bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth Performance of Catfish (Clarias gariepenus) Cultured of High Density with Biofloc System
Authors: Hary Tjahja Soedibya Petrus , Listiowati Emyliana , Budhi Pramono Taufik , Arie Prayogo Norman , Taufan Harisam R.
Published: August 2018

Catfish is a species of freshwater fish that contains a source of protein and it has economic value and has become one of the famous commodities in Indonesia. Biofloc can be one alternative waste fixers intensive cultivation for reduce the waste of inorganic nitrogen and also provide additional protein for increase growth and feed efficiency. This study was to determine the effect of high stocking densities on the growth performance of african catfish in biofloc system. This study used completely randomized design (CRD) with different stocking densities in the system biofloc T1.(1000/m3), T2.(1500/m3), T3.(2000/m3), and T4.(2500/m3). Animal trials were using jouvenile african catfish with an average weight of 1.06±0.3g, which maintained in a pool tarpoulin cage with water volume ±2000L for 50 days with feeding ratio 3% of the weight biomass. The results showed a significantly different effect (P<0.05) against the value of hepatosomatic index, absolute growth and daily growth rate, but the result not significant at spesific growth rate. The second treatment (T2) showed the best results than others in the growth rate and daily growth rate with a value of 6.45±3.1g for absolute growth and 0.13±0.06g for daily growth rate. The four treatment showed the best results than others in the hepatosomatic index with value 4.7 ± 1.8%. These findings demonstrate a role of biofloc technology in catfish aquaculture.
Nursery I: The effect of stocking density on the performance of glass eels, Anguilla bicolor in the biofloc system
Authors: Sukardi Purnama , Prayogo Norman Ari , Winanto Tjahyo , Siregar Asrul Sahri , Harisam Taufan
Published: August 2018

Glass eels of Anguilla bicolor is an expensive and still abundant commodity in Laguna Segara Anakan, Central Java, Indonesia. However, the growth of glass eels to elver is still a problem because of high mortality in nursery I and II. The objective of the study was to evaluate the result of stocking density on the performance of glass eels in the biofloc system during nursery I. Glass eels were stocked at densities of 54.95, 109.89 and 164.84 fish/m3, respectively, with three replicate ponds for each density. Eels were fed a formulated pasta-diet containing 40% crude protein and , 4% crude lipid, 5% crude fiber, 11.5% ash and 12% moisture, respectively. The water quality were maintained at levels of for fish culture througout the experiements: water temperature was 27.1°C (ranged from 26.3 to 28.2°C), pH (7.6, ranged from 6.8 to 7.8) and DO (7.2 mg.L-1, ranged 6.9 to 7.5 mg.L-1). The results showed that the stocking density did not significantly affect the final weight, weight gain, AGR, SGR, FCR and survival, however this had a significant effect on the yield. The biofloc system was suitable for raising glass eels.
Effect of medium and light quality on pink pigment production of cyanobacteria Oscillatoria sp. BTCC/A0004
Authors: Karseno  , Harada Kazuo , Hirata Kazumasa
Published: August 2018

Cyanobacteria are well known as promising source of valuable chemicals for human usage. Especially, cyanobacteria in tropical area are very wide in diversity and they are potent producers of unique metabolites which exhibit interesting bioactivities. Oscillatoria sp. BTCC/A0004 produce pink pigments extracellularly (OsPP). The effects of various environmental factors on the production of cyanobacteria metabolites were well documented. In this research, the effect of medium and light quality on cell growth and OsPP production were investigated. In case, three different culture media, named No 18, C, and modified C media, in which nutrient compositions are different, and light quality (white, blue, green, pink) were tested. The highest cell growth and OsPP production were obtained in modified C medium. The nitrogen concentration in modified C medium is higher (5 g/L) than in No 18 medium (1.5 g/L) or C medium (1 g/L). In addition, cell growth and OsPP production were significantly stimulated by pink light radiation.
Pressures and Status of Seagrass Ecosystem in the Coastal Areas of North Bintan, Indonesia
Authors: Karlina Ita , Kurniawan Fery , Idris Fadhliyah
Published: August 2018

This study investigates the status and anthropogenic pressures on seagrass ecosystem. Urbanization and tourism in the coastal areas of Bintan, Indonesia were increasing in the recent years. They have become new pressures to intertidal ecosystem and habitats, particularly seagrass ecosystem. Seagrass meadows are the important ecosystem and habitats in Bintan region. They provide a wide range of ecosystem services, including for small-scale fisheries and have being Dugongs (Dugong dugon) habitats for food. Currently, the sea grass status is less healthy or damaged with 11 species. The anthropogenic disturbance processes have affected the spatial distribution, percent coverage, biodiversity, and community structure of sea grass. Moreover, several species are hard to find. Directly, sea grass meadows are impacted by introduced coastal development (i.e. settlement area, tourism accommodation, port, etc.), land-based pollution, reclamation, boating traffic, dredging activities and tourism activities. Sea grass conservation area and marine spatial planning based on the land- and seascape connectivity is important for conservation efforts and sustainable management of sea grass.
Prediction of the grain size evolution during thermal treatments at the mesoscopic scale: a numerical framework and industrial examples
Authors: Settefrati Amico , de Micheli Pascal  , Maire Ludovic , Scholtes Benjamin , Bozzolo Nathalie , Moussa Charbel , Perchat Etienne , Bernacki Marc
Published: August 2018

