Published: August 2016

We studied the deoxidation of several (001) III–V semiconductors in metal-organic vapour phase epitaxy using in-situ reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy and in-situ spectroscopic ellipsometry. The oxide desorption started as soon as kBT reaches 1/15th of the bond strength of the crystal if there is hydrogen or group V precursor present. The oxide thickness decreases first and afterwards the surface slowly reconstructs. At a constant temperature the oxide thickness decreased according to a second order reaction. We found two processes on InAs and GaAs, but only a single one on InP. The activation energy for the removal of epi-ready oxide under group V flux was 0.64 eV, 1.1 eV, and 1.3 eV on InAs, GaAs, and InP, respectively. The end of oxide desorption is determined by the removal of the last metal rich oxides, at temperatures of 500 °C for InAs/InP and 600 °C for GaAs/GaP.
Spectroscopic determination of thermal impulse in sub-second heating events using lanthanide-doped oxide precursors and phenomenological modeling
Authors: Anderson Benjamin R. , Gunawidjaja Ray , Price Patrick , Eilers Hergen
Published: August 2016

Using a mixture of crystalline-Ho:ZrO2, precursor-Dy:Y2O3, and precursor-Eu:ZrO2 nanoparticles we develop thermal impulse sensors capable of measuring equivalent isothermal temperatures and durations during a heating event, with response times of <100 ms, and a temperature range of at least 673 K to 1173 K. In order to determine the temperature and duration from the sensors after the heating event we measure the sensors' fluorescence spectrum, which is then compared with lab based calibration data. By using two precursor materials with different reaction kinetics we are able to extract both temperature and duration. Based on blind sample testing we find that the sensors and calculation method are accurate for measuring temperature and duration, but currently suffer a lack of precision due to difficulties in producing homogeneously heated samples.
Detection of chemical substances in water using an oxide nanowire transistor covered with a hydrophobic nanoparticle thin film as a liquid-vapour separation filter
Authors: Lim Taekyung , Lee Jonghun , Ju Sanghyun
Published: August 2016

We have developed a method to detect the presence of small amounts of chemical substances in water, using a Al2O3 nanoparticle thin film covered with phosphonic acid (HDF-PA) self-assembled monolayer. The HDF-PA self-assembled Al2O3 nanoparticle thin film acts as a liquid-vapour separation filter, allowing the passage of chemical vapour while blocking liquids. Prevention of the liquid from contacting the SnO2 nanowire and source-drain electrodes is required in order to avoid abnormal operation. Using this characteristic, the concentration of chemical substances in water could be evaluated by measuring the current changes in the SnO2 nanowire transistor covered with the HDF-PA self-assembled Al2O3 nanoparticle thin film.
Quasi Fermi level splitting of Cu-rich and Cu-poor Cu(In,Ga)Se2 absorber layers
Authors: Babbe Finn , Choubrac Leo , Siebentritt Susanne
Published: August 2016

The quasi Fermi level splitting is measured for Cu(In,Ga)Se2 absorber layers with different copper to (indium + gallium) ratios and for different gallium contents in the range of 20%–40%. For absorbers with a [Cu]/[In + Ga] ratio below one, the measured quasi Fermi level splitting is 120 meV higher compared to absorbers grown under copper excess independent of the gallium content, contrary to the ternary CuInSe2 where the splitting is slightly higher for absorber layers grown under copper excess. Possible explanations are the gallium gradient determined by the secondary ion mass spectrometry measurement which is less pronounced towards the surface for stoichiometric absorber layers or a fundamentally different recombination mechanism in the presence of gallium. Comparing the quasi Fermi level splitting of an absorber to the open circuit voltage of the corresponding solar cell, the difference for copper poor cells is much lower (60 meV) than that for copper rich cells (140 meV). The higher loss in V OC in the case of the Cu-rich material is attributed to tunneling enhanced recombination due to higher band bending within the space charge region.
Low loss spin wave resonances in organic-based ferrimagnet vanadium tetracyanoethylene thin films
Authors: Zhu Na , Zhang Xufeng , Froning I. H. , Flatté Michael E. , Johnston-Halperin E. , Tang Hong X.
Published: August 2016

We experimentally demonstrate high quality factor spin wave resonances in an encapsulated thin film of the organic-based ferrimagnet vanadium tetracyanoethylene (V[TCNE]x∼2) coated on an a-plane sapphire substrate by low temperature chemical vapor deposition. The thickness standing wave modes are observed in a broad frequency range (1 GHz–5 GHz) with high quality factor exceeding 3200 in ambient air at room temperature, rivaling those of inorganic magnetic materials. The exchange constant of V[TCNE]x∼2, a crucial material parameter for future study and device design of the V[TCNE]x∼2, is extracted from the measurement with a value of (4.61±0.35)×10−16 m2. Our result establishes the feasibility of using organic-based materials for building hybrid magnonic devices and circuits.
Optimal nitrogen and phosphorus codoping carbon dots towards white light-emitting device
Authors: Zhang Feng , Wang Yaling , Miao Yanqin , He Yuheng , Yang Yongzhen , Liu Xuguang
Published: August 2016

