bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Graphene Oxide on Interfacial Interactions and Fracture Toughness of Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Kim Seong Hwang , Park Soo-Jin
Published: June 2020

Multiscale hierarchy is a promising chemical approach that provides superior performance in syner-gistically integrated microstructured fibers and nanostructured materials in composite applications. The main purpose of this work was to introduce graphene oxide (GO) between an epoxy
matrix and basalt fibers to improve mechanical properties by enhancing interfacial adhesion. The composites were reinforced with various concentrations of GO. For all of the fabricated composites, the optimum GO content was found to be 0.5 wt%, which improved the interlaminar shear strength
and fracture toughness by 66.2% and 86.1%, respectively, compared with those of neat composites. We observed a direct linear relationship between fracture toughness and certain surface free energy. In addition, the fracture toughness mechanisms were illustrated using a crack theory based on
morphology analyses of fracture surfaces. Such an effort could accelerate the conversion of multi-scale composites into high-performance materials and provide rational guidance and fundamental understanding toward realizing the theoretical limits of mechanical properties.
Relationship Between Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Damping Properties of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes/Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Composites for Shaft
Authors: Hong Mi-Kyoung , Choi Woong-Ki , Park Jong-Hyun , Kuk Yun-Su , Kim Byoung-Suhk , Seo Min-Kang
Published: June 2020

The mechanical properties and damping behavior of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic composites with functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes were examined. The functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes were blended with epoxy resins to prepare multi-walled carbon nanotubes/carbon
fiber-reinforced plastic composites. The dispersion properties of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes in epoxy resins were examined using surface free energy. The mechanical properties of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes/carbon fiber-reinforced plastic composites were
measured by interlaminar shear strength and torsion strength. The functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes/carbon fiber-reinforced plastic composites had superior mechanical properties due to the increase in dispersion properties of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes in epoxy
resins. However, the tan delta values of damping behavior, analyzed by dynamic mechanical analysis, varied with the type of functional groups of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The composites obtained from functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes obtained through spermidine
amidation reaction and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic showed excellent tan delta values due to the flexible segments in side chains.
Line-Edge Roughness on Fin-Field-Effect-Transistor Performance for 7-nm and 5-nm Patterns
Authors: Kim Sang-Kon
Published: June 2020

The line-edge roughness (LER) is a critical issue that significantly impacts the critical dimension (CD) because the LER does not scale with the feature size. Hence, the LER influences the device performance with 7-nm and 5-nm patterns. In this study, LER impact on the performance of
the fin-field-effect-transistors (FinFETs) are investigated using a compact device method. The fin-width roughness (FWR) is based on the stochastic fluctuation such as the LER and the line-width roughness (LWR) in the lithography process. The calculated results of the FWRs and the gate lengths
L = 7-nm and 5-nm are addressed with the cases of electric potentials with the y-direction along the gate length, electric potentials with the x-direction along the fin width, and the absolute drain currents with the gate lengths L = 7-nm or 5-nm due to gate voltages. According
to the gate length, the impact of the FWR patterns on the performance of fin-field-effect-transistors (FinFETs) can find regular fluctuations.
pH-Sensitive Drug Delivery System Based on Mesoporous Silica Modified with Poly-L-Lysine (PLL) as a Gatekeeper
Authors: Lee Nam-Kyoung , Park Sung Soo , Ha Chang-Sik
Published: June 2020

In this work, we synthesized a novel pH-triggered drug delivery system to enhance the bioavailability of the anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) through the gatekeeper poly-L-lysine (PLL) on the pore entrances of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs). Firstly, mesoporous silica was selected
as the inorganic support for drug loading. Secondly, PLL was employed as the gatekeeper to control the cargo transport. In a neutral environment, the PLL brushes became shrunken and formed a dense barrier on the pore entrances of PLL/MSNs, which closed the pores and thus prevented the release
of cargo. In an acidic environment, the cargo was released from the carrier PLL/MSNs because the pore entrances were opened by the swollen PLL brushes. The DOX-loaded PLL/MSNs (PLL/MSNs-DOX) showed 1.5 times higher drug release under acidic condition (pH = 4) than under neutral condition (pH
= 7). During the drug release experiment for 48 h under acidic condition, PLL/MSN-DOX released about 50% of the drug after 9 h and approximately 85% after 24 h, whereas pristine MSNs loaded with DOX (MSNs-DOX) released about 50% of the drug after 30 min and reached equilibrium after 24 h.
The MSNs also demonstrated their effectiveness in storing anticancer drugs until the desired environmental trigger is present. Therefore, the pH-responsive MSNs have great potential as a targeting cancer therapy.
Fabrication and Electrochemical Characterization of Sulfurized-Polyacrylonitrile Nanofiber Electrodes for Na/S Batteries Using Various Polyacrylonitrile Solutions
Authors: Seong Minjun , Kim Huihun , Kim Changhyeon , Lim Hyung-Sik , Yoon Duck-Ki , Kim Tae-Hueng , Ahn Hyo-Jun
Published: June 2020

A polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofiber web was prepared by electrospinning PAN solutions with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or Dimethylformamide (DMF) as solvent. The PAN web was heated with sulfur to synthesize a sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (SPAN) nanofiber web. The shape of the SPAN web
was found to depend on concentration of the PAN solution and properties of the solvent. The SPAN web synthesized using 8 wt% PAN solution in DMSO showed the highest capacity of 1053.3 mAh g−1sulfur under a current density of 526 mA g−1sulfur.
Thus, we determined that DMSO could be a potential solvent for preparation of SPAN web electrodes.
Rate-Controlling Steps for the Hydriding Reaction of the Intermetallic Compound Mg2Ni
Authors: Youp Song Myoung , Kwak Young Jun , Choi Eunho
Published: June 2020

Mg2Ni samples were prepared by sintering a pelletized mixture under an argon atmosphere in a stainless steel crucible at 823 K. The XRD pattern of the prepared Mg2Ni sample showed a well crystallized Mg2Ni phase. The hydriding and dehydriding properties
of the prepared samples were examined at 518-593 K under relatively low hydrogen pressures of 3-7 bar H2. At 573 K under 7 bar H2, the activation of the Mg2Ni sample was completed at the number of cycles of six (n = 6). At n = 7, the hydrided
fractions of the sample were 0.53 (1.99 wt% H) at 4.97 min, 0.72 (2.71 wt% H) at 9.52 min, 0.81 (3.05 wt% H) at 31.15 min, and 0.81 (3.05 wt% H) at 60.07 min. The particle sizes of the prepared Mg2Ni were not homogeneous and the particles had irregular shapes. We analyzed the rate-controlling
steps for the hydriding reaction of the intermetallic compound Mg2Ni by examining the dependences of hydriding rates on hydrogen pressure and temperature in the same reacted fraction ranges. The analyses in the same reacted fraction ranges were done in order to eliminate the influence
of the interfacial area on the hydriding rate. When the driving force, which is the difference between the applied hydrogen pressure Po and equilibrium plateau pressure Peq at a given temperature, was low, the nucleation of Mg2Ni hydride controlled
the hydriding rate of Mg2Ni. After the nucleation of the Mg2Ni hydride, the rate-controlling step of the hydriding reaction of Mg2Ni was analyzed to be the forced flow of hydrogen molecules through pores, inter-particle channels, or cracks.
Decomposition of Energetic Ionic Liquid Over IrCu/Honeycomb Catalysts
Authors: Woo Jaegyu , Yoo Dalsan , Oh Seolyeong , Jeon Jong-Ki
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study is to elucidate the influence of a loading procedure of iridium and copper oxides over cordierite honeycomb support on catalytic performance during the decomposition of a hydroxylammonium nitrate (HAN) solution. Iridium and copper composite oxides were successfully
supported on the cordierite honeycomb at the same time by repeating the wash coating process more than 2 times. Through the wash coating process, Cu and Ir were supported up to 43.4% and 4.9%, respectively. The cordierite honeycomb without active metal plays little role as a catalyst to lower
the decomposition temperature. It was found that IrCu/honeycomb-2 catalyst, which was prepared by repeating the wash coating procedure twice, is an optimal catalyst for the decomposition of HAN solution. The IrCu/honeycomb-2 catalyst had the effect of lowering the decomposition onset temperature
by 27.1°C compared to thermal decomposition.
Improved Performance of Surface Acoustic Wave Sensors by Plasma Treatments for Chemical Warfare Agents Monitoring
Authors: Kim Eunhyun , Kim Jinuk , Ha Seonggyun , Song Changsik , Kim Joo-Hyung
Published: June 2020

The effects of a plasma treatment on the sensing performance of surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors to detect chemical warfare agents (CWAs) were investigated. SAW sensors designed for an operating frequency of 250 MHz were fabricated using lift-off techniques followed by the deposition
of a very thin thiourea (TU) layer as a sensing film on the sensing area of the SAW sensor. To achieve some advantages from the plasma treatment on the surface, such as cleaning, surface activation and modification, a post-plasma treatment was performed on the sensing layer and the sensing
performance of the SAW sensor was measured by a comparison with the measured responses, providing different simulant gases through the gas feeding system. The sensitivity test revealed significant improvement in the sensing ability of the SAW sensor to detect DMMP, a simulant of a CWA, but
with a relatively longer recovery time. The responses of other simulants at different concentrations and different simulant vapors were compared. The results showed that a plasma treatment on the sensing layer of a SAW device can improve the selectivity and sensitivity to a certain target
gas or some volatile organic compounds. Therefore, a plasma treatment will be very useful for improving the selectivity and sensitivity of SAW sensors for the detection of CWAs.
Four-Channel Monitoring System with Surface Acoustic Wave Sensors for Detection of Chemical Warfare Agents
Authors: Kim Jinuk , Kim Eunhyun , Kim Jihyun , Kim Joo-Hyung , Ha Seonggyun , Song Changsik , Jang Won Jun , Yun Jaesook
Published: June 2020