Recently, an original full field model working at the mesoscopic scale using the level set (LS) method in a finite element (FE) framework has been introduced. This approach has demonstrated its potential for the simulation of grain growth and recrystallization problems. Through the development of the DIGIMU® software, this methodology is now considered for industrial applications. The paper presents (i) the recent developments made on the LS approach and (ii) some examples of large scale simulations in two and three dimensions considering thermal treatments applied on materials. Grain boundaries motion considering the presence or not of second phase particles (like precipitates) are investigated.
L’ADN comme mémoire informatique ?
Authors: Jordan Bertrand
Published: August 2018

The very high information density of DNA has prompted speculations on its use for information storage. The high costs of DNA synthesis and sequencing made this highly unpractical; however recent progress (notably array oligonucleotide synthesis) is changing the situation. A recent paper shows encoding and decoding of significant amounts of data (200 MB) with random access to individual files and faithful retrieval of content, at a cost that is still high but not extreme. Much progress remains to be achieved, but this use of DNA in now technically achievable and may eventually become practical.
S’inspirer du rein pour filtrer l’eau, ou comment réinventer la passoire
Authors: Marbach Sophie
Published: August 2018

Fournir de l’eau potable à tous et à moindre prix est un défiauquel fait face l’humanité. Les techniques actuelles pour dessaler l’eau de mer reposent sur le principe de la « passoire » pour séparer le sel et les déchets de l’eau, mais cette approche connaît plusieurs limites.

Nous nous sommes alors inspirés du rein humain, qui filtre l’urée de l’eau d’une façon radicalement différente : le secret réside dans sa géométrie en U qui sert d’échangeur salin. Après une preuve de concept, nous développons actuellement des systèmes inspirés du rein humain pour filtrer l’eau.
Stephen Hawking, étudiant à Cambridge
Authors: Vilain Christiane
Published: August 2018

En interrogeant Brandon Carter, j’espère échapper à l’image standard du « génie-grand-malade », véhiculée par les médias après le décès de Stephen Hawking en mars 2018, et même bien avant, depuis la publication de son livre intitulé Une brève histoire du temps, en 1988.

Carter a fait ses études universitaires au Pembroke College de Cambridge. Après son travail de thèse et en postdoc dont il est question dans le texte qui suit, il est venu vivre en France pour raisons personnelles ; il a alors intégré le GAR (Groupe d’Astrophysique Relativiste) récemment créé à l’Observatoire de Meudon, et a beaucoup contribué au développement de ce groupe devenu ensuite le DARC, intégré aujourd’hui au LUTH du même établissement. Carter y est aujourd’hui Directeur de recherche émérite.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection of malignant non-pedunculated colorectal lesions
Authors: Rönnow Carl-Fredrik , Elebro Jacob , Toth Ervin , Thorlacius Henrik
Published: August 2018

Background and study aims Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an established method for en bloc resection of large non-pedunculated colorectal lesions in Asia but dissemination of ESD in Western countries is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of ESD in the management of malignant non-pedunculated colorectal lesions in a European center.

Patients and methods Among 255 patients undergoing colorectal ESD between 2014 and 2016, 29 cases were identified as submucosal invasive cancers and included in this study. The main outcomes were en bloc, R0 and curative resection as well as procedural time, complications and recurrence.

Results Median tumor size was 40 mm (range 20 – 70 mm). Thirteen cancers were located in the colon and 16 were located in the rectum. Procedural time was 89 minutes (range 18 – 594 minutes). Complete resection was achieved in 28 cases, en bloc and R0 resection rates were 83 % and 69 %, respectively. Curative resection rate was 38 %. One case had a perforation in the sigmoid colon requiring emergency surgery. No significant bleeding occurred. Six patients underwent additional surgery after ESD, one of whom had residual tumor. One recurrence was detected in 20 patients that were followed-up endoscopically, median follow-up time was 13 months (range 2 – 30 months).

Conclusion ESD seems to be a safe and effective method for treating non-pedunculated malignant colorectal lesions after careful patient selection and proper endoscopic training.
Faster colonoscope withdrawal time without impaired detection using EndoRings
Authors: Thygesen John C. , Ponugoti Prasanna , Tippins William W. , Garcia Jonathan R. , Sullivan Andrew W. , Broadley Heather M. , Rex Douglas K.
Published: August 2018

Background and study aims Mucosal exposure devices on the colonoscope tip have improved detection. We evaluated detection and procedure times in colonoscopies performed with EndoRings.

Patients and methods We had 14 endoscopists in a university practice trial EndoRings. We compared detection and procedure times to age- and indication-matched procedures by the same endoscopists.

Results There were 137 procedures with EndoRings. The adenoma detection rate was 44 % with EndoRings vs. 39 % without (P = 0.39). Mean adenomas per colonoscopy (standard deviation) was 1.2 (2.3) with EndoRings vs. 0.9 (1.6) without (P = 0.055). Mean insertion time with EndoRings was 6.2 (3.2) minutes vs. 6.6 (6.7) minutes without (P = 0.81). Mean withdrawal time with EndoRings in all patients with or without polypectomy was 12.2 (5.3) minutes and 16.1 (10.3) minutes without (P = 0.0005).

Conclusion EndoRings may allow faster withdrawal during colonoscopy without any reduction in detection. Prospective trials with mucosal exposure devices targeting procedure times as primary endpoints are warranted.
Validation of treatment algorithm based on the Japan narrow-band imaging expert team classification for sub-centimeter colorectal polyps
Authors: Kato Motohiko , Abe Keiichiro , Kubosawa Yoko , Sunata Yukie , Hirai Yuichiro , Hirata Tetsu , Takada Yoshiaki , Wada Michiko , Takatori Yusaku , Banno Shigeo , Kinoshita Satoshi , Mori Hideki , Takabayashi Kaoru , Kikuchi Masahiro , Shiraishi Junichi , Uraoka Toshio
Published: August 2018

Background and study aims Although cold polypectomy (CP) is widely used for colorectal polyps < 10 mm, appropriateness of indications for CP or endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) are still unclear. The aim of this study was to validate the endoscopic treatment algorithm based on the Japan NBI Expert Team (JNET) classification.