Through a one-step fast microwave-assisted approach, nitrogen and phosphorus co-doped carbon dots (N,P-CDs) were synthesized using ammonium citrate (AC) as a carbon source and phosphates as additive reagent. Under the condition of an optimal reaction time of 140 s, the influence of additive with different N and P content on fluorescent performance of N,P-CDs was further explored. It was concluded that high nitrogen content and moderate phosphorus content are necessary for obtaining high quantum yield (QY) N,P-CDs, among which the TAP-CDs (CDs synthesized using ammonium phosphate as additive reagent) show high quantum yield (QY) of 62% and red-green-blue (RGB) spectral composition of 51.67%. Besides, the TAP-CDs exhibit satisfying thermal stability within 180 °C. By virtue of good optical and thermal properties of TAP-CDs, a white light-emitting device (LED) was fabricated by combining ultraviolet chip with TAP-CDs as phosphor. The white LED emits bright warm-white light with the CIE chromaticity coordinate of (0.38, 0.35) and the corresponding color temperature (CCT) of 4450 K, indicating the potential of TAP-CDs phosphor in white LED.
Exact solutions for the static bending of Euler-Bernoulli beams using Eringen’s two-phase local/nonlocal model
Authors: Wang Y. B. , Zhu X. W. , Dai H. H.
Published: August 2016

Though widely used in modelling nano- and micro- structures, Eringen’s differential model shows some inconsistencies and recent study has demonstrated its differences between the integral model, which then implies the necessity of using the latter model. In this paper, an analytical study is taken to analyze static bending of nonlocal Euler-Bernoulli beams using Eringen’s two-phase local/nonlocal model. Firstly, a reduction method is proved rigorously, with which the integral equation in consideration can be reduced to a differential equation with mixed boundary value conditions. Then, the static bending problem is formulated and four types of boundary conditions with various loadings are considered. By solving the corresponding differential equations, exact solutions are obtained explicitly in all of the cases, especially for the paradoxical cantilever beam problem. Finally, asymptotic analysis of the exact solutions reveals clearly that, unlike the differential model, the integral model adopted herein has a consistent softening effect. Comparisons are also made with existing analytical and numerical results, which further shows the advantages of the analytical results obtained. Additionally, it seems that the once controversial nonlocal bar problem in the literature is well resolved by the reduction method.
Shaping the photoluminescence from gold nanoshells by cavity plasmons in dielectric-metal core-shell resonators
Authors: Sun Ren , Wan Mingjie , Wu Wenyang , Gu Ping , Chen Zhuo , Wang Zhenlin
Published: August 2016

We report experimental investigation of the photoluminescence (PL) generated from the gold nanoshells of the dielectric-metal core-shell resonators (DMCSR) that support multipolar electric and magnetic based cavity plasmon resonances. Significantly enhanced and modulated PL spectrum is observed. By comparing the experimental results with analytical Mie calculations, we are able to demonstrate that the observed reshaping effects are due to the excitations of those narrow-band cavity plasmon resonances. We also present that the variation on the dielectric core size allows for tuning the cavity plasmon resonance wavelengths and thus the peak positions of the PL spectrum.
Fabrications and application of single crystalline GaN for high-performance deep UV photodetectors
Authors: Velazquez R. , Aldalbahi A. , Rivera M. , Feng P.
Published: August 2016

High-quality single crystalline Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductor has been synthesized using molecule beam epitaxy (MBE) technique for development of high-performance deep ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors. Thickness of the films was estimated by using surface profile meter and scanning electron microscope. Electronic states and elemental composition of the films were obtained using Raman scattering spectroscopy. The orientation, crystal structure and phase purity of the films were examined using a Siemens x-ray diffractometer radiation. The surface microstructure was studied using high resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Two types of metal pairs: Al-Al, Al-Cu or Cu-Cu were used for interdigital electrodes on GaN film in order to examine the Schottky properties of the GaN based photodetector. The characterizations of the fabricated prototype include the stability, responsivity, response and recovery times. Typical time dependent photoresponsivity by switching different UV light source on and off five times for each 240 seconds at a bias of 2V, respectively, have been obtained. The detector appears to be highly sensitive to various UV wavelengths of light with very stable baseline and repeatability. The obtained photoresponsivity was up to 354 mA/W at the bias 2V. Higher photoresponsivity could be obtained if higher bias was applied but it would unavoidably result in a higher dark current. Thermal effect on the fabricated GaN based prototype was discussed.
Field storage conditions for cattle manure to limit nitrogen losses and optimise fertiliser value
Authors: Viaene J. , Nelissen V. , Vandecasteele B. , Willekens K. , De Neve S. , Reubens B.
Published: August 2016