Recently, efforts have been made to adapt surface acoustic waves (SAWs) for use in chemical sensors for detection of chemical warfare agents (CWAs). In this study, a four-channel real-time CWA detection system was constructed using four 250-MHz SAW sensors. Each system consists of three
different chemical sensors and one reference sensor. The reference sensor compensates for frequency variations according to humidity and temperature conditions. Signals from the SAW sensors can be checked on a PC-based graphical user interface without additional measuring equipment. To measure
dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), a simulant of sarin gas, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and thiourea (TU)-based synthetic polymers were used as sensing materials. The reference sensor was not coated, whereas the three different chemical sensors were coated with POSS, TU-1,
and TU-2. The maximum frequencies of POSS, TU-1, and TU-2 were shifted 15.86, 13.85, and 0.944 kHz, showing significant values. We also found a relatively good linear relation between the frequency shift and the concentration of DMMP. The three sensing materials selected-POSS, TU-1, and TU-2-responded
significantly to DMMP and triethylphosphate in the selectivity tests. This response is due to the chemical bonding of the sensing materials with the phosphonate in the nerve-agent simulants. These results indicate that the four-channel SAW monitoring system described in this paper shows potential
as a portable real-time monitoring system to detect a variety of toxic vapors simultaneously, without using complex measuring equipment. In addition, this approach has demonstrated potential for developing excellent portable sensors to detect different types of CWAs.
Recognition of the layout of colored yarns in yarn-dyed fabrics
Authors: Meng Shuo , Wang Jingan , Pan Ruru , Gao Weidong , Zhou Jian , He Wentao
Published: June 2020

The layout of colored yarns in yarn-dyed fabrics is a significant part of designing and production in the textile industry, which is still analyzed manually at present. Existing methods based on image processing have some limitations in accuracy and stability. Therefore, an automatic method is proposed to recognize the layout of colored yarns and some other basic fabric structure parameters: the fabric density and weave pattern. First, a large dataset with fabric structure parameters is constructed. The fabric images are captured by a wireless portable device. Then the yarns and floats are accurately located using a novel multi-task and multi-scale convolutional neural network. Finally, a density-based color clustering algorithm is proposed to recognize the layout of colored yarns. The results of extensive experiments show that the proposed method can automatically identify the basic structure parameters with high effectiveness and robustness.
Understanding writing quality change: A longitudinal study of repeaters of a high-stakes standardized English proficiency test
Authors: Lin You-Min , Y. Chen Michelle
Published: June 2020

This study examined the writing score and writing feature changes of 562 repeat test takers who took the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program–General (CELPIP–General) test at least three times, with a short (30–40 day) interval between the first and second attempts and a longer (90–180 day) interval between the first and third attempts. Analysis was conducted to uncover whether changes occurred at different testing durations (short vs. long) and whether the observed changes varied across repeater’s initial proficiency groups (low, mid, high). The writing scores measured by CELPIP bands showed great stability over the 6-month period, but the trends of development differed by proficiency group. Low proficiency test takers were more likely to have faster observable score gains, compared to the medium proficiency group, whereas high proficiency repeaters may not maintain their score levels at later attempts. Writing quality was analyzed using natural language processing (NLP) tools. Results suggested that for all proficiency groups, lexical features were more likely to improve over the 6-month period, with some measures showing improvement at 1 month; features in cohesion and syntactic sophistication, however, did not change significantly.
Advances in axial turbine blade profile aerodynamics
Authors: Gao Jie , Huo Dongchen , Wang Guojie , Ma Guojun
Published: June 2020

The aerodynamic performance of axial turbines depends significantly on profile losses, secondary flow losses, and clearance gap losses of vanes and blades. In modern high-efficiency turbomachinery operating at various working conditions, profile losses are very important criteria for the development of vanes and blades, and turbine designers strive to minimize the losses, based on better understandings of flow and loss characteristics at various working conditions. This paper summarizes recent advances in the field of turbine blade profile aerodynamics, and covers: (1) flow and loss characteristics of blade profiles, (2) flow structure and loss mechanism for transonic blade profiles, (3) off-design performance, (4) flow control, (5) design and optimization, (6) engineering design considerations, and (7) research methods of blade profile aerodynamics. The emphasis is placed on flow characteristics and loss control methods, and present insights regarding the current research trends and the prospects for future developments.
Sparing the hippocampus and the hypothalamic- pituitary region during whole brain radiotherapy: a volumetric modulated arc therapy planning study
Authors: Mehta P. , Janssen S. , Fahlbusch F. B. , Schmid S. M. , Gebauer J. , Cremers F. , Ziemann C. , Tartz M. , Rades D.
Published: June 2020

Background

Feasibility testing of a simultaneous sparing approach of hippocampus, hypothalamus and pituitary gland in patients undergoing whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) with and without a concomitant boost to metastatic sites.

Introduction

Cognitive impairment and hormonal dysfunction are common side effects of cranial radiotherapy. A reduced dose application to the patho-physiologically involved functional brain areas, i.e. hippocampus, hypothalamus and pituitary gland, could reduce these common side effects. While hippocampal sparing is already a common practice to improve cognitive outcome, technical experience of additional combined sparing of the hypothalamus/pituitary gland (HT-P) is insufficient.