Patients and methods Consecutive patients with at least one colorectal non-pedunculated polyp < 10 mm between July 2014 and October 2016 were included in this retrospective study. During the period, EMR was performed for JNET ≥ 2B lesions and CP for JNET < 2A. Among a total of 3966 lesions, 3368 lesions with JNET ≤ 2A were resected by CP in compliance with the treatment algorithm but 565 resections for JNET ≤ 2A were not compliant (by EMR), while all 24 JNET > 2B lesions were removed by EMR in compliance with the algorithm. Polypectomy outcomes were compared between the compliant and non-compliant groups. Histological outcomes were analyzed in accordance with JNET classification.

Results Post-polypectomy bleeding rate in the compliant group (0 %) was lower than that in the non-compliant group (0.53 %, P < 0.01). Proportion of lesions diagnosed as cancer (38 % vs 0.36 %, P < 0.01) or submucosal cancer (4.2 % vs 0.03 %, P = 0.012), and the lesion with free resection margin (91 % vs 64 %, P < 0.01) was higher in the JNET ≥ 2B than JNET ≤ 2A.

Conclusion This study indicated our algorithm would be valid: CP is suitable for most polyps < 10 mm as incidence of post-polypectomy bleeding is low, whereas EMR is recommended for JNET ≥ 2B lesions for histological complete removal.
Metallic vs plastic stents to treat biliary stricture after liver transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on randomized trials
Authors: Visconti Thiago Arantes de Carvalho , Bernardo Wanderley Marques , Moura Diogo Turiani Hourneaux , Moura Eduardo Turiani Hourneaux , Gonçalves Caio Vinicius Tranquillini , Farias Galileu Ferreira , Guedes Hugo Gonçalo , Ribeiro Igor Braga , Franzini Tomazo Prince , Luz Gustavo Oliveira , dos Santos Marcos Eduardo dos Lera , de Moura Eduardo Guimarães Hourneaux
Published: August 2018

Background and study aims The first-line approach to anastomotic biliary stricture after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLTX) involves endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). The most widely used technique is placement of multiple plastic stents, but discussions are ongoing on the benefits of fully-covered self-expandable metallic stents (FCEMS) in this situation. This study aimed to compare results from use of plastic and metal stents to treat biliary stricture after transplantation.

Patients and methods Searches were performed in the Medline, EMBASE, SciELO/LILACS, and Cochrane databases, and only randomized studies comparing the two techniques were included in the meta-analysis.

Results Our study included four randomized clinical trials totaling 205 patients. No difference was observed between the stricture resolution rate (RD: 0.01; 95 %CI [−0.08 – 0.10]), stricture recurrence (RD: 0.13; 95 %CI [−0.03 – 0.28]), and adverse events (RD: −0.10; 95 %CI [−0.65 – 0.44]) between the plastic and metallic stent groups. The metallic stent group demonstrated benefits in relation to the number of ERCPs performed (MD: −1.86; 95 %CI [−3.12 to −0.6]), duration of treatment (MD: −105.07; 95 %CI [−202.38 to −7.76 days]), number of stents used (MD: −10.633; 95 %CI [−20.82 to −0.44]), and cost (average $ 8,288.50 versus $ 18,580.00, P < 0.001).

Conclusions Rates of resolution and recurrence of stricture are similar, whereas the number of ERCPs performed, number of stents used, duration of treatment, and costs were lower in patients treated with FCEMS, which shows that this device is a valid option for initial treatment of post-OLTX biliary stricture.
Neue Therapien der spinalen Muskelatrophie
Authors: Walter Maggie , Schoser Benedikt
Published: August 2018

Die 5q-assoziierte spinale Muskelatrophie (5q-SMA) ist eine progressive autosomal rezessive Motoneuronerkrankung mit einer Inzidenz von 1 in 10 000 Geburten. Die 5q-SMA ist durch den Verlust des Survival Motor Neuron 1 Gens (SMN1) verursacht. Sie stellt die häufigste neurodegenerative Erkrankung im Kindesalter dar. 126 Jahre nach der Erstbeschreibung durch Hofmann kam es 2017 zur Erstzulassung einer spezifischen Therapie der SMA in Deutschland. Durch eine Erhöhung des Anteils an funktionsfähigem SMN-Protein, die entweder durch Einschluss von Exon 7 in SNM2-Transkripte, Erhöhung der SMN2-Genexpression oder durch direkten Genersatz von SMN1 erzielt werden kann, ist eine spezifische Therapie nun möglich geworden. Zahlreiche Fragen – was ist der Zeitpunkt für eine optimale therapeutische Intervention, welche therapeutische Maßnahme ist die geeignetste, was sind mögliche Wechselwirkungen gentherapeutischer Maßnahmen – bleiben derzeit noch ungeklärt. Die Kenntnis der klinischen Symptome der SMA und das Wissen um eine spezifische Therapie werden diese bislang als unbehandelbar geltende Erkrankung neu in den medizinischen Fokus bringen, sodass ein früher, nach Möglichkeit präsymptomatischer Therapiebeginn das Outcome im Vergleich zu einem späteren Therapiebeginn entscheidend verbessern wird.
Spätkomplikationen permanenter intestinaler Stomata
Authors: Stoffels Burkhard , Sommer Nils , Berteld Christine , Vilz Tim , von Websky Martin , Kalff Jörg , Pantelis Dimitrios
Published: August 2018

Einführung Komplikationen nach Anlage permanenter intestinaler Stomata sind häufig und führen zu gravierenden Problemen in der Stomaversorgung betroffener Patienten. Ziel dieser prospektiven, unizentrischen Nachbeobachtungsstudie war es, Spätkomplikationen im eigenen Patientenkollektiv zu erfassen und potenzielle Risikofaktoren herauszuarbeiten.