Storage and application of cattle farmyard manure (CFM) can cause considerable environmental problems through nutrient losses to soil, water and air, if not properly handled. We investigated different storage conditions of CFM at field scale to reduce nitrogen (N) losses to the soil, meanwhile optimising the agronomical quality of the CFM. The treatments differed in terms of storage method (stockpiling, extensive composting or co-composting with bulking agents) and coverage (no cover, plastic or geotextile cover). Over the different treatments, the ammonium-N concentrations under the piles in the 0–90 cm soil layer amounted to a maximum of 4.2% of the initial manure N content. We were able to assess the relative importance of each of the two processes resulting in a higher mineral N concentration under the piles, i.e. direct leaching from the CFM to the soil on the one hand, and a smaller indirect effect of elevated soil temperatures (up to 37°C) under the piles resulting in higher N mineralisation in the top soil on the other hand. NH4+-N was the most important component of mineral N under all heaps due to limited oxygen diffusion to the soil. N leaching and end-product quality were affected by a combination of treatment option (i.e. storage and cover) and initial manure characteristics. When CFM was characterised by a low volumetric moisture content and high C : N ratio, so in case of straw-rich CFM or CFM with added bulking agents, composting led to the least N leaching and most stable end product. When CFM was characterised by a high volumetric moisture content and low C : N ratio, stockpiling and covering (plastic or geotextile) resulted in lower N leaching to the soil. Stockpiling and covering the CFM with a geotextile resulted in a more stable end product than did covering with a plastic.
Mulching materials improve soil properties and maize growth in the Northwestern Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Li Rong , Hou Xianqing , Jia Zhikuan , Han Qingfang
Published: August 2016

Water deficiency is the main limiting factor for crop growth in rain-fed areas. Mulching can affect the soil microclimate (soil water and temperature) and influence the grain yield of crops. A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different mulching materials on soil temperature, soil water, crop growth and yield, and water use efficiency (WUE) in spring maize (Zea mays L.) between 2009 and 2011 in Heyang County, Shaanxi, China. The field experiment used five mulch treatments: polyethylene film (PM), biodegradable polymer film (BM), maize straw (MM), liquid membrane (LM), and an uncovered control (CK). In the early stage of maize growth, the topsoil temperatures (0–10cm) in the PM and BM treatments were significantly (P<0.05) higher than CK, whereas the soil temperature in the MM treatment was significantly (P<0.05) lower than CK. The PM, BM, and MM treatments also significantly increased soil water during the early growth stage. However, soil water (0–200cm) in the PM and BM treatments was lower than in the CK treatment during the middle and later growth stages. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in soil temperature or soil water in the LM treatment during the entire growing season. Maize yield increased significantly (P<0.05) in both the PM and BM treatments by 26.1% and 27.5% during the experimental period compared to the CK treatment. Water use efficiency also significantly increased in these two treatments by 25.1% and 27.6%. These results show that both PM and BM had significant effects on soil temperature, water conservation and maize yield, but no significant (P>0.05) differences were observed between these two treatments. Biodegradable polymer film is useful in reducing environmental pollution caused by polyethylene film and could potentially replace polyethylene film during agricultural production in the Northwestern Loess Plateau, China.
Climate-driven ground-level ozone extreme in the fall over the Southeast United States
Authors: Zhang Yuzhong , Wang Yuhang
Published: August 2016

Significance

High ozone concentrations usually occur in the summer over the United States. However, in extreme cases, such as October 2010 over the southeast United States, ozone during the fall reached the summer level. We find a large contribution by enhanced emissions of biogenic isoprene to ozone extremes from water-stressed plants under a drying and warming condition. This finding also explains the puzzling fact that the two extremes of high October ozone over the region all occurred in the 2000s, with lower anthropogenic emissions than the 1980s–1990s. We suggest that occurrences of a drying and warming fall in the future may lead to an extension of the ozone season from summer to fall, posing challenges to regional air quality management and public health.
Stepwise metamorphosis of the tubeworm
Hydroides elegans
is mediated by a bacterial inducer and MAPK signaling
Authors: Shikuma Nicholas J. , Antoshechkin Igor , Medeiros João M. , Pilhofer Martin , Newman Dianne K.
Published: August 2016

Significance

Free-swimming larvae of many animals that inhabit the sea floor metamorphose in response to bacteria. However, the molecular mechanisms that underpin animal metamorphosis in response to bacterial triggers remain elusive. We investigated the developmental cascade induced by bacteria in a model tubeworm,
Hydroides elegans
, and identified a bacterial mutant and host signaling system critical for the initiation of and tissue remodeling during metamorphic development, respectively. Identifying the triggers for metamorphosis in
Hydroides
has implications for understanding basic principles of bacteria–animal interactions. Such interactions are also major causes of biofouling, which our research indicates may be controlled by manipulating bacterial inducers or MAPK activities that are essential for tubeworm metamorphosis.
TANGO1/cTAGE5 receptor as a polyvalent template for assembly of large COPII coats
Authors: Ma Wenfu , Goldberg Jonathan
Published: August 2016

