bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thirty-day incidence of stroke after transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation: meta-analysis and mixt-treatment comparison of self-expandable versus balloon-expandable valve prostheses
Authors: Seppelt Philipp C. , Mas-Peiro Silvia , De Rosa Roberta , Dimitriasis Zisis , Zeiher Andreas M. , Vasa-Nicotera Mariuca
Published: November 2020

Aims

Stroke is a major complication after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Although multifactorial, it remains unknown whether the valve deployment system itself has an impact on the incidence of early stroke. We performed a meta- and network analysis to investigate the 30-day stroke incidence of self-expandable (SEV) and balloon-expandable (BEV) valves after transfemoral TAVI.

Methods and results

Overall, 2723 articles were searched directly comparing the performance of SEV and BEV after transfemoral TAVI, from which 9 were included (3086 patients). Random effects models were used for meta- and network meta-analysis based on a frequentist framework. Thirty-day incidence of stroke was 1.8% in SEV and 3.1% in BEV (risk ratio of 0.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.49–0.80, p = 0.004). Treatment ranking based on network analysis (P-score) revealed CoreValve with the best performance for 30-day stroke incidence (75.2%), whereas SAPIEN had the worst (19.0%). However, network analysis showed no inferiority of SAPIEN compared with CoreValve (odds ratio 2.24, 95% CI 0.70–7.2).

Conclusion

Our analysis indicates higher 30-day stroke incidence after transfemoral TAVI with BEV compared to SEV. We could not find evidence for superiority of a specific valve system. More randomized controlled trials with head-to-head comparison of SEV and BEV are needed to address this open question.

Graphic abstract
Influence of leaf shape on the scaling of leaf surface area and length in bamboo plants
Authors: Shi Pei-Jian , Li Yi-Rong , Niinemets Ülo , Olson Edward , Schrader Julian
Published: November 2020

Key message

Using more than 10,000 bamboo leaves, we found that the scaling between leaf surface area and length follows a uniform power law relationship mainly relying on the degree of variation in leaf shape (reflected by the ratio of leaf width to length).

A recent study based on leaf data of different plant taxa showed that the scaling of leaf surface area (A) with linear leaf dimensions was best described by the Montgomery equation (ME) that describesAas the product of leaf length (L) and width (W). Following from ME, a proportional relationship betweenAand the square ofLhas been proposed, but the validity of this simplified equation strongly depends on leaf shape (W/Lratio). Here, we show that the simplified equation can be applied to a group of closely related plants sharing a similarW/Lratio with low degree of uncertainty. We measuredA,LandWof more than 10,000 leaves from 101 graminoid taxa (subfamily Bambusoideae) having similar elongated leaf shapes. We found that ME applies to the leaves of all bamboo taxa investigated. The power law equation that was used to describe a scaling relationship ofAvs.Lalso predicted leaf area with high accuracy, but the variability measured as the root-mean-square error (RMSE) was greater than that using ME, indicating that leaf width also plays an important role in predicting leaf area. However, the dependence of the prediction accuracy ofAonWis intimately associated with the extent of the variation inW/Lratio. There was a strong positive correlation (r = 0.95 for the 101 bamboo taxa) between RMSE and the coefficient of variation inW/Lratio. Thereby, our results show that leaf area of bamboo plants can be calculated by the product ofLandWwith a proportionality coefficient ranging from 0.625 to 0.762, i.e., the leaf area of bamboo leaves approximately equals 70% of a rectangular area formed byLandW. The pooled data of ln(A) vs. ln(WL) of 101 bamboo taxa were located on or very close to the regression line without being affected by interspecific differences. However, interspecific differences inW/Lratio largely affected the scaling relationship ofAvs.L, which led to large deviations of the data of ln(A) vs. ln(L) from the regression line. This implies that the square relationship betweenAandLdoes not apply to all species even if those are very closely related taxa.
The association of the level of self-care on adherence to treatment in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Krzemińska Sylwia , Lomper Katarzyna , Chudiak Anna , Ausili Davide , Uchmanowicz Izabella
Published: November 2020

Aims

The study aimed to assess the impact of self-care on adherence to treatment in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and effect of complex interaction of social, lifestyle, economic, environmental and behavioural.

Methods

The study was carried out between June 2018 and May 2019 on 324 patients (162 females, 162 males) with type 2 diabetes. To measure the levels of self-care, the Self-Care of Diabetes Index (SCODI) questionnaire was used. Adherence to treatment was assessed with the Adherence in Chronic Diseases Scale (ACDS).

Results

The highest scores of health behaviour were on the subscale of adherence with the mean value of 68.37, and the lowest results on the subscale of blood sugar self-monitoring, with the mean of 56.05. We found that low adherence to treatment was present in 52.47% of respondents, the moderate level in 39.20%, while only 8.33% of patients showed the high level. There were significant positive correlations between the ACDS and SCODI subscales (p < 0.05): self-care maintenance (0.436), self-care management (0.413), self-care monitoring (0.384), and self-care confidence (0.453).