Methoden Sämtliche Patienten unserer Klinik mit einer permanenten intestinalen Stomaanlage im Zeitraum 2006 – 2016 wurden in die Studie eingeschlossen. 50 Patienten haben einer Nachuntersuchung zugestimmt (14 weiblich [28%], 36 männlich [72%]). Es erfolgte die Analyse stomaassoziierter Komplikationen im Rahmen einer systematischen Nachuntersuchung (standardisierter Fragebogen, klinische Untersuchung, Sonografie Bauchdecke).

Ergebnisse Das Indikationsspektrum beinhaltete Malignome (n = 27; 54%), Anastomoseninsuffizienzen (n = 10; 20%), akute Divertikulitiden (n = 7; 14%), chronisch entzündliche Darmerkrankungen (n = 5; 10%) sowie seltenere Indikationen. Die 3 häufigsten Spätkomplikationen waren peristomale Hautirritation (n = 25; 50%), parastomale Hernie (n = 14; 28%) und Stomaprolaps (n = 9; 18%). Akute Divertikulitiden führten zu vermehrten Stomaretraktionen (p = 0,012). Doppelläufige Stomata wiesen vermehrt Hernien (p = 0,044) und Prolabierungen (p = 0,047) auf. Ileostomata sind bezüglich peristomaler Hautirritationen problematisch (p = 0,021). Patientenalter, Geschlecht oder eine Stomaanlage im Rahmen einer Notfalloperation stellten in unserem Kollektiv keine unabhängigen Risikofaktoren für das Auftreten von Spätkomplikationen dar.

Schlussfolgerung Die professionelle prä- und postoperative Stomatherapie/-pflege inklusive präoperativer Stomamarkierung und strukturierter stomaspezifischer Nachsorge durch Stomatherapeuten und Chirurgen sowie Hausärzte, ebenso wie eine stringente und zeitnahe Behandlung struktureller Komplikationen, können Spätkomplikationen permanenter intestinaler Stomata vorbeugen und mildern. Interessanterweise war die Stomaanlage im Rahmen einer Notfalloperation kein unabhängiger Risikofaktor für das Auftreten von Spätkomplikationen.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy for the treatment of achalasia patients with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass anatomy
Authors: Sanaei Omid , Draganov Peter , Kunda Rastislav , Yang Dennis , Khashab Mouen
Published: August 2018

Background The outcome of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in patients with prior Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is not known and some experts have recommended against its performance in this patient population because of the risk of postoperative regurgitation. The aim of this study was to report on the outcomes of POEM in patients with RYGB anatomy.

Methods Patients with RYGB anatomy who underwent POEM for the treatment of achalasia at three tertiary centers were included. POEM was performed in standard fashion using the anterior or posterior approach. Clinical response was defined by a decrease in Eckardt score to ≤ 3. Results of esophageal acid exposure testing/pH-impedance and manometric testing after POEM were reported when available.

Results A total of 10 achalasia patients with prior RYGB surgery underwent POEM. All procedures were technically successful with anterior myotomy performed in seven patients. The mean submucosal tunnel length and myotomy length were 12.9 cm and 11.1 cm, respectively. The mean procedure time was 72 minutes and mean length of hospital stay was 1.5 days. Clinical success was achieved in all 10 patients with a significant decrease in Eckardt score from 6.5 to 1 (P < 0.001). None of the patients experienced post-procedural regurgitation. Post-procedural pH testing was obtained in six patients and was normal in all of them.

Conclusions This study suggests the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of POEM in patients with prior RYGB surgery. The risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease in these patients seems to be minimal after POEM.
High incidence of advanced colorectal neoplasia during endoscopic surveillance in serrated polyposis syndrome
Authors: Rodríguez-Alcalde Daniel , Carballal Sabela , Moreira Leticia , Hernández Luis , Rodríguez-Alonso Lorena , Rodríguez-Moranta Francisco , Gonzalo Victoria , Bujanda Luis , Bessa Xavier , Poves Carmen , Cubiella Joaquín , Castro Inés , González Mariano , Moya Eloísa , Oquiñena Susana , Clofent Joan , Quintero Enrique , Esteban Pilar , Piñol Virginia , Fernández Francisco , Jover Rodrigo , Cid Lucía , Saperas Esteve , López-Cerón María , Cuatrecasas Miriam , López-Vicente Jorge , Rivero-Sánchez Liseth , Jung Gerhard , Vila-Casadesús María , Sánchez Ariadna , Castells Antoni , Pellisé María , Balaguer Francesc ,   for the Gastrointestinal Oncology Group of the Spanish Gastroenterological Association
Published: August 2018

Background Serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS) has been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Accordingly, intensive surveillance with annual colonoscopy is advised. The aim of this multicenter study was to describe the risk of advanced lesions in SPS patients undergoing surveillance, and to identify risk factors that could guide the prevention strategy.

Methods From March 2013 to April 2015, 296 patients who fulfilled criteria I and/or III for SPS were retrospectively recruited at 18 centers. We selected patients in whom successful clearing colonoscopy had been performed and who underwent subsequent endoscopic surveillance. Advanced neoplasia was defined as CRC, advanced adenoma, or advanced serrated lesion that were ≥ 10 mm and/or with dysplasia. Cumulative incidence of advanced neoplasia was calculated and independent predictors of advanced neoplasia development were identified.