Methods

Twenty patients were included in the planning study. In 11 patients, a total dose of 36 Gy of WBRT (2 Gy per fraction) plus a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) of 9 Gy (0.5 Gy per fraction, total dose: 45 Gy) to the brain metastases was applied. In 9 patients, prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) was simulated with a total dose of 30 Gy (2 Gy per fraction). In both patient cohorts, a sparing approach of the hippocampus and the HT-P area was simulated during WBRT. For all treatment plans, volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) was used. Quality assurance included assessment of homogeneity, conformality and target coverage.

Results

The mean dose to the hippocampus and HT-P region was limited to less than 50% of the prescribed dose to the planning target volume (PTV) in all treatment plans. Dose homogeneity (HI) of the target volume was satisfying (median HI = 0.16 for WBRT+SIB and 0.1 for PCI) and target coverage (conformation number, CN) was not compromised (median CN = 0.82 for SIB and 0.86 for PCI).

Conclusion

Simultaneous dose reduction to the hippocampus and the HT-P area did not compromise the PTV coverage in patients undergoing WBRT+SIB or PCI using VMAT. While the feasibility of the presented approach is promising, prospective neurologic, endocrine outcome and safety studies are required.
Insulinoma presenting as hypoglycemia during lactose tolerance testing: a case report
Authors: Munro Vicki , McDonell Laura M. , Keough Valerie , Siddiqi Ferhan S.
Published: June 2020

Background

Insulinoma is a rare functioning pancreatic endocrine tumor, typically presenting as a sporadic solitary lesion causing hypoglycemia. While these tumors can lead to marked autonomic and neuroglycopenic symptoms, the diagnosis is often delayed.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 60-year-old Caucasian man presenting with a 1-year history of progressive episodic confusion and an unexpected finding of symptomatic hypoglycemia during a lactose tolerance test. Further inquiry revealed an 8-year history of more subtle episodic neuroglycopenic symptoms preceding his presentation. After additional biochemical testing suggested a diagnosis of insulinoma, abdominal imaging was performed and revealed a 1.2-cm tumor in the tail of the pancreas. Following laparoscopic resection of the tumor, the patient had complete resolution of his symptoms and maintained normal glucose levels.

Conclusions

The clinical presentation of functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors can be subtle and nonspecific. As such, clinicians should remain vigilant for insulinoma when symptomatic hypoglycemia is present. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an insulinoma found after hypoglycemia was detected during lactose tolerance testing.
The Mechanical Properties of Alkali-Activated Slag-Silica Fume Cement Pastes by Mixing Method
Authors: Kim Taewan , Kang Choonghyun
Published: June 2020

The mixing method is the investigation of the characteristics of alkali-activated cement paste (AACP) with slag and silica fume (SF) of 1: 1. The basic mixing method is ASTM C305, which is defined as 1st-cycle. There are three factors considered in this experiment; (i) the addition of mixing time (2nd-cycle), (ii) the concentration of activator depending on the amount of mixing water, and (iii) the mixing sequence of slag and SF. It was found that the second cycle, the additional mixing time, had the effect of improving the mechanical properties. In addition, accelerated activation through the mixing of slag with a high concentration of alkali solution in the 1st-cycle increases the hydration products and decreases the porosity and increases the mechanical properties. Therefore, it was found that the change of the mixing method in the AACP composed of slag and SF 1: 1 has a great influence on the mechanical properties. As a result, the method of first mixing slag in aqueous solution of high alkali concentration in AASC mixed with slag and SF improves the mechanical properties.
Diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor: a double misnomer? A report of two cases
Authors: Appay Romain , Pages Mélanie , Colin Carole , Jones David T. W. , Varlet Pascale , Figarella-Branger Dominique
Published: June 2020

Diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor (DLGNT) was introduced, for the first time, as a provisional entity in the 2016 WHO classification of central nervous system tumors. DLGNT mainly occur in children and characterized by a widespread leptomeningeal growth occasionally associated with intraspinal tumor nodules, an oligodendroglial-like cytology, glioneuronal differentiation and MAP-Kinase activation associated with either solitary 1p deletion or 1p/19q codeletion in the absence of IDH mutation.

We report here two unexpected DLGNTs adult cases, characterized by a unique supratentorial circumscribed intraparenchymal tumor without leptomeningeal involvement in spite of long follow-up. In both cases, the diagnosis of DLGNT was made after DNA-methylation profiling which demonstrated that one case belonged to the DLGNT class whereas the other remained not classifiable but showed on CNV the characteristic genetic findings recorded in DLGNT. Both cases harbored 1p/19q codeletion associated with KIAA1549:BRAF fusion in one case and with BRAF V600E and PIK3CA E545A mutations, in the other.

Our study enlarges the clinical and molecular spectrum of DLGNTs, and points out that the terminology of DLGNTs is not fully appropriate since some cases could have neither diffuse growth nor leptomeningeal dissemination. This suggests that DLGNTs encompass a wide spectrum of tumors that has yet to be fully clarified.
Retraction Note: Criminal tendency detection from facial images and the gender bias effect
Authors: Hashemi Mahdi , Hall Margeret
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Mal-angulation of femoral rotational osteotomies causes more postoperative sagittal mechanical leg axis deviation in supracondylar than in subtrochanteric procedures
Authors: Jud Lukas , Andronic Octavian , Vlachopoulos Lazaros , Fucentese Sandro F. , Zingg Patrick O.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Alteration of the postoperative frontal mechanical leg axis is a known problem in femoral rotational osteotomies. However, the maintenance of the sagittal mechanical leg axis seems also important. Goal of this study was to investigate the impact of femoral rotational osteotomies on the sagittal mechanical leg axis and to identify the degree of mal-angulation of the osteotomy planes that alter the postoperative sagittal alignment relevantly.

