bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatially conserved motifs in complement control protein domains determine functionality in regulators of complement activation-family proteins
Authors: Ojha Hina , Ghosh Payel , Singh Panwar Hemendra , Shende Rajashri , Gondane Aishwarya , Mande Shekhar C. , Sahu Arvind
Published: August 2019

Regulation of complement activation in the host cells is mediated primarily by the regulators of complement activation (RCA) family proteins that are formed by tandemly repeating complement control protein (CCP) domains. Functional annotation of these proteins, however, is challenging as contiguous CCP domains are found in proteins with varied functions. Here, by employing an in silico approach, we identify five motifs which are conserved spatially in a specific order in the regulatory CCP domains of known RCA proteins. We report that the presence of these motifs in a specific pattern is sufficient to annotate regulatory domains in RCA proteins. We show that incorporation of the lost motif in the fourth long-homologous repeat (LHR-D) in complement receptor 1 regains its regulatory activity. Additionally, the motif pattern also helped annotate human polydom as a complement regulator. Thus, we propose that the motifs identified here are the determinants of functionality in RCA proteins.
Design and evaluation of a portable PM2.5 monitor featuring a low-cost sensor in line with an active filter sampler
Authors: Tryner Jessica , Quinn Casey , Windom Bret C. , Volckens John
Published: August 2019

Measurement of particulate matter (PM) air pollution using a low-cost sensor and in-line filter sample enables gravimetric correction of the real-time PM data and chemical characterization of the collected PM.
Oily bilge water treatment using DC/AC powered electrocoagulation
Authors: Bian Yanhong , Ge Zheng , Albano Carl , Lobo Fernanda Leite , Ren Zhiyong Jason
Published: August 2019

DC and AC powered electrocoagulation were compared for oil removal from bilge water.
Nanostructured morphology control and phase transition of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks as an ultra-high performance adsorbent for water purification
Authors: Yang Chengyuan , Zhang Wentao , Wang Jing , Li Sihang , Liu Xinnan , Dou Leina , Yue Tianli , Sun Jing , Wang Jianlong
Published: August 2019

By adjusting the methanol/water ratio to control the phases and morphologies, ZIFs showed enhanced performance for heavy metal adsorption.
Janus polymer membranes prepared by single-side polydopamine deposition for dye adsorption and fine bubble aeration
Authors: Wang Guo-Jun , Wu Bai-Heng , Xu Zhi-Kang , Wan Ling-Shu
Published: August 2019

Rapid and effective spray coating of polydopamine generates Janus membranes for dye adsorption and fine bubble aeration.
Cerium(iii) complexes with azolyl-substituted thiophenolate ligands: synthesis, structure and red luminescence
Authors: Ilichev Vasily A. , Silantyeva Liubov I. , Grishin Ivan D. , Rozhkov Anton V. , Rumyantcev Roman V. , Fukin Georgy K. , Bochkarev Mikhail N.
Published: August 2019

Novel Ce(iii) complexes with azolyl-substituted thiolate ligands have been synthesized. Some of them exhibit red PL.
Manganese–cerium mixed oxides supported on rice husk based activated carbon with high sulfur tolerance for low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides with ammonia
Authors: Shu Yun , Zhang Fan , Wang Hongchang
Published: August 2019

A rice husk derived catalyst exhibited high SCR activity and excellent SO2 + H2O tolerance.
Effects of interfaces and current spreading on the thermal transport of micro-LEDs for kA-per-square-cm current injection levels
Authors: Li Chengcheng , Chen Zhizhong , Jiao Fei , Zhan Jinglin , Chen Yifan , Chen Yiyong , Nie Jingxin , Zhao Tongyang , Kang Xiangning , Feng Shiwei , Zhang Guoyi , Shen Bo
Published: August 2019

The three-dimensional thermal characteristics of micro-light-emitting diodes (μLEDs) on GaN and sapphire substrates were studied with forward-voltage methods, thermal transient measurements, and infrared thermal imaging.
Structural characterization of an amorphous VS4 and its lithiation/delithiation behavior studied by solid-state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Shimoda Keiji , Koganei Kazuto , Takeuchi Tomonari , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Murakami Miwa , Sakaebe Hikari , Kobayashi Hironori , Matsubara Eiichiro
Published: August 2019

Amorphous VS4 (a-VS4) is prepared from the crystalline one (c-VS4). Li insertion into a-VS4 involves the amorphous–amorphous phase transition from Peierls-distorted chain-like structure to [VS4]3− tetrahedra-based structure.
Green electrochemical synthesis of silver sulfadiazine microcrystals
Authors: Moshfegh Faezeh Zivari , Khoram Mahmood Masoudi , Nematollahi Davood
Published: August 2019

Electrochemical synthesis of silver sulfadiazine (AgSD) microcrystals was carried out galvanostatically in a special two-electrode cell equipped with a sacrificial silver rod anode and a stainless steel plate cathode.
Enhanced diffusion and magnetophoresis of paramagnetic colloidal particles in rotating magnetic fields
Authors: Sherman Zachary M. , Pallone Julia L. , Erb Randall M. , Swan James W.
Published: August 2019

We elucidate the transport properties of paramagnetic colloids in rotating magnetic fields in bulk and porous media.
Graphene van der Waals heterostructures for high-performance photodetectors
Authors: Geng Huijuan , Yuan Di , Yang Zhi , Tang Zhenjie , Zhang Xiwei , Yang Kui , Su Yanjie
Published: August 2019