Conclusions

Self-care affects on adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes. The higher self-efficacy in each of the areas of functioning, the higher the level of adherence to treatment. We found that demographic variables such as female sex, education and employment status can influence self-care in managing chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes.
Size-dependent thermoelastic initially stressed micro-beam due to a varying temperature in the light of the modified couple stress theory
Authors: Abouelregal A. E.
Published: November 2020

The bending of the Euler-Bernoulli micro-beam has been extensively modeled based on the modified couple stress (MCS) theory. Although many models have been incorporated into the literature, there is still room for introducing an improved model in this context. In this work, we investigate the thermoelastic vibration of a micro-beam exposed to a varying temperature due to the application of the initial stress employing the MCS theory and generalized thermoelasticity. The MCS theory is used to investigate the material length scale effects. Using the Laplace transform, the temperature, deflection, displacement, flexure moment, and stress field variables of the micro-beam are derived. The effects of the temperature pulse and couple stress on the field distributions of the micro-beam are obtained numerically and graphically introduced. The numerical results indicate that the temperature pulse and couple stress have a significant effect on all field variables.
Static Upper/Lower Thrust and Kinematic Work Balance Stationarity for Least-Thickness Circular Masonry Arch Optimization
Authors: Cocchetti Giuseppe , Rizzi Egidio
Published: November 2020

This paper re-considers a recent analysis on the so-calledCouplet–Heyman problemof least-thickness circular masonry arch structural form optimization and provides complementary and novel information and perspectives, specifically in terms of the optimization problem, and its implications in the general understanding of the Mechanics (statics) of masonry arches. First, typical underlying solutions are independently re-derived, by a static upper/lower horizontal thrust and a kinematic work balance, stationary approaches, based on a complete analytical treatment; then, illustrated and commented. Subsequently, a separate numerical validation treatment is developed, by the deployment of an original recursive solution strategy, the adoption of a discontinuous deformation analysis simulation tool and the operation of a new self-implemented Complementarity Problem/Mathematical Programming formulation, with a full matching of the achieved results, on all the arch characteristics in the critical condition of minimum thickness.
Improving access to the treatment of hepatitis C in low- and middle-income countries: evaluation of a patient assistance programme
Authors: Ali Salamat , Ur-Rehman Tofeeq , Ali Mashhood , Haque Sayeed , Rasheed Faisal , Lougher Eleri , Nawaz Muhammad Sarfraz , Paudyal Vibhu
Published: November 2020

Background Modern antiviral treatments have high cure rates against the hepatitis C virus however, the high cost associated with branded medicines and diagnostic tests, have resulted in poor access for many low-income patients residing in low-and-middle-income countries. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the role of a patient assistance programme and generic medicines in improving access to treatment of low-income hepatitis C patients in a low-and-middle-income country. Setting A major teaching public hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan. Methods Hepatitis C patients who presented and enrolled for the patient assistance programme during 12 months (1st July 2015 and 30th June 2016) were included. Demography, prescription characteristics, the total costs of Hepatitis C treatment, medicine cost supported by the programme, out-of-pocket cost borne by the patient and average cost effectiveness ratio per sustained virologic response were calculated and compared for different generic and branded regimens. Main outcome measure cost contribution of patient assistance programme. Results A total of 349 patients initiated the treatment through the programme and of those 334 (95.7%) completed the prescribed treatment. There were 294 (88.02%) patients who achieved sustained virologic response. Patient assistance programme contributed medicines cost averaging 60.28–86.26% of the total cost of treatment ($1634.6) per patient. The mean (SE) cost per patient for generic option (Sofosbuvir/Ribavirin) was the lowest [$658.36 (22.3) per patient, average cost effectiveness ratio = $720.1/SVR] than branded option (Sovaldi/Ribavirin) [$2218.66 (37.6) per patient, average cost effectiveness ratio = $2361.8/SVR] of the three available treatment regimens. From patients’ perspectives, the mean (SE) out-of-pocket cost was $296.9 (6.7) which primarily included diagnostic cost (69.9%) of the total cost. Conclusions Patient assistance programme, combined with generic brands of newer hepatitis C treatment offered a significant reduction in cost and widens access to hepatitis C treatment in low-and middle-income countries. However, substantial out-of-pocket costs of the treatment presents an important barrier for service access. There is a scope to widen such financial assistance programme to offer other costs attributed to patients, specifically for diagnosis, to widen service use in low-and-middle-income countries.
Therapeutic optimization through goal-oriented prescription in nursing homes
Authors: Molist-Brunet N. , Sevilla-Sánchez D. , González-Bueno J. , Garcia-Sánchez V. , Segura-Martín L. A. , Codina-Jané C. , Espaulella-Panicot J.
Published: November 2020