Results In 152 SPS patients a total of 315 surveillance colonoscopies were performed (median 2, range 1 – 7). The 3-year cumulative incidence of CRC and advanced neoplasia were 3.1 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] 0 – 6.9) and 42.0 % (95 %CI 32.4 – 51.7), respectively. Fulfilling both I + III criteria and the presence of advanced serrated lesions at baseline colonoscopy were independent predictors of advanced neoplasia development (odds ratio [OR] 1.85, 95 %CI 1.03 – 3.33, P  = 0.04 and OR 2.62, 95 %CI 1.18 – 5.81, P  = 0.02, respectively). During follow-up, nine patients (5.9 %) were referred for surgery for invasive CRC (n = 4, 2.6 %) or because of polyp burden (n = 5, 3.3 %). After total colectomy, 17.9 % patients developed advanced neoplasia in the retained rectum.

Conclusions Patients with SPS have a substantial risk of developing advanced neoplasia under endoscopic surveillance, whereas CRC incidence is low. Personalized endoscopic surveillance based on polyp burden and advanced serrated histology could help to optimize prevention in patients with SPS.
Hemodynamic Results and Mid-term Follow-up of 850 19 to 23 mm Perimount Magna Ease Valves
Authors: Anselmi Amedeo , Ruggieri Vito Giovanni , Belhaj Soulami Réda , Flécher Erwan , Langanay Thierry , Corbineau Hervé , Leguerrier Alain , Verhoye Jean-Philippe
Published: August 2018

Background Aortic valve replacement (AVR) in small aortic roots remains a surgical dilemma with a higher risk of patient-prosthesis mismatch (PPM). The Perimount Magna Ease aortic valve (PMEAV) represents an attractive device in such cases. We examined the early hemodynamic performance, the mid-term outcomes of the PMEAV, and the impact of PPM on outcome and functional class.

Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected in-hospital data, and a prospective single-center follow-up of 849 patients who received a 19 to 23 mm PMEAV (2008–2014). Concomitant mitral or tricuspid replacement was the exclusion criterion. Early hemodynamic features were prospectively collected; mid-term follow-up was conducted according to current guidelines.

Results Size of implanted prosthesis was 19 mm in 11.5% of patients, 21 mm in 36.9%, and 23 mm in 51.5%. Operative mortality was 4.5% (3.1% for isolated AVR). The rate of severe and moderate PPMs was significantly higher in the 19 mm group. Follow-up was 99.9% complete (3.7 ± 2 years). Actuarial freedom from structural valve deterioration (SVD) at 5 years was 99.1%. At stratified Kaplan–Meier's analysis, PPM and age <70 years were associated with SVD. PPM was not associated with worse functional status (New York Heart Association class) or mortality at follow-up.

Conclusion This series shows satisfactory clinical outcomes of the PMEAV implanted in small aortic annuli at mid-term follow-up. Although PPM may occur in smaller sizes, it has limited clinical impact, and it is not associated with mid-term mortality or worse functional class. Few SVD events are evidenced; nonetheless, limited follow-up duration and its methodology need to be considered.
A National Long-Term Study of Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Appendix in Children: Are We Too Aggressive?
Authors: Sommer Christelle , Gumy Pause Fabienne , Diezi Manuel , Rougemont Anne-Laure , Wildhaber Barbara E.
Published: August 2018

Introduction Pediatric neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of the appendix are mostly detected incidentally after appendectomy for acute appendicitis. NET management is a matter of controversy. In this national, multicenter study, we aimed to establish guidelines based on our results and the literature.

Materials and Methods Medical records of children (0–16 years) with NET of the appendix, treated in Switzerland (1991–2012), were reviewed.

Results Forty cases (28 girls) were analyzed. Median age at diagnosis was 12.7 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 4.0). Tumor size was 0.1–24 mm (median: 0.6, IQR: 0.6). Four patients (10%) underwent additional surgery because of either tumor size > 15 mm (1/4), extension to the mesoappendix (1/4), or incomplete resection (2/4). Three patients with a tumor of ≥ 20 mm had no additional surgery. No patient had lymph node metastases. All patients were in complete remission at the last follow-up (median: 3.0 years, IQR: 10.9).

Conclusion We conclude from this study and from an extensive review of the literature that two criteria may point to the need for additional surgery, i.e., the possibility of regional lymph node involvement: tumor size > 20 mm and incomplete surgical resection margins. Childhood NET of the appendix has an excellent prognosis.
Half theory. II. The application of fractional spherical harmonics to chemical bonding
Authors: Bildstein Steve
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we use fractional hydrogenic wave functions as trial functions in a variational calculation of the ground state energies of the H2+ ion and the He atom. We find improved estimates over those obtained using the standard integer angular momentum atomic trial states. We will see that a benefit of using these fractional functions is the generation of a directional charge distribution, which may serve to orient the atoms in chemical bonds.
Non-Hermitian propagation of Hagedorn wavepackets
Authors: Lasser Caroline , Schubert Roman , Troppmann Stephanie
Published: August 2018

We investigate the time evolution of Hagedorn wavepackets by non-Hermitian quadratic Hamiltonians. We state a direct connection between coherent states and Lagrangian frames. For the time evolution, a multivariate polynomial recursion is derived that describes the activation of lower lying excited states, a phenomenon unprecedented for Hermitian propagation. Finally we apply the propagation of excited states to the Davies–Swanson oscillator.
Local environment of organic dyes in an ionic liquid-water mixture: FCS and MD simulation
Authors: Nandi Somen , Parui Sridip , Jana Biman , Bhattacharyya Kankan
Published: August 2018