We present a comprehensive review on the recent progress of graphene vdW heterostructure photodetectors and give further perspectives in this emerging field.
Solution-processable zinc oxide nanorods and a reduced graphene oxide hybrid nanostructure for highly flexible and stable memristor
Authors: Zhou Zhe , Xiu Fei , Jiang Tongfen , Xu Jingxuan , Chen Jie , Liu Juqing , Huang Wei
Published: August 2019

A memristor composed of a 1D–2D nanostructure exhibits superior flexibility and stability.
Oxygen adsorption and its influence on the thermoelectric performance of polycrystalline SnSe
Authors: Zhang Mengmeng , Wang Dongyang , Chang Cheng , Lin Tao , Wang Kedong , Zhao Li-Dong
Published: August 2019

Oxygen is adsorbed when SnSe is exposed to air and it acts as a hole-like acceptor. The thermoelectric performance of n-type polycrystalline SnSe can be promoted through optimizing carrier concentration via preventing oxygen adsorption.
Glutamate transporters: a broad review of the most recent archaeal and human structures
Authors: Pavić Ana , Holmes Alexandra O. M. , Postis Vincent L. G. , Goldman Adrian
Published: August 2019

Glutamate transporters play important roles in bacteria, archaea and eukaryotes. Their function in the mammalian central nervous system is essential for preventing excitotoxicity, and their dysregulation is implicated in many diseases, such as epilepsy and Alzheimer's. Elucidating their transport mechanism would further the understanding of these transporters and promote drug design as they provide compelling targets for understanding the pathophysiology of diseases and may have a direct role in the treatment of conditions involving glutamate excitotoxicity. This review outlines the insights into the transport cycle, uncoupled chloride conductance and modulation, as well as identifying areas that require further investigation.
Secondary CMB anisotropies from magnetized haloes
Authors: Lemarchand N. , Grain J. , Hurier G. , Lacasa F. , Ferté A.
Published: August 2019

Magnetized plasmas within haloes of galaxies leave their footprint on the polarized anisotropies of the cosmic microwave background. The two dominant effects of astrophysical haloes are Faraday rotation, which generates rotation of the plane of linear polarization, and Faraday conversion, which induces a leakage from linear polarization to circular polarization. We revisit these sources of secondary anisotropies by computing the angular power spectra of the Faraday rotation angle and the Faraday conversion rate by the large-scale structures. To this end, we use the halo model and we pay special attention to the impact of magnetic field projections. Assuming magnetic fields of haloes to be uncorrelated, we found a vanishing two-halo term, and angular power spectra peaking at multipoles ℓ ∼ 104. The Faraday rotation angle is dominated by the contribution of thermal electrons. For the Faraday conversion rate, we found that both thermal electrons and relativistic, non-thermal electrons contribute equally in the most optimistic case for the density and Lorentz factor of relativistic electrons, while in more pessimistic cases the thermal electrons give the dominant contribution. Assuming the magnetic field to be independent of the halo mass, the angular power spectra for both effects roughly scale with the amplitude of matter perturbations as ∼σ38, and with a very mild dependence with the density of cold dark matter. Introducing a dependence of the magnetic field strength with the halo mass leads to an increase of the scaling at large angular scales (above a degree) with the amplitude of matter fluctuations up to ∼σ9.58 for Faraday rotation and ∼σ158 for Faraday conversion for a magnetic field strength scaling linearly with the halo mass. Introducing higher values of the magnetic field for galaxies, as compared to clusters, instead leads to a decrease of such a scaling at arcminute scales down to ∼σ0.98 for Faraday rotation.
Matching Algorithm of Statistical Optimization Feature Based on Grid Method
Authors: Zhao Chunhui , Fan Bin , Hu Jinwen , Zhang Zhiyuan , Pan Quan
Published: August 2019

The matching algorithm based on image feature points is widely used in image retrieval, target detection, identification and other image processing fields. Aiming at the problem that the feature matching algorithm has low recall rate, a statistical optimization feature based on grid of the normalized cross correlation function is proposed. The matching main direction difference and scale ratio are introduced to feature matching process, for comprehensively utilizing SIFT feature points' information, such as the main direction, scale and position constrains, to accelerate the solution of matching position constraint under the grid framework, which optimizes the feature matching results and improves the recall rate and comprehensive match performance. Firstly, the nearest neighbor matching feature points of each feature point in the original image are found in the target image, and the initial matching results are obtained. Secondly, the matching main direction difference is used to eliminate most mismatches of the initial matching. Thirdly, the matching images are meshed based on the matching scale ratio information, and the position information of the matching feature points distributed among the grids is gathered statistics. Finally, the normalized cross correlation function of each small grid in the original image is calculated to determine whether the matching in the small grid is correct, and the optimized feature matching results are obtained. The experimental results show that the matching accuracy of the new algorithm is similar to that of classical feature matching algorithms, meanwhile the matching recall rate is increased by more than 10%, and a better comprehensive matching performance is obtained.
Study on Star-Galaxy Image Generation Method Based on GAN
Authors: Zhang Guanghua , Wang Fubao , Duan Weijun
Published: August 2019

GAN technology has been widely used in image generation field. Generating images of stars and galaxy is of great significance for the prediction of unknown stars and galaxy. GAN has been used to generate star-galaxy images in this paper; the GAN model structure was built; the training strategy for GAN was designed; in order to stabilize the training procedure, we proposed a gird search method for the optimization of several hyper-parameters and an improved neuron discard method, EM-distance was used to modify the loss function in original GAN model. Taking the star-galaxy images in the Sloan digital sky survey (SDSS) as the training dataset, the improved method proposed in this paper and the original GAN were respectively used to generate two kinds of stars and galaxy images with different resolutions, and the comparison has been made to verify the effectiveness of the improved method.
Simulation of the Effect of Fuel Injection Rate that Matches Fuel Injection Advanced Angle on the Performance of Ultra High Pressure Common Rail Diesel Engine
Authors: Zhou Lei , Yang Kun , Liu Zhenming , Wang Yin , Chi Miao
Published: August 2019