Background People living in nursing homes are highly vulnerable and frail. Polypharmacy and inappropriate prescription (IP) are also common problems. Objectives The objectives of the study are (i) to study the baseline situation and calculate the frailty index (FI) of the residents, (ii) to assess the results of routine clinical practice to do a pharmacotherapy review (patient-centred prescription (PCP) model) (Molist Brunet et al., Eur Geriatr Med. 2015;6:565–9) and (iii) to study the relationship between IP and frailty, functional dependence, advanced dementia and end-of-life situation. Setting Two nursing homes in the same geographical area in Catalonia (Spain). Method This was a prospective, descriptive and observational study of elderly nursing home residents. Each patient’s treatment was analysed by applying the PCP model, which centres therapeutic decisions on the patient’s global assessment and individual therapeutic goal. Main outcome measure Prevalence of polypharmacy and IP. Results 103 patients were included. They were characterized by high multimorbidity and frailty. Up to 59.2% were totally dependent. At least one IP was identified in 92.2% of residents. Prior to the pharmacological review, the mean number of chronic medications prescribed per resident was 6.63 (SD 2.93) and after this review it was 4.97 (SD 2.88). Polypharmacy decreased from 72.55% to 52.94% and excessive polypharmacy fell from 18.62% to 5.88%.The highest prevalence of IP was detected in people with a higher FI, in those identified as end-of-life, and also in more highly dependent residents (p < 0.05). Conclusions People who live in nursing homes have an advanced frailty. Establishing individualized therapeutic objectives with the application of the PCP model enabled to detect 92.2% of IP. People who are frailer, are functionally more dependent and those who are end-of-life are prescribed with inappropriate medication more frequently.
Assessment of cerebrovascular disease with computed tomography in COVID-19 patients: correlation of a novel specific visual score with increased mortality risk
Authors: Bianchi Andrea , Mazzoni Lorenzo Nicola , Busoni Simone , Pinna Nicola , Albanesi Marco , Cavigli Edoardo , Cozzi Diletta , Poggesi Anna , Miele Vittorio , Fainardi Enrico , Gadda Davide
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Cerebrovascular disease (CVD) is considered a major risk factor for fatal outcome in COVID-19. We aimed to evaluate the possible association between computed tomography (CT) signs of chronic CVD and mortality in infected patients.

Materials and methods

We performed a double-blind retrospective evaluation of the cerebral CT scans of 83 COVID-19 patients looking for CT signs of chronic CVD. We developed a rapid visual score, named CVD-CT, which summarized the possible presence of parietal calcifications and dolichosis, with or without ectasia, of intracranial arteries, areas of chronic infarction and leukoaraiosis. Statistical analysis was carried out with weighted Cohen’s K test for inter-reader agreement and logistic regression to evaluate the association of in-hospital mortality with CVD-CT, chest X-ray (CXR) severity score (Radiographic Assessment of Lung Edema-RALE) for radiological assessment of pulmonary disease, sex and age.

Results

CVD-CT (odds ratio 1.6, 95% C.I. 1.2-2.1, p = 0.001) was associated with increased risk of mortality. RALE showed an almost significant association (odds ratio 1.05, 95% C.I. 1-1.1, p 0.06), whereas age and sex did not.

Conclusion

CVD-CT is associated with risk of mortality in COVID-19 patients. The presence of CT signs of chronic CVD may be correlated to a condition of fragility of the circulatory system, which constitutes a key risk factor for death in infected patients.
Provenance and production technology of late medieval ‘Besztercebánya/Banská Bystrica–type’ high-quality stove tiles
Authors: Györkös Dorottya , Bajnóczi Bernadett , Szakmány György , Szabó Máté , Milke Ralf , Aradi László Előd , Tóth Mária
Published: November 2020

A unique collection of high-quality late medieval (fifteenth–sixteenth century) glazed and unglazed stove tiles from the northern part of the Carpathian Basin is of great interest to archaeologists and art historians. It is yet to be determined if these products, which are characterised by similar features, were produced in a single workshop, perhaps in Besztercebánya/Banská Bystrica (in present-day Slovakia), or in several workshops throughout the region. The first systematic multi-analytical investigation was carried out on the ceramic body and glaze of one hundred and seventeen tile fragments from six sites (Besztercebánya/Banská Bystrica, Fülek/Fiľakovo, and Csábrág/Čabraď in Slovakia; Salgó, Eger, and Szécsény in Hungary) using polarising microscopy, X-ray diffraction, electron microprobe, and Raman microspectroscopy analyses to determine the raw materials and production techniques used. Based on the petrographic characteristics, phase and chemical composition of the ceramic body, and the chemical composition and colourants of the glazes, the stove tiles can be classified into three primary groups. Tiles from different sites are different to each other, only the tiles from the Hungarian sites and from Fülek/Fiľakovo are similar. Thus, it is probable that the tiles were produced in several (at least three) workshops in the region from where they were then dispersed. The technological knowledge of the master(s) producing the polychrome Csábrág/Čabraď tiles with tin-opacified glazes was higher than that of the master(s) producing the other tiles. However, the exact location of the workshops as well as their existence through time is still in unknown.
Atomic layer deposited ZnO films on stainless steel for biomedical applications
Authors: Basiaga Marcin , Walke Witold , Kajzer Wojciech , Sambok-Kiełbowicz Agata , Szewczenko Janusz , Simka Wojciech , Szindler Marek , Ziębowicz Bogusław , Lubenets Vira
Published: November 2020

The main goal of carried out tests were the impact of physicochemical properties of surface layers on the course of processes taking place on the surface of implants made of metallic biomaterials used in the bone system. As a precursor of ZnO, diethylzinc (DEZ) has been used, which reacted with water enabling the deposition of thin films. The chamber temperature was as follows—T = 200°–300 °C. The number of cycles was 500, 1000, and 1500. In the first stage, pitting corrosion test was carried out. Corrosion resistance has been tested under conditions simulating tissue environment. Moreover, the created layers were tested using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The conducted electrochemical tests showed the beneficial effect of the ZnO layer on the substrate made of 316 LVM steel, as evidenced by the obtained parameters describing the corrosion resistance. Furthermore, tests were performed on mechanical properties (scratch test), surface morphology (SEM and AFM method), and physical properties (wettability and thickness layers) for samples with different surface treatments. The investigations of the surface morphology of the applied ZnO layer using the ALD method showed a tendency to inherit the substrate independently of the used application parameters. On the other hand, the tests of adhesion to the substrate showed that the number of cycles of the application process has a fundamental impact on the adhesion of the applied layer to the substrate. Summarizing tests have clearly shown that the number of cycles and temperature in the case of the ZnO coating is significant and positively influences the increase of electrochemical, mechanical, and physical properties of layers.
Incidence of post-operative nausea and vomiting and its associated factors following pediatric ophthalmic surgery at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, 2019
Authors: Aytolign Habtu Adane , Nigatu Yonas Addisu , Denu Zewuditu Abdissa , Arefayine Nurhussien RIzik
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACT

Background:

Postoperative nausea and vomiting is still viewed as minor problems, even though they are one of the major causes of morbidity in pediatric surgical patients like surgical site bleeding, pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents, fluid and electrolyte disturbances and dehydration, delayed hospital discharge, unexpected hospital admission and decreased patient satisfaction and cost. Surgical, anesthetic related factors as well as patient factors are major contributing factors for PONV.

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to assess Incidence of post-operative nausea and vomiting and factors associated with vomiting after pediatrics ophthalmic procedure under GA.

Design:

prospective cross sectional study.

Methods:

Institutional based prospective observational study was conducted to determine Incidence of post-operative nausea and vomiting and its associated factors. Data were checked on daily basis for completeness and were entered to Epi info and analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20 software.

Findings:

The overall incidence of post-operative vomiting in pediatrics ophthalmic procedure under GA was 19.9% (CI = 14.5–25.3%). Factors associated with post-operative vomiting were age>3years, motion sickness and duration of surgery >30min.

Conclusion:

The incidence of post-operative vomiting after pediatrics ophthalmic procedure was 19.9%. Age>3years, motion sickness and duration of surgery >30 min were significantly associated with post-operative vomiting.

Highlights:
Monotheism and Faith in God
Authors: Wallis Ian G.
Published: November 2020

After offering a brief overview of the role of faith within Judaism, Christianity and Islam, an interdisciplinary analysis of faith, belief, belief systems and the act of believing is undertaken. The debate over the nature of doctrine between George Lindbeck and Alister McGrath brings into focus four ways in which beliefs can be employed: expressive, interpretative, formative and referential/relational. An analysis of monotheistic belief ensues which demonstrates how it can function meaningfully in each of these modes, including the last, where insights from phenomenology and relational ontology, as well as philosophical theology, favour a participatory approach in which God is encountered not as an object of investigation, but as that transcendent Other whose worship is the fulfilment of human being. The study concludes by highlighting convergences between the nature of faith presented in the initial scriptural overview and that developed throughout the rest of the study.
SKS Splitting and Upper Mantle Anisotropy Beneath the Southern New England Appalachians: Constraints From the Dense SEISConn Array
Authors: Lopes Ethan , Long Maureen D. , Karabinos Paul , Aragon John C.
Published: November 2020

The geology of southern New England reflects subduction and terrane accretion during the Appalachian Orogeny and rifting during the breakup of Pangea. The presence of a low‐velocity seismic anomaly in the upper mantle beneath New England suggests the possible presence of vertical mantle flow (upwelling). It remains poorly understood how the lithosphere beneath southern New England was deformed by past tectonic events; furthermore, the details of the present‐day mantle flow field remain elusive. Observations of seismic anisotropy have the potential to constrain both past and present upper mantle deformation. Here, we present SK(K)S splitting observations at stations of the Seismic Experiment for Imaging Structure Beneath Connecticut array, a deployment of 15 broadband seismic stations across northern Connecticut. This linear array crosses a number of major terrane boundaries and traverses the Mesozoic Hartford Rift Basin in its central portion; its dense station spacing affords an opportunity to probe anisotropic structure on length scales that are relevant for the complex geology of southern New England. We find evidence for average fast splitting directions that are generally parallel to the absolute motion of the North American Plate, but in a few specific regions they are aligned with local tectonic boundaries. We document a striking decrease in splitting delay times (measured at low frequencies) from 0.9 s at the western end of the array to 0.2 s at the eastern end. We discuss several scenarios that might explain this observation, and explore the implications of our measurements for both present‐day mantle flow and past lithospheric deformation beneath southern New England.
The effects of Feshbach resonance on spectral shifts in photoassociation of Cs atoms
Authors: Li Yuqing , Wang Xiaofeng , Wu Jizhou , Feng Guosheng , Liu Wenliang , Sovkov Vladimir B. , Ma Jie , Deb Bimalendu , Xiao Liantuan , Jia Suotang
Published: November 2020

We study the effects of magnetic Feshbach resonance on the shifts in photoassociation (PA) spectra of ultracold Cs atoms.
Advances in research on petroleum biodegradability in soil
Authors: Wang Song , Wang Dan , Yu Zhongchen , Dong Xigui , Liu Shumeng , Cui Hongmei , Sun Bing
Published: November 2020

With the increased demand for petroleum and petroleum products from all parts of the society, environmental pollution caused by petroleum development and production processes is becoming increasingly serious.
Spin-filter induced large magnetoresistance in 2D van der Waals magnetic tunnel junctions
Authors: Yang Wei , Cao Yuan , Han Jiangchao , Lin Xiaoyang , Wang Xinhe , Wei Guodong , Lv Chen , Bournel Arnaud , Zhao Weisheng
Published: November 2020