Methods

Using 3D bone models of two patients with a pathologic femoral torsion (42° antetorsion and 6° retrotorsion), subtrochanteric and supracondylar rotational osteotomies were simulated first with an osteotomy plane perpendicular to the mechanical femoral axis (baseline osteotomy plane), second with predefined mal-angulated osteotomy planes. Subsequently, five different degrees of rotation were applied and the postoperative deviations of the sagittal mechanical leg axes were analyzed.

Results

Using the baseline osteotomy plane, the sagittal mechanical leg axis changed by 0.4° ± 0.5° over both models. Using the mal-angulated osteotomy planes, maximum deviation of the sagittal mechanical leg axis of 4.0° ± 1.2° and 11.0° ± 2.0° was observed for subtrochanteric and for supracondylar procedures, respectively. Relevant changes of more than 2° were already observed with mal-angulation of 10° in the frontal plane and 15° of rotation in supracondylar procedures.

Conclusion

Relevant changes of the postoperative sagittal mechanical leg axis could be observed with just slight mal-angulation of the osteotomy planes, in particular in supracondylar procedures and in cases with higher degrees of rotation. However, osteotomies perpendicular to the femoral mechanical axis showed no relevant alterations.
Lime treatment of a diesel-contaminated coarse-grained soil for reuse in geotechnical applications
Authors: Correia Natalia de Souza , Portelinha Fernando Henrique Martins , Mendes Igor Santos , da Silva Jose Wilson Batista
Published: June 2020

Potential reuse of oil-contaminated soils guidance policies are demonstrating ways to reuse these materials in engineering applications. However, the engineering properties of these materials are highly altered after contamination. Alternatively, chemical stabilization treatments can improve oil-contaminated soil properties for its reuse in geotechnical applications. This study investigates the effect of a diesel contamination on a coarse-grained soil and assesses the viability of a lime treatment. Laboratory tests included pH, Atterberg limits, compaction, unconfined compression strength (UCS), California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and tensile strength, RX-diffraction and scanning electron micrographs before and after lime treatment. Tests were performed on natural soil, diesel-contaminated soils (2, 4, 8, 12, and 16% of diesel) and lime treated diesel-contaminated soils (2, 4, 6 and 8% of lime). Diesel drastically changed soil plasticity and strength properties. Lime stabilization of diesel-contaminated soils was efficient to recapture soil natural properties with low lime contents. The influence of oil and lime in soil mechanical properties and mineralogical characteristics was evidenced in this study. The presence of oil drastically altered soil mechanical properties. Crystallization of calcite was present in both natural and oil-contaminated soils treated with lime, increasing particles flocculation. The presence of oil favored dolomite formation. Lime was significate in enhancing oil-contaminated soil mechanical properties, such as UCS, indirect tensile strength and CBR, mainly due to carbonation reactions. Oil-contaminated soil mixtures showed increase in mechanical properties after lime treatment and curing period.
Pyogenic spondylodiscitis of the lumbar spine related to anastomotic fistula after surgery for esophageal cancer: a case report
Authors: Akama Yuichi , Matsutani Takeshi , Hagiwara Nobutoshi , Umezawa Hiroki , Nomura Tsutomu , Hanawa Hidetsugu , Mishima Keisuke , Taniai Nobuhiko , Yoshida Hiroshi
Published: June 2020

Background

Pyogenic spondylodiscitis is an extremely rare complication of esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

Case presentation

A 70-year-old Japanese man, with a previous medical history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and laryngeal cancer, received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy with gastric tube reconstruction for advanced esophageal cancer. Cervical esophagogastrostomy with circular-stapled end-to-side anastomosis was performed. However, partial necrosis in the gastric tube developed to form refractory anastomotic fistula. Two months after the initial surgery, debridement and free jejunal transfer reconstruction with the pectoralis major muscle flap were performed. Although the postoperative course of the second surgery was uneventful, the patient complained of severe lower back pain and fever. The patient was diagnosed with pyogenic spondylodiscitis according to the results of the magnetic resonance imaging. Enterobacter cloacae were isolated from the arterial blood culture. Sensitive antibiotics were administered continuously, and the patient required to use a lumbar corset for 2 months. Subsequently, his physiological signs and symptoms had completely disappeared.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this case study is the first study that reported pyogenic spondylodiscitis of the lumbar spine, a complication of cervical anastomotic fistula after surgery for advanced esophageal cancer.
Agnucastoside C, isolated from Moringa oleifera ameliorates thyrotoxicosis and liver abnormalities in female mice
Authors: Sunhre Lata , Kar Anand , Panda Sunanda
Published: June 2020

Background

In the present investigation an attempt was made to evaluate the potential of agnucastoside C (ACC), isolated from the leaves of Moringa oleifera in ameliorating thyrotoxicosis, hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO) and hyperglycemia in female mice.