On the basis of introducing the implementation method of variable fuel injection rate, the calculation model of a single-cylinder ultra high pressure common rail diesel engine was built, and the accuracy of this model was verified with experiments; then the effects of different fuel injection rates and fuel injection advanced angles on the performance of the ultra high pressure common rail diesel engine were analyzed with this model. The results show that the variable fuel injection rate can be realized by adjusting the opening time of electric-controlled pressure amplifier and injector solenoid valve in the ultra high pressure common rail system. With the lagging of pressurization time, the cylinder pressure, cylinder temperature, heat release rate and NOx emissions of the diesel engine decrease, while the soot emission rises. The ultra high pressure rectangle injection rate can make the diesel engine acquire best power and economy performance. With the increasing of fuel injection advanced angle, the cylinder pressure, cylinder temperature, heat release rate and NOx emission of the diesel engine rise, while the soot emission decreases first and then rises, the too small or too large fuel injection advanced angle can both reduce the power and economy performance of the diesel engine. The high fuel injection rate that matches small fuel injection advanced angle can improve power output and reduce fuel consumption of the diesel engine, and there is an optimal fuel injection advanced angle for each fuel injection rate to make the diesel engine performance achieve the best.
Development and evaluation of diverse promising rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) mutants using physical and chemical mutagens
Authors: Channaoui Souhail , Labhilili Mostapha , Mouhib Mohamed , Mazouz Hamid , El Fechtali Mohamed , Nabloussi Abdelghani
Published: August 2019

Genetic variability is a prerequisite for any plant breeding program, and mutagenesis is a proven way of creating new variation within a crop germplasm. Novel genetic variability in rapeseed was induced by gamma rays, Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) and combined mutagen treatment, using various doses and concentrations. The objective was to evaluate and compare the obtained M2 mutants for important quantitative traits in two contrasted environments. Data on phenological, morphological and agronomic parameters were recorded. A large variability was observed and mutagenic treatments had a significant effect on all traits studied. Compared to control plants, mutant genotypes derived from seeds treated with low EMS concentrations during moderate time were earlier and characterized by a higher number of pods per plant. For high concentration of EMS during long time and for combinations of physical and chemical mutagens, a significant decrease in plant height and stature was noticed, as compared to control. Besides, plants derived from gamma rays-treated seeds exhibited the highest 1000-seed weight. The novel induced variability may be integrated in rapeseed breeding program as a new germplasm with improved agronomic traits. Particularly, EMS1-7-stable mutant may be exploited to develop efficiently and quickly a new rapeseed cultivar with some desirable traits. The present study highlights once more the possibility to bring novel genetic diversity for rapeseed desirable traits improvement through mutation breeding.
Neurografie
Authors: Schulte-Mattler Wilhelm , Bischoff Christian
Published: August 2019

Bildgebende Verfahren machen der Elektroneurografie scheinbar Konkurrenz, scheinen sie manchenorts in den Hintergrund zu verdrängen. Dies ist zum Schaden der Patienten, da beide Methoden einander vortrefflich ergänzen. Besonders hilfreich ist die Elektroneurografie auch „heute noch“ zum Nachweis und zur Lokalisation von neurogenen Prozessen oder Nervenverletzungen, Nachweis von Demyelinisierung, bei der Ermittlung der Art einer Nervenläsion, Beurteilung des zeitlichen Verlaufs nach einer Nervenläsion, Objektivierung von Läsionen, Diagnostik neuromuskulärer Transmissionsstörungen.
Alte Methoden: Der heutige Stellenwert der Elektroenzephalografie (EEG)
Authors: Noachtar Soheyl , Baumgartner Christoph
Published: August 2019

Nach Jahrzehnten Erfahrung des klinischen Einsatzes sind die diagnostischen Möglichkeiten und Grenzen des EEGs inzwischen gut einschätzbar. Der klinische Einsatz erfolgt vor allem bei Epilepsien, Encephalopathien und Parasomnien. Die Übergänge zwischen physiologischen Varianten-Mustern und pathologischen EEG Mustern sind altersabhängig und teilweise unscharf. Umso wichtiger ist eine klar strukturierte und systematische EEG-Auswertung, um Über- und Fehlinterpretationen zu vermeiden. Diese Übersicht beleuchtet den heutigen Einsatz der EEG.
Unbeobachtete Sturzereignisse von älteren multimorbiden Patienten – Einsätze mit oft erschwerter Beurteilbarkeit und Fallsteuerung
Authors: Müntefering Gerrit
Published: August 2019

In der nachfolgenden Kasuistik lassen sich bei der Notfallbehandlung eines gestürzten älteren Patienten nach Erhebung des Erstbefundes in Kenntnis der Vorerkrankungen und aufgrund der präklinischen Verlaufsentwicklung mehrere Verdachtsdiagnosen aus unterschiedlichen medizinischen Teilbereichen stellen. Die Kasuistik macht die Problematik der Multimorbidität im Alter deutlich. Letztendlich ergibt die weitere klinische Diagnostik eine Elektrodendislokation des Herzschrittmachers mit rhythmogener Synkope als führende Sturzursache.
Gesetzliche Anforderungen zur Fortbildungspflicht für Notärzte in Deutschland
Authors: Reifferscheid Florian , Harding Ulf
Published: August 2019