We theoretically predict the spin-filter induced large magnetoresistance in two-dimensional MTJs based on room temperature two-dimensional ferromagnet 1T-VSe2.
C-5 selective chlorination of 8-aminoquinoline amides using dichloromethane
Authors: Lin Xinxin , Zeng Cuilian , Liu Chengkou , Fang Zheng , Guo Kai
Published: November 2020

An oxidant-free electrochemical regioselective chlorination of 8-aminoquinoline amides at ambient temperature in batch and continuous-flow was achieved.
Cascade C–N bond cleavage of amides/intramolecular amination reactions: an atom economical way to α-cabolin-4-ones
Authors: Wang Ye , Zheng Zhong , Yuan Yang , Wang Mengdan , Guo Zixia , Jiang Yuan-Ye , Bai Li-Ping , Li Yanzhong
Published: November 2020

A novel one-pot procedure for the synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted α-carbolin-4-ones through successive C–N bond cleavage and intramolecular amination reactions involving a 1,2-acyl migration has been developed.
A generic multi‐period optimal power flow framework for combating operational constraints via residential flexibility resources
Authors: Avramidis Iason I. , Capitanescu Florin , Deconinck Geert
Published: November 2020

In low voltage networks, the majority of distributed energy resources are customer owned. As such, it is harder for the distribution system operator to control its system and maintain acceptable operating conditions. Even if residential flexibility is available, it should be employed without significant disturbances to customer‐driven device profile patterns. Here a generic tool is developed to assist the distribution system operator in making informed decisions regarding its best course of action to combat operational issues with a limited amount of customer‐driven flexibility. The proposed tool relies on a novel and versatile multi‐period optimal power flow model for centralised control of low voltage distribution systems. Various scenarios of flexibility resources controllability are examined, coupled with a number of novel modelling approaches and customer‐driven restrictions for the distribution system operator. For most scenarios, the multi‐period optimal power flow model is amenable to nonlinear programming (NLP) problems, though there are cases that end up as mixed‐integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problems. For the latter, a heuristic approach is employed to approximate the MINLP into a sequence of size‐decreasing mixed‐integer linear programming (MILP) and a final NLP problem. The proposed formulation and approximation are applied to two low voltage networks of 18 nodes and 308 nodes, respectively.
Robust state estimation of electricity‐gas‐heat integrated energy system based on the bilinear transformations
Authors: Chen Qiuyue , Yang Dechang , Wang Yaning , Rehtanz Christian , Pandžić Hrvoje
Published: November 2020

A comprehensive energy system state estimation is of great significance to promote efficient, stable and reliable operation of the system. Based on coupling characteristics of electricity‐gas‐heat multi‐energy flow and bilinear transformation method, this paper proposes a robust state estimation method suitable for integrated energy systems. First, the state estimation models of electricity, gas and heat energy subsystems and coupling components are constructed. Then, by introducing pseudo state variables and intermediate variables, the nonlinear state estimation process is divided into four stages. Among them, the first and third stages are solved by WLAV method and WLS method respectively, and the second and fourth stages are simple nonlinear transformation processes. Finally, the robust state estimation method is verified on a 40‐node simulation example. The bilinear robust state estimation method proposed not only solves the difficulty of selecting initial values of heterogeneous networks and the problem of non‐convergence of algorithms, but also can search and identify various types of bad data, and has high computational efficiency and good robustness.
One‐step synthesis of flower‐like η‐Al2O3 via supercritical hydrothermal method
Authors: Jalouli Behrouz , Abbasi Aref , Musavi Khoei Seyed Mohammad
Published: November 2020

In this Letter, flower‐like η‐Al2O3 nanostructure was synthesised via hydrothermal method without any surfactant or further calcination. A molten salt bath rose the reactor temperature as much as 500°C to achieve the supercritical condition. Such a high temperature caused a rapid one‐step synthesis in two minutes. Al(NO3)3 and NaOH were the only precursors. Synthesised powders were investigated by X‐ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscope, and the specific surface area was also determined by N2 adsorption–desorption analysis. Increasing reaction time >2 min caused undesired Ostwald ripening. So instead of giving more time, a small amount of NaOH was added to form the η‐Al2O3 phase. Moreover, the morphology of η‐Al2O3 changed to flower‐like by increasing the density of the supercritical fluid. Finally, the probable mechanism of flower‐like morphology formation was proposed in two steps.
Local strain gauge based on the nanowires ring resonator embedded in a flexible substrate
Authors: Li Shengkun , Li Xin , Qin Yue , Zhao Yuejin
Published: November 2020

The authors proposed a flexible microresonator based on nanowires composed of Ⅱ–Ⅵ compounds to detect the small strain caused by external motion. The nanowire ring resonator is embedded in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) flexibility to improve the coupling efficiency. In this work, CdS nanowire is fabricated onto a PDMS flexible substrate. With the help of a fibre tip, the single nanowire is manipulated under a microscope, allowing the curved line to be a ring and making the litter overlapping. This overlap increases coupling efficiency and sensor performance. The ring cavity has the parameters of diameter 1 µm, length 75 µm and radius ∼10 µm. Experiments demonstrated the process of fabricating a strain sensor and detected peak shifts. This resonant wavelength appeared red‐shift and linear tuned when stretching the flexible substrate. The quality factor was about 2000 and the gauge factor was about 80 nm per stretching unit. Being a small structure and high sensitivity, the sensor can be integrated into the chip. This promotes the development of miniaturisation to some extent. As a result, this work is beneficial to optical manipulation, further being extended to the tunable light source.
Diagnosing the interstellar medium of galaxies with far-infrared emission lines
Authors: Ramos Padilla A. F. , Wang L. , Ploeckinger S. , van der Tak F. F. S. , Trager S. C.
Published: November 2020

Context. Atomic fine structure lines have been detected in the local Universe and at high redshifts over the past decades. The [C II] emission line at 158 μm is an important observable as it provides constraints on the interstellar medium (ISM) cooling processes.