Methods

L-thyroxine (L-T4) at 0.5 mg/kg/d was administered through intra-peritoneal route for 15 consecutive days to induce thyrotoxicosis and then the effects of three different doses (10, 20 and 30 mg/kg body weight) of the isolated ACC for 21 days were investigated on the changes in serum thyroid hormones, insulin, glucose, different lipids; hepatic lipid peroxidation, enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, advanced oxidation protein products, reduced glutathione and in lipid peroxides.

Results

Following the administration of L-T4, serum T3, T4, insulin, glucose levels and the tissue LPO were increased with a decrease in serum thyroid stimulating hormone and antioxidative enzymes. However, administration of the test compound to hyperthyroid animals significantly decreased the levels of thyroid hormones, glucose and lipid peroxidation and normalized the concentration of insulin and tissue antioxidants, suggesting its antithyroid, antihyperglycemic and antiperoxidative potential. The T4-induced adverse effects on liver histology were also abolished. These findings suggest the possible use of the test compound in ameliorating thyrotoxicosis.

Conclusion

ACC exhibited antithyroidic, antihypoglycemic, antioxidative and insulin normalizing activities.
Interaction in computer supported collaborative learning: an analysis of the implementation phase
Authors: Hernández-Sellés Núria , Muñoz-Carril Pablo-César , González-Sanmamed Mercedes
Published: June 2020

There is extensive research on interaction frameworks in distance education and studies in Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) have also focused on establishing interaction models. There is still research to be done, though, in order to identify the elements that configure interaction to build up a framework for their integration, aligned with the learning goals. The purpose of this study is to understand the key elements that configure effective interaction in the implementation phase of CSCL and to analyze the different types of interactions that occur during collaborative learning processes. The study was designed under a non-experimental quantitative methodology and 106 learners answered a questionnaire after participating in 5 different higher education subjects implementing CSCL. A factorial analysis of results prove that students identify three types of interaction to be necessary during the implementation phase of collaboration in order to reach knowledge convergence: cognitive, social and organizational interaction. Therefore, instructors and institutions who wish to promote effective CSCL should bear in mind the learning goals together with the social and organizational aspects interwoven in the design, implementation and assessment phases of collaborative learning.
Ephemeral Spenser
Authors: Jung Sandro
Published: June 2020

This essay approaches Edmund Spenser’s Renaissance masterpiece, The Faerie Queene, through a hitherto unknown series of twenty-four vignette illustrations that the eighteenth-century painter and book illustrator, Thomas Stothard, contributed to the nowadays little-known annual, The Royal Engagement Pocket Atlas, in 1794. Apart from making sense of Stothard’s visual interpretation of Spenser’s romance, the article will pay attention to how the painter creates an anthological miniature gallery of moments with which the users of the pocket diary may have been familiar. In other words, these vignettes may have conveyed mnemonically a prior reading experience of The Faerie Queene or have stimulated recall of other engagements with the moments represented. Understanding Stothard’s illustrations as iconic interventions in the reception history of Spenser’s work that, by being included in a disposable, annual pocket diary, were significantly more ephemeral than illustrations issued as part of an edition, I shall investigate how Stothard mediates the text by providing textual excerpts and how these one-line cues evoke a particular allusive experience of the text that affects the reading experience.
Multiple Otherness: Identity Politics in the Taiping Civil War
Authors: Jin Huan
Published: June 2020

During and after the Taiping Civil War (1851–64), the notion of the Other was implicated in the provocation and mediation of violence and, as a result, acquired a multitude of new meanings and manifestations. Focusing on the discourse surrounding the Taiping War, this article explores the multiple political, moral, and cultural implications embedded in the idea of otherness. Unpacking the propaganda discourse of both the Taiping rebels and the Qing government, the author investigates the making of the political enemy by opposing regimes. In particular, the construction of a religious and political enemy is vital to Taiping identity formation. The author focuses on marginal figures in historical and fictional accounts who traverse political boundaries and constitute a third category beyond demarcations of “us” and Other in Taiping propaganda and its Qing counterpart. In short stories, however, these figures are subject to moral judgment and thus subsumed under another form of normative narrative involving otherness. Only in the realm of fantasy and imagination are political and moral efforts to construct and modulate otherness finally called into question. This article explores the acute malleability of the Other during the violent and chaotic Taiping Civil War and in its aftermath.
Hoax as Method
Authors: Rea Christopher
Published: June 2020

The hoax is universally condemned as an underhanded method—a transaction that, while sometimes clever in design or execution, is injurious. Hoaxers act in bad faith, exploiting, and thus diminishing, the social trust society needs to function. Hoaxes harm individuals and undermine institutions, all the more reason to reconsider such deceptions from a functional, rather than purely moral, perspective. The hoax can be a method to do what? What are the outcomes of hoaxes, whether intended or unintended? This essay offers eight answers to these questions, drawing evidence from an array of Chinese writings and films. It argues that the hoax is a useful concept to explain certain practices, styles, and trends in Chinese literary history. Further it proposes that the hoax offers a theoretical paradigm for rethinking more venerated categories, such as creativity, art, and value, as well as method itself.
Postal recruitment for genetic studies of preterm birth: A feasibility study
Authors: Keag Oonagh E. , Murphy Lee , Bradley Aoibheann , Deakin Naomi , Whyte Sonia , Norman Jane E. , Stock Sarah J.
Published: June 2020

Background: Preterm birth (PTB) represents the leading cause of neonatal death. Large-scale genetic studies are necessary to determine genetic influences on PTB risk, but prospective cohort studies are expensive and time-consuming. We investigated the feasibility of retrospective recruitment of post-partum women for efficient collection of genetic samples, with self-collected saliva for DNA extraction from themselves and their babies, alongside self-recollection of pregnancy and birth details to phenotype PTB.