Wie in allen Bereichen der Medizin entwickelt sich auch in der Notfallmedizin der Stand von Technik und Wissenschaft, Methoden und Behandlungsstrategien beständig weiter. Im Interesse der Zusammenarbeit in der Notfallmedizin und der Patientenversorgung müssen wir unser Augenmerk nicht nur auf eine gute Grundausbildung der Notärztinnen und Notärzte richten, sondern auch deren Fähigkeiten auf einem aktuellen Stand halten. Während im europäischen Ausland mancherorts kontinuierliche Fortbildung und regelmäßige Rezertifizierung selbstverständliche Bedingung für die Tätigkeit im Notarztdienst sind, genügt hierzulande für eine Teilnahme am Notarztdienst vielfach, einmalig im Berufsleben die Notarztqualifikation erworben zu haben. Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchung ist es daher, zu analysieren, welche Anforderungen vonseiten der Gesetzgeber an die notärztliche Fortbildung gestellt werden und wie deren Finanzierung vorgesehen ist.
Konstitution und Ernährung – die Ernährungstypen nach F.X. Mayr
Authors: Gündling Peter W.
Published: August 2019

Im heutigen Medizinstudium kommt der Begriff der Konstitution praktisch nicht mehr vor. In der Naturheilkunde dagegen spielt sie noch immer eine wichtige Rolle. Denn wenn die Konstitution in die diagnostischen und therapeutischen Überlegungen mit einbezogen wird, lassen sich die Reaktion des Patienten auf äußere Reize, seine Anfälligkeit gegenüber Krankheiten und Reaktionsfähigkeit auf bestimmte Therapieformen besser abschätzen.

Der Konstitutionsbegriff geht auf Hippokrates zurück. Laut Hippokrates hat die Konstitution eines Menschen Einfluss darauf, welche Nahrung und welche Ernährungsform für ihn die bekömmlichste und gesündeste ist. Diesen Gedanken hat auch Dr. Franz Xaver Mayr (1875–1965) aufgegriffen und daraus eine eigene Ernährungslehre entwickelt.
Fülle und Leere im System der Chinesischen Medizin: Zwei Fallbeispiele
Authors: Stör Wolfram
Published: August 2019

In der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin werden die Begriffe Fülle und Leere völlig anders verwendet als in der Umgangssprache. Im Wesentlichen entscheidet die Stärke der Lebenskraft Qi darüber, ob die Krankheitssymptome sich als Fülle oder als Leere manifestieren. Die Unterscheidung nach Fülle und Leere ordnet sich in das System der 8 Leitkriterien (Außen – Innen, Hitze – Kälte, Fülle – Leere, Yang – Yin) ein und hilft für die therapeutische Entscheidung: Fülle-Symptome werden mit starken Reizen behandelt, Leere-Symptome mit schwachen Reizen. Zwei Fallbeispiele verdeutlichen das unterschiedliche Vorgehen.
Refresher Histaminintoleranz: Mangel und Überfluss
Authors: Feldhaus Simon
Published: August 2019

Die Histaminintoleranz ist eine vielfach nicht ausreichend bekannte und somit oft unterschätzte Krankheit. Bei korrekter Diagnose und Therapie gelingt es bei den sehr häufig auftretenden sekundären Formen in der Regel jedoch, die Symptome fast gänzlich zum Verschwinden zu bringen. Zentral ist dafür eine konsequente histaminfreie Ernährung kombiniert mit Mikrobiologischer Therapie und orthomolekularer Medizin. Begleitend können Antihistaminika und Mastzellstabilisationen (Chromoglicinsäure) zur Symptomreduktion gegeben werden.

In manchen Fällen kann eine Histaminintoleranz ein Leben lang bestehen. Durch die Anpassung der Ernährung und begleitende Therapie lassen sich die Symptome jedoch auch in dieser Situation oft so weit reduzieren, dass die Lebensqualität nicht wesentlich beeinträchtigt ist. Insbesondere bei chronischen Beschwerden im Bereich des Verdauungsapparats, bei Schmerzen, Migräne und bei allergieähnlichen Symptomen ist an eine Histaminintoleranz zu denken und somit diagnostisch abzuklären.
Differentialdiagnostik sonographisch echoarmer Kopf-Halsläsionen
Authors: Mansour Naglaa , Bobenstetter Lukas , Mansour Sonia , Graf Simone , Hofauer Benedikt , Knopf Andreas
Published: August 2019

Ziel Die Evaluation sonographisch echoarmer Läsionen (SEAL) der Kopf-Hals-Region zur Bestimmung der Entität und Planung der Operation.

Methoden Alle Patienten mit SEAL, die ein B-Bild-Ultraschall (US), eine farbkodierte Duplexsonographie (FKDS), einen kontrastverstärkten US (CEUS) und eine Kompressionselastographie (SE) erhalten haben und histologisch gesichert wurden, wurden eingeschlossen.