Significance

Proteins destined for secretion from cells enter the secretory pathway in coat protein complex II (COPII)-coated vesicles budding from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Most cargo proteins are small and exit the ER in 60-nm vesicles. However, some secretory cargos are too large to enter such carriers; in particular, the procollagen precursor of the extracellular matrix exits the ER as a 300- to 400-nm fibril. Recent research suggests that procollagen may be packaged into large COPII-coated tubules, guided by the receptor molecule TANGO1/cTAGE5. We show that each TANGO1/cTAGE5 receptor protein has a multiplicity of binding sites to recruit and concentrate COPII proteins. We propose the model that TANGO1/cTAGE5 instructs the COPII coat to form large tubular carriers.
Relational offers and demands: analysing the conflictual interactional components of anaclitic and introjective female depressive patients / Ofertas y demandas relacionales: análisis de los componentes interaccionales conflictivos de pacientes mujeres depresivas anaclíticas e introyectivas
Authors: Valdés Nelson , Arriagada Loreto , Alamo Nicolle
Published: August 2016

Depressive symptoms are associated with typical ways of relating to and handling conflict with others. This study empirically analysed the most frequent relational ‘demands’ and ‘ offers’ identified in the verbal expressions of depressive patients during the first session, comparing them according to their personality organization (anaclitic vs introjective). The CCRT-LU-S Category System was used to analyse the first session of 27 patients with depressive symptomatology. The results showed that the highest percentage of depressive patients’ interactional components identified were relational ‘ offers’, whereas the remainder percentage were relational ‘ demands’. At the same time, the highest percentage of those interactional components were verbalized as disharmonious (weakness, withdrawing, unpleasant and fighting) by anaclitic patients, while the highest percentage were verbalized as harmonious (loving or having self-determination) by introjective patients. Implications for clinical relevance of these results are discussed.
The ZIPA moment: Dzino, Mugabe and Samora Machel
Authors: Saul John S.
Published: August 2016

This article underscores the importance of the relatively brief life but historically noteworthy emergence of the Zimbabwe People’s Army (ZIPA) within the struggle for Zimbabwean liberation in the 1970s. For ZIPA was a movement that offered both a serious military challenge of its own to Smith’s UDI regime but also the long-term possibility of a far more meaningful liberation than anything achieved since by ZANU’s ‘old guard’ under the orchestration of Robert Mugabe. The roles played by Mugabe, Machel, Kaunda, Kissinger and Crosland in ensuring ZIPA’s defeat are all emphasised, with a key source for the paper’s reinterrogation of ZIPA’s role being the recent autobiography of Wilfred Mhanda (aka Dzino Machingura), entitled Dzino. A link is also made to Lionel Cliffe’s writing of the time (in ROAPE issue no. 8), in particular to his own experience while incarcerated in one of Kaunda’s Zambian jails.
Reflections on land policy and the independence settlement in Kenya
Authors: Van Arkadie Brian
Published: August 2016

This essay reflects on a personal participation in policy-making in relation to Kenya, almost 50 years ago. The policies that the British colonial authorities pursued in respect of the transfer of land to black Kenyans were crucial in the design of the decolonisation framework which managed the transition from colonial to self-rule. The outcome of the land policy was the creation of a black middle class of prosperous farmers, the preservation of the position of white farming, a transition to capitalism and the creation of a black capitalist class eagerly embraced by Kenyatta and his successors, but not solving the problems of land hunger and accompanying rural poverty which continue today.
Analysing the history of agrarian struggles in Tanzania from a feminist perspective
Authors: Mbilinyi Marjorie
Published: August 2016

Agriculture remains the major site of employment and livelihoods for most Tanzanians, and especially women. This article explores patterns of continuity and change in agrarian struggles and primitive accumulation in Tanzania from a transformative feminist perspective. Such a framework combines gender and class, and questions of race and national sovereignty in its analysis of production and reproduction as significant components of feminist political economy. It pursues the author’s particular interest in the continuity between colonial efforts to destroy the self-sustaining nature of peasant production and reproduction and to promote settler and corporate agriculture and mining instead, and the present neoliberal focus on ‘transformation’. The analysis here is based on a re-reading of earlier work, including much of the author’s own, together with reflection on the results of participatory action research carried out by the Tanzanian Gender Networking Programme with grassroots activists in selected rural areas during the period from 2010 to 2014. Of particular significance is the joint emphasis given by grassroots women both to economic and social service issues.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Survey of Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Noncancer Pain in Taiwan—Comparison of Pain and Non-Pain Physicians
Authors: Lin Tso-Chou , Ger Luo-Ping , Pergolizzi Joseph V , Raffa Robert B , Wang Ju-O , Ho Shung-Tai
Published: August 2016

Background

Prescribing opioids for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) has been strictly regulated in Taiwan. This study was undertaken to survey pain and non-pain related physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding prescribing opioids for CNCP.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted in this comparison study. All 66 physicians who were treating officially registered CNCP outpatients were visited and completed anonymous questionnaires. The other physicians (anesthesiologists, oncologists, and non-pain physicians) were surveyed by a mailed questionnaire.