Aims. We develop a physically motivated framework to simulate the production of far-infrared line emission from galaxies in a cosmological context. This first paper sets out our methodology and describes its first application: simulating the [C II] 158 μm line emission in the local Universe.

Methods. We combine the output from EAGLE cosmological hydrodynamical simulations with a multi-phase model of the ISM. Gas particles are divided into three phases: dense molecular gas, neutral atomic gas, and diffuse ionised gas (DIG). We estimate the [C II] line emission from the three phases using a set of CLOUDY cooling tables.

Results. Our results agree with previous findings regarding the contribution of these three ISM phases to the [C II] emission. Our model shows good agreement with the observed L[C II–star formation rate (SFR) relation in the local Universe within 0.4 dex scatter.

Conclusions. The fractional contribution to the [C II] line from different ISM phases depends on the total SFR and metallicity. The neutral gas phase dominates the [C II] emission in galaxies with SFR ∼ 0.01–1 M⊙ yr−1, but the ionised phase dominates at lower SFRs. Galaxies above solar metallicity exhibit lower L[C II/SFR ratios for the neutral phase. In comparison, the L[C II/SFR ratio in the DIG is stable when metallicity varies. We suggest that the reduced size of the neutral clouds, caused by increased SFRs, is the likely cause for the L[C II deficit at high infrared luminosities, although EAGLE simulations do not reach these luminosities at z = 0.
Origin of the zebra structure in the Jovian decameter radio emission
Authors: Shaposhnikov V. E. , Litvinenko G. V. , Zaitsev V. V. , Zakharenko V. V. , Konovalenko A. A.
Published: November 2020

Context.We discuss the origin of quasi-harmonic emission bands that have been observed in the dynamic spectra of the Jovian decameter emission.

Aims.We aim to show that the interpretation of the observed structure can be based on the effect of double plasma resonance (DPR) at ion cyclotron harmonics.

Methods.According to the proposed model, in the extended source in the upper ionosphere of Jupiter, where the DPR condition is satisfied for one of the ion cyclotron frequency harmonics, the ion cyclotron waves are effectively excited at the frequency of the lower hybrid resonance. The observed electromagnetic radiation with a quasi-harmonic structure arises due to scattering of ion cyclotron waves by supra-thermal electrons.

Results.Based on the VIP4 magnetic field model, we determine the longitudes at which the source of the considered radiation can be located. The obtained estimates of the plasma density and its height distribution in the source, as well as the energies of emitting ions and scattering electrons provide information about the plasma parameters in the upper ionosphere of Jupiter. Furthermore, these estimates are in good agreement with the observational data.
Radiation exposure dose of fluoroscopy-guided gastrointestinal procedures: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Hayashi Shiro , Nishida Tsutomu , Kuriki Shinji , Chang Li-sa , Aochi Kazuki , Meren Emi , Sakamoto Tatsuya , Tomita Ryo , Higaki Yu , Osugi Naoto , Sugimoto Aya , Takahashi Kei , Mukai Kaori , Matsumoto Kengo , Nakamatsu Dai , Yamamoto Masahi , Fukui Koji , Takenaka Mamoru , Hosono Makoto , Inada Masami
Published: November 2020

Background and study aims Fluoroscopy-guided gastrointestinal procedures (FGPs) are increasingly common. However, the radiation exposure (RE) to patients undergoing FGPs is still unclear. We examined the actual RE of FGPs.

Patients and methods This retrospective, single-center cohort study included consecutive FGPs, including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), interventional endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), enteral stenting, balloon-assisted enteroscopy, tube placement, endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS), esophageal balloon dilatation and repositioning for sigmoid volvulus, from September 2012 to June 2019. We measured the air kerma (AK, mGy), dose area product (DAP, Gycm2), and fluoroscopy time (FT, min) for each procedure.

Results In total, 3831 patients were enrolled. Overall, 2778 ERCPs were performed. The median AK, DAP, and FT were as follows: ERCP: 109 mGy, 13.3 Gycm2 and 10.0 min; self-expandable enteral stenting (SEMS): 62 mGy, 12.4 Gycm2 and 10.4 min; tube placement: 40 mGy, 13.8 Gycm2 and 11.1 min; balloon-assisted enteroscopy: 43 mGy, 22.4 Gycm2 and 18.2 min; EUS cyst drainage (EUS-CD): 96 mGy, 18.3 Gycm2 and 10.4 min; EIS: 36 mGy, 8.1 Gycm2 and 4.4 min; esophageal balloon dilatation: 9 mGy, 2.2 Gycm2 and 1.8 min; and repositioning for sigmoid volvulus: 7 mGy, 4.7 Gycm2 and 1.6 min.