Ergebnisse 184 SEAL wurden eingeschlossen. Die Halslevel VIII, II und I waren mit 103, 40 und 21 Läsionen die am häufigsten betroffenen. Die Kohorte beinhaltete 40 Lymphknotenerkrankungen, 101 Speicheldrüsenerkrankungen, 31 zystische Läsionen und 12 andere, seltenere Entitäten. SEAL in Level II waren signifikant größer als in Level I und VIII (p < 0,001). In der FKDS zeigten SEAL in Level VI signifikant weniger bis keine Vaskularisation als in Level VIII (p < 0,01). Es gab keine Unterschiede in den B-Bild-Kriterien, in der SE oder im CEUS zwischen den einzelnen Halsleveln. Patienten mit zystischen Läsionen waren signifikant jünger als die mit Metastasen oder Warthintumoren (p = 0,026; 0,028). Pleomorphe Adenome waren signifikant kleiner als zystische Läsionen (p < 0,0006), Lymphome (p = 0,026), Metastasen (p = 0,0003) oder Warthintumore (p = 0,034). In der FKDS und im CEUS waren zystische Läsionen signifikant weniger bis gar nicht vaskularisiert und perfundiert als Lymphome (p = 0,014) und Warthintumore (p < 0,0001), während pleomorphe Adenome in der SE signifikant härter waren als zystische Läsionen (p = 0,0006).

Schlussfolgerung Die Bestimmung der Entität SEAL bleibt weiterhin schwierig. SE und CEUS bieten einen zusätzlichen Beitrag, Patienten zu selektieren, die eine intraoperative Schnellschnittuntersuchung mit möglicher Erweiterung der Operation benötigten und vom Einsatz des intraoperativen Nervenmonitorings profitierten.
Wie handhaben Ärzte ihre eigene Darmkrebsvorsorge und was empfehlen sie ihren Patienten?
Authors: Fischbach Wolfgang , Al-Taie Oliver
Published: August 2019

Einleitung Darmkrebsvorsorge senkt Inzidenz und Sterblichkeit des kolorektalen Karzinoms. Die Teilnehmerraten in Deutschland sind immer noch vergleichsweise gering. Die Handhabung der eigenen Darmkrebsvorsorge gibt Hinweise darauf, wie Ärzte den Nutzen dieser Maßnahme sehen und was sie demzufolge ihren Patienten empfehlen.

Methode Alle bei der KV Unterfranken registrierten 450 niedergelassenen Allgemeinärzte und Internisten im Alter von über 50 Jahren wurden angeschrieben. Sie erhielten einen Fragebogen zu persönlichen Daten, ihrer eigenen Darmkrebsvorsorge und zu ihrer Einstellung in diesem Thema gegenüber ihren Patienten.

Ergebnisse Auf der Basis von 237 erhaltenen Fragebögen zeigt sich, dass 72 % der Ärzte sich einer Darmkrebsvorsorgeuntersuchung unterzogen haben. 81 % wählten hierfür die Vorsorgekoloskopie. Überzeugt von dem Nutzen der Darmkrebsvorsorge empfehlen 90 % der Befragten ihren Patienten aktiv die Teilnahme an der Darmkrebsvorsorge. Konkret raten 88 % zur Vorsorgekoloskopie.

Schlussfolgerung Ärzte unterziehen sich in einem hohen Prozentsatz der Darmkrebsvorsorge. Die hohe Teilnehmerrate von Ärzten könnte ein zusätzlicher Motivationsfaktor bei Aufklärungskampagnen zur Darmkrebsprävention sein.
Acellular Dermal Matrices: Applications in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Tork Shahryar , Jefferson Ryan C. , Janis Jeffrey E.
Published: August 2019

Modern advances in tissue engineering have transformed the plastic surgeon's management strategies across a wide variety of applications. Comprehension of the fundamentals of biologic constructs is critical to navigating the available armamentarium. It is essential that plastic surgeons become familiar with some of the existing methods for utilizing biologics as well as the advantages and limitations to their use. In this article, the authors describe the basic science of biologics with a focus on acellular dermal matrices (ADMs), and review the recent evidence behind their use for a variety of reconstructive and aesthetic purposes. The review is organized by system and examines the common indications, techniques, and outcomes pertaining to the application of ADMs in select anatomic areas. The final section briefly considers possible future directions for using biologics in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Bone Grafts, Bone Substitutes, and Orthobiologics: Applications in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Raghuram Anjali , Singh Aspinder , Chang Daniel K. , Nunez Mervin , Reece Edward M.
Published: August 2019

As reconstructive needs often extend past the soft tissue alone, a plastic surgeon must also be well versed in the methods of bony reconstruction. Understanding of the basic science of fracture healing and the biochemical mechanisms of the different bone grafts, bone substitutes, and orthobiologics is essential to selecting among the many different options available to the modern plastic surgeon. This review provides a broad overview of these different options and the specific applications for plastic surgeons based on anatomic location.
The Evolving Landscape of Gene Therapy in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Raghuram Anjali , Singh Aspinder , Chang Daniel K. , Nunez Mervin , Reece Edward M. , Schultz Brent E.
Published: August 2019

With the rapid rise of personalized genomic sequencing and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) technology, previous gaps in gene therapy are beginning to be bridged, paving the way for increasing clinical applicability. This article aims to provide an overview of the fundamentals of gene therapy and discuss future potential interventions relevant to plastic surgeons. These interventions include enhancing tissue regeneration and healing, as well as modifying disease processes in congenital anomalies. Though clinical applications are still on the horizon, a deeper understanding of these new advances will help plastic surgeons understand the current landscape of gene therapy and stay abreast of future opportunities.
Blister Aneurysm of Middle Cerebral Artery Division: Stent-Assisted Coiling Using Shelfing Technique
Authors: Londhe Shrikant , Gupta Vipul , Parthasarathy Rajsrnivias , Ganie Hilal Ahmad , Jain Nishchint
Published: August 2019