The composition dependent local environment of three organic dyes in binary mixtures of a room temperature ionic liquid (1-methyl-3-pentylimidazolium bromide, [pmim][Br]) and water is studied by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. We used three dyes—neutral coumarin 480 (C480), anionic coumarin 343 (C343), and highly hydrophobic 4-(dicyanomethylene)-2-methyl-6-(p-dimethyl-aminostyryl)-4H-pyran (DCM)—to probe different environments in the binary mixtures. The heterogeneity of the [pmim][Br]-water mixture leads to multiple values (i.e., distribution) of diffusion coefficients (Dt). In these binary mixtures, the effective viscosity (ηeff, obtained from FCS) and the local concentration of the [pmim][Br] around the three dyes (revealed by MD simulations) are found to be quite different than that in bulk. The viscosity experienced by the C480 and C343 dyes is almost twice as large as that experienced by DCM dye. Through rigorous MD simulation, we show that in the vicinity of the less hydrophobic coumarin dyes (C480 and C343) compared to DCM dye, the local concentration of the [pmim][Br] is ∼3-7 times larger than that in bulk. In the case of the most hydrophobic dye, DCM, the local concentration of [pmim][Br] is almost similar to bulk-like. Further analysis reveals the formation of hydrogen bond between the imidazolium ring of [pmim][Br] and the carbonyl oxygen atom of the coumarin dyes (C—H[pmim][Br]⋯O=CDye). Finally, computer simulation indicates a slow component of solvation dynamics in the [pmim][Br]-water mixture in the time scale of ∼100-200 ps, which is similar to the experimental observation.
Experimental observation of (intermediate, high)-k micro-turbulence in different type H mode plasmas in EAST
Authors: Wu G. J. , Li Y. D. , Sun P. J. , Li P. , Bi J. , Wang S. X. , Liu H. Q. , Zhang X. D. , Hu L. Q. ,   EAST Team
Published: August 2018

Both k1 = 12 cm−1 (intermediate-k) and k2 = 22 cm−1 (high-k) micro-turbulence (k⊥ρs ∼ 1–4) in gradient region plasmas were measured simultaneously by the EAST poloidal CO2 laser collective scattering system. Their behaviors have been studied in detail in both ELM-free/type III ELMy and enhanced Da (EDA) H mode plasma discharges. Compared with that in the previous L mode phase, it can be seen obviously that the mean frequency of lower-k (k1) micro-turbulence increases and that of higher-k (k2) decreases during the ELM-free or type III ELMy H mode phase, while frequency-integrated spectral power (Stot) of both k1 and k2 micro-turbulence seems almost the same. On the other hand, both Stot and mean frequency of k1/k2 micro-turbulence show continuous increase during the EDA H mode phase. These results imply that the response of (intermediate, high)-k micro-turbulence on different type H mode is different. Further cross-correlation analysis between k1 and k2 micro-turbulence shows that their cross-correlation value is a little lower in H mode phase than the previous L mode phase. It can also be found that the cross-correlation value decreases gradually during the ELM-free and subsequent type-III ELMy phases, and it is almost zero in the EDA H mode phase. These new results could shed some light on the comprehensive understanding of mechanisms under H mode physics.
Symmetry changes during relaxation process and pulse discharge performance of the BaTiO3-Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 ceramic
Authors: Hu Qingyuan , Bian Jihong , Zelenovskiy Pavel S. , Tian Ye , Jin Li , Wei Xiaoyong , Xu Zhuo , Shur Vladimir Y.
Published: August 2018

Lead free relaxor ferroelectrics have attracted continuing interest due to their outstanding and eco-friendly properties. In this paper, dielectric relaxation behavior of the 0.6BaTiO3-0.4Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 ceramic (BT-40BMT), which is a typical lead free relaxor ferroelectric, is theoretically and experimentally investigated. At first, the observed dielectric relaxation was quantitatively characterized by a statistical model, indicating that the minority co-related polar nano regions (PNRs) dominate the total polarization. Kinetics of the PNRs were subsequently studied by micro-Raman measurements performed at various temperatures. Here, the relaxation of written domains formed by the piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) tip-bias induced electric field was also studied, which describes the polarization retention performance of BT-40BMT. The absence of ferroelectric signal contribution in local switching was also confirmed by the contact mode Kelvin PFM technique, indicating the lack of local ferroelectricity. Moreover, the temperature insensitive energy storage property from 293 K to 443 K was obtained. High voltage pulsed discharge behavior was also investigated by using the pulsed current. A power density of 7.9 × 108 W/kg is obtained under a pulsed voltage of 50 kV. Combined with the fast discharge time, the 0.6BaTiO3-0.4Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 ceramic is considered as a candidate material for high voltage pulse power applications.
Enhanced light trapping in Ge-on-Si-on-insulator photodetector by guided mode resonance effect
Authors: Liu Zhi , Liu Jietao , Cheng Buwen , Zheng Jun , Li Chuanbo , Xue Chunlai , Wang Qiming
Published: August 2018