Methods: 708 women who had participated in the OPPTIMUM trial (a randomised trial of progesterone pessaries to prevent PTB [ISRCTN14568373]) and consented to further contact were invited to provide self-collected saliva from themselves and their babies. DNA was extracted from Oragene OG-500 (adults) and OG-575 (babies) saliva kits and the yield measured by Qubit. Samples were analysed using a panel of Taqman single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) assays. A questionnaire designed to meet the minimum data set required for phenotyping PTB was included. Questionnaire responses were transcribed and analysed for concordance with prospective trial data using Cohen’s kappa (k).

Results: Recruitment rate was 162/708 (23%) for self-collected saliva samples and 157/708 (22%) for questionnaire responses. 161 samples from the mother provided DNA with median yield 59.0µg (0.4-148.9µg). 156 samples were successfully genotyped (96.9%). 136 baby samples had a median yield 11.5µg (0.1-102.7µg); two samples failed DNA extraction. 131 baby samples (96.3%) were successfully genotyped. Concordance between self-recalled birth details and prospective birth details was excellent (k>0.75) in 4 out of 10 key fields for phenotyping PTB (mode of delivery, labour onset, ethnicity and maternal age at birth).

Conclusion: This feasibility study demonstrates that self-collected DNA samples from mothers and babies were sufficient for genetic analysis but yields were variable. Self-recollection of pregnancy and birth details was inadequate for accurately phenotyping PTB, highlighting the need for alternative strategies for investigating genetic links with PTB.
Creating reality as a locally tailored interface – an integrational, pragmatic account of semiosis
Authors: Conrad Charlotte
Published: June 2020

Linguistics and semiotics traditionally assert the view that communication presupposes signs. Integrational linguistics challenges this notion by refuting the first-order ontological status of signs and semiological codes. Yet if communication does not depend on pre-established signs, then how does semiosis proceed? And what is the basis for the intuitively acceptable notion that codes do exist as socially carried structures among living beings? In this article I present an integrational account of semiosis based on the suggestion that sign-making is a perceptual activity. I draw on William James’ concept of human experience to expound Roy Harris’ claims for the radical indeterminacy of the sign, for contextualization, and for the process of integration. In closing, I consider the role that mental associations, for example, those between language sounds and concepts, play in communicative activity.
Even a two-year-old can do it! The early stages of learning to understand moving-image media
Authors: Bazalgette Cary
Published: June 2020

Film scholarship has consistently avoided discussing how we learn to understand the complex, multimodal systems of communication that moving-image media (referred to here as ‘movies’) have evolved into over the last 125 years. This article offers some reasons for this neglect: in particular, the popular assumption that movies are extremely easy to understand, and the relative lack of research on two-year-olds – the crucial phase in which this learning must take place. Drawing on a 20-month study of a pair of dizygotic twins, a vignette of their early viewing behaviour illustrates the features of focused attention which characterized their investment of energy in trying to make sense of movies. An analysis of this phenomenon, using concepts from embodied cognition, shows how instinctive responses relate to thought and reflection. Setting two-year-olds’ movie-watching within the wider contexts of story-reading, play and the enjoyment of repetition, the article provides evidence that such learning does take place and can be seen as a significant aspect of two-year-olds’ “entry into culture”.
Organizações internacionais não-governamentais no sistema de governança global: a ICAN e o tratado sobre a proibição de armas nucleares
Authors: Rocha Pedro Diniz
Published: June 2020

El objetivo general de este artículo es demostrar el proceso por el cual una Organización Internacional No Gubernamental (OING), a partir del proceso de desarrollo de una pregunta marco en la agenda internacional fue capaz de influenciar resultados en una Organización Internacional. Específicamente, se buscó comprender el papel desempeñado por la ICAN (en inglés International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons) en la aprobación del Tratado sobre Prohibición de Armas Nucleares (TPAN) por la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas el 17 de julio de 2017. Siendo este el objetivo, en términos metodológicos, se adoptó el process-tracing, habiendo sido el mecanismo causal construido y guiado a partir del marco teórico propuesto por Jutta Joachim (2007). Finalmente, se espera contribuir a la literatura en Relaciones Internacionales al proponer un estudio centrado en los procesos de negociación en medio del sistema de gobernanza global, específicamente, en lo que concierne al papel de las OING y su interrelación con otros actores de relevancia internacional.
Intervención temprana de la mordida cruzada por la pista directa de Planas: relato de siete años de seguimiento
Authors: Isper Garbin Artenio Jose , Wakayama Bruno , Saliba Tania Adas , Saliba Garbin Clea Adas
Published: June 2020