Blister aneurysms pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to neurointerventionists as well as neurosurgeons. Fragile nature of these aneurysms with involvement of the adjacent parent artery makes surgical options more difficult and complicated. Various endovascular treatment options such as overlapping stent, parent artery occlusion, and flow diverter placement are available in the present era. Though side wall aneurysms can be managed with flow diverter placement, bifurcation aneurysms are difficult to treat with these devices due to possibility of compromised flow in covered branch arteries. Blister aneurysms of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) are rare, and their treatment can be challenging when they are treated by endovascular methods with either overlapping stent or flow diverter placement. The authors report a case of ruptured MCA trifurcation blister aneurysm treated with shelfing technique using braided stent monotherapy along with coil embolization. The patient had good clinical outcome (modified Rankin’s scale 1 [mRS-1]) at discharge and complete aneurysm occlusion on follow-up angiogram after 6 months.
Comparative Analysis of Diaphyseal versus Metaphyseal tracker Placement in Imageless Navigation Systems for Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Yang Jae-Hyuk , Yoon Jung-Ro , Lee Jin Kyu
Published: August 2019

This work was designed to compare the intraoperative parameters and clinical and radiologic outcomes of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) during a minimum follow-up period of 2 years and to discuss the pros and cons of two different tracker placement (diaphyseal and metaphyseal) navigation systems. The null hypothesis was that there would be no clinical or radiologic difference between the two different systems. Primary TKA was performed in a total of 100 knees using the two different image-free navigation systems (group 1: diaphyseal tracker placement and group 2: metaphyseal tracker placement) with the strict gap balancing technique. Symptom severity was assessed at preoperative and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery using the Knee Society Score (KSS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score. Possible adverse issues (major and minor) associated with TKA procedure were observed. Careful assessments were also made of the screw insertion site for infection, stress fractures, and any other related adverse effects. The follow-up periods for groups 1 and 2 were 38 ± 8 months and 38 ± 7 months, respectively. The minimum follow-up period was 24 months. The mechanical alignment improved to 0.1 (valgus) ± 2.2 (group 1) and 0.2 (valgus) ± 2.1 (group 2). There were no radiologic differences between the groups (p > 0.05). In both groups, the KSS and WOMAC improved from before surgery to 24 months after surgery (p < 0.0001). However, the total operation time was 50 ± 5 minutes for group 1, compared to 65 ± 13 minutes for group 2 (p < 0.0001). The metaphyseal tracker navigation system resulted in increased operation time.
Gestational Weight Gain and Postpartum Depression in Women with Class III Obesity
Authors: Adkins LaMani D. , Tucker Ann , Gatta Luke A. , Siegel Anne M. , Reiff Emily , Brown Haywood L. , Dotters-Katz Sarah K.
Published: August 2019

Objective We investigated the association between gestational weight gain (GWG) and postpartum depression (PPD) in women with class III obesity.

Study Design This is a retrospective cohort of women with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m2 at entry to care, first prenatal visit ≤14 weeks gestation, with singleton, nonanomalous pregnancies who delivered at term from July 2013 to December 2017. Women missing data regarding PPD were excluded. Primary outcome was PPD; classified as Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score >13/30 or provider's report of depression. Participants were classified, according to Institute of Medicine GWG guidelines (11–20 pounds), as either less than 11 pounds (LT11) or at/more than 11 pounds (GT11). Bivariate statistics compared demographics and pregnancy characteristics. Logistic regression used to estimate odds of primary outcome.

Results Of 275 women, 96 (34.9%) gained LT11 and 179 (65.1%) gained GT11 during pregnancy. The rate of PPD was 8.7% (n = 24), 9 (9.4%) in the LT11 group and 15 (8.4%) in the GT11 group (p = 0.82, odds ratio: 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.48, 2.69). When controlling for entry BMI and multiparity, adjusted odds of PPD was 1.07 (95% CI: 0.44, 2.63). No correlation was found between GWG and EPDS.

Conclusion A relationship between GWG and PPD in class III obese women was not found in this cohort.
Range of Motion at Discharge Predicts Need for Manipulation following Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: LaHaise Kristen M. , Vargo Daniel V. , Barrazueta Gustavo A. , Nairus James G. , Bono James V. , Talmo Carl T.
Published: August 2019

Stiffness following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common complication that can result in unsatisfactory outcomes. Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) has been widely employed to treat this problem. It is uncertain whether an association exists between range of motion (ROM) at discharge and need for MUA following primary TKA.

A retrospective review of an institutional joint registry identified cases of primary TKA performed by three surgeons at a single institution over a 22-month period. A logistic regression model was used to examine the association between ROM at discharge and subsequent MUA controlling for confounding variables related to patient demographics and perioperative details. Of the 1,546 cases identified, 113 (7.3%) cases underwent subsequent MUA. As discharge ROM increased, manipulation rates decreased. Patients with discharge flexion <65 degrees were more likely to undergo MUA than those with flexion >90 degrees (odds ratio [OR] = 17.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] [7.97, 38.73], p < 0.0001). The largest differential in odds of MUA was observed between the <65 degrees at discharge group (OR = 17.57) and the 65 ≤ 75 degrees at discharge group (OR = 7.89). At discharge ROM of 80 ≤ 90 degrees of flexion, patients had more than a twofold increase in odds of MUA relative to those in the >90 degrees group (OR = 2.22, 95% CI [1.20, 4.10], p = 0.011). The results of this study suggest that there is an association between lower ROM at discharge and greater risk of MUA post primary TKA. Counseling patients in regard to discharge ROM and associated risk of MUA may optimize gains in ROM during recovery.
Adherus Dural Sealant in Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery: Safety, Imaging Characteristics, and Sinonasal Quality of Life
Authors: Soneru Christian P. , Riley Charles A. , Minkowitz Shlomo , Tabaee Abtin , Anand Vijay K. , Schwartz Theodore H.
Published: August 2019

Objective This study was aimed to compare the safety profiles, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and sinonasal outcome test (SNOT-22) scores of Adherus dural sealant, a novel tissue glue designed for skull base surgery.