Results

A total of 266 (75%) questionnaires were received from 355 board-certified physicians. More CNCP physicians (81.8%) and anesthesiologists (69.7%) had received prior CNCP-related training courses than had oncologists (21.2%) and non-pain physicians (10.3%). Varied proportions of physicians by type were unfamiliar with the Taiwan opioid regulations (16.7–86.8%) and would accordingly skip or reduce dosage of opioid prescriptions (27.3–73.5%). In addition, non-pain physicians had a significantly lower knowledge level, more negative attitudes, and greater hesitation about prescribing opioids compared to the pain-related physicians (P < 0.001). CNCP physicians who had received CNCP-related training courses had a higher knowledge score than did those not receiving training (P = 0.002). Overall, the leading barriers for prescribing opioids were inadequate knowledge of pain management (76%), physician reluctance (73%), and family reluctance (78%).

Conclusion

There are substantial knowledge gaps, negative attitudes, and hesitation toward prescribing long-term opioids for CNCP patients by physicians in Taiwan, suggesting that efforts are needed to improve postgraduate education regarding adequate opioid management for CNCP.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Spot Form of Net Blotch Resistance in the Upper Midwest Barley Breeding Programs
Authors: Burlakoti R. R. , Gyawali S. , Chao S. , Smith K. P. , Horsley R. D. , Cooper B. , Muehlbauer G. J. , Neate S. M.
Published: August 2016

Pyrenophora teres f. maculata, the causal agent of spot form of net blotch (SFNB), is an emerging pathogen of barley in the United States and Australia. Compared with net form of net blotch (NFNB), less is known in the U.S. Upper Midwest barley breeding programs about host resistance and quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with SFNB in breeding lines. The main objective of this study was to identify QTL associated with SFNB resistance in the Upper Midwest two-rowed and six-rowed barley breeding programs using a genome-wide association study approach. A total of 376 breeding lines of barley were evaluated for SFNB resistance at the seedling stage in the greenhouse in Fargo in 2009. The lines were genotyped with 3,072 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Phenotypic evaluation showed a wide range of variability among populations from the four breeding programs and the two barley-row types. The two-rowed barley lines were more susceptible to SFNB than the six-rowed lines. Continuous distributions of SFNB severity indicate the quantitative nature of SFNB resistance. The mixed linear model (MLM) analysis, which included both population structure and kinship matrices, was used to identify significant SNP-SFNB associations. Principal component analysis was used to control false marker-trait association. The linkage disequilibrium (LD) estimates varied among chromosomes (10 to 20 cM). The MLM analysis identified 10 potential QTL in barley: SFNB-2H-8-10, SFNB-2H-38.03, SFNB-3H-58.64, SFNB-3H-78.53, SFNB-3H-91.88, SFNB-3H-117.1, SFNB-5H-155.3, SFNB-6H-5.4, SFNB-6H-33.74, and SFNB-7H-34.82. Among them, four QTL (SFNB-2H-8-10, SFNB-2H-38.03 SFNB-3H-78.53, and SFNB-3H-117.1) have not previously been published. Identification of SFNB resistant lines and QTL associated with SFNB resistance in this study will be useful in the development of barley genotypes with better SFNB resistance.
Neonate Auditory Brainstem Responses to CE-Chirp and CE-Chirp Octave Band Stimuli I: Versus Click and Tone Burst Stimuli
Authors: Cobb Kensi M. , Stuart Andrew
Published: August 2016

Objectives:

The purpose of the study was to generate normative auditory brainstem response (ABR) wave component peak latency and amplitude values for neonates with air- and bone-conducted CE-Chirps and air-conducted CE-Chirp octave band stimuli (i.e., 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz). A second objective was to compare neonate ABRs to CE-Chirp stimuli with ABR responses to traditional click and tone burst stimuli with the same stimulus parameters.

Design:

Participants were 168 healthy neonates. ABRs were obtained to air- and bone-conducted CE-Chirp and click stimuli and air-conducted CE-Chirp octave band and tone burst stimuli. The effects of stimulus level, rate, and polarity were examined with air-conducted CE-Chirps and clicks. The effect of stimulus level was also examined with bone-conducted CE-Chirps and clicks and air-conducted CE-Chirp octave band stimuli.

Results:

In general, ABR wave V amplitudes to air- and bone-conducted CE-Chirp stimuli were significantly larger (
p
< 0.05) than those evoked to traditional click and tone burst stimuli. Systematic statistically significant (
p
< 0.05) wave V latency differences existed between the air- and bone-conducted CE-Chirp and CE-Chirp octave band stimuli relative to traditional click and tone burst stimuli.

Conclusions:

ABRs to air- and bone-conducted CE-Chirps and CE-Chirp octave band stimuli may be valuable in the assessment of newborn infants. However, the prognostic value of such stimuli needs to be validated.
What's in the Literature?
Authors: Silvestri Nicholas J. , Wolfe Gil I. , Lacomis David , Bromberg Mark B.
Published: August 2016

The Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is one of the few neuropathies well known to the general public, in part because of its association with swine flu vaccinations in 1976. GBS has again reached the general public with its possible association with Zika virus. The virus, borne by infected Aedes aegypti mosquitos, is being linked to birth defects when pregnant women are bitten and infected. There are early reports also linking GBS to Zika infection, which could expose a wider range of infected people to the neuropathy. This summer infected Aedes mosquitos will likely reach southern portions of the United States, and travelers to countries where Aedes is endemic will increase. It is important to appreciate that the neurologic consequences of Zika virus are being actively investigated, and firm associations and consequences are yet to be established. Small fiber neuropathies are common and can be due to a number of underlying diseases, and a recent review also indicates that many are idiopathic. One cause is Sjögren syndrome, and a case series reviews clinical features. The diagnosis and underlying features of primary lateral sclerosis are a clinical challenge. Similarities between primary lateral sclerosis and hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP) have long been noted. With a wide spectrum of gene mutations associated with HSP, clinical distinction between the 2 disorders is problematic. A review covers the wide spectrum of HSP. With no cure, the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to respiratory failure is predictable. This could easily result in marked depression among patients, and 2 studies have explored the frequency and severity of depression. The cause of ALS remains unknown, and when no hereditary factor is apparent, environmental questions arise as possible contributing factor(s). The most notable association is with military service, although specific occupational or environmental linkages are not well sorted out. Two recent reports address these issues. There is good news for ALS patients with muscle cramps with the results of a multicenter randomized and placebo-controlled trial showing that mexiletine is effective in reducing this common symptom. The treatment of myasthenia gravis with various agents, the use of patient-reported outcome measures in myasthenia gravis, and the occurrence of myocarditis in this disease are reviewed. Necrotizing autoimmune neuropathies, the co-occurrence of inclusion body myositis and a form of T-cell leukemia are discussed as are valosin-containing protein (VCP)-opathy and bone health in patients with dystrophinopathy.
BRAZILIAN BOOTY RETINOPATHY: PURTSCHER-LIKE RETINOPATHY WITH PARACENTRAL ACUTE MIDDLE MACULOPATHY ASSOCIATED WITH PMMA INJECTION INTO BUTTOCKS
Authors: Khatibi Azadeh
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

To report a case of Purtscher-like retinopathy with paracentral acute middle maculopathy preceded by febrile illness after filler injection into the buttock muscles bilaterally for cosmesis to achieve a “Brazilian booty.”

Methods:

Retrospective case report.

Results:

A 35-year-old female presented with febrile illness and then decreased vision after repeat polymethyl methacrylate injections into her buttock muscles in Mexico. Examination was significant for retinal whitening, especially in the perifoveal areas, and intraretinal hemorrhages. Optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography imaging were consistent with small-vessel ischemic disease in the retina and choroid. Once systemic infection was ruled out, patient was treated with high-dose intravenous and then oral steroids. Vision recovery was good, with retinal atrophy on optical coherence tomography in the previous areas of retinal whitening.

Conclusion:

A Purtscher-like retinopathy with paracentral acute middle maculopathy and loss of vision may occur after filler injection below the neck, not just the face. This is the first report of vision loss caused by filler injected outside the face.
HEMORRHAGIC OCCLUSIVE RETINAL VASCULITIS AND NONHEMORRHAGIC VASCULITIS AFTER UNCOMPLICATED CATARACT SURGERY WITH INTRACAMERAL VANCOMYCIN
Authors: Ehmann David S. , Adam Murtaza K. , Kasi Sundeep K. , Sivalingam Arunan , Dunn James P.
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

To describe two cases of vasculitis: one hemorrhagic and one nonhemorrhagic after uncomplicated cataract surgery with intracameral vancomycin.

Methods:

Retrospective case series.

Results:

A 74-year-old female and a 54-year-old female developed severe visual loss within 2 weeks of uncomplicated cataract surgery with intracameral vancomycin. The first patient developed a fulminant hemorrhagic vasculitis, whereas the second patient developed a less severe nonhemorrhagic vasculitis. Partial visual recovery and prevention of neovascular glaucoma was achieved using a combination of topical, oral, and intravitreal corticosteroids, along with intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor agents in the first patient and a combination of topical and oral corticosteroids alone in the second patient.

Conclusion:

Hemorrhagic occlusive retinal vasculitis and nonhemorrhagic vasculitis after uncomplicated cataract surgery with intracameral vancomycin have been rarely reported. Early recognition and treatment may prevent devastating visual outcomes.
UNUSUAL POSTERIOR VARIX OF A VORTEX VEIN AMPULLA
Authors: Ghadiali Quraish , Tan Anna , Freund K. Bailey
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

We describe a patient with an unusually posterior varix of a vortex vein ampulla.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

An unusually posterior varix of a vortex vein ampulla mimicking a choroidal neoplasm was identified. The diagnosis was obscured by the presence of overlying drusen. Through a combination of indocyanine green angiography and enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography, the varix was identified as an engorged vascular process correlating to ophthalmoscopic and tomographic examination. Collapse of the varix after direct digital pressure on the globe was observed on enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography further confirming our diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Varices of vortex vein ampullas may be incorrectly diagnosed as choroidal neoplasms. Using a combination of multimodal imaging and dynamic maneuvering, varices can be correctly identified.
Aqueous-Vortex Derivation: A Preliminary Study on Rabbits
Authors: Arciniegas Alejandro , Ramirez Fernando
Published: August 2016

Purpose of the Study:

The purpose of the study was to determine the feasibility of establishing a derivation between the anterior chamber (AC) and a vortex vein to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP).