We propose a thin-film Ge-on-Si-on-insulator (Ge-on-SOI) photodetector with enhanced performance by exploiting induced guided mode resonance (GMR) employing Ge/SiO2 grating on Si-on-insulator (SOI). Numerically calculated results and theoretical analysis demonstrate that normal-incidence light can be coupled to the GMR and partly be converted into the spatial resonance mode which propagates along the whole properly designed grating structure. A notable absorption efficiency of higher than 70% is obtained in the photodetector with only 280 nm-thick Ge/SiO2 grating, which is about 35 times larger than that of the counterpart without the designed grating structure. Remarkable enhanced light absorption can be achieved in the device with very few grating periods, which significantly promotes a theoretical 3-dB bandwidth-efficiency product of ∼66 GHz. The result is promising for a compact Ge-on-Si photodetector design with low dark current, high-bandwidth, and high-responsivity.
Secondary electron emission characteristics of TiN coatings produced by RF magnetron sputtering
Authors: Wang Dan , He Yongning , Cui Wanzhao
Published: August 2018

Multipactor, a frequent detrimental effect in space high power systems, can degrade the performance of space microwave components or even cause devastation. Surface coatings with a low secondary electron yield (SEY) have been verified to mitigate multipactor efficiently, and some literature indicates that titanium nitride (TiN) coating is an excellent multipactor suppressor due to its recognized low SEY, whereas so far, the theoretical analysis for interpreting secondary electron emission (SEE) characteristics of TiN coatings is scarce. In this work, we experimentally and theoretically investigate the SEE characteristics of TiN coatings. We fabricate seven TiN coatings at different N2 concentrations by RF sputtering. The microscopic analysis indicates that the nanostructured TiN coatings are more likely to be formed at low N2 concentration, inversely, the compact TiN films are more likely to be formed at high N2 concentration. The SEE measurement shows that the nanostructured TiN coatings are more efficient to trap electrons than the compact TiN films do. Furthermore, via measuring resistivity, we find a novel regularity that the variation in true SEY largely depends on the resistivity for compact TiN films. Namely, the true SEY of compact TiN films linearly decreases as their resistivity exponentially declines. Then, we establish an equation to describe the true SEY as a function of resistivity via applying the semiconductor conductivity theory to Dionne's SEE model. The equation qualitatively interprets the experimental regularity. This work presents a probability to control the SEE level of TiN coatings by adjusting resistivity and is of significance to comprehend the SEE of semiconductors.
Temperature dependence of radiative lifetimes, optical and electronic properties of silicon nanocrystals capped with various organic ligands
Authors: Kocevski V.
Published: August 2018

Despite the known temperature effects on the optical and photoluminescence properties of silicon nanocrystals (Si NCs), most of the density functional theory calculations thus far have been carried out at zero temperature, i.e., fixed atomic positions. We present a study of the effect of finite temperature on the radiative lifetimes and bandgaps of Si NCs capped with six different organic ligands, CH3, C2H5, C2H4Cl, C2H4OH, C2H4SH, and C2H4NH2. In addition, we show the differences in electronic and optical properties, as well as the wavefunctions (WFs) around the bandgap, of the capped Si NCs at zero temperature. We show that the NCs capped with alkyl and C2H4Cl ligands have larger HOMO-LUMO and optical absorption gaps compared to the C2H4NH2, C2H4OH, and C2H4SH capped NCs. We demonstrate that this big difference in both gaps comes from the increased contribution to the states at the top of the valence band from the NH2, OH, and SH groups of the C2H4NH2, C2H4OH, and C2H4SH ligands, respectively. Additionally, we assigned the rather weak dependence of the radiative lifetimes of C2H4NH2 capped NCs on the NC size to the slightly changing symmetry of the highly localized HOMO WF at the NH2 group. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the temperature effect on the radiative lifetimes and bandgaps is larger in alkyl and C2H4Cl capped Si NCs. We indicate that the decrease in radiative lifetime of the CH3 capped NCs with increasing temperature comes from the changing symmetry of the LUMO WF and the increased dipolar overlap between the HOMO and LUMO WFs. Finally, we show that there is a constant decrease in the bandgaps of the Si NCs with increasing size, with the bandgap change of CH3 capped NCs being larger compared to the bandgap change of the C2H4NH2 capped NCs.
Molecular dynamics simulations of wake structures behind a microparticle in a magnetized ion flow. I. Collisionless limit with cold ion beam
Authors: Piel A. , Greiner F. , Jung H. , Miloch W. J.
Published: August 2018

The potential and density structure behind a spherical microparticle in a magnetized ion flow are studied by means of molecular dynamics simulations. It is shown that, with increasing magnetization of the flow, the ion accumulation in the wake diminishes. Instead, ion depleted regions (shadows) form and ions accumulate at the edge of the shadows. The change of the ion density distribution also affects the force on other microparticles in the downstream region. For weak magnetization and a short distance, these interparticle forces can be attractive and non-reciprocal, as in the unmagnetized case. For large magnetization and further downstream, the force becomes repulsive. The mechanism of shadow formation is shown to involve a fast Coulomb scattering during a short fraction of the gyroperiod and subsequent trapping of the ions on large-radius gyro-orbits.
In-situ tuning of individual position-controlled nanowire quantum dots via laser-induced intermixing
Authors: Fiset-Cyr Alexis , Dalacu Dan , Haffouz Sofiane , Poole Philip J. , Lapointe Jean , Aers Geof C. , Williams Robin L.
Published: August 2018

We demonstrate an in-situ technique to tune the emission energy of semiconductor quantum dots. The technique is based on laser-induced atomic intermixing applied to nanowire quantum dots grown using a site-selective process that allows for the deterministic tuning of individual emitters. A tuning range of up to 15 meV is obtained with a precision limited by the laser exposure time. A distinct saturation of the energy shift is observed, which suggests an intermixing mechanism relying on grown-in defects that are subsequently removed from the semiconductor material during annealing. The ability to tune different emitters into resonance with each other will be required for fabricating remote quantum dot-based sources of indistinguishable photons for secure quantum networks.
Efficient dictionary construction method for microwave induced thermoacoustic compressive sensing imaging
Authors: Wang Bingwen , Ma Xiaopeng , Liu Shuangli , Zhu Xiaozhang
Published: August 2018