Design Present study is a prospective case series.

Setting The research work took place at a tertiary-care academic medical center.

Participants Consecutive series of 26 patients undergoing endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) with Adherus was compared with a control group of 24 patients matched for tumor type and size with DuraSeal as a sealant.

Main Outcome Measures Postoperative complication rates, imaging characteristics, and postoperative SNOT-22 scores were measured and compared.

Results No postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, intracranial hemorrhages, or mucoceles were observed in either cohort. Adherus was more likely to be identifiable on immediate postoperative MRI (50 vs. 20.8%, p = 0.032). In patients in whom a nasoseptal flap was utilized, the flap was opposed to the skull base in all cases regardless of sealant selected. Postoperative SNOT-22 total (17.25 [±10.81] vs. 14.85 [±14.22], p = 0.609) and subdomain scores were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions Adherus dural sealant appears to be a safe alternative to Duraseal in ESBS with comparable quality of life outcomes and imaging findings. These preliminary results are promising but should be examined in a larger population with long-term follow-up.
The Utility of Using Preoperative MRI as a Predictor for Intraoperative Pituitary Adenoma Consistency and Surgical Resection Technique
Authors: Yun Jonathan J. , Johans Stephen J. , Shepherd Daniel J. , Martin Brendan , Joyce Cara , Borys Ewa , Reddy A. Suresh , Patel Chirag R. , Germanwala Anand V.
Published: August 2019

Objective Most pituitary adenomas are of soft consistency and can be resected during surgery with routine suction instruments. However, fibrous adenomas may require more aggressive techniques. The ability to predict consistency on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) would improve preoperative preparation and may have implications on the extent of resection.

Design A retrospective review of MRI and tumor histology of 50 consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal resection for nonfunctional adenomas was performed.

Methods An intensity ratio was calculated based on quantitative MRI signal intensity of the adenoma and pons. Intraoperatively, a sequentially graded technique required for resection ranged from suction (R1) for softer tumors, curettes (R2) for tumors with intermediate consistency, and aspirators and/or other microinstruments (R3) for firmer tumors. Fibrotic content was determined from histologic collagen percentage, and rates of gross total resection (GTR) were calculated from postoperative imaging. Statistical analyses were performed to determine if resection classification could be predicted by intensity ratio or collagen percentage, calculate ratio of cut-off points for clinical use, and assess for correlation between intensity ratios and collagen percentage.

Results Tumors with ratios < 1.6 on the T2-weighted coronal image and collagen content > 5.3% were likely to have required a more aggressive resection technique. Statistically significant lower rates of GTR and higher rates of perioperative complications were seen with such tumors.

Conclusion Preoperative MRI analyses can be helpful but not definitive in predicting adenoma consistency. Fibrous adenomas, associated with higher collagen content, are more difficult to resect and have higher rates of subtotal resection.
Managing Benign and Malignant Oral Lesions with Carbon Dioxide Laser: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes for Outpatient Surgery
Authors: Saibene Alberto Maria , Rosso Cecilia , Castellarin Paolo , Vultaggio Federica , Pipolo Carlotta , Maccari Alberto , Ferrari Daris , Abati Silvio , Felisati Giovanni
Published: August 2019

Purpose Because of its affinity for water-based tissues, carbon dioxide (CO2) laser has become an instrument of choice for treating oral mucosa conditions, ranging from inflammatory to malignant lesions. The aim of this work is to systematically evaluate the outcomes of laser surgery over a wide range of lesions, while providing a solid and reproducible protocol for CO2 laser surgery in the outpatient management of oral lesion.

Methods Seventy-eight patients underwent 92 laser outpatient procedures for treatment of a wide range of benign and malignant lesions. We performed 60 removals, 11 exeretic biopsies, 15 vaporizations, and 3 vaporization/removal combined. We analyzed laser parameters applied for each technique and provided a systematic evaluation of surgical results.

Results No problems occurred intraoperatively in any of the patients. Five patients complained marginal pain, while 3 patients had postsurgery bleeding. All treatments were successful, with the notable exception of 3 relapsing verrucous proliferative leukoplakias and an infiltrating squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue requiring radicalization. We did not record any adverse reactions to drugs or lesions due to laser action. Concordance between clinical diagnosis and pathology results was at 94.8%.

Conclusions Our data indicate that CO2 laser is a solid choice for outpatient treatment of oral lesions. This technique grants painless and almost bloodless treatment, with negligible recurrence rates. Providing a solid reference for laser settings and operative techniques could provide a foundation for further exploring this tool while offering the basis for a positive comparison between different surgical techniques and options.
Electrolyte gate controlled metal-insulator transitions of the CaZrO3/SrTiO3 heterointerface
Authors: Niu Wei , Chen Yongda , Gan Yulin , Zhang Yu , Zhang Xiaoqian , Yuan Xiao , Cao Zhi , Liu Wenqing , Xu Yongbing , Zhang Rong , Pryds Nini , Chen Yunzhong , Pu Yong , Wang Xuefeng
Published: August 2019