Conclusion This large series reporting actual RE doses of various FGPs could serve as a reference for future prospective studies.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided transvascular needle biopsy of thoracic and abdominal lesions: a multicenter experience
Authors: Garcia-Sumalla Albert , Subtil Jose C. , de la Serna Carlos , Maisterra Sandra , Aparicio Jose Ramon , Bojorquez Alejandro Enrique , Montañes Rafael Leon , Vazquez-Sequeiros Enrique , Gornals Joan B.
Published: November 2020

Background and study aims Traditionally in the case of a vascular interposition, endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) has been contraindicated. A transvascular route (TV) is feasible and probably a safe alternative approach in selected patients, but data are scarce. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the diagnostic yield and safety of EUS-TV-FNA in thoracic and abdominal lesions. Secondary aims included evaluation of the clinical impact and technical aspects.

Patients and methods A retrospective multicenter study was conducted with inclusion of all consecutive patients that underwent EUS-TV-FNA from July 2007 to January 2020. Feasibility, cytopathology, procedure details, and safety were evaluated. Univariate analysis was performed to identify variables associated with incidents, cytopathological diagnosis, and clinical impact.

Results Data were collected from a total of 49 cases and 50 EUS-TV-FNAs. The aorta (n = 19) and portal system (n = 17) were the most frequently punctured. The most frequent lesions were mediastinal lymph nodes (n = 13) and pancreatic tumors (n = 11). The diagnostic yield was 86 %, and there were nondiagnostic samples in seven cases. Overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 88 % (95 %CI,0.74–0.96), 100 % (95 %CI,0.59–1), and 90 % (95 %CI,0.78–0.96), respectively. Only three incidents were detected: two mural hematomas and a self-limited bleeding of gastroduodenal artery. In most patients, there was a significant impact on clinical management (88 %). Arterial vessel and ASA-III had a trend with incidents (both, P < 0.08). Rapid on-site evlauation was found to be an independent predictor for obtaining a conclusive sample (OR 6.2; 95 %CI, 1.06–36.73, P < 0.04).

Conclusions EUS-TV-FNA is feasible, seems to be safe, and can be recommended when no other targets are available, and the information obtained would impact on the clinical plan.
ROC Curve Analysis of the Sensitivity and Specificity of Biochemical Detection of Intrahepatic Cholestasis during Pregnancy
Authors: Huang Xiaoyi , Chen Siyi , Chen Hongyan , Hu Liang , Wen Lijuan , Wei Fengxiang , Chen Ken
Published: November 2020

Introduction Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in mothers and infants. The aim was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of biochemical detection of ICP by ROC curve and to determine the threshold of more reliable experimental indicators.

Materials and Methods 305 patients and 305 healthy pregnant women were enrolled in the study.

Results The average levels of TBA, ALT, and AST in the ICP group were much higher than those in the control group (P<0. 001); the area of both CG and TBA under ROC curve was up to 0.99, the sensitivity was 97.7%, and the specificity was 99.3%.

Conclusions This study did not find any single specificity and sensitivity markers that could be used to reliably diagnose ICP. In the future, we will pay more attention to the correlation between sensitive biochemical indicators and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Efficacy of lumen-apposing metal stents or self-expandable metal stents for endoscopic ultrasound-guided choledochoduodenostomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Amato Arnaldo , Sinagra Emanuele , Celsa Ciro , Enea Marco , Buda Andrea , Vieceli Filippo , Scaramella Lucia , Belletrutti Paul , Fugazza Alessandro , Cammà Calogero , Radaelli Franco , Repici Alessandro , Anderloni Andrea
Published: November 2020

Background Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided biliary drainage is becoming an option for palliation of malignant biliary obstruction. Lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) are replacing self-expandable metal stents (SEMS). The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of LAMS and SEMS for EUS-guided choledochoduodenostomy (EUS-CDS).

Methods A meta-analysis was performed using PRISMA protocols. Electronic databases were searched for studies on EUS-CDS. The primary outcome was clinical success. Secondary outcomes were technical success, reintervention, and adverse events. We used the random effects model with the DerSimonian–Laird estimation, and the results were depicted using forest plots. Subgroup analyses were also performed with data stratified by selected variable.

Results Overall, 31 studies (820 patients) were included. The pooled rates of clinical and technical success were 93.6 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 88.6 %–96.5 %) and 94.8 % (95 %CI 90.2 %–97.3 %) for LAMS, and 91.7 % (95 %CI 88.1 %–94.2 %) and 92.7 % (95 %CI 89.9 %–94.9 %) for SEMS, respectively. The pooled rates of adverse events were 17.1 % (95 %CI 12.5 %–22.8 %) for LAMS and 18.3 % (95 %CI 14.3 %–23.0 %) for SEMS. The pooled rates of reintervention were 10.9 % (95 %CI 7.7 %–15.3 %) for LAMS and 13.9 % (95 %CI 9.6 %–19.7 %) for SEMS. Subgroup analyses confirmed these results.