Introducción: entre las maloclusiones, la mordida cruzada es la de mayor prevalencia entre los niños en edad preescolar y se considera la principal depreciadora del sistema estomatognático, con un alto riesgo de desarrollar secuelas musculoesqueléticas irreparables en la edad adulta. Por lo tanto, es fundamental elegir un tratamiento eficaz que no requiera la cooperación directa del paciente y que utilice técnicas simples de ortodoncia. El objetivo de este artículo es informar la eficacia del tratamiento de rehabilitación neuroclusal (RNO) con la técnica de las pistas directas de Planas en la corrección temprana de la mordida cruzada posterior y el seguimiento de su estabilidad oclusal durante siete años. Presentación del caso: niña de 4 años de edad, que usó biberón, diagnosticada con mordida cruzada posterior funcional unilateral izquierda y desviación de la línea media. Para el tratamiento de la rno, se realizaron los ajustes oclusales en los dientes 63, 64 y 65, y después de la desprogramación neuromuscular, se confeccionaron las pistas directas de Planas en los dientes cruzados. Después de 29 días, se corrigió la mordida y se hicieron ajustes oclusales para proporcionar una mayor armonía oclusal. Hubo monitoreamiento cada seis meses durante siete años para verificar el equilibrio y la estabilidad del tratamiento. Conclusiones: a RNO con el uso de pista directa de Planas fue eficaz para corregir la mordida cruzada posterior con una técnica simple y de bajo costo que puede ejecutar el clínico general.
Paro cardiorrespiratorio por electrocución tratado con éxito extrahospitalariamente
Authors: Ramírez Gómez Gloria Andrea , Roncancio Abadía Margarita
Published: June 2020

Introducción: son pocos los datos documentados sobre los resultados de la reanimación cardiopulmonar en el paro cardiorrespiratorio extrahospitalario por causa de electrocución. El paro cardiorrespiratorio se produce cuando una descarga eléctrica interrumpe de forma abrupta la actividad eléctrica normal del corazón, lo que genera una electrocución y una alteración en los movimientos cardiacos y, por consiguiente, bombeo anormal de sangre y oxígeno a los tejidos. Ello constituye una emergencia clínica que puede ocasionar nefastas consecuencias de no tomarse medidas enérgicas e inmediatas. Presentación del caso: hombre con paro cardiorrespiratorio producido por electrocución y manejado en un ámbito extrahospitalario, quien respondió con éxito a las maniobras aplicadas. Personal técnico y de salud iniciaron precozmente la reanimación cardiopulmonar y luego fue reforzada por personal médico, que aplicó desfibrilación en dos ocasiones con desfibrilador externo automático (DEA). Con ello se logró recuperar los signos vitales del paciente y trasladarlo a un centro asistencial para continuar su manejo intrahospitalario. Conclusión: la realización de una reanimación precoz y la desfibrilación de pacientes electrocutados, así como las medidas encaminadas a la protección del cerebro, son la norma prioritaria en la asistencia prehospitalaria de estos pacientes, quienes son potencialmente recuperables. Por tal razón, es importante que la comunidad, en general, esté preparada y que el personal de salud se reentrene en soporte vital básico, que incluye el manejo del dea para dar oportunidad de sobrevivir a personas que sufran un paro cardiorrespiratorio extrahospitalario.
Ten years on: increased metal ion levels in a cohort of patients who underwent uncemented metal-on-polyethylene total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Dover Caroline , Kuiper Jan Herman , Craig Peter , Shaylor Phillip
Published: June 2020

Aims

We have previously demonstrated raised cobalt and chromium levels in patients with larger diameter femoral heads, following metal-on-polyethylene uncemented total hip arthroplasty. Further data have been collected, to see whether these associations have altered with time and to determine the long-term implications for these patients and our practice.

Methods

Patients from our previous study who underwent Trident-Accolade primary total hip arthroplasties using a metal-on-polyethylene bearing in 2009 were reviewed. Patients were invited to have their cobalt and chromium levels retested, and were provided an Oxford Hip Score. Serum ion levels were then compared between groups (28 mm, 36 mm, and 40 mm heads) and over time.

Results

Metal ion levels were repeated in 33 patients. When comparing the results of serum metal ion levels over time, regardless of head size, there was a significant increase in both cobalt and chromium levels (p < 0.001). Two patients with larger head sizes had undergone revision arthroplasty with evidence of trunnion damage at surgery. Two patients within the 40 mm subgroup had metal ion levels above the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) threshold for detailed investigation. The increase in cobalt and chromium, when comparing the 36 mm and 40 mm groups with those of the 28 mm group, was not significant (36 mm vs 28 mm; p = 0.092/p = 0.191; 40 mm vs 28 mm; p = 0.200/p = 0.091, respectively). There was no difference, between femoral head sizes, when comparing outcome as measured by the Oxford Hip Score.

Conclusion

This study shows an increase in cobalt and chromium levels over time for all modular femoral head sizes in patients with metal-on-polyethylene bearings, with two patients demonstrating ion levels above the MHRA threshold for failure, and a further two patients requiring revision surgery. These results may have clinical implications regarding longer term follow-up of patients and future implant choice, particularly among younger patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):832–837.