Microwave induced thermoacoustic imaging based on compressed sensing (CS) has proved to be a promising imaging method, especially in limited-view problems. However, the construction of the thermoacoustic dictionary in current CS-based methods may not be feasible for the real-world application due to the long construction time and large memory consumption. To address the cumbersome dictionary construction problem in the CS-based method, we propose an efficient solution by simplifying the forward solution of the wave equation which enables a fast calculation of the thermoacoustic dictionary through a time-shifting operation. In addition, by combining the temporal sparsity of the thermoacoustic signal, the dictionary can be compressed, resulting in a significant memory saving. We validated the proposed dictionary construction method using CS-based reconstruction by imaging numerical, biological phantoms and ex-vivo breast tissue and compared the image quality with the state-of-the-art reconstruction methods. A good image quality, fast construction time, and economical memory consumption demonstrate the potential of the proposed dictionary construction method in CS-based reconstruction for the real-world application.
Interfacial carrier dynamics of graphene on SiC, traced by the full-range time-resolved core-level photoemission spectroscopy
Authors: Someya T. , Fukidome H. , Endo N. , Takahashi K. , Yamamoto S. , Matsuda I.
Published: August 2018

Carrier dynamics through a heterointerface of a Dirac material and a semiconductor was studied by the measurement of the full-range time-resolved core-level photoemission spectroscopy using synchrotron radiation. The electron-hole recombination process during relaxation of the surface photovoltage effect was delayed in a graphene layer due to the bottleneck effect of Dirac cones. When an intermediate buffer layer exists, the recombination mainly takes place at the interfacial Si dangling-bond sites and the relaxation time shortens by one-order of magnitude. The present result demonstrates unusual carrier dynamics at a semiconductor surface, terminated by a layer of the Dirac material.
Numerical study of unsteady hydromagnetic radiating fluid flow past a slippery stretching sheet embedded in a porous medium
Authors: Makinde O. D. , Khan Z. H. , Ahmad R. , Khan W. A.
Published: August 2018

This article reports an unsteady two-dimensional Magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) boundary layer flow of an incompressible electrically conducting fluid over a slippery stretching sheet surrounded in a porous medium. The Roseland boundary layer approximation with the radiative heat flux is employed within the current analysis. The influence of the velocity slip, thermal radiation, heat source, and buoyancy force is also considered within the current analysis, which makes significant effects on the flow field passages. The unsteady system of non-dimensional partial differential equations (PDEs) with corresponding boundary conditions are solved by implementing the explicit finite difference scheme. In the presence of pertinent parameters such as viscous dissipation, heat source or sink, Prandtl number, Grashof number, thermal radiation, magnetic field, and Darcy number, the accurate movement of the electrically conducting fluid over a slippery sheet is shown graphically in the form of velocity, temperature, skin friction coefficient, and Nusselt number. Unlike the other studies, wherein the system of PDEs is commonly transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations via the similarity transformations, the current study provides an efficient numerical procedure to solve a given system of PDEs without using the similarity transformations which exemplify the precise movement of an electrically conducting fluid over a slippery surface. It has been anticipated that the current boundary layer analysis would provide a platform for solving the system of the nonlinear PDEs of the other unsolved boundary layer models that are associated with the two-dimensional unsteady MHD flow over a slippery stretching surface embedded in a porous medium.
Acoustic metasurface creates quiet locations in a room
Authors: Berkowitz Rachel
Published: August 2018

With its tunable panels, the specially designed surface can sculpt soundscapes on the fly.
Genotype × birth type or rearing-type interactions for growth and ultrasound scanning traits in Merino sheep
Authors: Dakhlan A. , Moghaddar N. , van der Werf J. H. J.
Published: August 2018

This study explores the interaction between genetic potential for growth in Merino lambs and their birth type (BT) or rearing type (RT). Data on birthweight (BWT), weaning weight (WWT), post-weaning weight (PWWT), scan fat (PFAT) and eye muscle depth (PEMD) were used from 3920 single and 4492 twin-born lambs from 285 sires and 5279 dams. Univariate analysis showed a significant sire × BT interaction accounting for 1.59% and 2.49% of the phenotypic variation for BWT and WWT, respectively, and no significant effect for PWWT, PFAT and PEMD. Sire × RT interaction effects were much smaller and only significant for PEMD. Bivariate analysis indicated that the genetic correlation (rg) between trait expression in lambs born and reared as singles versus those born and reared as twins were high for BWT, WWT, PWWT (0.91 ± 0.02 – 0.96 ± 0.01), whereas rg for PFAT and PEMD were lower (0.81 ± 0.03 and 0.86 ± 0.02). The rg between traits expressed in lambs born and reared as singles versus those born as twins but reared as singles were lower: 0.77 ± 0.08, 0.88 ± 0.03, 0.66 ± 0.06 and 0.61 ± 0.08 for WWT, PWWT, PFAT and PEMD, respectively. A different RT only affected the expression of breeding values for PFAT and PEMD (rg 0.62 ± 0.04 and 0.47 ± 0.03, respectively). This study showed genotype × environment interaction for BWT and WWT (sire × BT interaction) and for PEMD (sire by RT interaction). However, sires’ breeding value of a model that accounts for sire × BT interaction provides a very similar ranking of sires compared with a model that ignores it, implying that there is no need to correct for the effect in models for genetic evaluation.