Two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at a complex oxide interface shows an extraordinary spectrum of intriguing phenomena and functionality. Another oxide 2DEG was recently created via strain-induced polarization at an otherwise nonpolar perovskite-type interface of CaZrO3/SrTiO3 (CZO/STO). Herein, we report an effective way to tune the CZO/STO interface via ionic liquid (IL) electrolyte gating. An unexpected metal-insulator transition of the interfacial 2DEG occurs readily with the immersion of the sample in an IL even before the gate voltage is applied. This suggests the presence of intrinsic polarization of CZO, which could act as a negative bias. The carrier density is found to be suppressed and shows a temperature-independent behavior after electrolyte gating which also resulted in higher electron mobility. These results suggest that the oxygen vacancies are annihilated via oxygen electromigration to the interface induced by electrolyte gating. The effective tunability by IL gating shed more light on the mechanism of electrolyte gating on the buried heterointerface.
Heterogeneous catalysis from structure to activity via SSW-NN method
Authors: Ma Sicong , Shang Cheng , Liu Zhi-Pan
Published: August 2019

Modern research on heterogeneous catalysis calls for new techniques and methods to resolve the active site structure and reaction intermediates at the atomic scale. Here, we overview our recent progress on large-scale atomistic simulation via potential energy surface (PES) global optimization based on neural network (NN) potential, focusing on methodology details and recent applications on catalysis. The combination of stochastic surface walking (SSW) global optimization and the NN method provides a convenient and automated way to generate the transferable and robust NN potential for global PES, which can be utilized to reveal new chemistry from the unknown region of PES with an affordable computational cost. The predictive power of SSW-NN is demonstrated in several examples, where the method is applied to explore the material crystal phases, to follow the surface structure evolution under high pressure hydrogen and to determine the ternary oxide phase diagram. The limitations and future directions to develop the SSW-NN method are also discussed.
Hardware implementation of RRAM based binarized neural networks
Authors: Huang Peng , Zhou Zheng , Zhang Yizhou , Xiang Yachen , Han Runze , Liu Lifeng , Liu Xiaoyan , Kang Jinfeng
Published: August 2019

Resistive switching random access memory (RRAM) has been explored to accelerate the computation of neural networks. RRAM with linear conductance modulation is usually required for the efficient weight updating during the online training according to the back-propagation algorithm. However, most RRAM devices usually show the nonlinear characteristic. Here, to overcome the dilemma, we designed a novel weight updating principle for binarized neural networks, which enables the nonlinear RRAM to realize the weight updating in efficiency during online training. Moreover, a vector-matrix multiplication is designed to parallel calculate the dot-products of the forward and backward propagation. 1 kb nonlinear RRAM array is fabricated to demonstrate the feasibility of the analog accumulation and the parallel vector-matrix multiplication. The results achieved in this work offer new solutions for future energy efficient neural networks.
Parametrizing atmospheric models can help predict geophysical catastrophes
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: August 2019

Scientists studied how different parametrizations of atmospheric models perform in representing extreme geophysical events and help predict the likelihood of natural catastrophes with climate change.
New technique clearly reveals signatures of subtle electronic phase transitions
Authors: Lim Alane
Published: August 2019

Researchers developed a sensitive method for measuring the elastocaloric effect in solids, providing new ways to follow and study subtle phase transitions.
Nondestructive imaging technique characterizes two-dimensional crystallographic orientations
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: August 2019

Transverse shear microscopy has been demonstrated as a nondestructive method of studying the shear deformation in two-dimensional crystal lattices.
An introduction to the ANAWC
Authors: Pickering Lucy , Di Ferrante Laura , Bruce Carrie , Friginal Eric , Pearson Pamela , Bouchard Julie
Published: August 2019

This paper presents an overview of the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Non-AAC Workplace Corpus (ANAWC) (Pickering & Bruce, 2009). The corpus is the first resource of its kind that makes it possible to systematically study the typical language patterns of both AAC users and comparable non-AAC users in the workplace. We discuss the origin of the corpus and give an account of the methodology used for its collection and transcription. We also introduce several publications that demonstrate the novel qualitative and quantitative findings that can be generated on the basis of the corpora. This kind of research will be crucial to guide future developments in AAC development for workplace applications.
A longitudinal observation of technology-mediated feedback for L2 learners of German
Authors: Heift Trude
Published: August 2019

This article provides a longitudinal study of L2 learners of German who used a computer-assisted language learning (CALL) system that formed part of their regular classroom instruction. The 42 learners were enrolled in four consecutive university language courses at a beginner and intermediate level. The study compares two different feedback types, metalinguistic feedback and repetition, which were provided for the same exercise type over the course of four semesters. The exercise type required learners to build sentences from a set of predefined, uninflected words. While the grammatical focus of the exercises changed over time, many of the same grammatical constructions were present in all four courses. The study discusses the changes in learner performance and error correction behavior as students became more proficient in their knowledge of the L2 grammar and were exposed to the technology-mediated feedback that remained consistent throughout system use over the four language courses.
Complex magnetism of B20-MnGe: from spin-spirals, hedgehogs to monopoles
Authors: Bornemann Marcel , Grytsiuk Sergii , Baumeister Paul F , dos Santos Dias Manuel , Zeller Rudolf , Lounis Samir , Blügel Stefan
Published: August 2019

B20 compounds are the playground for various non-trivial magnetic textures such as skyrmions, which are topologically protected states. Recent measurements on B20-MnGe indicate no clear consensus on its magnetic behavior, which is characterized by the presence of either spin-spirals or three-dimensional objects interpreted to be a cubic lattice of hedgehogs and anti-hedgehogs. Utilizing a massively parallel linear scaling all-electron density functional algorithm, we find from full first-principles simulations on cells containing thousands of atoms that upon increase of the compound volume, the state with lowest energy switches across different magnetic phases: ferromagnetic, spin-spiral, hedgehog and monopole.