Materials and Methods:

A derivation between the AC and a vortex vein was performed in 1 eye of 16 albino rabbits, whereas the other eye was kept as the control. Derivations were performed using a Teflon tube with an external diameter of 0.90 mm and an inner diameter of 0.50 mm. IOP measurements, using a Goldmann tonometer, were conducted 2 or 3 times a week for periods of 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 days.

Results:

A significant difference in the IOP between operated and nonoperated eyes was obtained. Reductions in the IOP varying from 40% to 50% were found in this study. The patency of all tubes was confirmed, no tube was slipped out of the venous lumen, and none of the tubes penetrated deeper into the AC. The tubes did not move backward and out of the AC. No keratic precipitates, synechiae, or lens changes were observed. Iris prolapse, wound leakage, infection, and hyphema were not encountered. Microscopically, no venous thrombosis was encountered in these series.

Conclusions:

The results, corroborated by the anatomopathology, proved the viability of the aqueous-vortex derivation for the treatment of the ocular hypertension and some types of glaucoma with damage of the trabecular meshwork.
The Fluctuation of Intraocular Pressure Measured by a Contact Lens Sensor in Normal-Tension Glaucoma Patients and Nonglaucoma Subjects
Authors: Tojo Naoki , Abe Shinya , Ishida Masaaki , Yagou Takaaki , Hayashi Atsushi
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

We compared the fluctuation of intraocular pressure (IOP) in normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) patients and individuals with nonglaucoma eyes. We obtained continuous IOP values using a SENSIMED Triggerfish contact lens sensor.

Materials and Methods:

The eyes of 12 nonglaucoma subjects and 14 NTG patients were examined. In all 26 subjects, the IOP fluctuation was measured continuously for 24 hours with a contact lens sensor. We evaluated the range of IOP fluctuations over the 24-hour period separately for diurnal IOP and nocturnal IOP and identified each subject’s maximum value. The range of IOP fluctuation were analyzed, cutoff level of IOP fluctuation was calculated using receiver operating characteristic curve analyses.

Results:

The mean IOP in the NTG eyes was 11.5±2.4 mm Hg and that in the nonglaucoma eyes was 12.7±2.0 mm Hg, a nonsignificantly difference (P=0.175). The 24-hour range of IOP fluctuations in the NTG group was significantly larger than that of the nonglaucoma group (P=0.007). The percentage of NTG patients who had the peak time of IOP fluctuation during nocturnal sleep was 57.1%, whereas the corresponding rate for the nonglaucoma eyes was 91.7%. The cutoff level of IOP fluctuation for glaucoma was 442 mVeq (sensitivity=1.00; specificity=0.571).

Conclusions:

The range of IOP fluctuation was larger in the eyes with NTG than in the nonglaucoma eyes. This larger fluctuation might be one of the reasons underlying the aggravation of the visual field by NTG. Measurements of 24-hour continuous IOP might be one of the useful methods to distinguish NTG from nonglaucoma eyes.
Comparison of the Intraocular Pressure Variation Provoked by Postural Change and by the Water Drinking Test in Primary Open-angle Glaucoma and Normal Patients
Authors: Hatanaka Marcelo , Sakata Lisandro M. , Susanna Remo , Nascimento Luisa T.F. , Vessani Roberto M.
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

To evaluate the intraocular pressure (IOP) peak and variability detected by moving the body from sitting to supine position (postural test) and by the water drinking test (WDT) in normal and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) subjects.

Patients and Methods:

Prospective, cross-sectional observational analysis of 14 eyes of 14 normal subjects and 31 eyes of 31 patients with POAG. All POAG subjects were under clinical therapy. IOP measurements were all performed on the same day.

Results:

When the subjects moved to the supine position, there was an IOP increase of 1.36±1.34 and 2.84±2.21 mm Hg in the normal and POAG groups, respectively (P=0.011). During the WDT, mean IOP peak and fluctuation in the POAG group was 19.29±4.10 and 4.13±2.33 mm Hg, respectively. These levels were significantly higher in comparison with the normal group (16.50±3.76 and 2.71±0.99 mm Hg; P=0.018 and 0.022, respectively). The mean peak IOP observed in the WDT was significantly higher than the IOP in the supine position (19.29±4.10 vs. 17.32±4.66 mm Hg, P=0.013). The mean IOP increase during the WDT was also significantly higher when compared with the postural test (4.13±2.33 vs. 2.84±2.21 mm Hg, P=0.019).