Conclusions This meta-analysis showed that LAMS and SEMS are comparable in terms of efficacy for EUS-CDS. Clinical and technical success, post-procedure adverse events, and reintervention rates were similar between LAMS and SEMS use; however, adverse events require further investigation.
Porphyrinoids with Vinylene Bridges
Authors: Kuzuhara Daiki , Yamada Hiroko
Published: November 2020

Porphyrinoids containing vinylene bridges, such as triphyrin(2.1.1), porphycene, porphyrin(2.1.2.1), and hexaphyrin(2.1.2.1.2.1), are a relatively new family of porphyrinoids. Vinylene bridges give porphyrinoids a lower symmetry and a flexibility of the framework and they permit cis/trans-isomerization reactions; these factors confer unique properties to these substances, such as coordination to metal ions and aromaticity switching. In this account, the synthesis, crystal structures, and properties of new porphyrinoids containing vinylene bridges are summarized.

1 Introduction

2 Triphyrin(2.1.1)

3 Porphycene

4 Porphyrin(2.1.2.1)

5 Hexaphyrin(2.1.2.1.2.1)

6 Conclusion
Harnessing C–O Bonds in Stereoselective Cross-Coupling and Cross-Electrophile Coupling Reactions
Authors: Jarvo Elizabeth R. , Sanford Amberly B.
Published: November 2020

We discuss our laboratory’s research in the activation of alcohol derivatives in cross-coupling and cross-electrophile coupling reactions. Our developed methods enable the use of secondary alcohols to afford tertiary stereogenic centers, which we applied to the synthesis of pharmaceutically relevant compounds and substructures. We first ­discuss the synthesis of bioactive compounds through stereospecific Kumada cross-coupling reactions and follow this with a discussion on the development of our stereoselective cross-electrophile coupling ­reaction to synthesize cyclopropanes.

1 Introduction

2 Cross-Coupling Reactions

3 Cross-Electrophile Coupling Reactions

4 Conclusion
Nontraumatic Nonaneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Risk Factors, Complications, and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Alimohammadi Ehsan , Ahadi Paniz , Karbasforoushan Ali , Rahmani Shamsoddin , Bagheri Seyed Reza , Abdi Alireza
Published: November 2020

Background The present study aimed to investigate the risk factors, complications, and clinical outcomes of patients with nontraumatic, nonaneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (NNSAH).

Methods We retrospectively evaluated 78 consecutive patients with NNSAH admitted to our center between April 2009 and April 2019. Patients were divided into two groups based on the distribution of blood in the CT scan, perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage ( PM-SAH) and nonperimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage (nPM-SAH) groups. The outcome was assessed according to the Glasgow outcome scale (GOS). The demographic data and clinical records including age, sex, smoking history, hypertension, diabetes, history of anticoagulant medication, Glasgow coma score (GCS), Hunt–Hess (HH) grades, and in-hospital complications and clinical outcomes were retrospectively reviewed and compared between the two groups.

Results There were 45 patients (57.69%) in the PM-SAH group and 33 cases (42.30%) in the nPM-SAH group with the mean age of 53.98 ± 7.7 years. There were no significant differences between the two groups based on age, sex, smoking history, diabetes, hypertension, anticoagulation medication history, and HH grade at admission. The nPM-SAH group was significantly associated with a higher incidence of radiological and clinical vasospasm (p < 0.05). Moreover, the need for external ventricular drainage (EVD) placement because of the development of hydrocephalus was significantly higher in the nPM group (p < 0.05). Patients with PM-SAH had better clinical outcomes than those with nPM-SAH (p = 0.037).

Conclusions Our results showed that patients with nonaneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (NSAH) had favorable clinical outcomes. The PM group had better clinical outcomes and lower complication rates in comparison with the nPM group. Repeated digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examinations are strongly recommended for patients with nPM-SAH.
Relevance of Combined Electron and Photon Beams in Radiotherapy of Head and Neck Cancers in the Era of Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy
Authors: Pandey Vinod , Pandey K. C. , Pant N. K. , Verma L. P.
Published: November 2020

Introduction External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for head and neck (H&N) cancers continues to be delivered using varied technologies, ranging from the old two-dimensional conventional radiotherapy (2DRT) techniques to the modern three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) in different centers in India. Due to limitations of spinal cord tolerance, electron and photon beams are combined in 2DRT and 3DCRT techniques for treating nodal volume of the H&N cases. However, many centers having modern technology practice IMRT/VMAT in place of electron beams. The purpose of this study is to analyze the role of combined electron and photon beams in radiotherapy of H&N cancers and its relevance in the modern era of IMRT/VMAT.

Materials and Methods Data were collected through a survey conducted on cancer centers in India where radiotherapy is being given by 2DRT, 3DCRT, and IMR/VMAT for the treatment of head and neck cancers.

Results The mean percentage of H&N (H&N) cases among all cases were 39.2% (standard deviation [SD]: 14.22), out of which 16.63% (SD: 20.83) were treated with a combination of photon and electron beams and 49.73% (SD: 37.41) were treated with IMRT/VMAT. The average percentage of H&N cases of government institutes was 38.39% (SD: 14.11) and that of private institutes was 40.14% (SD: 14.11). Patients treated with photon and electron combination and IMRT/VMAT were 22.19% (SD: 11.24) and 24.05% (SD: 23.99), respectively, in government institutes, and 10.29% (SD: 11.24) and 79.09% (SD: 26.75) in private institutes.

Conclusion As per this study, we conclude that despite the availability of IMRT/VMAT, a combination of electron and photon beams is still relevant in India. Since a large proportion of the patients are still treated with the electron and photon combination, it is imperative that further studies on field–junction dosimetry should be conducted to ensure accurate dose delivery.