Conclusions:

POAG eyes demonstrated a significant IOP increase when assuming the supine position and during the WDT. The IOP increase during the WDT was significantly higher than the IOP increase after postural test. Hence, the results of both tests are not interchangeable.
Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Periorbital Region Complicated by Combined Central Retinal Artery Occlusion, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion, and Posterior Ciliary Occlusion
Authors: Sultan Harris , Malik Amina , Li Helen K. , Chévez-Barrios Patricia , Lee Andrew G.
Published: August 2016

A 50 year-old man on immunosuppressive agents presented with left eye vision loss, periorbital swelling, pain, and ophthalmoplegia. The patient was clinically found to have a central retinal artery and vein occlusion. A CT scan was performed which demonstrated intraorbital fat stranding, however the patient lacked sinus disease. The etiology of the orbital infection was held in question. The area was debrided in the operating room, and the specimen demonstrated group A streptococcal species consistent with necrotizing fasciitis. Periorbital necrotizing fasciitis should be suspected in patients with rapidly progressive orbital symptoms without sinus disease as lack of surgical intervention can result in poor outcomes. The unusual aspect to this case is the mechanism of vision loss, as the authors hypothesize that there was vascular infiltration of the infection resulting in the central retinal artery occlusion and central retinal vein occlusion which have not been previously reported secondary to necrotizing fasciitis of the orbit.
Progressive Proptosis Secondary to an Orbital Floor Implant
Authors: Kalin-Hajdu Evan , Vagefi M. Reza , Kersten Robert C.
Published: August 2016

A 49-year-old female with advanced left maxillary squamous cell carcinoma underwent total maxillectomy. The orbital floor was reconstructed using a titanium mesh implant and the midface reformed with a free fibula flap. Following reconstruction, the patient developed progressive left-sided proptosis. Review of postoperative imaging prompted extraction of the titanium implant, rapidly normalizing globe position. This unique case highlights the clinical relevance of orbital venous anatomy.
Outcomes of Adult Patients with Small Body Size Supported with a Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Lee Sangjin , Katz Jason N. , Jorde Ulrich P. , Moazami Nader , John Ranjit , Sundareswaran Kartik S. , Farrar David J. , Frazier O. H.
Published: August 2016

There is insufficient data on patients with small body size to determine if this should be considered a risk factor for continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) support. We sought to evaluate survival outcomes, adverse events, and functional status of CF-LVAD patients with body surface area (BSA) <1.5 m2 in a large national registry. Adults with BSA < 1.5 m2 (n = 128) implanted with a HeartMate II (HMII)-LVAD from the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support registry from April 2008 to December 2012 formed this cohort. Outcomes were compared with HMII bridge to transplant (BTT) and destination therapy (DT) post approval studies. The majority of patients were female (n = 106, 83%). A total of 64% (n = 82) were implanted for BTT and 36% (n = 46) for DT. The median BSA (range) was 1.44 (1.19–1.49) and 1.45 (1.25–1.49) m2 for BTT and DT, respectively. Overall survival 1 year post implant was 81% ± 5% for BTT and 84% ± 6% for DT. The most common adverse events for BTT and DT patients were bleeding (0.91, 0.88 events/patient year) and driveline infection (16%, 0.28 events/patient year). Six months post implantation, 87% of BTT and 77% of DT patients were New York Heart Association functional class I or II. Post implant survival, functional status improvement, and adverse event profile for adult BTT and DT HMII patients with BSA < 1.5 m2 are favorable and comparable with outcomes published in the overall patient population.
EndoClot Polysaccharide Hemostatic System in Nonvariceal Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Preiß Jan C. , Barmeyer Christian , Bürgel Nataly , Daum Severin , Epple Hans-Jörg , Günther Ute , Maul Jochen , Siegmund Britta , Schumann Michael , Tröger Hanno , Stroux Andrea , Adler Andreas , Veltzke-Schlieker Winfried , Jürgensen Christian , Wentrup Robert , Wiedenmann Bertram , Binkau Jana , Hartmann Dirk , Nötzel Ellen , Domagk Dirk , Wacke Wolfram , Wahnschaffe Ulrich , Bojarski Christian
Published: August 2016

Background and Study Aims:

Hemostatic powders have been introduced to improve the management of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and to extend the variety of tools available for emergency endoscopy. The aim of the present pilot study was to evaluate the indication profiles and the short-term outcome of EndoClot.

Patients, Materials and Methods:

In a prospective observational pilot study patients with acute nonvariceal GI bleeding were included. Primary or secondary application of EndoClot was assessed. Hemoglobin, prothrombine time and platelets were documented before and after hemostasis. The efficacy of EndoClot was assessed 72 hours and 1 week after application.

Results:

Seventy patients with acute GI bleeding were recruited into the study. Eighty-three percent (58/70) of the patients had upper and 17% (12/70) had lower GI bleeding. In the upper GI tract treatment success was achieved in 64% (30/47, 95% confidence interval, 50%-76%) after primary use and in all patients, when used after established techniques had failed (95% confidence interval, 70%-100%). In lower GI bleeding hemostasis was achieved in 83% of cases (10/12, 95% confidence interval 54%-97%). Rebleeding occurred in 11% (8/70), in 10% EndoClot served as a bridge to surgery (7/70).

Conclusions:

EndoClot expanded the therapeutic options in the management of GI bleeding. It was applicable as a monotherapy or in combination with other techniques from oozing bleeding type or lower. It was most effective in diffuse or extensive bleeding activity or when access to the bleeding vessel was difficult. EndoClot can be applied as a bridge to surgery when classical methods of hemostasis have failed.